Tag Archives: Westport Uniformed Firefighters Charitable Foundation

Roundup: Verso Graffiti, Sweet P Cookie Reel, Taste Of Westport Lineup …

Posted on April 6, 2025 | Comments Off on Roundup: Verso Graffiti, Sweet P Cookie Reel, Taste Of Westport Lineup …

VersoFest continued yesterday — loudly, wide-rangingly, and entertainingly.

In the morning, visionary artist 5iveFingaz led a graffiti workshop. Within an hour, a blank canvas was covered with colorful, explosive art.

(Photo/Dan Woog)

(Photo copyright DinkinEsh Fotographix)

5iveFingaz (Photo copyright DinkinEsh Photographix)

Also yesterday morning, VersoFest attendees attempted to set a world record for the “loudest library.”

They got up to 119 decibels. That’s equivalent to a chain saw, firecrackers — or a rock concert.

Getting ready to get loud! (Photo/Matthew Mandell)

The afternoon continued with a panel discussion on Bruce Springsteen’s breakthrough album — “Born To Run,” celebrating its 50th anniversary — with 4 men who were there at the start.

Dick Wingate and Arlen Schumer hosted The Boss’ manager/producer Mike Appel, Springsteen Archives and Center for American Music executive director Bob Santelli; former Columbia Records executive Michael Pillot, and music culture writer Kenneth Womack.

Dick Wingate (left) with the Bruce Springsteen panel. (Photo courtesy of DinkinEsh Fotographix)

VersoFest concludes today, at 11 a.m. Paul Shaffer — legendary “Saturday Night Live” band member and “David Letterman” music director — chats with SNL Beehive Queen Christine Ohlman. Click here for tickets, and more information.

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The other day, “06880” reported on Sweet P Bakery’s call-up to the Big Leagues.

The local bakery — begun by Westporters Bill and Andrea Pecoriello to provide job training and employment to people with disabilities — now sells its Colossal (and colossally good) cookies at Yankee Stadium (concourses 121 and 211).

Fans are eating them up. Sweet P’s order went from 10 dozen cookies per home stand, to 75 dozen.

National reporter and “06880” contributor Dave Briggs visited Sweet P Bakery the other day. In between bites, he shot a great behind-the-scenes Instagram reel.

Click here or below to meet the very talented bakers, and hear the back story of Westport’s newest baseball stars.

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In addition to VersoFest — and the large “Hands Off” demonstration — downtown Westport was also the site yesterday for retired Police Chief Ron Malone‘s wake and funeral.

The highly respected former chief — and Representative Town Meeting member — died last week. In his honor, police headquarters was draped in bunting.

(Photo/Dan Woog)

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Also yesterday: Dustin Lowman performed at Voices Café.

The 2011 Staples High School graduate — now a Brooklyn-based singer-songwriter, whose career is taking off quickly — entertained a sellout crowd, at the Unitarian Universalist Church in Westport’s monthly coffeehouse.

Next up: a tribute to Peter Paul & Mary (May 10), with Westport’s Suzanne Sheridan, the Kennedys and Mustard’s Retreat. Click here for details.

Dustin Lowman (Photo/David Vita)

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“Taste of Westport” is one of Westport’s most anticipated — and delicious — fundraisers of the year.

CLASP Homes — the sponsor and grateful recipient of proceeds from the 19th annual event (June 5, 6 p.m., The Inn at Longshore) has announced an all-star lineup of restaurants.

Each has a table, with tempting samples. They include:

  • Anan
  • Artisan
  • Bar Bushido
  • The Blondinit
  • The Boathouse at Saugatuck
  • The Bridge
  • Bridgewater Chocolate
  • Don Memo
  • Gabriele’s
  • Gruel Britannia
  • Grumpy Dumpling
  • La Plage
  • Little Pub
  • Magic 5 Pie
  • Mrs. London’s
  • Nômade
  • Nordic Fish
  • Oggi Gelato
  • Rive Bistro
  • Rizzuto’s
  • Romanacci
  • Tarantino
  • The Whelk
  • Zucca Gastrobar

If that doesn’t make you hungry, nothing will.

Tickets go on sale April 14th at TasteofWestport.com.

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Westporters who enjoy Grace Salmon Park — or just drive by on Imperial Avenue — have been intrigued by its new “Tulip Bulb.”

That’s the sculpture by Emily Teall, which she’s loaned to the town.

Next Sunday (April 13, 3 p.m.), the large patinated steel work will be officially dedicated, by the Westport Arts Advisory Committee. The ceremony will include poetry by town poet laureate Donna Disch, remarks from the artist, and music.

Artist Emily Teall, with her work. (Photo/Mary Schwartzman)

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Fire up your Easter Egg hunting nose and toes.

The Westport Uniformed Firefighters Charitable Foundation’s annual free event is April 19 (2 p.m., Long Lots Elementary School).

Bring a basket or bag. And get ready to pose for photos with the Easter Bunny!

 

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Skunk cabbage — which got its name from the odor given off by bruised leaves — is popping up all around town.

Eve Potts snapped today’s “Westport … Naturally” image outside her home.

You can almost smell it, right?!

(Photo/Eve Potts) 

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And finally … on this date in 1947, the first Tony Awards were presented for theatrical achievement.

Musicals represented at the ceremony were “Street Scene,” “Brigadoon” and “Finian’s Rainbow.”

(And the award for best hyper-local blog goes to … “06880.” Meanwhile, best supporting cast goes to … “06880” readers. To earn that honor, please make a donation by clicking here. Thank you!)

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Roundup: “Battle Of Sexes” Video, Daffodils, Football …

Posted on September 14, 2024 | 1 comment

For some reason, the YouTube link to the Westport Library’s “Battle of the Sexes” — the subject of this morning’s lead story — did not come through for some readers.

If you could not access it, try below. Let’s hope this works!

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Debra Kandrak is the woman behind the very successful “Paint the Town Yellow” project.

She writes: “On Friday, during my daily walk at Compo Beach, I came upon the memorial service for Max Harper — a young man taken tragically too soon.

“It was a beautiful tribute in his honor, with hundreds of people in attendance.

“So today I ask everyone to plant yellow daffodils in Max’s memory. (You may recall that the theme for ‘Paint the Town Yellow’ is to honor loved ones

“Let’s plant them all over town: around street signs, stop signs, mailbox posts, at the entrance to Staples and in front of the school.

“Let’s make this a community event. Email me (debra.kandrak@raveis.com) where you are going to plant, so I can post photos next spring for his family to see how much this community cares.

“I would like to see an explosion of yellow daffodils all around town in the spring, in honor of Max. This will be a beautiful tribute, and may give his family some peace.”

These daffodils line Debra Kandrak’s driveway.

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A large crowd packed Paul Lane Field last night, for the opening game of Staples’ football season.

(Photo/Luca Caniato)

The state champion Wreckers picked up right where they left off last fall, hammering non-league Hamden 48-7. Junior quarterback Nick Weil threw 5 touchdown passes.

Many attendees — including those not yet in Staples — wore “Play for Max” buttons.

(Photo/Bianca Jonas)

The buttons — honoring senior Max Harper, who died Wednesday in a dirt bike accident — were made Friday in the Staples library, by students.

(Photo/Mark Mathias)

On Thursday and Friday, therapy dogs were available at Staples, to help students cope with the tragedy.

The dogs have been welcome fixtures at Staples at other times of stress. As shown below, they are always happy to help.

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The Westport Sunrise Rotary Club welcomed back a popular speaker — Representative Jim Himes — yesterday.

The meeting was open to the public, and a large number of non-members headed to Green’s Farms Church to hear the 4th District congressman.

Congressman Jim Himes, at the Westport Sunrise Rotary meeting. (Photo/Katie Augustyn)

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The Matsiko World Orphan Choir — 24  gifted and spirited teenagers — wind up their 2024 American tour, singing and dancing to songs from their native Africa — with a free concert on September 19 (Bedford Middle School, 7:30 p.m.).

It’s a gift to Westport from an anonymous benefactor, intended to expand the audience’s musical and cultural horizons.

Matsiko means “hope” in Ugandan. The Choir performs to help thousands of children attain a brighter future. Proceeds from the tour and merchandise sales support the organization’s worldwide educational programs for orphans.

The Matsiko World Orphan Choir has performed at the White House, US Capitol, Disneyland, Mount Rushmore and the Rose Bowl.

After Westport they head to Yale University, then Jazz at Lincoln Center.

Click here for free tickets, and more information.

Matsiko World Orphan Choir.

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October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

On October 7 (Fire Engine Pizza Company, 768 Bridgeport Avenue, Shelton; 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.), the Westport Uniformed Firefighters Charitable Foundation sponsors an important event.

There’s fun, food, and valuable information, to support awareness and celebrate survivors.

Casting for Awareness — a non-profit that provides free fly-fishing wellness retreats for women with breast cancer — will receive up to 20% of the total sales at the restaurant that day.

Fire Engine Pizza Company is a great place. And there’s no better cause.

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Finally. At last!

The moment we’ve all been waiting for.

A gaping Westport need will soon be filled.

Not a moment too soon … a nail salon will open in town!

(Photo/Stephanie Mastocciolo)

I’m sure customers will flock there.

But where will they go on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday …?

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Personally, I think it’s too early for Halloween decorations.

Or even pumpkin spice latte.

But Costco thinks this is a fine time to roll out their Christmas goods.

(Photo/Dinkin Fotografix)

On second thought: Why not?

There are only 102 days left before Santa arrives.

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Well-known former Westporter Stephen Kaye died September 2. He was 86.

The Boston-area native, who graduated from Harvard Business School and MIT, and was a 1st lieutenant in the US Army Quartermaster Corps. lived in Westport for over 50 years. His family says he was known as “funny, smart, kind, caring, quirky and unique. Steve lived his life with energy and positivity. A passionate sailor, his boat ‘Forever Young’ expressed his outlook and vigor. Steve was an avid skier of groomed blue runs, a black belt in martial arts, always made new friends at the gym and was a ping-pong player with an overpowering serve.”

After working for Procter & Gamble, Gillette and other advertising, packaging and consulting firms, he founded Steve Kaye New Products in 1977. He built it into a successful firm, working with Fortune 500 as well as entrepreneurial companies.

He helped create Huggies diapers, the “Got Milk” campaign, chocolate-covered Oreos and other products of the 1980s and ’90s.

For the past 11 years Steve was an adjunct professor of marketing and sales at Sacred Heart University and Housatonic Community College.

Steve is survived by his life partner of over 30 years, Linda Arenson of Westport; son Bruce (Misael Rodriguez) of Milford; daughter Joan Garbow (Ralph) of Ridgefield; son Peter Kaye (Andrea Mazur) of Chevy Chase, Maryland; grandchildren Ben and Julia Garbow and Sally and Margot Kaye; sister and brother-in-law Barbara and Kenny Wexler of Brookline, Massachusetts, and cousins Stanley and Enid Shulman of Brookline.

Donations in Steve’s honor can be made to Congregation Shir Shalom of Westchester and Fairfield Counties, 46 Peaceable St., Ridgefield, CT 06877.

Steve Kaye

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Staples High School Class of 1971 graduate Dave Kingsley died September 4, from complications of lymphoma.

He and his wife Kathy settled in Newtown in 1986, where they raised 2 daughters.

Dave’s love for fishing, boating and sailing where cultivate during his youth on Long Island Sound. He particularly enjoyed bone-fishing in the Bahamas.

Dave played basketball, baseball and softball into adulthood. He found great joy in watching his daughters play sports, coaching several of their youth basketball teams.

He was a voracious reader, full of knowledge gained through his life as a builder, designer, contractor and business owner. He designed, built and remodeled homes and businesses in Connecticut and New York, including his own home.

One of his proudest achievements was the renovation of an old building on the Fairfield Hills campus, transforming a staff dining room and library at the former psychiatric hospital into a brewery.

Dave is survived by his wife Kathy; daughters Emma of Portsmouth, New Hampshire and Caroline of Sausalito, California; sisters Karen of Wallingford,  Patricia of San Diego, Mary Ann of Severna Park, Maryland, plus nieces and nephews.

A celebration of his life is set for tomorrow (Sunday, September 15, 3 p.m., at his brewery), followed by a funeral Monday (September 16, 10:30 a.m., Saint Rose of Lima Church, Newtown).

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Newtown Youth & Family Services.

Dave Kingsley

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature introduces its first-ever black crown night heron.

Ta da!

(Photo/Sunil Hirani)

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And finally … in honor of Costco’s very early marketing campaign (story above):

 (Looking for the perfect Christmas gift? Please click here, to make a tax-deductible donation to “06880.” Thank you!)

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Posted in Library, Local business, Obituaries, Politics, Sports, Staples HS

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Roundup: AEDs, HWH, NAACP, KES …

Posted on April 26, 2024 | 7 comments

The Westport Fire Department did not have to travel far Wednesday night.

They — and a couple of hundred Westport friends — gathered at Autostrada, next door.

The classic car-and-event space was filled for the Westport Uniformed Firefighters Charitable Foundation’s 2nd annual whiskey tasting fundraiser.

The cause was a great one: $80,000, to replace 55 Automatic External Defibrillators (AEDs), in every fire, police and ambulance in town.

The turnout — and vibe — was fantastic. And though the mood was festive, it was important too to hear Deputy Fire Chief Nick Marsan’s description of lives that have been saved by AEDs.

One grateful woman — 34 years old — returned to the fire station to thank him. With her 4- and 2-year-old sons.

Raising money for AEDs is something the firefighters do, above and beyond the call of duty. Last night, Westport toasted them in style.

First responders, town officials and friends at the firefighters’ gala.

Checking out auction items — and classic cars — at Autostrada.

From left: Firefighters Eric LaRiviere, Rob Lenois, Ryan Farrell, Pete Nichio and Shareef Conjura. Lenois is president of the Westport Uniformed Firefighters Charitable Foundation. (Photos/John Videler for Videler Photography)

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If you missed Homes with Hope‘s fantastic video — celebrating the non-profit’s 40 year history, from a controversial small men’s shelter to a supportive housing institution supported by the entire town — you’re in luck.

It will be screened again on June 9 (2 p.m., Christ & Holy Trinity Church). It’s a fascinating look at changing attitudes toward homelessness and hunger, as told by the men and women who have worked for 4 decades to end it here.

Also in Homes with Hope news: Yesterday, the Westport Downtown Association presented the organization with a check for $20,000. The generous proceeds come from last month’s Fashionably Westport event, at the Westport Library.

The donation will help expand Homes with Hope’s pantry, and bring back the Project Return program — along with all the other good works HwH does.

Westport Downtown Association president Maxx Crowley and Homes with Hope CEO Helen McAlinden (5th and 6th from left), and representatives of the 2 organizations, with their $20,000 check.

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The Connecticut NAACP State Conference and Greater Norwalk NAACP branch have organized a “town hall meeting” to address “concerns and experiences related to racism in the community.”

It’s set for May 9 (6 p.m., Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Westport).

Norwalk NAACP president Brenda Penn-Williams told Nancy on Norwalk: “Individuals throughout Fairfield County are invited to participate and voice their perspectives on combating racism in our society. The initiative stems from recent allegations around incidents of racist bullying, which have deeply affected families in the Westport community….

“This event aims to create a platform for open dialogue, advocacy, and solidarity against racism. It will provide a space for community members to share their stories, offer support, and advocate for meaningful change to combat racism.

“The Town Hall meeting will serve as a collective effort to address racism as a community-wide issue and promote inclusivity, equity, and respect for all individuals. Join us on May 9 to stand together against racism and work towards a more just society.” (Hat tip: Sal Liccione)

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The Westport Country Playhouse continues to add intriguing new events.

“Girl Rising” celebrates the untapped potential of girls to address the world’s urgent challenges, like climate change (May 29, 7 p.m.; click here for tickets and more information).

The evening features screenings of portions of the documentary “Girl Rising,” which helped spark a global movement for girls’ education. Girl Rising’s co-founder and CEO Christina Lowery will be on hand with young advocates for girls’ rights, education equity, and climate justice, to tell powerful stories and engage in empowering conversation.

Following February’s sold-out Swiftie singalong, “A Night for Swifties & More” takes the stage June 1 (7 p.m.; click here for tickets and more information).

Drew Wutke’s powerhouse band returns, with Broadway singers and beyond. At 5:30 before the show, there’s friendship bracelet-making, a photo both, other activities and live music.

The New York Gilbert & Sullivan Players present “The Pirates of Penzance in One Act and an Evening of Gilbert & Sullivan Players” (June 28, 7:30 p.m.; June 29, 2 p.m.; click here for tickets and more information). The performers will take audience requests, too.

“Imagination Movers” offers the fun of one of their concerts — it’s kids’ music at its best. A limited number of pre-show meet-and-greet tickets are available too (September 22, 1 p.m.; click here for tickets and more information).

Girl Rising, at the Westport Country Playhouse.

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Kings Highway Elementary School students, staff members and parents celebrated Earth Day on Tuesday. Among the highlights:

  • “Zero Hero Helper” students were honored for their work keeping the school clean, through litter removal, lunch room composting and food rescuing.
  • Mother Earth Melodies: Music teacher Amy Laurino led students in Earth Day songs.
  • The Science of Seeds: Science coach Kate Romano shared updates on the planting in the new science garden center.
  • Food Rescue: Priscilla Jones, math and workshop teacher, described how this year KHS has donated over 1,400 pounds of uneaten food to the Food Rescue US Fairfield County.
  • Cans to Coins: KHS is collecting redeemable cans and plastic bottles throughout April. Proceeds will be donated to World Bicycle Relief to complement their One School One Book project. Cans and bottles redeemed so far have enabled students to send $160 to Lucy Ackemann from Food Rescue US.

Kings Highway Elementary students celebrate Earth Day.

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Also celebrating Earth Day: Rindy Higgins.

The Westport Shellfish Commission member and Saugatuck Shores resident headed to Canal Beach at low tide. She cleaned up the large stake (photo below),  plus “lots of little bitty plastics and metals, Styrofoam, cardboards, and tar road chunks.”

The good news: She collected “much, much less than last year.”

Rindy Higgins, and her Canal Beach haul.

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“Civil War” — the new film generating tons of buzz — offers a new take on social collapse. It follows 4 journalists on a road trip from New York to Washington,

The central character is Lee (Kirsten Dunst), a photojournalist.

So when “On the Media” — WNYC’s popular radio show and podcast — wanted to dive deeper, they went to one of the world’s most talented and honored photojournalists: Lynsey Addario.

The Pulitzer Prize-winning New York Times staff member — who has photographed harrowing scenes in Ukraine, the Middle East and Africa, and is a 1991 Staples High School graduate — talked with Brooke Gladstone about her experiences covering wars abroad, and how accurately the film depicts reporting during conflict.

Click here to listen. (Hat tip: Paul Lowenstein)

Lynsey Addario, on Fox News. 

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Speaking of Staples: Students Anna Ji, Andrew Rebello and Jackson Tracey will represent their high school at the Hwa Chong Institution’s Asia-Pacific Young Leaders’ Summit in July.

Principal Stafford Thomas will accompany the delegates to the conference, in Singapore.

Each year, HCI invites 80 top student leaders from leading schools around the world.

For the past 11 years, Westport has been invited to send 3 juniors who are high performing academically and interested in world affairs, with a special interest in Asia. Congratulations to Anna, Andrew and Jackson!

From left: Anna Ji, Andrew Rebello, Jackson Tracey.

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Mark Mathias writes: “One of the unofficial ways Winslow Park operates is as a lost and found, on top of the (unfortunately empty) AED box.

“Last week there was a key to a Mini. Today, there’s a key to a Mini and a Jeep.

“Anyone want a car?”

(Photo/Mark Mathias)

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Read to Grow is a non-profit organization with one mission: embracing literacy from birth.

They profit with 17 hospitals to provide babies with their first book, and parents with educational materials to guide them as their babies’ first and best teachers.

In addition, a books-for-kids program enables anyone in Connecticut to request books for their home, while a bookmobile allows children to select books to take home.

Read to Grow hosts a fun fundraiser on May 2 (Westport Library, 6 p.m.). Highlights include food and drinks based children’s books, from Zucca Gastrobar; games of chance; music by Andrew Maskoff, and a silent auction.

TikTok-famous librarian Mychal Threets will be there, along with noted local author Victoria Kahn. Longtime New York radio celebrity Ian O’Malley hosts.

For tickets and more information, click here.

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Radio host, actor and author (“Happier Made Simple”) Randye Kaye gave a humorous and interactive presentation to the Westport Rotary Club lunch meeting on Tuesday. The topic was “What’s EI Got To Do With It.”

Kaye said that emotional intelligence and human connection are the keys to achieving joy, and surviving tough times.

She led the Rotarians through exercises to show how changing perceptions and thoughts about a situation can also change emotional reactions.

Randye Kaye, at the Westport Rotary Club. (Photo/Ellin Curley)

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Tulips are beautiful.

But they don’t stay around long.

So when we see a great photo like Patti Brill’s, we grab it for “Westport … Naturally.”

Enjoy this scene, from Saugatuck Shores:

(Photo/Patti Brill)

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And finally … On this date in 1969, the Edwin Hawkins Singers’ “Oh Happy Day” entered the Hot 100 at #72. It was the first pure gospel song to make that chart. It went on to reach #4, and became an international hit.

(It’s a happy day when readers support “06880.” If you enjoy our work, please click here to help. Thank you!)

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Posted in Education, Entertainment, Environment, Media, Staples HS, Westport Country Playhouse

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Firefighters’ Fundraiser: Drink Whiskey. Enjoy Classic Cars. Save Lives.

Posted on April 6, 2024 | 6 comments

Every day, Westport firefighter Rob Lenois goes to work knowing he may have a chance to save someone’s life.

Now the rest of us can save a life too.

On April 24 (5:30 to 10 p.m., Autostrada), the Westport Firefighters Charitable Foundation hosts its 2nd annual Whiskey Tasting.

The evening includes whiskey, specialty drinks, wine and beer; light bites from On the Marc; DJ Rob; a huge silent auction; antique fire trucks, and a photo booth.

The event falls on the third day of Passover. A rabbi will bless the ceremony, and kosher food will be available.

It’s a very important fundraiser. The goal is $80,000.

That’s the amount needed to replace 55 AEDs (automatic external defibrillators). There is one in every fire vehicle, police car and ambulance in town.

But they’re all nearly 20 years old, at the end of their useful lives.

Firefighter Rob Lenois, with a well-worn AED. He stands in front of Coleytown Engine Company 6’s 1950s-era map of the neighborhood. (Photo/Dan Woog)

AEDs ensure than human beings — you, me, our families, friends and neighbors — don’t check out before the end of our own useful lives.

Lenois says that when someone suffers a cardiac event, the survival rate using hands-only CPR is just 3%.

With an AED, that rises to 11%. And it’s a very impressive 66% if the victim gets to a hospital, after a pulse is obtained.

Westport first responders use their AEDs a dozen or so times a year. Deputy Fire Chief Nick Marsan had a memorable experience, saving a young woman’s life at the Saugatuck Rowing Club.

The community has rallied behind the firefighters’ April 24 event. Greens Farms Spirit Shop is the whiskey sponsor. The Kiev family, Tina Dragone, Hammer & Nails, Fleet Auto and many others are providing sponsorships and/or auction items.

Of course, Autostrada is an eye-popping party space. “If you haven’t seen it, this is a great chance to go,” Lenois says.

Autostrada’s lounge overlooks a floor filled with classic cars.

Last year’s event sold out, and raised over $40,000 for 4 important causes: “bed shaker” alarms for every hearing-impaired child in Westport; the Hole in the Wall Gang Camp; children’s cancer care, and cancer screenings for firefighters.

This year’s fundraising target is double that.

It’s a small price to pay, for 55 AEDs that could save someone’s life.

Or yours.

Click here for tickets to the 2nd annual Westport Firefighters Whiskey Tasting, and more information.

AEDs (automatic external defibrillators) save lives.

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Roundup: School Bus App, Dante & Brian Keane, St. Patrick’s & VFW …

Posted on March 16, 2024 | 7 comments

The first year with First Student — Westport’s new school bus company — has gone well.

Now, the long-awaited bus tracking app is live. FirstView can be downloaded on any smartphone, desktop or laptop.

The app lets families track the location and direction of their child’s bus. Other features include customizable bus proximity notifications; custom alerts and messages, and multi-stop views.

Click here to get started. Questions? Call 888-889-8920, weekdays from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., or email support@firstviewapp.com.

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You may come to “Dante: Inferno to Paradise” for the subject.

You’ll stay for the music.

Ric Burns’ new 2-part series on the 14th-century poet airs this Monday and Tuesday (March 18 and 19) on PBS. Dante’s “Divine Comedy” — his account of a life-changing journey through Hell, Purgatory and Paradise — is one of the greatest works of art in Western history.

The 4-hour show was filmed across 6 years in Italy, England and the US. it includes paintings, drawings, manuscripts, frescoes, and interviews with scholars, writers, poets, politicians, clergy and historians.

But the 4-hour show soars on the beautiful, deeply moving soundtrack. It was composed by Burns’ long-time collaborator, veteran Grammy, Oscar and Peabody Award winner Brian Keane.

The very accomplished composer/musician is a 1971 graduate of Staples High School.

Brian Keane

Keane’s hauntingly beautiful score brings alive Dante’s life and work, in a hallucinatory, almost cinematically vivid way. It captures the depth and breadth of Dante’s experiences in the 3 realms of the afterlife.

“Dante” will stream for free on PBS for 2 weeks after the broadcast. It will then go to PBS subscription, and eventually pay-per-view.

Excerpts of the music score ere premiered at the Westport Library Orchestra Lumos concert earlier this month. 

The single will be released March 22. The album follows a week later.

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St. Patrick’s Day is tomorrow.

But the VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399 celebration begins soon: Noon today (Saturday, March 16).

It includes an all-you-can-eat feast, featuring (of course) corned beef and cabbage; $3 green beer, $4 Space Cat and $5 Guinness specials.

The $25 ticket includes lunch/dinner.

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There is a new date for the fundraiser to provide new AEDs in all fire, police and Emergency Medical Service vehicles in town.

Automated External Defibrillators are portable devices that deliver electric shocks to the heart during cardiac arrest. The current ones are reaching the ends of their useful lives.

On April 24 (5:30 to 10 p.m., Autostrada), the Westport Firefighters Charitable Foundation hosts its 2nd annual Whiskey Tasting.

The evening includes drinks, light bites, and a silent auction. The target is $75,000.

Many of us know people whose lives have been saved by AEDs. Any of us could be next.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

AEDs — with clear instructions on how to use them — save lives.

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When Amazon Fresh planned to open in the old Barnes & Noble — that’s the long-vacant store in the Angelina’s Pizza plaza, for you newcomers — they ran into some issues with their sign.

Last year, they bailed. The site became a “zombie store” — one of a number of Amazon Freshes nationwide that were abandoned, after being announced with great fanfare.

Now, Big Y is poised to take over the spot (which, intriguingly, started life as a supermarket — Waldbaum’s).

Their request for signage will be heard at Tuesday’s Architectural Review Board meeting (7:30 p.m.; Zoom).

There is no indication that there will be any issues with this proposal.

And — unlike Amazon Fresh — it looks like this store will actually open.

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Speaking of the VFW (as we were above): The John Lamb Show runs there every Sunday, from 6 to 8 p.m. And it’s free!

The Staples graduate plays jazz, Paula Gallo sings pop numbers, and there’s comedy (Stephanie Bass appears tomorrow), a trivia game, and a raffle.

The weekly series debuted last month, and is quickly gaining a devoted following.

Click here for more information. Questions? Want to donate raffle prizes? Email JohnLambMusic@aol.com.

John Lamb

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Next month, astronomy buffs across the world head to Texas. That’s where, on April 8, they can see a total eclipse along the totality line.

But Westport will be part of the event too.

The Westport Astronomical Society and its amateur radio station club (K1WAS) — along with other amateur radio operators and balloon enthusiasts — will help launch high-altitude balloons with cameras, sensors and radio transmitters, to capture the eclipse from a vantage point high above the Earth’s surface.

The WAS project is a collaboration with the University of Bridgeport and the University of New Haven, through the Nationwide Eclipse Ballooning Project.

“We are thrilled to contribute to the scientific community’s understanding of this celestial event,” says WAS board member. Dan Wright. “These high altitude balloon missions will offer a perspective of the eclipse that is both breathtaking and informative, helping researchers study the Sun’s corona and the Earth’s atmosphere in new and exciting ways.”

Amateur radio operators and astronomy enthusiasts can follow the balloon’s location, and participate in related events and discussions. Details will be posted soon on the Westport Astronomical Society website.

The total solar eclipse, a rare event in which the moon passes between the Earth and the sun, will be visible across parts of North America. The sun is only 90% obscured in Westport and much of New England.

But the WAS will host a “watch party” at the Westport Library (April 8, 2 to 4 p.m.).

In Connecticut, the next partial solar eclipse is not until 2028. It will not obscure the sun anywhere near what we’ll see in April, though.

For that, you have to wait until May 1, 2079.

Mark your calendars now!

Here’s what the April 8 eclipse will look like. You saw it here first!

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Jolantha does not sound like an Irish name.

But Weston’s favorite pig is all decked for St. Patrick’s Day.

Swing by 70 Kellogg Hill Road Say hi. She’ll bring you luck!

(Photo/Hans Wilhelm)

One more sign that spring is near:

(Photo/Ben Gosseen)

Ivy Gosseen’s husband spotted today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature in their Regents Park yard.

She writes: “I love that there are clovers nearby, because we are just shy of St. Patty’s day!”

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And finally … in honor of next month’s Westport Astronomical Society event (story above):

(Today — and every day — “06880” serves up a potpourri of news, information and “stuff.” But we couldn’t do it without reader support. Please click here to help.  Thank you!)

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Firing Up Westport’s New Fundraising Gala

Posted on March 28, 2023 | Comments Off on Firing Up Westport’s New Fundraising Gala

When Westport firefighters began planning their 1st-ever fundraising gala, they did not have to look far.

Autostrada — the very cool club/classic car spot/event space — is right next to fire headquarters, on the Post Road.

The result is an exciting new event on the local calendar. The whiskey tasting on April 19 includes silent auction items far beyond the usual, plus a DJ, great food and drinks.

And it’s put on great folks, for several excellent causes.

The Westport Uniformed Firefighters Charitable Foundation includes all 64 men and women in the department. For more than a decade, they’ve hosted a Santa Run and golf tournament.

Proceeds benefit soup kitchens, scholarships, and — most recently, the Bridgeport Rescue Mission (with a donation of more than 800 winter coats).

Westport is indebted to our firefighters for keeping us safe, and protecting our lives and property.

Many of us don’t realize how invested they — even those who live far away — are in helping our community.

Now they’ve targeted another important cause for their April 19 whiskey tasting-and-more.

“Bed-shakers” are devices that are installed on beds of hearing impaired children. They warn sleeping youngsters who cannot hear smoke alarms, or see flashing lights, of fire or carbon monoxide poisoning.

Bed-shaker smoke fire and carbon dioxide alarm system.

The Uniformed Firefighters’ goal is to provide one of the devices for every hearing impaired child in Westport. Eventually, they’d like to expand it to the elderly, and beyond our town.

Proceeds from the gala will also help the Hole in the Wall Gang, and provide cancer screening for firefighters. Carcinogens in smoke, chemicals in their uniforms and diesel fuel in trucks are all occupational hazards. One firefighter recently died of cancer; 2 others under the age of 35 have been diagnosed with it.

Sure, a whiskey tasting is a bit outside the WUFCF comfort zone.

“In the past we’ve stuck with what we know,” says president Rob Lenois. “But Gioel and Ronni” — Molinari, the owners of Autostrada — “are right next door. They’re really excited to host us. It’s been a great collaboration.”

Lenois adds, “If people haven’t been there, they’ll be amazed at the venue. They’ve got a bar, an espresso machine, and all those amazing cars.”

Westport Uniformed Firefighters Charitable Foundation president Rob Lenois. (Photo/Dan Woog)

The evening includes — in addition to whiskey provided by Greens Farms Spirit Shop, and food catered by On the Marc — a DJ, photographer and door gifts.

Plus auction items seldom seen at a fundraiser, like estate planning for 2 from attorney Joseph Maya, a half-day tattoo session with Rebel & Rose, a “King for a Day” package from Hammer & Nails men’s grooming shop, and a year of trash pickup from Malone’s Refuse.

There’s also a diamond necklace from JL Rocks, a month of services and gift basket from Moxie Salon, Guess watches, yoga and spin classes, and over a dozen restaurant gift certificates.

It’s a new, special event, at a new place, for new causes.

But one thing will be old: fire engines.

In keeping with Autostrada’s “classic vehicle” theme, the Fire Department will show off Westport’s old Engine #9, and a fully restored 1918 fire truck from Westbrook.

They’ll be parked outdoors, just a few feet from the fire station.

The whiskey will be waiting inside.

(For tickets to the WUFCF whiskey tasting, click here or use the QR code below. For more information or to donate, click here. To become a sponsor or provide an auction item, email foundation@wufcf.org, or call 203-341-5179.)

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Santa Fires Up His Truck

Posted on December 15, 2022 | Comments Off on Santa Fires Up His Truck

The Westport Fire Department is always busy.

Fighting fires is a small part of their job. They respond to accidents and medical calls all over town, and on I-95 and the Merritt. They conduct safety checks at homes, offices, stores and restaurants. They help mitigate blight situations.

Somehow, Westport firefighters also find time to be Santa Claus.

Since 2014 (except 2020, COVID Christmas) the WFD brings joy to hundreds of children throughout town.

On 6 evenings every December, Santa trades his sleigh for a fire truck. He and his elves deliver gifts to dozens of homes.

Santa popped out of his fire truck, to delight these youngsters (and one oldster).

It’s all for a great cause: raising money for the Westport Uniformed Firefighters Charitable Foundation.

SPOILER ALERT: If you’re reading this with a child who believes in Santa Claus, tell him or her to go count the ornaments on the tree, or make fruitcake or something. Keep reading for the back-story details of the Santa Run.

Families register for the event. They have to be quick: This year’s reached capacity in less than 2 hours.

Parents provide and wrap the gifts (small ones). They leave them in a discreet spot — the bushes, in a tree, wherever — for Santa and his firefighter elves to pick up as they walk toward the house.

Over the course of 6 nights they fire up (ho ho ho) the truck, and visit all those homes, between 5 and 8 p.m. They publicize the route, so families can track Santa as he nears their house.

When Santa visited Caccamo Lane last week, 15 children received presents. Ten are shown here. The others were off opening their gifts. (Photo/Susan Ford)

Last week’s count was 72 homes. This Thursday, Friday and Saturday, they’ll hit many, many more.

That’s a ton of kids (and presents). And some nice donations by their parents too ($35 per child) to the Firefighters Charitable Foundation.

The non-profit gives back almost immediately. Among their projects: an annual Santa event at the Senior Center.

Westport’s Department of Human Services invites families in need to the Senior Center. The Big Guy arrives on a fire truck.

He hands out gifts — provided by Saugatuck Financial, which purchases and wraps them — to youngsters. This year’s event was Tuesday afternoon.

But that was not the only engagement on the firefighters’ calendar that day. Earlier in the morning at fire headquarters they sorted, bagged and counted 1,353 winter coats donated by Westporters for the “Share the Warmth” drive.

They — plus many more mittens and hats, totaling nearly a ton in all — were loaded into a trailer, and delivered to the Bridgeport Rescue Mission.

Westport Fire Department and Bridgeport Rescue Mission officials, at Tuesday’s donation.

Our Fire Department is special. Now everyone — in Westport, Bridgeport and the North Pole — knows why.

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