Americans discard 20 million mattresses and box springs annually. That’s 55,000 that land in incinerators and landfills each day.
But up to 90% of old mattresses can be recycled into carpet pads, exercise equipment cushions, bike seats, insulation, air filters and steel materials.
Sustainable Westport can help. They’ll host a free mattress/ box spring recycling event on Saturday, April 26 (8:30 to 11:30 a.m., Earthplace).
Dry and unsoiled mattresses and box springs are welcome. Please do not bring those that are damaged, wet, or contaminated (bed bugs, etc.).
If you can’t bring your mattress or box spring, Westport Boy Scout Troop 36 will provide a pickup service for a small donation. Click here to sign up.
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Supper & Soul — the great Westport Chamber of Commerce meal-and-music event — returns Saturday, May 3.
Green River — the Creedence Clearwater Revival/John Fogerty tribute show — takes center stage at the Westport Library at 8 p.m.
Dinner starts at 6 p.m. An $85 Supper & Soul ticket includes a 3-course dinner at one of 11 downtown restaurants, plus the concert.
After the concert, show your ticket at any participating restaurant, for happy hour pricing on drinks.
Concert-only tickets are $30. Click here to purchase.
Participating restaurants include Arezzo, Basso, Capuli, Casa Me, Don Memo, Emmy Squared, Il Pastaficio, Nômade, Spotted Horse, Gogi, and Walrus Alley.
But it’s not far away — 3 East Avenue in Norwalk, just down the hill from Stew Leonard’s, and to the right at the light.
Plus, it’s the artistry of Jalna Jaeger, a 1971 Staples High School graduate.
“Everyone is invited to stop by!” she says.
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Alvin Ailey is coming to the Westport Country Playhouose.
“Ailey II: The Next Generation of Dance” takes the stage on May 1 (7 p.m.)
The program features the premiere of “Down the Rabbit Hole,” inspired by the “Matrix” film series exploring the relationship between humans and technology; Alvin Ailey’s Streams, an abstract exploration of bodies in space, and Baye & Asa’s “John 4:20,” an “explosive adrenaline rush.”
Tickets are $75, $80. Click here to purchase, and for more information.
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Westport Transit Director Peter Gold writes: “Westport is in danger of losing the Wheels2U shuttle yet again.
“The Board of Finance once again voted at its March meeting to eliminate all funding for Wheels2U, the WTD’s door-to-train station on-demand commuter shuttle. This will effectively shut down the service as of June 30. (The door-to- door service for the elderly and persons with disabilities will not be affected.)
“The Finance and Transit Committees of the Representative Town Meeting (RTM) meet on April 21 and April 22, respectively, to make recommendations to the full RTM regarding the budget for Wheels2U.
“The full RTM meets May 2 to vote on restoring funding to keep the shuttle running for another year.
“Please send an email to the RTM (RTM-DL@Westportct.gov) urging the RTM to restore the budget and keep the shuttle alive.
“Wheels2U provided over 20,362 rides to and from Westport’s 2 train stations to more than 1,230 people since the start of the current fiscal year on July 1, 2024, with 2,590 rides to and from Westport’s train stations in March alone.
“Wheels2U supports Westport residents and businesses and aids economic development by providing a cost-effective and environmentally friendly way for Westport commuters, reverse commuters and others to link their homes, their employers, and downtown to the train stations.
“It takes a vote of 70% of RTM members present and voting at a meeting to override the Board of Finance and restore the funding for Wheels2U. Every bit of support matters.”
Rhododendrons — their beauty, history and landscape use at Blau House & Gardens — are on display at a special May 18 event (9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., beginning at Wakeman Town Farm).
The day includes a box lunch, and guided tour of Blau House, Westport’s hidden gem off Bayberry Lane. Click here for tickets, and more information.
Rhododedrons at Blau House & Gardens.
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Eight members of the Artists Collective of Westport will be part of ARTWorks Gallery’s “Been There” show. It opens April 26 (5 to 7 p.m., 60 East Avenue, Norwalk).
The final day — May 18 — includes a 4 p.m. artists’ walk and talk, at the closing reception.
“Tuesday” — mixed media (Barbara Ringer)
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1975 Staples High School graduate Naomi Schalit and her husband John Christe — co-founders of the Maine Center for Public Interest Reporting — were inducted into the New England Newspaper Hall of Fame last month.
They were honored at the Portland event for their commitment to investigative journalism and public service.
Maine Governor Janet Mills attended the event, to show her support for Schalit and Christie. Speaking of the 1st Amendment, she said, “When it goes, we won’t even know that it’s gone because you won’t be there to report it.” (Hat tip: Douglass Davidoff)
And finally … on this date in 1943, Albert Hofmann accidentally discovered the hallucinogenic effects of the research drug LSD. He took the drug intentionally 3 days later.
(“06880” does not endorse hallucinogenic drugs. We do, however, fully support you clicking here, to help support your hyper-local blog. Thank you for joining us on this trip.)
There are way too many Westport restaurants to cram into one week.
So the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce’s annual Restaurant Week will be two.
It runs Sunday, September 29 through Sunday, October 13. (So, to be technical, it actually spans two months)..
The 2024 event features 20 venues, offering a variety of prix fixe meals to suit any interest and pocketbook. They range from one end of Westport, and Saugatuck, all the way to an honorary spot in Southport.
Some restaurants offer just lunch, others just dinner. Many serve both.
Here are the participating restaurants. Click on any link below for specific details.
Each year, the Staples High School PTA sponsors a Back to School Night Food Drive to support the Westport Woman’s Club.
From 2020 to mid-2024, the WWC has provided 1,094 bags of food in response to 124 anonymous requests, benefiting 345 people through the Westport Department of Human Services.
This year, the PTA invites parents, teachers and community members — both from Staples and beyond— to participate.
There’s an easy way to participate — right now. Just click here to shop through the Amazon food drive registry. Donations will be delivered directly to the Westport Woman’s Club.
But hurry! The registry is open only through Monday (September 30).
Peter Hirst and Ethan Gallogly have 2 things in common: They live out West, and have hiked the John Muir Trail.
And they’re both Staples High School graduates, 15 years apart (1968 and ’83, respectively).
They met and bonded over their shared love for the beauty, challenge and history of the 211-mile trail, which stretches along the Sierra Nevada from Yosemite Valley to Mount Whitney, the highest point in the contiguous US.
Hirst — a longtime “06880” reader — wants others to read Gallogly’s book. After an eclectic career, he wrote a novel called, simply, “The Trail.”
It combines trail lore, humor and philosophy. Using characters he’s met on his own hikes, and including 43 maps, Gallogly writes about overcoming loss, and ultimately, transformation.
“Recreation is ‘re-creation,'” Gallogly observes.
It’s a book, he says, for “any outdoor enthusiast, and anyone going through stress, grief or problems.”
For years, the United Methodist Church of Westport has joined the Connecticut Institute for Refugees and Immigrants, to help settle newcomers to the area.
Among their work: buying comforters for every new neighbor they settle.
This Sunday (September 29), they’ll raise funds for that project.
First, at 4 p.m., is an uplifting Jazz Vespers service of music and word. Andrew Wilcox and Trio’s music includes original pieces and hymn reflections. Interspersed with the music will be prayers and scripture readings — “a peaceful and meditative end to the weekend,” says Rev. Heather Sinclair.
That’s followed at 5 by a pasta supper.
Everyone is invited. “Pay what you wish: $5, $20, $50 or more,” UMC says. “It all goes to our CIRI apartment set-up team.”
Posted onSeptember 6, 2024|Comments Off on Slice Of Saugatuck Postponed!
The 12th annual Slice of Saugatuck Festival — slated for tomorrow (September 7) — has been postponed one week, due to expected rain and possible thunder.
The event will now be held Saturday September 14 (2 to 5 p.m.).
After 10 straight Slice events without rain, this is the second year in a row the festival will be rescheduled.
The family-friendly event features food tastings, retail experiences, 7 bands, 4 bouncy houses, a balloon bender, an antique fire truck, 2 beer/wine gardens and more.
The price is $15 per adult; $13 for children under 13; age 5 and under are free. Admission is available on-site.
The sponsoring Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce has donated over $49,000 to the Gillespie Center’s food pantry from proceeds of prior events. This year will push that over the $50,000 mark.
It’s hard to believe: The Slice of Saugatuck is 12 years old.
This year’s street festival is set for Saturday, September 7 (2 to 5 p.m.).
Over 4 dozen restaurants, shops and galleries — in the “slice” between Riverside Avenue, Railroad Place and Saugatuck Avenue — will offer samples and tastes.
The Slice features 7 bands, 4 bounce houses, the Fire Department’s antique engine, a balloon bender, face painter and more. Adults can enjoy 2 beer gardens, and specialty drinks from most restaurants.
Ticket sales ($15; children 5-12, $5; sold on-site, cash or credit card) benefit the Homes with Hope food pantry. To date, the Slice of Saugatuck has donated $49,000 to the non-profit.
The event is sponsored by the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce.
A small “slice” of the large crowd. (Photo/Dan Woog)
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Do you know a great pediatrician, who is interested in joining a popular Westport practice?
Though the war in Ukraine has faded from the front pages of American newspaper, it continues to rage fiercely.
Every day, there is more human suffering.
Yesterday’s New York Times included a story headlined “Long Battle for a Ruined City Takes a Desperate Turn.” It described the struggle for Toretsk, a city in eastern Ukraine under relentless attack by Russian forces.
The photos were taken by Tyler Hicks. The Times‘ Pulitzer Prize-winning photographer is a 1988 Staples High School graduate.
Click here for the full story, and harrowing images. (Hat tip: Drew Angus)
Lyudmilla Petrovna, 74, in a church between Kostiantynivka and Pokrovsk that was damaged by Russian shelling last month. Ms. Petrovna was injured. (Photo/Tyler Hicks for the New York Times)
Recently, a 1-year-old child overdosed on the drug at a Connecticut park. Last week, fentanyl-laced cannabis products were found for sale at a smoke shop in Norwalk.
Fentanyl is the primary driver behind the increase in overdose deaths over the last 10 years, and it can hide in plain sight.
On August 15 (6 to 7 p.m., 90 Post Road West), Positive Directions, The Center for Prevention & Counseling, offers a free workshop for college students from Norwalk and Westport to learn about risks and resources on campus, including how to save a life using Narcan.
Attendees will receive a harm reduction kit, with Narcan, fentanyl test strips and more. T
For 40 years, Open Doors has battled homelessness in Norwalk.
On Tuesday, development and donor relations manager Maria Davis — a longtime Westport resident — spoke to the Westport Rotary Club about the organization’s work preventing homelessness, and placing families in shelters if they lose housing.
Open Doors’ work includes financial coaching, a savings program and jobs center.
Maria Davis, at Westport Rotary Club. (Photo/Ellin Curley)
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Lou Weinberg’s very-close-up photos are highlights of our “Westport … Naturally” feature.
Today’s shot is of a dragonfly, from the Long Lots Preserve.
Lou notes: “They are awesome flyers. Each of their 4 wings can operate independently. Their muscles are attached to their wings. They can fly forward, backward and upside down. They can also hover and pivot in place.
“They are very efficient predators. They can see nearly 360° with those large eyes. And they eat flies and mosquitoes! Who doesn’t love that?”
(Photo/Lou Weinberg)
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And finally … on this date in 1789, the US Department of War was created.
(From Saugatuck to Ukraine, “06880” is where Westport meets the world. Please help us meet our funding goals. Just click here — and thank you!)
Meeting again Wednesday night, the RTM clarified that although they had approved $630,000 in American Rescue Plan Act funds for a redesign of Jesup Green and the Imperial Avenue parking lot, there will be no further consideration of parking on Jesup Green.
The final vote was 23-10, in favor of that resolution.
Parking will no longer be considered for Jesup Green, the RTM clarified Wednesday night.
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In Italian, “finalmente” means “finally.”
The final day for Finalmente Trattoria — the small but much-loved Italian restaurant across from Design Within Reach — is this Sunday (May 12).
Owners Andre and Mary Iodice wrote to their customers:
It’s with a mix of emotions that we share the news of Finalmente Trattoria’s closure after 19 remarkable years. Andre’s decision to retire brings an end to a chapter filled with cherished memories and lasting connections.
We are immensely grateful for the unwavering support and loyalty shown by the Westport community and surrounding towns throughout the years. The memories created and the friendships formed have been the heart and soul of Finalmente Trattoria. Your patronage has been the lifeblood of our restaurant, and we are profoundly thankful for every moment shared with you. Whether you joined us for a special celebration, a quiet meal with loved ones, or simply to savor our culinary creations, your presence has enriched our lives in countless ways.
We also want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to our dedicated team whose hard work and commitment have been invaluable. Their contributions and loyalty have been instrumental in making Finalmente Trattoria a special place for all who walked through our doors.
Unfortunately, the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic have been significant, with rising costs and staffing shortages making it increasingly difficult to sustain our operations. While we have poured our hearts and souls into creating a welcoming space and crafting delectable dishes, the challenges of the past years have proven insurmountable. After careful consideration, we have come to the difficult decision that we will be working with our landlord to navigate the changes and sign a new tenant to take over the space.
While we may be closing our doors as of May 13th, the memories created, and the connections formed at Finalmente Trattoria will forever hold a special place in our hearts. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts for being a part of our journey, and we look forward to carrying these memories with us as we embark on new adventures.
The 8th annual Westport Dog Festival is set for May 19 (10 a.m. to 4 p.m). The event is sponsored by the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce, in association with TAILS. The local non-profit promotes spaying and neutering of animals. multiple informative and exciting demonstrations, goofy competitions, Police K9 presentation, obstacle course, kids activities, food trucks and more.
As always, the day includes demonstrations like guide dog training, obedience exhibitions and police K9 presentations. There’s an obstacle course (with a year’s supply of dog food for the winner), and competitions with prizes for best tail wagger, best dressed, best kisser, best trick, best lap dog over 50 pounds, and the dog that most looks like its owner.
Surrounding the main activities are over 60 pet-related vendors, picture taking, caricatures, games, giveaways and food trucks.
The entry fee is $10 per person, $30 for a family of 4 (2 adults, 2 children). Proceeds benefit non-profit organizations. So far, over $40,000 has been donated by the Chamber to deserving groups.
Dog owners can register for the competitions at the event ($5 per entry). Click here for more information.
For the first time in over 50 years, Bill Vornkahl will not lead this month’s Memorial Day parade.
The Korean War veteran — “Mr. Westport Parade” — died in January. He was 93.
But his memory is very much alive. And his legacy will be celebrated on Saturday, May 25 — 2 day before the annual parade — with a special blood drive.
St. Paul Church is partnering with the Vornkahl family and the Connecticut Blood Center. The event is at the Easton Road church, from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Click here to sign up for a time slot. Walk-ins are welcome too.
Bill Vornkahl (Photo/Ted Horowitz)
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Craig Melvin is a noted news anchor of NBC’s “Today,” co-host of the “Third Hour of Today,” a memoir author (“Pops: Learning to Be a Son and Father”), and a Westport resident.
Now he’s written a children’s picture book too.
“I’m Proud of You” — published Tuesday — is also about father/son relationships. It follows the ups and downs of a young boy’s life. One thing is always certain: his father’s unwavering support and love for him, no matter what.
The heartfelt book — perfect for Father’s Day! — is a tribute to all fathers, sons, and childhood milestones.
“I have many passions in life, but what I’m most passionate about is being a father,” says Melvin. “’I’m Proud of You’ is a celebration of the small things in life, and a book for anybody who has experienced the joys and wonders of parenthood and wants their children to know how amazing and inspiring they are.”
On Tuesday, Jake Sussman visited the Westport Library.
The Westport native — and founder of Superpower Mentors, which has facilitated over 7,000 sessions connecting youth to neuro-diverse mentors worldwide — spoke about how to reach the next generation of youth with learning disabilities.
Sharing his own story, Jake demonstrated that challenges can be transformed into “superpowers.” T
He spoke about embracing different learning styles, becoming a better self-advocate, finding healthy outlets and managing time.
If you missed it — no problem! Click below for the presentation:
Amy and Eric Falkenstein — and seniors from Staples, Weston and other area high schools — will honored at The Circle of Friends’ 17th annual evening of recognition (May 19, 5:30 p.m., Westport Woman’s Club).
More than 100 local teenage volunteers enjoy friendships with special needs children, through the organization.
The Falkensteins — who will receive the Heart of Friendship Award — have 3 children. Their son Theo participates in Circle of Friends programs.
For reservations, sponsorship opportunities, to place an ad in the journal or more information, click here, email cof@circleoffriendsct.org, or call 203-293-8837.
Amy and Eric Falkenstein
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This past winter, Staples High School held a “signing day” ceremony for students who have committed to play NCAA Division I sports next year.
The athletic department followed up this week, with a similar ceremony for students playing Division II and III sports.
Jack Farnen: Baseball, Hobart and William Smith College
Cooper Levinson: Rowing, University of California at San Diego
Andrew Berkowitz: Swimming and diving, Amherst College
Cisco Celotto: Lacrosse, Gettysburg College
Gabriela de Brito: Soccer, Massachusetts Institute of Technolgoy
Liam Donaldson: Lacrosse, Emerson College
Natalie Greene: Squash, Mount Holyoke College
Charlie Iannone: Lacrosse, Rochester Institute of Technology
Charlotte Moody: Cheerleading, Elon University (DI; announces in spring)
Caroline Roschen: Field hockey, Franklin & Marshall College
Leilani Fleming: Cross country, track and field, Swarthmore College
Luke Rabacs: Track and field, Case Western Reserve University
Libby Turner: Swimming and diving, Swarthmore College
From left: Charlie Iannone, Liam Donaldson, Cisco Celotto at Staples High School’s NCAA Division II and III signing day.
Westport content creator Julia Dzafic has just published a cookbook. “Garden Grown: Garden-to-Table Recipes to Make the Most of Your Bounty” features recipes, using ingredients from her husband Anel’s (you guessed it) garden.
According to her Instagram stories (@lemonstripes), it’s available at Terrain. There are also signed copies at Barnes & Noble.
Click here to order direct from Penguin Random House, and for more information. (Hat tip: Erin Regan)
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Drew Angus is one of the highlighted musicians at this summer’s “Soundview Stroll” (July 25) — the first-ever Sunday street party on the Compo Beach exit road.
But you don’t have to wait for this summer to see the popular Westport singer-songwriter.
The Staples grad performs at Fairfield Theatre Company on May 17 (7 p.m.).
Drew mixes superb storytelling with a mix of Americana sounds, blending indie and folk rock.
He’s played alongside Stevie Nicks, Noah Kahan, Zach Bryan, Brandi Carlisle and The Lumineers, and performed for the San Francisco Giants and New York Mets,
Paul Delano writes: “We are less than a week away from the first day of the Quiet Season. On May 15 the gas leaf blower ban begins in Westport. It continues until October 15.
“I’ll celebrate by listening for new birds.
“The free Merlin phone app from Cornell listens for bird calls, and tell you what they are. It’s very cool.
“For me it turned up a variety of birds, including beautiful ones like the yellow warbler, common yellowthroat and Northern parula.
“May is a peak time for seeing and hearing migrating birds like warblers.”
The Merlin app can identify catbirds like this, from its sounds. (Photo/Lou Weinberg)
Westport native and lifelong resident Eleanor Banyard died April 21 in Norwalk. She was 99.
Ellie was born in the same house on Franklin Street in Saugatuck where her mother, Antoinette Eleanor Gilbertie DePalmer was born, and where her grandparents had lived since they were newlyweds.
She attended Saugatuck School, and remembered Miss Coyle as her favorite teacher. She graduated from Norwalk High School.
In 1953 Ellie married Joseph Banyard Jr., an accountant for the US government. They bought land on Lyons Plains Road, and built a house there. Ellie live in her beloved home for 70 years. Though they divorced, Ellie and Joe remained close friends until his death in 2021.
Ellie worked as a bookkeeper, then a teller. at Westport Bank & Trust Company. She rose to senior vice president and corporate secretary. She was an active member of the American Society of Corporate Secretaries, and earned a certificate in international banking. She retired after 47 years of service to the bank.
Ellie took drawing and painting studies at Silvermine Guild Art Studios, and took classes with well-known artists like Frank Covino and sculptor Stanley Bleifeld. in retirement she had time to paint and garden. She also cared for her mother, until her death in 2000.
Ellie was predeceased by her brother Anthony DePalmer and sister Dolores Karl, who died 3 days before Ellie at the age of 95.
She is survived by her sister-in-law Judy DePalmer of Citra, Florida, and many nieces and nephews, and their children.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Francis of Assisi Church in Weston on May 21 (11 a.m.). In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Notre Dame Nursing & Rehabilitation, 76 West Rocks Road, Norwalk, CT 06851, where she received superb care the last year of her life. Condolences may be left on line at www.hardingfuneral.com.
Eleanor Banyard
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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo was taken in Steve Halstead’s back yard. He does not know what this great blue heron was doing — but it had a good time doing it.
(Photo/Steve Halstead)
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And finally … on this day in 1503, Christopher Columbus visited the Cayman Island. He named them “Las Tortugas,” after the many turtles there.
(Our Roundup gets more roundup-ier every day. We couldn’t do it without your news — and your support. Please click here to make a tax-deductible donation. Thank you!)
Nomadica is a flower farm and garden design business in Weston, owned and run by advanced master gardener Christina Koether.
This year she’s growing over 20,000 tulips, including varieties from the 1630s that were popular during the Tulipmania craze.
There are tulips that look like peonies, double fringed varieties, and flamed striped ones. All will bloom soon.
Nomadica offers tulip subscriptions (some have already sold out). One option offers 2 weeks of large bouquets of the best and most beautiful blooms grown this year.
Pick up is at the flower stand in Weston (where you can also shop Thursday to Saturday, weather permitting). Click here to sign up, and for more information.
Christina Koether’s tulips
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For the second night in a row, VersoFest drew a full house to the Westport Library’s Trefz Forum.
Yesterday’s show by the Lemon Twigs — the indie/power pop/glam rock band — followed the previous night’s appearance by legendary rapper Chuck D.
(Photo/Dinkin Fotografix)
The magic — and fun — continues tonight (Friday, 7 p.m.) with the Spin Doctors, and Nick Depuy.
Tomorrow and Sunday are filled with music- and media-related performances, panels, workshops, exhibits and more. All are free. Click here for the full schedule.
Speaking of music at the Library: “Supper & Soul” returns April 20.
The unique Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce Saturday night entertainment — dinner at one of 12 downtown restaurants, then a dance party with 8-piece funk and soul band West End Blend at the Westport Library — followed by post-concert happy hour pricing for drinks at any of the 12 participating restaurants (Arrezo, Basso, Capuli, Casa Me, Don Memo, Emmy Squared, Il Pastaficio, Mexicue, Nômade, Spotted Horse, Goji and Walrus Alley).
Tickets ($87) include the concert, dinner, tax and tip (drinks are not included). Tickets for the concert only are $35. Click here to buy, and for more information.
West End Blend
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A message from the Westport Public Schools, regarding Monday’s eclipse:
Westport will experience 90% of the sun being blocked by the moon at peak eclipse. The eclipse begins at 2:10 p.m., with peak coverage (sun at its most hidden) at 3:26. The eclipse will end around 4:35.
The district has purchased solar eclipse glasses for all elementary school students and staff, so they can view the eclipse safely. Classroom teachers and science coaches will prepare students for this event, practicing proper use of the glasses and sharing information on their morning news.
Based on recent guidance from the state Department of Education and testing the eclipse glasses with young students, the district has modified the eclipse viewing plan for elementary schools.
Grades 3-5 teachers will take their students outside for a short period of time between 2:15-3:30 for observations. Pre-k through grade 2 students will be provided solar eclipse glasses to take home, but for safety reasons will not be taken outside at school to view the eclipse.
They will have the chance to view the eclipse via live stream TV.
If parents are concerned about the outside viewing of the eclipse, they may pick up their children prior to the start of the eclipse at 2:15. Due to the anticipated increase in the number of dismissals, families should try to pick up students before 1:45. I
The eclipse will occur when students are dismissed, between 3:10 and 3:45. Parents should remind children not to look at the sun on their way home.
Parents who wish to experience the event with their child off-site will be allowed to check-out their children as an excused absence for an “educational experience.” Normal check-out procedures will be in effect.
Fetch Rescue and Jenni Kayne are teaming up, for a “puppy adoption pop-up.”
This Sunday (April 7, 2 to 4 p.m., Sconset Square), all are invited to spend quality time with some pups — and consider making one part of your family.
For more information, email jessie@fetch-rescue.com.
Before the recent deluge recedes too far in the rear view mirror, here are a couple of reminders from yesterday morning. Check out Hillspoint Road …
(Photo/Matt Murray)
… and Burying Hill Beach:
(Photo/Ron Auber)
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There’s a double dose of featured artists this month at the Westport Book Shop.
Jack Geer and Ranvir Sharma are each exhibiting their drawings and illustrations.
Geer earned a graphic design degree from Norwalk Community College. He works as an artist with Team Woofgang, a non-profit that provides training for young adults with disabilities.
Sharma was diagnosed with autism when he was 2 1/2 Though non-verbal, his mother encouraged his interest in letters and numbers. During a 2018 family trip to India, he met a calligrapher who developed classes for him. His elementary school teachers encouraged him to enter a SoNo Library competition with the theme of inclusion. He won it, and last fall took 1st place in a Cricket magazinei art contest. Now a 6th grader, he takes art classes at Silvermine, and hopes to become a Hollywood animator.
Both say that art has been a transformative part of their lives, serving as a form of personal expression and communication, while fostering social connections.
A reception is set for April 10 (6 to 7:30 p.m.). The exhibit runs through April 30, and all work is available for purchase.
Jack Geer (left) and Ronnie Sharma, at the Westport Book Shop.
Jazz at the Post is a very popular Thursday tradition. This Sunday (April 7, 4 p.m.), the United Methodist Church of Westport & Weston hosts its own jazz show.
Jazz Vespers is a modern take on the ancient tradition of evening prayer service. The service will incorporate live jazz music, poetry and prayer.
This service features trumpeter Sarah Uyar, guitarist John Hoddinott, guitar, bassist Matt Dwonszyk and drummer Elijah Atkins.
United Methodist Church, 49 Weston Road. (Photo/Dan Woog)
One more show has been added to the Westport Country Playhouse schedule.
Mike Birbiglia’s “Please Stop the Ride” comes to the historic stage on June 7 (7 p.m.).
The comedian/writer/director/actor has performed his award-winning solo shows from the Sydney Opera House to the West End of London to Broadway.
“Sleepwalk With Me,” “My Girlfriend’s Boyfriend,” “Thank God For Jokes,” “The New One” and “The Old Man & The Pool” became hit Netflix specials, merging storytelling and comedy.
Birbiglia has appeared in “Orange Is the New Black” and “Billions.”
Tickets go on sale today at 1 p.m. Click here to purchase, and for more details.
Lorenz Esposito earned fame as a College of Charleston soccer star, then played professionally in Sweden for 5 years.
Now he’s got a new “team.” As the founder of SearchX, he leads a business that creates customized SEO solutions for clients.
The 2013 Staples High School graduate first learned about SEO — search engine optimization, which improves a company’s visibility online — while playing in Sweden. He also worked at a digital marketing agency there.
Last November, he took the leap into entrepreneurship, opening his own firm in South Carolina.
SearchX specializes in personalization. “We prioritize quality over quantity, focusing on ethical practices and long-term sustainability,” Esposito says.
They already have over 100 clients, locally and nationally.
Lorenz Esposito
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Johanna Keyser Rossi says, “Red-winged blackbirds are back. They gather in marshes. When they call out to each other, they puff out their wings.”
Here’s one she spotted, for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature:
Posted onDecember 3, 2023|Comments Off on Playing The Westport Card
What’s in your wallet?
Since this is Westport, probably a gold card, at least. Plus platinum.
Maybe even osmium, iridium, palladium and ruthenium.
Why not a Westport Card, too?
Just in time for the holiday season, it’s the newest venture from the Westport Downtown Association and Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce.
But it’s not entirely new.
During COVID, WestportMoms launched the “Local Love” card. This builds on that.
Recently, WDA member Lee Shufro and his son Jake — a Staples student, and part of the Westport Youth Commission — worked with Chamber director Matthew Mandell on business-building ideas.
Mandell proposed repurposing the card to be more inclusive, for all Westport merchants.
Westport Downtown Association president Maxx Crowley loved the idea. Like Mandell, he too is a champion of all local businesses.
More than 3 dozen merchants quickly signed on. More join daily. The list includes clothing, gift, toy and liquor stores; restaurants; galleries; fitness centers; spas — even the Westport Country Playhouse. Click here for the full list.
Savvy + Grace is one place to use The Westport Card …
The Westport Card can be purchased in typical gift card denominations (plus a $2 fee). It works like a normal gift card, at participating businesses.
It can be sent electronically (email or text) as a gift, too.
“This is a win-win-win,” Shufro says.
“It’s great for merchants, great for residents, and great for Westport. Why buy a generic gift card like Amazon, when you can buy the Westport Card and keep it local?”
Statistics bear Shufro out. Studies show that local independent retailers recirculate 47% of their revenue back into the community; only 14% of national chains’ revenue stays there.
Meanwhile, local restaurants recirculate 73% of their revenue back to their community; the figure for national chains is 30%.
… and Don Memo is another. (Photo/Katherine Bruan)
Which card do you want in your wallet?
Gold or platinum? Or the one that’s even rarer than rhodium, tellurium and rhenium: the Westport Card?
Click here for more information, and to purchase the Westport Card.
(Speaking of Westport: “06880” is your hyper-local blog, featuring all kinds of news you can use. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
The Greens Farms Garden Club helps our town look prettier.
They also help people in food deserts eat nutritiously, and well.
Every summer, the “Growing For Good” initiative provides fresh organically grown herbs and vegetables to local food banks. It’s part of the club’s mission to advance horticulture skills, civic development and environmental awareness.
This year’s harvest donations weighs i at 818.5 pounds. That’s almost half a ton of good food.
Last week, the Greens Farms Garden Club earned an Award of Excellence for Civic Development, at the Federated Garden Clubs of Connecticut’s 94th annual awards meeting in (of course) Plantsville,
There is not one car or truck on I-95. Carrie took the shot when the Saugatuck Avenue span — and, here the Saugatuck River bridge — was closed, during the “slide” replacement project.
When was the last time you saw I-95 with no vehicles?
I know, I know: 2 weeks ago, during the first “slide” event. But still, it’s a scene worth memorializing.
Also yesterday, shoppers from throughout the region battled the fear of “traffic-geddon” to reach Staples High School, for the Westport Young Woman’s League’s “Craft Westport” sale.
There were crafters of all kinds, plus food vendors and more. The youngest exhibitor was probably Aiden Schachter. The Staples senior — pictured below — makes and sells LED lightclouds.
“Craft Westport” continues today, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $11; seniors $10, children 12-18 $5, children under 12 are free. Click here for more details.
Aiden Schachter, at his CloudLight booth. (Photo/Susan Garment)
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Compo Beach is timeless.
But there’s always something new there, too.
Early today, there was a photo shoot on the shore.
That’s not unusual. But this morning’s subject was — well, a bit different.
(Photo/Matt Murray)
If you know the back story, click “Comments” below.
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Wheels2U — Westport’s on-demand, door-to-train shuttle service is almost free. ($2 per ride — close enough).
But on Tuesday — Election Day — the coffee is free.
The Westport Transit District and Compass Real Estate offer gratis coffee at Steam to anyone riding between 6 and 8:30 a.m.
Riders use the Wheels2U Westport app to request a pickup between mornings, then again between 4 and 9:30 p.m. to be taken to or from the Saugatuck or Greens Farms train platform and their front door. Pickups should be requested about 20 minutes before you would normally leave to drive to the station.
Wheels2U deposits riders right next to Steam, at the Saugatuck train station. (Photo/Phil Bancroft)
Audra McDonald sings songs from Broadway and the Great American Songbook, in a one-night fundraiser.
The 6-time Tony, 2-time Grammy and 1-time Emmy Award winner received the National Medal of Arts from President Obama. She was also one of Time’s “100 Most Influential People.”
$2,500 tickets include a pre-show dinner and post-show meet and greet; call 203-571-1291, or email cmackay@westportplayhouse.org.
Longtime Westport resident Liz Beeby died September 25, at her Fairfield home. She was 62.
Her obituary calls her “the friend who was bold, thoughtful, fearless, artistic, kind, outrageous, supportive and the coolest….It wasn’t uncommon to see her wearing minks, feather boas and glitter, belting out the lyrics to ‘Layla’ by Eric Clapton. Along with her angelic beauty, she had a sharp wit when needed.”
Liz was an accomplished artist. Her assemblage pieces appeared in Westport art shows and area auctions. “Jewelry Creations by Lucky” was her jewelry design business. She also created “Moving Memories,” which transformed still photos into special occasion videos with music and narration on a DVD.
Liz’s likeness can be seen in many award-winning photographs by Westport artist Miggs Burroughs.
A wake is set for Friday (November 10, 4 to 7 p.m., Spear Miller Funeral Home, 39 South Benson Road, Fairfield.)
Yesterday’s Roundup noted that the 4th agenda item for Wednesday’s Board of Finance meeting is “Long Lots Building Project (Discussion only”).
Chair Lee Caney notes: “On all of our agendas for our regular monthly meetings, we will have an update on LLS. The updates have been on prior agendas. We did the same thing with the Coleytown Middle School updates.
“This month there will probably be no discussion, as we just had a meeting. This is not our second meeting on LLS, which will take place at a date to be determined.
“I would never try to sneak in an important meeting, as I welcome and encourage community participation.”
The Board of Finance is just one stop on the road to approval of the Long Lots Elementary School project.
The view is always spectacular from the Unitarian Universalist Congregation sanctuary.
It’s particularly inspiring on a gorgeous fall day list yesterday.
The foliage framed the UU’s quiet and contemplative peace vigil yesterday. Rev. Alan Taylor and others led attendees through a meditative experience. Cellist Gunnar Sahlin provided musical accompaniment.
“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.”
More traditional entertainment was provided last night at the Westport Country Playhouse.
There was a deserved standing ovation at the opening performance of “First Lady of Song: Cherise Coaches sings Ella Fitzgerald.”
The show continues Tuesday through Sunday, including evenings and matinees. Special events include Pride Night (November 2) and Open Captions (November 5). Click here for schedules, tickets, and more information.
Cherise Coaches, at last night’s curtain call. (Photo/Dave Matlow)
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“Billions” — the high-powered Showtime series about a high-stakes hedge fund managed that morphed into a fascinating exploration of people, power, prestige, and (always) the role money plays in it all — ended its 7-year run this month.
Bobby Axelrod’s “Axe Capital” — based, more than loosely, on both Westport’s Bridgewater Associates and Steve Cohen’s SAC Capital — was originally headquartered in Westport, where the character lived. Midway through the series, it (and he, following a divorce) moved to New York.
It was a thrilling series, with plenty of superb writing and acting (including the great Damian Lewis). Click here to see.
The event supports the next phase of their employment and job training program for adults with differing abilities. Scores of Westporters enjoyed a video about the Book Shop, including plans for expanding their employment program.
Claudia Sherwood Servidio snapped this why-we-love-New England “Westport … Naturally” shot yesterday at Vista Terrace. That’s the private road that forms a horseshoe, starting and ending across from the 1st hole at the Longshore golf course.
And finally … today is the 94th anniversary of Black Tuesday.
On this date in 1929, the New York Stock Exchange crashed. Investors traded a then-whopping 16 million shares in one. $14 billion of stock value was lost, wiping out thousands of investors.
Some stocks had no buyers at any price. The Dow lost 11.73% of its total value: a staggering 30.57 points.
The Great Bull Market was over. The Great Depression had begun.
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