Tag Archives: Westport Woman’s Club

Roundup: Shonda Rhimes, Optimum Channels, Cleaning Closets …

Posted on August 12, 2025 | 4 comments

Filling in the Blanks does important work. The Norwalk non-profit provides fresh, nutritious meals to more than 10,000 food-insecure children on weekends, in Fairfield, Westchester and Putnam Counties.

Shonda Rhimes does important work too. So it’s fitting that the famed producer, screenwriter, director and author — and Westport resident — will receive the organization’s Philanthropist of the Year award, at their 6th Annual Plates with Purpose Gala, (September 27, Serafresca at the IC, Stamford).

Rhimes has dedicated resources to addressing food insecurity, through her Fresh Food on the Move mobile pantry.

The gala includes “a culinary adventure designed by elite chefs,” specialty cocktails, an auction and dancing. Click here for tickets, and more information.

Shonda Rhimes, at the Westport Library. (Photo/Jerri Graham Photography)

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For decades, Westport and Weston Optimum customers have watched government meetings on Channel 79, and Board of Education sessions on Channel 78.

On August 21, that changes.

Channel 79 meetings will move to Channel 1310. The BOE will be seen on Channel 1305.

The switch was first reported by CT Insider. Click here for the full story.

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Registration is open for Wakeman Town Farm’s many great fall kids’ programs.

They include “Little Farmer Parent & Me” (ages 0-3); “Curious Sprouts” (ages 3-5, with caregiver); “Fantastic Farmhands” (ages 6-10); “Green Teen Club” (ages 11-14), and an inclusive neurodiverse farmer program (ages 3-11+).

There are painting and cooking classes too.

Click here, then click on “Youth Programs,” for details and registration. 

“Little Farmers” is one of many Wakeman Town Farm kids’ programs.

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This is prime closet-cleaning time.

And the Westport Woman’s Club hopes that when you do, you donate new or gently used clothes and acccessories, for their annual sale (October 24-26). All proceeds benefit local charities, and families in need.

Donations can be dropped off at the club (44 Imperial Avenue), weekdays between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., and 2 and 4 p.m

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This is also prime au pair starting time.

Longtime Westporter Nancy Greenspan Wilson is a local coordinator with Interexchange Au Pair USA, a non-profit agency.

Her job is to support young women and men as they live with American host families, help care for children, and share their language, customs, and culture.

She also helps them feel welcomed in our community. One way is through an annual Exchange Day. Local families, businesses and organizations open their doors to au pairs.

This year’s Exchange Day kayaking event (Sunday, August 17, 3 p.m., Sea Kayak), brings together au pairs, and anyone else who would like to participate. Pizza at Riko’s follows.

To give back to the community, every participant is encouraged to bring a pantry item from this list for Homes With Hope.

RSVP by August 14. Double and single kayaks and paddleboards available at discounted rates. Pizza is also discounted. Email nwilson@lc.interexchange.org, or call 203-286-3495. For information about hosting an au pair, click here.

Au pairs and friends at Sea Kayak.

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The Long Lots School Building Committee meets tonight at 6 p.m. (Town Hall Room 201/201A).

They’ll hear a project update, and review interior and exterior building design elements. Public comment is allowed.

Planning continues tonight for Long Lots Elementary School.

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Staples High School Class of 2011 graduate Shannon Moss is a producer on the film “East of Wall.” The film is about a horse trainer wrestling with financial issues and unresolved grief, while hosting a group of wayward teenagers on her ranch.

It premiered at the Sundance Film Festival earlier this year, where it won the Audience Award. It premiered in New York at the Tribeca Festival earlier this summer.

“East of Wall” will show at the Avon Theater in Stamford from August 15-21, then nationwide.

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Compo Beach continues to be a mecca for classic cars.

Richard Fogel spotted this beauty on Sunday:

(Photo/Richard Fogel)

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Jazz at the Post’s Summer Series continues to celebrate Connecticut artists, at VFW Post 399.

This Thursday features a quintet led by bassist Will Goble and drummer Ryan Sands, 2 very talented young musicians.

They’re joined by bassist Anthony Carabello, and saxophonists Nathan Edwards and Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall.

Doors open at 7 p.m., for dinner. Shows are at 7:30 and 8:45. Music tickets are $20; $15 for veterans and students. Click here for reservations. 

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Congratulations to the Fairfield Nationals Little League team.

Our friends to the east defeated Smithtown/St. James, New York 12-1. The huge  win sends them to the Little League World Series in Williamsport, Pennsylvania.

A key player — Ben Herbst — is the son of 1992 Staples High School graduate David Herbst, the nephew of Westport phys. ed. teacher Jon Herbst (SHS ’96), and grandson of longtime Westporters Mickey and Candace Herbst.

Ben Herbst (center) celebrates with his Fairfield teammates.

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We get a lot of “Westport … Naturally” photos of individual animals.

We seldom get one like this, where they’re together.

Ray Broady spotted the Hieronymus Bosch-like scene in his Cross Highway back yard, near North Avenue.

(Photo/Dianna Broady)

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And finally … in honor of our “Westport … Naturally” photo (above), here’s a 1970s song by our own 1966 Staples grads, Rob Carlson and Jon Gailmor. Why their record label failed to make it a #1 song shows all that was wrong with the record industry.

(“06880” is the only place in the world now to hear Carlson & Gailmor — and learn all you need to know about Westport. If you enjoy our hyper-local blog, please click here to support us. Thanks!)

 

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Posted in Children, Entertainment, Environment, Local business, Media, Staples HS

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Yankee Doodle Comes To Town!

Posted on June 14, 2025 | 6 comments

For nearly a century, the Yankee Doodle Fair has marked the beginning of summer.

Every June as the school year ends, the Westport Woman’s Club fundraiser has thrilled and entertained generations of kids.

Young ones go for the rides, the food, the chance to win (possibly rigged) games.

Teenagers go to strut, to flirt, to see and be seen.

Older folks enjoy the Yankee Doodle Fair too, for its raffles, bake sales, and chance to relive their childhoods with their children (until middle school, when they scoot off with friends).

“06880”‘s rock star photographer, Staples High junior Ryan Allen, was at the Imperial Avenue fairground, capturing the colorful sights.

He nailed it, as these great photos show.

To enjoy the sounds and smells though, you have to go yourself. It’s on today (Saturday) from 1 to 10 p.m., and tomorrow (Sunday) from 1 to 5 p.m.

See you at the fair!

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Posted in Children, Teenagers, Westport life

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Roundup: Staples Honors, Staples Scholarships, Staples Players …

Posted on May 30, 2025 | 2 comments

Congratulations to Alexis Krenzer!

The Staples High School senior received the school’s highest honor — the Staples Key — at Wednesday’s awards ceremony.

Alexis — a Learning Center and middle school tutor; LinkCrew member for freshmen; member of the National, Science, Math and Chinese Honor Socieites; organizer of the Staples Tuition Grants Fun Run; ski team captain and soccer player — also took first place in the state STEM fair for her cancer research.

Alexis will study chemistry and math at Northwestern University.

The  other 2 finalists for the Staples Key were Abe Lobsenz and Sam Rossoni.

Over 90 awards were given out. Among the other big ones:

Lily Rimm won the James Bacharach Award Service to the Community Award. It’s been presented for over 35 years by the  Westport Youth Commission, in honoro of the founder and president of the Youth Adult Council, and a founder of what is now Homes with Hope.

Principal’s Awards for Outstanding Service went to William Boberski, Nina Bowens, Luca Caniato, Mia Ferrigno, Derek Hafiz, Christina Kavanah, Kensley Laguerre, Annam Olasawere, Molly Oliver, Andrew Rebello, Madeleine Saounatsos, Zelie Saounatsos, Danielle Schwartz and Jackson Tracey.

Staples Awards for Character were given to Kody Goldman and Kylie Kirkham (Class of 2025), Taylor Serotta and Eva Slossberg (Class of ’26), Nicolas Reyna and Vanii Punia (Class of ’27), and Kai Massicott and Azita Vazhayil (Class of ’28).

Alexis Krenzer

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More awards!

On Thursday, the Westport Police Benevolent Association Scholarship Foundation handed grants of $2,500 each to 17 students.

The Scholarship Foundation was founded and principally funded by Dr. Joan Poster and her late husband, Dennis Poster.

From left: Joseph Sabin, Reese Aliberti, Jaden Aliberti, Meghan Velky, Sgt. Sharon Russo, Sara Sabin, Samantha Sabin, Gabrielle Hayes, Lily Rimm. Not pictured: Zachary Benson, Grace Biagiotti, Olivia Biagiotti, Jacqueline Kelley, April Nowinski, Edward Nowinski, Brandon Smith, Connor Woods, Ava Wooldridge. (Photo: Harry Rimm)

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The dream of Staples Players actors is to be on Broadway.

Jamie Mann is.

Just a few days after graduating from the University of Michigan, the 2021 Staples High School alum has a featured role — and some very funny moments — in the new hit “Stranger Things.”

The other day, 26 current Players (and aspiring Great White Way stars) headed to New York. Jamie, they and directors David Roth and Kerry Long had dinner before the show.

After the curtain, Jamie posed for photos and autographs.

Jamie Mann (front row, 2nd from left) with Staples Players. (Photo/Kerry Long)

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It’s almost Yankee Doodle Fair time!

The dedades-old tradition returns next weekend. Dates are Thursday and Friday, June 12 and 13 (6 to 10 p.m.); Saturday, June 14 (1 to 10 p.m.), and Sunday, June 15 (1 to 5 p.m.). The site is (of course) the Westport Woman’s Club (44 Imperial Avenue)

As always, there are carnival rides, games, food trucks and baked goods, raffles — you name it. Sand art is back too.

The “Take a Chance” tent makes a comeback, with prizes donated by local merchants and restaurants. Winners do not have to be present at the drawings.

A pay-one-price, unlimited ride wristband option is available.

Proceeds help benefit a variety of local charities, provide scholarships to Staples students, and support the Woman’s Club’s 50-year-old food closet.

This year, the organization awarded $124,200 in grants and scholarships.

Yankee Doodle comes to town!

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“Egrets” — the new 7 1/2-foot stainless steel sculpture by Redding artist Babette Bloch — will be dedicated tomorrow (May 31, 4 p.m., Canal Park, Canal Street at Kings Highway North).

It’s the latest in a series of local outdoor art, courtesy of the Westport Arts Advisory Committee and our Parks & Recreation Department.

Westport poet laureate Donna Disch will speak, and refreshments will be served.

A Parks & Rec employee lays grass, so “Egrets” is in its element.

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Former Westporter Rev. Dr. Peter Haile died May 16. He was 100.

He moved into The Saugatuck on Bridge Street when he was 80 to be closer to his daughter, Rebecca Swanson. He created, wrote and published a very popular newsletter for residents, “The Saugatalk.”

He was born at a school run by the London Missionary Society for the education of Black South Africans, where his father was principal for 40 years. The school, which refused to compromise its mission, was closed by the apartheid government in 1962. It reopened in 1995.

At 10, Peter was sent to live with an aunt in London, until the Blitz forced him, and many other children, to evacuate. At his new school he excelled in academics and competed in rugby, field hockey and cross country.

He spent 3 years in the Royal Navy. Discharged in South Africa, he was reunited with his parents for the first time in 12 years.

Peter earned his teaching certificate at Oxford, where he ran cross country with Roger Bannister. On a mission year in the US he met and married Jane Hollingsworth. They moved to Boston, where Peter ministered to college students.

In 1961 he began a 29-year stint at the Stony Brook School on Long Island, as an English teacher, chaplain and assistant headmaster. After retiring, he spent 10 years as assistant pastor at the Three Village Church in Setauket, New York.

Peter was was predeceased by his wife. He is survived by his son John (Susan), daughter Rebecca Swanson (David); grandchildren CMDR David Haile (Michelle), Andrew Haile (René), Sarah Haile, Dr. David Swanson III (Katharine), and Peter Swanson (Marissa);,and great-grandchildren Nora, James, Christopher, Brandon, Alethea and Naomi.

A memorial service is set for July 3, at the Stony Brook School. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to The Stony Brook School, Mozaic Senior Life or Tiger Kloof Educational Institution.

Rev. Dr. Peter Haile

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Let’s end this week with a bow-wow “Westport … Naturally” photo.

Frankie enjoys the grass near Compo Beach. He wishes he and his friends are allowed on the sand all year long — not just off-season.

(Photo/Sunil Hirani)

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And finally … Rick Derringer, who hit Number 1 as a 17-year-old guitarist with “Hang On Sloopy,” had a smash several years later as a solo artist with “Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo,” then became a producer with artists ranging from Peter Frampton, Barbra Streisand and Kiss to Bette Midler, Cyndi Lauper and Weird Al Yankovic — died Monday in Florida. He was 77.

A complete obituary is available here.

(Sloopy lives in a very bad part of town. But you’re in Westport — or you’ve got some connection to it. If you enjoy this “06880” community, please click here to support our work. Thanks!)

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Posted in Arts, Obituaries, Staples HS

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Roundup: Porch, Protest, Dog Park …

Posted on May 4, 2025 | 18 comments

The British came, 248 years ago. We sent ’em packing.

They came again — this time with guitars — 187 years later. We loved ’em.

Now it looks like the British are coming again. This sign now flies at the former Porch deli, on Cross Highway:

(Photo/Diane Johnson)

It certainly seems as if Gruel Brittania — the Fairfield restaurant beloved for its shepherd’s pie, fish and chips, bangers and mash, Yorkshire pudding, mushy peas, scones and more, founded by Westporter Karen Hubrich — is moving in.

And it sounds as if the target for opening is next month.

Jolly good!

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Several dozen protesters gathered on the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge yesterday.

As they have every Saturday for weeks, they carried signs decrying a variety of actions by President Trump and his administration.

As with past demonstrations, there were honks and thumb’s-up signs from passing drivers.

Organizer Bean Corcoran says protests will continue every Saturday, from 11 a.m. to noon.

Among the protest targets: funding cuts to PBS. (Photo/Rowene Weems)

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Mothers Day is around the corner. (Next Sunday — get on it!)

Which means Fathers Day is not far. And that means the Yankee Doodle Fair.

The dedades-old tradition returns that weekend. Dates are Thursday and Friday, June 12 and 13 (6 to 10 p.m.); Saturday, June 14 (1 to 10 p.m.), and Sunday, June 15 (1 to 5 p.m.).

As always, there are carnival rides, games, food — you name it. Sand art is back too.

And as always, it’s a major fundraiser for the Westport Woman’s Club, where the whole shebang takes place.

Yankee Doodle comes to town.

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Speaking of the Westport Woman’s Club: There’s a Red Cross blood drive there (44 Imperial Avenue) on May 12 (8 a.m. to 1 p.m.). They provide baked goods, too.

Click here or call 800-733-2767 for an appointment.

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Westport has Winslow Park.

Tomorrow — after 9 years of effort — Weston will have its own dog park.

Weston Dog Park opens at 22 Lords Highway East, on part of the Moore property — land purchased by the town more than 2 decades ago for $2.3 million, specifically for municipal use.

Construction, design and the first years of maintenance are funded through grants like ARPA, gifts from private individuals, and a contribution in memory of late 2nd Selectman Brian Gordon.

It will be open 9 a.m. to sunset. Click here for more information.

Happy days (and dogs) in Weston.

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Plenty of Staples High School’s athletic teams do great community service work.

Few do it better than the boys lacrosse program.

Every year, they try to raise $50,000 for Sticks for Soldiers. Every year, 100% of their funds help combat-wounded veterans and their families.

This year, they’re selling custom Sticks for Soldiers shirts and hats. Orders are being taken online (click here) through May 7. (Under “team,” select “Staples HS Sticks for Soldiers 2025”; the password is Sticks2025).

The annual Sticks for Soldiers game is May 19. Hats and shirts can be picked up there.

Apparel questions? Email teamstore@macwear.com. Lacrosse Sticks for Soldiers questions? Email a.vengrow@ven2port.com.

Sticks for Soldiers gear.

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Mary Scott Himes is this month’s gueste exhibitor, at the Westport Book Shop.

Her prints explore questions of identity and the female body.

She says, “I started making things again during my treatments for breast cancer in 2021. Cancer has taken many things from me, but my art practice is what I took from it.

“In the public realm, married to Representative Jim Himes, I play a role.  I am a person whom people think they know.  This leads to questions about how we create identity: how the different layers of history and mass culture and personal experience bond together to make us who we are.

“My nascent art practice focuses mostly on printmaking because I love the spatial thinking, the variety of techniques, and the collaborative creative process it offers.”

Himes co-founded and was executive director of The Unload Foundation. The Connecticut arts initiative developed educational and cultural events to raise awareness around issues relating to gun rights and gun violence.

A reception is set for May 27 (6 to 7:30 p.m.). To RSVP, email   RSVP@westportbooksaleventures.org or call 203-349-5141.

Mary Himes, at the Westport Book Shop.

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Swimming season has begun.

At Burying Hill Beach, anyway.

These 2 intrepid bathers took to the water yesterday.

The air was warm. The water … judging from their reactions, less so.

(Photos/Rob Grodman)

A reminder: Stickers are now required to park at all Westport beaches.

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The opening of the new Finalmente Restaurant on Post Road East — across from Design Within Reach and next to Jeera Thai — “has exceeded our expectations,” says owner Giuseppe Cinque.

He asked “06880” to pass along this message: “We are deeply grateful for the warm congratulations and heartfelt welcome we’ve received from the Westport community. It’s been truly moving, and more meaningful than we could have imagined.”

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” image comes from Longshore. It’s one more reminder of how lucky we are to live here — especially in May.

(Photo/Celia Campbell-Mohn)

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And finally … in honor of the (probable) new operator of The Porch (story above):

(From the UK to the Ruth Steinkraus Bridge — and everywhere in between — “06880” brings you Westport-oriented news you can use. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Beach, Politics, Restaurants, Staples HS, Weston

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Roundup: Hamlet Meeting, Budget Votes, Selectwomen Bucket Challenge,

Posted on April 26, 2025 | 2 comments

Yesterday’s Roundup item on upcoming town meetings about the Hamlet at Saugatuck project confused some readers. Here’s some clarity:

This Monday’s Planning & Zoning Commission meeting (April 28, 6 p.m., Town Hall auditorium) begins with a discussion on developer ROAN Ventures’ amended presentation. Public comment will follow.

Also ahead: the Conservation Commission on Wednesday (April 30, 7 p.m., Town Hall auditorium) and Flood & Erosion Control Board (May 6, 7 p.m., Zoom).

To view documents, drawings and other material related to The Hamlet,
click here, then scroll down.

Artist’s rendering of the Hamlet project, looking toward the Saugatuck River.

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Speaking of town meetings: There’s been very little debate over the budgets this year.

On May 5, the Representative Town Meeting (RTM) is expected to give final approval to the 2025-26 Board of Education budget.

The next night (May 6), they’ll do the same for the town budget.

Both meetings ae set for 7:30 p.m., in the Town Hall auditorium.

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The #SpeakYourMind ice bucket challenge reached new heights on Thursday.

After I got soaked — thanks, Dave Briggs, for nominating me to help raise funds and awareness for youth mental health issues! — I dared Jen Tooker and Andrea Moore to do the same.

The 1st and 2nd Selectwomen quickly responded. Like me, they had a blast getting wet — and passing along the challenge.

They named the staff at Positive Directions. It’s an inspired choice. The Westport organization provides counseling and support to people and families struggling with mental health and substance abuse disorders.

So how did our town leaders do? Click here, or click on the link below.

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Today — despite the weather — is the final day for the Compo Beach playground rebuild.

Volunteers — skilled and unskilled — are welcome. Everyone will be put to work.

How’s it coming? Check out these screenshots, from Cindy Blount’s video:

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Speaking of the weather: It postponed today’s scheduled Westport Clean-up Day until next Saturday (May 3).

Sustainable Westport is one group taking part. They’ll meet at the Longshore pavilion, and clean up the waterfront from 2 to 4 p.m. Trash bags will be provided. Click here to sign up.

Of course, residents are free to pick up trash and other debris today, too.

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For nearly 120 years, the Westport Woman’s Club has served our town.

Their first projects were cleaning horse manure-filled town streets, planting trees and laying sidewalks.

Their most recent was awarding $50,000 in grants to 19 Fairfield County non-profits. They include:

  • The Workplace
  • Malta House
  • St. Catherine Center for Special Needs
  • Caroline House
  • The Child & Family Guidance Center
  • Clothes to Kids of Fairfield County
  • Horizon at Connecticut State Norwalk
  • The Exchange Club Center
  • Bridgeport Rescue Mission
  • Greens Farms Garden Club
  • Human Service Council
  • VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399
  • Food Rescue US
  • Nourish Bridgeport
  • Applied Behavioral Rehab Institute
  • Homes with Hope
  • Team Woofgang
  • Westport Public Art Collections
  • Star Lighting the Way.

Congratulations to all the recipients. And thank you, Westport Woman’s Club!

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Jazz — America’s unique musical genre — is well over a century old.

JazzFC — the Jazz Society of Fairfield County — is only 3. But the non-profit celebrated in style Thursday night, at VFW Post 399.

Their weekly session turned into a “Birthday Blowout Bash,” with over 25 musicians and a New Orleans-style dinner.

Even better: the night raised money for JazzFC’s youth clinics, college scholarships and senior outreach programs, through Fairfield County.

We’re honored to pass the news along, because they don’t often toot their own horn.

Saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall (far left) has led the “Jazz at the Post” series since its inception. (Photo/DinkinESH Fotographix)

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The school year just got shorter.

On Thursday, the Board of Education voted to change the last day for students from June 16 to June 13.

That will be the best Friday the 13th ever, for Westport boys and girls.

Staples High School graduate Ari Lehman, as Jason Voorhees.

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Church Lane will not be closed to traffic until May 15.

But these artists got a jump on outdoor fun Thursday night.

The man used charcoal; the woman used watercolors.

And check out the rig on his car, to hold the easel!

(Photo/Jonathan Alloy)

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It’s time for another “Westport … Naturally” tulip shot.

Sure, we’ve shown them before. But they don’t last forever. And a photo like Mark Yurkiw’s — showing his Cross Highway bounty — is too good to pass up.

(Photo/Mark Yurkiw)

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And finally … yeah, you knew this was coming too:

(It’s another busy weekend in Westport. If you’ve got a free minute — and that’s all it takes — please click here to support the hyper-local blog that helps make this, and every other weekend, great. Thanks!)

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Posted in Beach, Environment, Local politics, Real estate, Saugatuck

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Pic Of The Day #2897

Posted on March 25, 2025 | Comments Off on Pic Of The Day #2897

Westport Woman’s Club Curio Cottage (Photo/Ed Simek)

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Unsung Heroes #373

Posted on March 12, 2025 | 1 comment

The Westport Woman’s Club is 118 years young. It was founded in 1907, by a small group of residents who wanted to clean the muddy, manure-filled streets, plant trees and install sidewalks.

For well over a century, they’ve done much, much more.

For nearly half of that time — starting 50 years ago this month — that includes running a food pantry.

In March of 1975 — under the leadership of “Mrs. Neil Croarkin” — the non-profit’s board established a food closet.

Wendy McKeon and Kim Reichert picked up the cause, and led it for many years. Many volunteers dedicated countless hours to the project, too.

Working with Westport’s Department of Human Services, the WWC provides hundreds of bags of groceries each year, and Stop & Shop gift cards, to individuals and families facing food insecurity.

WWC members contribute canned and packaged food goods throughout the year.

Every May, the US Postal Service holds a townwide canned food drive. Many WWC volunteers unload the postal trucks at their Imperial Avenue clubhouse. ​

Westport Woman’s Club.

Local schools also organize food drives, to help the Woman’s Club.

Club members sort and shelve all the contributed food. When they are contacted by Human Services, they pack bags with a variety of goods, and deliver it to Town Hall for pickup by those who requested it. Recipients are anonymous to the Westport Woman’s Club.

Congratulations and thanks to the Westport Woman’s Club, and its food pantry volunteers. For 50 years, you’ve been unsung heroes!

To donate to the WWC food closet, click here. For information on the Westport Woman’s Club’s April 5 spring gala (6 p.m., Patterson Club, Fairfield), emceed by Scott Foley and with music, a live auction and much more, click here.)

(Unsung Hero is a weekly “06880” feature. To nominate a hero, email 06880blog@gmail.com. To support our work, please click here. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Jimmy Izzo Turns 60; Super Bowl + Snow = Super Food Donations …

Posted on February 9, 2025 | 11 comments

Jimmy Izzo turns 60 this week.

Last night, a couple hundred of his closest friends and fans showed up at VFW Post 399, for a surprise party.

The Representative Town Meeting member/civic volunteer/constant voice of conciliation and reason/former hardware store owner/Staples High School graduate is the one person who could bring together so many people.

The bar and dining room were jammed with folks from all walks of Westport life: politicians of both parties, classmates, former customers, and tons of townies (and newbies).

His parents — his father, AJ (Red) Izzo is also a Staples grad — were there too.

It was Westport at its best.

To drink a toast (or three) to one of its best.

Happy 60th, Jimmy Izzo! (Photo/Dan Woog)

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The date for the Sunrise Rotary Club and Westport Police Department’s winter canned food drive for Homes with Hope is no accident.

Held annually the day before the Super Bowl at Stop & Shop, it’s planned for a day when many Westporters are shopping for their big party.

The idea is that in addition to chips, guac, wings and whatever else they’re serving, they’ll bring (or buy) some canned goods (or donate money).

The large pre-Super Bowl party was even bigger yesterday, because of the snow predicted to start last evening.

As every Westporter knows, any forecast sets off a shopping frenzy.

Gotta stock up on milk and eggs (even if those prices did not magically drop on January 20).

Shoppers were exceptionally generous yesterday. Homes with Hope’s food pantry is now well stocked.

Thank you, Westport! The Eagles or Chiefs will not be the only winners today.

Sunrise Rotary, Westport Police and Homes with Hope volunteers yesterday, outside Stop & Shop (from left): Bruce Fritz, Anna Rycenga, Helen McAlinden, Chief Foti Koskinas, Rick Jaffe, Dominick Carr, Craig Bergamo, Thomas Engels.

Police Chief Foti Koskinas (left) joins volunteers, as a truck is loaded with donated goods for the Homes with Hope food pantry.

Meanwhile, at the Homes with Hope food pantry on Jesup Road, volunteers stock the shelves with newly donated goods.

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Speaking of volunteer efforts: If you have trouble keeping up with Westport non-profits’ events, or are looking for cool things to do — or both — check out the Celebrate Westport calendar.

Located on the town website — under the not-entirely-intuitive “Experience” tab — it’s a treasure trove of too-hidden information.

Among the newest additions:

Homes with Hope announces the return of Gather ‘Round The Table.

Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce: Business after hours Valentine’s Event, with the Fairfield Chamber of Commerce.

Greens Farms Garden Club is looking for volunteers to help plant and harvest from April to October at their Westport locations: Prospect Gardens and Wakeman Town Farm. Harvests are delivered to Mercy Learning Center in Bridgeport, and the Gillespie Center here. Email Gael Ficken: themagicallion@msn.com.

Westport Woman’s Club will host their Spring Gala on April 5.

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The Westport Community Theater canceled last night’s performance of “Pride and Prejudice,” because of the impending snow.

To make up, they’ve added a performance this Thursday (February 13, 7:30 p.m.). Click here for details, and tickets.

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MoCA is making the most of the short month of February. Upcoming events nclude:

Valentine’s Candle Making Workshop with Oh D’ Luxe (February 12, 6 p.m.).

Art Workshops: Basket Weaving with Tina Puckett, Ceramic Multi-Bowl Building with Leah Corbett.

MoCA Some Noise: Open Mic (February 21, 6:30 p.m.): Acoustic music, poetry, slam poetry; all are invited.

Darwin Shen, violin and Michelle Kim, piano:  (February 23, 4 p.m.): A recital of rarely performed, newly discovered and reconstructed works by Fritz Kreisler.
Community Conversation: Art, Infrastructure, and the Environment (February 27, 6 p.m.): Moderated by curator Ive Covaci, with a diverse panel talking about the intersection of art, sustainability, and community resilience. Speakers include for townwide emergency director Nate Gibbons, Fire Chief Nick Marsan, architect Joseph Strickland, Teens at MoCA co-president Lily Hultgren, and a Sustainable Westport representative.

Art Adventures Drop-Ins for Kids (Saturdays, 12 to 1:30 p.m.): Nulti-media classes offer a creative space to explore new techniques and expressions.

For more information, including registration, click here.

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Are you more science-y than artsy?

On February 18 (8 p.m.;  virtual) the Westport Astronomical Society’s free monthly lecture series presents Montana Williams, discussing “Tuning into the Universe: The Science of the Very Large Array.”

She is a 5th-year Ph.D. student at New Mexico Tech in Socorro — the town that is home to the array operations center for the National Radio Astronomy Observatory’s Very Large Array.

Most of her time is dedicated to imaging non-thermal emission from classical novae using NRAO’s Very Long Baseline Array (or, as she says, “looking at cute star explosions”).

She is also a tour guide at the VLA, leading public tours so everyone can enjoy radio astronomy and the “cute antennas.”

Click here for the YouTube link; click here for the Zoom link.

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Back to the arts: On March 2 (2 p.m.), the Weston History & Culture Center hosts an interactive West African dance workshop.

Led by Jolyn Walker, dancer and owner of African Expressions, it’s great for families with children ages 5 and up. Jolyn will teach traditional dance steps and share her knowledge about dances from the West African country of Ghana.

Too shy to dance? You can play traditional instruments during the program. 

The event is free, but registration is required. Only 30 spots are available. 

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Last year, “Virtually Ours” — a musical rom-com about 5 busy professionals in their late 20s and early 30s who turn to an AI-driven dating app to find their perfect mate — was presented to a full house, at an Emerging Artists Theater showcase.

Two of the 4 writers are Westporters: Eva Grant Rawiszer and Diana Sussman.

Next month (March 3, 7 p.m.) it will again be showcased there.

It’s already sold out. Too bad — because there’s an added attraction this year.

Theatergoers can fill out a questionnaire, and be matched with another person at that performance, where they will meet face to face.

Dating apps are not perfect. But at least everyone there will be passionate about theater.

And interested in romance.

Click here for more information. The show’s Instagram is @virtuallyoursthemusical.

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Two Westporters — TAP Strength founder Dr. EJ Zebro and Bena Kallick, founder of the Institute for Habits of Mind — will deliver the keynote address at the April Habits of Mind conference in Rochester, New York. 

Their topic is “Leading From Within: Cultivating Your Inner Strength with Habits of Mind, Movement, and Heart.”

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Trees frame a Soundview Driv sunrise a couple of days ago, in today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

Those limbs look a lot different this morning.

(Photo/Pam Kesselman)

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And finally … in honor of the next Westport Astronomical Society lecture (story above):

(“06880” is “where Westport meets the world.” And — what the heck — the entire universe. If you enjoy being part of our online community, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Private Grants, Public Acceptance For Teen, Senior And Disability Programs

Posted on January 8, 2025 | Comments Off on Private Grants, Public Acceptance For Teen, Senior And Disability Programs

Many Board of Selectwomen meetings are mundane.

Agendas include approvals of minutes and contracts, and actions as the Local Traffic and Water Pollution Control Authorities.

This morning was more personal. The selectwomen approved 3 donations. They’ll be directed 3 ways: to teenagers with ADHD, adults with disabilities, and senior citizens.

The largest was $103,000. An anonymous gift honors Max Harper, the Staples High School senior who died last fall.

Max Harper

The Department of Human Services will help town officials create a scholarship program for the “Live Life to the Max” fund, created in his memory.

The goal is to increase access to specialized support for boys ages 15-18 with ADHD/ADD, build self-efficacy skills, add support networks, and explore long-term academic and career paths that build on their strengths.

Scholarship participants will receive hands-on organizational coaching and mentoring, with resources for parents to support their ADHD children.

Boys are 3 times more likely than girls to be diagnosed with ADHD. Challenges include academic struggles with organization and focus, and social issues with trouble reading social cues and emotional regulation. Many youngsters with ADHD also have low self-esteem.

The $103,000 funds will provide scholarships for income-eligible Westport families to receive mentorship, weekly planning meetings, and parent coaching and feedback from an experienced provider who specializes in working with young men.

The selectwomen also accepted a $10,000 Ruegg Grant from the Westport Woman’s Club, for Club203. The previously unfunded organization — a social group for adults with disabilities — is run entirely by volunteers, in partnership with Human Services and Westport’s Commission on People with Disabilities.

The grant will allow the quickly growing Club203 to continue offering affordable, inclusive and social-emotional educational opportunities for families  facing disability challenges.

So far, the town has covered insurance liability and administrative support. Local organizations donate event space, and many businesses volunteer their time, and provide food and materials.

As Club203 outgrows smaller venues, the WWC grant will help them keep membership fees low, explore larger venues, and increease frequency.

Another $10,000 grant comes from the Walsh Family Foundation, to the Senior Center. It will enable even more affordable social, recreational and educational programs and services at the very popular Imperial Avenue site.

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Roundup: EV Charging, Entrepreneurs Succeeding, Holiday Shopping …

Posted on November 2, 2024 | 7 comments

Yesterday’s Roundup noted that 43 downtown parking spaces have been turned from 3-hour to unlimited spots.

Today’s parking news: At the request of the EV Club and Sustainable Westport, the town will soon waive idle fees for electrical vehicle chargers at Baldwin during overnight hours.

Three hours is not enough time to fully charge most EVs plugging in with a low state of charge. EV owners who live near downtown and do not have home charging will now get a full charge, and will not have to get up at 2 a.m. to move their car.

EV Club president Barry Kresch tells “06880” that he does not yet know the range of hours, or when it will be implemented. He has been told that the software vendor will make the change.

Users still pay for their juice. So this means more revenue for the town.

NOTE: There are no idling fees for chargers in the Metro-North commuter lots.

EV chargers in the Baldwin lot.

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Hungry for news about Pop-up Bagels?

Last year, the 4-year-old company — founded in Westport, now a tri-state sensation — raised $8 million in a fundraising round that included actor Paul Rudd, and athletes JJ and TJ Watt, Michael Phelps and Michael Strahan.

The same group has injected a Series B round of funding. A new CEO takes over, while founder/CEO Adam Goldberg becomes chief brand officer. 

There are now 9 Pop-up Bagels shops. Another 6 are under development, with more planned along the East Coast.

Click here for the full story, via RestaurantBusiness.com.

Adam Goldberg, with Brooklyn BagelFest awards.

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More entrepreneurial news: Steven Graf and Zhach Pham are $300,000 richer.

That’s the investment the Staples High School Class of 2011 members — friends since 2nd grade here — just earned on “Shark Tank.”

When they were younger they ran a lemonade stand, built go-karts, and dug for buried treasure in their back yards.

Now — living in Denver — they have a company called RigStrips.

Their main product is a magnetic car mount (SnoStrip) that protects skis, snowboards and car exteriors by providing a space to slot into. It attaches to the side of a car, and helps avoid damage when equipment leans on it.

RigStrips sells a similar product for fishing poles and other outdoor products.

Click here for the full story, via BusinessDen.com. (Hat tip: Elizabeth DeVoll)

Steven Graf and Zhach Pham with RigStrips, on “Shark Tank.” (Photo courtesy of BusinessDen.com)

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As of yesterday, CT Mirror reports, 4,669 Westporters have already voted in this year’s election.

That’s 23.4% of Westport’s 19,991 registered voters.

The breakdown of votes already cast: 2,470 Democrat; 782 Republican; 1,400 unaffiliated; 17 Independent Party.

Meanwhile, praise continues to pour in for the early voting process in Westport.

Jeff Seaver writes: “My daughter and I just came from Town Hall. It was such an uplifting experience. Thanks go to the wonderful volunteers who work very hard to make it work, and have it be such a positive experience.

“At one point a voter came in with their German shepherd.  Oohing and aahing filled the Town Hall auditorium. It made me wonder if America doesn’t need emotional voting support animals at every polling place.

“Here’s a hats-off to the incredible volunteers who make this all possible, both here and across the country. Not a bad way to be instantly transported from what feels like an endless wall of doom, gloom, name-calling and meanness into a celebration of the incredible privilege we share — all of us, red, blue, purple, green and every other political shade on the spectrum — living in a democratic republic.”

Balloting runs today (Saturday) and tomorrow (Sunday, November 3), from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the Town Hall auditorium.

Voting on Election Day (Tuesday, November 5), is from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., at regular polling places. Click here to view a district map.

Not the same dog that Jeff Seaver saw. But also an early voter. (Photo/Cat Malkin)

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Sure, it was 80 degrees yesterday.

But the Holiday Shop at the Westport Library is open for business.

The annual event — located on the main level, and now spilling into the Writing Center — includes scarves, hats and gloves (many handmade); humorous socks; unique dish towels; notebooks, journals and planners; handmade desert bells and other decorative items like paper lanterns, felt baskets, planters and birdhouses; snow globes; jewelry; festive candles; games; puzzles; toys; art supplies, and novelty items for kids.

Library Store purchases are tax-free. Proceeds support Library services and programs.

Westport Library holiday shop collage.

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The Westport Farmers’ Market helps us all eat well.

This Thursday (November 7, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Imperial Avenue parking lot), Positive Directions is helping shoppers become even healthier.

A Wellness Fair features several vendors:

  • “Check up from the Neck Up” (free mental health screenings)
  • Animal therapy team
  • Blood pressure screening
  • Drug awareness and resources (drunk goggles, liquor stickers, lock bags, Narcan demosntration
  • Tick and mosquito information.

It’s funded by the Farmers’ Market’s next door neighbor, the Westport Woman’s Club.

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Southern Tide officially opens its new downtown store on November 15 (5 to 8 p.m., 33 Elm Street). Everyone is invited for drinks, music, and a gift with all purchases.

Southern Tide has partnered with Save the Sound for the event, to help protect local ecosystems and waterways.

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Teachers often tell students to lower their voice.

Later this month, Coleytown Middle Schoolers will raise them loud.

And their teachers, classmates, parents and everyone else will be thrilled.

“Raise Your Voice” is CMS’ fall musical revue. Featuring 15 songs from “Into the Woods,” “Guys & Dolls,” “Fiddler on the Roof,” “Oliver!,” “Mary Poppins,” “Little Mermaid,” “Aladdin,” “Legally Blonde” and more, it appeals to all ages.

Performances are Thursday, November 21 (6 p.m.) and Friday, November 22 (7 p.m). Tickets go on sale Monday (November 4). Click here; then search for “Coleytown.”

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Hurricanes have moved off the front pages.

But residents of the Southeast US are still dealing with the devastation.

The Westport Woman’s Club wants to help.

They’re collecting money to purchase new coats and blankets, and deliver them to impacted areas.

Click here to donate. You can also mail or drop off a check: Westport Woman’s Club, 44 Imperial Avenue, Westport, CT 06880. Put “Hurricane Drive” in the memo field.

Questions? Call 203-227-4240.

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Back in the day, there was one way to get rid of pumpkins: Throw ’em in the trash.

Then came awareness of the environment. Compost! Feed the wildlife! Make a planter!

What not to do?

This.

(Photo/Jamie Klein)

It’s an important reminder that not every “Westport … Naturally” image is uplifting.

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And finally … tonight is the night we regain the hour of sleep we lost last March.

Don’t forget: Set your clocks back an hour. Enjoy!

(We hope you learn at least one thing new every day from “06880.”  If this hyper-local blog helps you live your local life better, easier or more fulfillingly, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

 

 

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