Tag Archives: Will Shortz

Roundup: Crossword Contest, Comedy, Drag Show …

Posted on February 2, 2025 | Comments Off on Roundup: Crossword Contest, Comedy, Drag Show …

Over 200 competitors vied yesterday, at the 26th annual Westport Library Crossword Puzzle Contest.

A first time winner out-puzzled them all.

Quiara Vasquez finished a Friday-level New York Times puzzle in just 6 minutes and 16 seconds — about the time it takes a normal solver to fill in just a few answers.

Quiara Vasquez (right), with runner-up Claire Rimkus (center) and third-place finisher Ken Stern. 

As always the Trefz Forum was filled with regulars, first-timers, and those cruciverbalist superstars who make the rest of us feel like we should have stopped playing games at Word Search.

The crowd skewed older, and came from 6 states. The furthest competitors — for the second year in a row — were from Georgia.

Times puzzle editor Will Shortz was once again on hand, and led several NPR-style games before the final round.

He was greeted with a well-deserved standing ovation. Besides coming every year — the only event he attends, besides the national tournament — he is recovering from a stroke.

He was stricken exactly a year ago — the day after he was in Westport for the 2024 Crossword Puzzle Tournament. Shortz described that event, and his rehabilitation over the past year.

Will Shortz (Photos/Dan Woog)

In addition to Vasquez, certificates were handed out to over 50 competitors who completed all 3 puzzles correctly.

Plus the 2 with the best handwriting (one pencil, one pen).

==================================================

Westport Country Playhouse’s “Season of Laughter” continues this month.

“Native Gardens” — a comedy about well-intentioned neighbors who become feuding enemies — debuts playing February 18.

Expectant parents Tania and Pablo Del Valle move next door to longtime suburbanites Virginia and Frank Butley. A dispute over the property line spirals into a war over taste, class, personal identity — and gardening.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

==================================================

Looking for a fun and different Valentine’s Day celebration, a few days early?

How about a drag show this Saturday, with Boston’s own Patty Bourrée?

Westport Pride is hosting the February 8 event (7 p.m., MoCA CT; 18+ only). It features songs, comedy and cocktails. All genders and orientations welcome!

Click here for tickets ($40), and more information.

================================================

Oscar Edelman is having a great season for the Wesleyan University basketball team.

The 6-8, 225-pound freshman — a Westport resident and former Greens Farms Academy player, who won a gold medal at the Maccabi Games 2 years ago — has helped the Cardinals to a 20-0 record. They are the only unbeaten men’s team in all of Division III.

Oscar Edelman

================================================

Westport Sunrise Rotary’s speaker most recent speaker was Edward Spilka.

The Wheel it Forward USA board member described his organization’s not-for-profit library. People donate or borrow free medical equipment and assistive technology like wheelchairs, hospital beds, toilet risers, walkers and knee scooters.

Warehouses in Stamford and Bridgeport serve 600 people every month. Donations kept over 100,000 pounds of equipment out of landfills, and saved users more than $1 million in 2024 alone.

Edward Spilka, at the Westport Sunrise Rotary meeting.

==================================================

Sorelle Gallery welcomes Carol Young next Saturday (February, 2 to 4 p.m.), for a meet-and-greet at their Church Lane gallery.

The Connecticut artist specializes in acrylic and oil landscapes. Click here for more information.

=================================================

Jeff Mitchell sends today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature. He writes:

“On a walk at Sherwood Island State Park Saturday morning, I encountered 4 different migrating birds.

“Those in the upper left are ring-billed gulls (note the black tail feathers with white dots). Under that is a rather large juvenile herring gull.

“In the upper right are 2 Brandt geese. Under them is one of a huge flock of long- tailed ducks floating too far from shore to get a good picture of on my phone.

“Below that is a stock picture of the same duck, for reference. They would dive under the water for up to a minute.

“I walk at Sherwood Island quite often. These are all rarities, which is why I’m passing them along.”

(Photo collage/Jeff Mitchell)

==================================================

And finally … Barry Goldberg, a keyboardist who was part of Bob Dylan’s famous electric set at the Newport Folk Festival in 1965, died last month in Los Angeles. He was 83, and suffered from lymphoma.

He played at Monterey Pop with his band the Electric Flag; on Mitch Ryder & the Detroit Wheels’ “Devil With a Blue Dress On/Good Golly Miss Molly”; albums by the Byrds, Leonard Cohen, Rod Stewart and the Ramones — and preceded Mark Naftalin (now a Westport resident) in the Paul Butterfield Blues Band.

Click here for a complete obituary.

(If you don’t know what’s going on in Westport, you’re not reading “06880.” We rely on reader support to help us help you. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

Comments Off on Roundup: Crossword Contest, Comedy, Drag Show …

Posted in Arts, Entertainment, Library, Local business, Sports, Westport Country Playhouse

Tagged , , , , , ,

Roundup: 29 Danbury Avenue, Rock ‘n’ Roll, Fencing …

Posted on March 4, 2024 | 8 comments

Next up on the chopping block: 29 Danbury Avenue.

The 3,145-square foot home with the funky “Beach House” sign, built in 1930, has a demolition permit in front.

It was one of the original summer cottages, later winterized and remodeled for year-round use.

And for sale for a lot more than the first owners paid.

29 Danbury Avenue (Photo/Jimmy Izzo)

==================================================

Nearby, almost-spring-like weather brought the touch football players to Compo Beach yesterday.

It’s a long-standing tradition, whatever the elements. But that whiff of warmth in the air must have felt good.

(Photo/Pam Washburn)

==================================================

Of course, no matter what the weather, there’s always time for s’mores.

Nômade provided the “fires” yesterday. And these hungry passersby did the rest.

(Photo/Jonathan Alloy)

==================================================

Rob Fraboni, Dick Kalt, Crispin Cioe, Miggs Burroughs, Johnny Montagnese, Michael Friedman, Rusty Ford, Jonathan Moorehead and Dick Wingate are all local residents.

And each one has a wealth of stories about the golden age of rock ‘n’ roll.

They’ll tell those tales — about what went on on stage, and off — this Wednesday (March 6, 7 p.m.) at Friedman’s pop-up gallery, 31 Church Lane.

(He’s the photographer who found a trove of images — lost for 50 years — and turned them into a book.)

There will be wine, beer, snacks — and tons of stories about Dylan, The Band, Springsteen, Joplin, The Beach Boys, The Stones, and many more.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

Michael Friedman knew Levon Helm when he was in the Hawks — the band that preceded The Band. The drummer autographed this for Friedman in 2009.

==================================================

In all the excitement over the Staples High School boys basketball and girls ice hockey teams, let’s not forget the Staples Fencing Club.

Senior Max Piterbarg won 1st place in his division, and 4 teammates medaled at the Connecticut State Individual Fencing Championship on Saturday in North Haven.

Piterbarg, Peter Loranger and Eric Wilson will compete in the state men’s foil team champions for the third consecutive year, next weekend in Clinton.

Westporter Delphine de Vore — the volunteer coach — leads the co-ed club team. It began 3 years ago. Fencers of all skill levels are welcome; no prior experience or equipment required.

From left: Olivia Zhou, 5th place women’s foil; Eva Slossberg, 5th, women’s epee; Tisha Darmawan, women’s epee; Eric Wilson, 7th, men’s foil; Vasco Peixoto, men’s saber; Max Piterbarg, 1st, men’s foil; Peter Loranger, 3rd, men’s foil; Aidan Goldberg, men’s Foil; Coach Delphine de Vore. Not pictured: Robert Stanton, men’s epee.

==================================================

Speaking of sports: The Staples boys basketball team welcomed youth players to the gym yesterday, for a day of fun.

Future Wreckers watched the varsity practice, before Thursday night’s state tournament opening game; participated in a shooting clinic, and heard about what’s ahead when they’re ready for the big time.

Staples basketball players and coaches — and the next generation.

==================================================

The Battle of Iwo Jima lasted from February 19 to March 26, 1945.

This Saturday (March 9, 1 p.m.), VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399 salutes that decisive Pacific victory by hosting Iwo Jima Association of America Lt. Col. Art Sifuentes, USMC (retired).

Organizers invite the community to come together to honor the brave Marines and Navy men who fought, and displayed extraordinary valor and resilience, on that island.

The iconic image of Iwo Jima.

==================================================

A small trash pick-up is set for next Sunday (March 10, 11 a.m.) at Sipperley’s Hill Road (connecting Ford Road and Weston Road). It’s sponsored by VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399, and Sons of the American Legion.

Volunteers can park on the road and gather garbage, from top to bottom. Bring your own trash bags, dress warmly, and wear gloves and boots.

Questions? Email Andrew Colabella: acolabellartm4@gmail.com.

==================================================

On February 3, New York Times crossword editor entertained a packed Westport Library crowd with his usual wit, puzzles and games, at the 25th annual Crossword Contest.

The next day, he had a stroke.

Yesterday, Will shared a health update at the end of NPR’s Sunday Puzzle. He usually hosts the show.

He said he is recovering, and will be back soon.

Will’s many fans around the world — and especially here in Westport — wish him a speedy recovery.

Will Shortz, interviewing contest champion Glenn Ryan last month. (Photo/Dan Woog)

==================================================

Westport resident and longtime Westport Emergency Services volunteer Stewart Reifler died peacefully last Wednesday. He was 69.

The Poughkeepsie native attended McGill University, and graduated from Bard College with a degree in literature. He then graduated magna cum laude from New York Law School, where he received the Law Review Award for Outstanding Editorial Contribution.

Steward became a partner in the law firm of Vedder Price, heading the firm’s executive compensation practice group in its New York office. He edited several editions of the Compensation Committee Handbook.

Stewart was active in many area non-profits. Most recently, he was an active duty EMT with Westport Volunteer EMS, and a member of its board of directors as treasurer.

He was named EMT of the Year in 2 consecutive years. He co-authoring WVEMS’ bylaws and policies, ran their annual fundraiser, and was a regular on the Wednesday morning ambulance crew.

Before becoming an EMT, Stewart was a trustee of the Westport Library. He also served as commodore, treasurer, and member of the Board of Governors of the Minuteman Yacht Club. He enjoyed spending time at the Ned Dimes Marina, and on Long Island Sound with friends.

Outside of Westport he was a board member  of the American Friends of the Franco-American Institute, serving as secretary and treasurer.

His passion for skydiving began in college. After a 25-year break, he picked it back up later in life. He completed over 300 solo jumps.

He also enjoyed summer trips to Tanglewood. His most recent hobby was target shooting, with pistols and rifles. He became an expert in gun safety.

He is survived by his son Jonathan Reifler (Kara Popowich), 2 grandchildren, and his sisters and their spouses, Ellen Reifler (Mark Messenger) and Sylvia Reifler (Chris Christensen). He is also survived by his former wife, Sheryl Vos.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Westport Volunteer EMS. To read more about the importance of WVEMS, and their need for funds, click here.

Stewart Reifler

==================================================

This handsome creature posed gracefully for our “Westport … Naturally” feature, at Grace Salmon Park.

(Photo/Ferdinand Jahnel)

==================================================

And finally … if you thought today’s featured song would reference Michael Friedman’s upcoming pop-up rock tales event (story above) — specifically, Levon Helm — you’re right!

(Sure, this morning’s lead story was our annual put-out-our-tin-cup request for contributions. Hope you don’t mind this gentle reminder. Please click here to donate. Thank you!)

8 Comments

Posted in Beach, History, Obituaries, Real estate, Restaurants, Sports, Staples HS

Tagged , , , , , ,

Puzzling Day At The Library

Posted on February 4, 2024 | Comments Off on Puzzling Day At The Library

Over 150 people — from right here in Westport, and as far away as Georgia — crammed the Westport Library yesterday.

They brought pencils (and a few pens), a competitive yet comradely spirit, and their wits, to the Library’s 25th annual Crossword Contest.

With less than 2 minutes remaining, many puzzlers were still working hard on the third crossword.

In some ways, it was no contest.

Defending champion Glenn Ryan picked up his 6th title, beating former winners Ken Stern and Peter Rinkus. He finished a New York Times Sunday crossword in a lightning-fast 6 minutes, 7 seconds.

That’s the time it takes many people to figure out the first few answers.

Just 11 seconds into the finals, competitors (from left) Glenn Ryan, Ken Stern and Peter Rinkus had already filled in several answers.

The trio qualified for the finals by completing 3 puzzles — a “Monday,” “Tuesday” and “Wednesday,” in ascending order of difficulty — perfectly, in the least amount of time.

Winner Glenn Ryan is interviewed by New York Times puzzle editor and contest host Will Shortz.

But everyone was a winner.

Some contestants got a certificate for finishing all 3 puzzles correctly.

Mark Gilrain earned a certificate, for 3 perfect puzzles.

Two won for “best penmanship” (one in pencil, the other pen).

All were entertained before the final round with word games, courtesy of Times puzzle editor (and contest puzzle master) Will Shortz.

Many puzzlers are veterans of previous Library contests. Some were first-timers.

Midway through the contest. In the background: Library director Bill Harmer and puzzle master Will Shortz.

Many finished one crossword. Some finished all three.

The Moore family came from Atlanta. Clockwise from right: Rebecca is a veteran puzzler (and finished all 3 correctly). William is a sophomore at Wesleyan University. Randy just started solving 2 weeks ago. Their friend Jim Dray (blue) traveled a shorter distance. He lives in Guilford.

“Across” the board, all had fun. No one left feeling “down.”

Word!

The most important elements of yesterday’s contest: the crossword puzzles, and pencil sharpeners. (All photos/Dan Woog)

(If it happens in Westport, chances are you’ll read about it on “06880.” Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

Comments Off on Puzzling Day At The Library

Posted in Library

Tagged , ,

Roundup: The Porch, Club 203, Westport 100 …

Posted on February 5, 2023 | 5 comments

Bitter temperatures, then quick warming yesterday caused a frozen pipe to burst during lunch at The Porch @ Christie’s.

A screen shot from a video by Dylan Curran (below) shows water cascading between 2 light fixtures, down the front of a display case, and into one of several trash cans.

But nothing stops Andrea and Bill Pecoriello. The owners worked their magic tirelessly, and opened again this morning.

=======================================================

Speaking of The Porch:

The popular Cross Highway deli/restaurant is the site of the next Club 203 party. Westport’s great social group for adults with disabilities celebrates St. Patrick’s Day there the night before: March 16, 7 p.m.

Westport Country Playhouse was the scene of the club’s recent Valentine’s dance party. Over 120 guests and a dozen volunteers enjoyed stacks of heart-shaped  pizzas donated by Planet Pizza, sweetheart cookies courtesy of Stew Leonard’s and The Pantry, and a jewelry-making and artful “live love” project sponsored by MoCA of Westport.

Click here for more information on Club 203, and the St. Paddy’s Day social.

Rockin’ Club 203’s Valentine’s dance, at Westport Country Playhouse.

=======================================================

Yesterday’s Roundup noted that although the Norwalk Bed Bath & Beyond store is not accepting coupons — and everything is 20% off — it was not on the chain’s list of hundreds of stores slated for closing.

But Bobbie Herman — who told “06880” that both it and the Fairfield store will close — was right.

A call to the Norwalk location yesterday confirmed the news. The person who answered said the news has not yet been announced officially. The final day is “sometime in March.”

=======================================================

Two years ago, Jay Norris sat with 4 other Black men. Their goal was to create a  social community in Westport for people of color.

The men would network. They and their spouses would attend cultural events, and dine out together; they’d organize beach parties and other events for their kids.

Hoping for a few more men, they chose an optimistic name: Westport 10.

They’ve met at places like La Plage, Autostrada and Hudson Malone. Their children have gotten together. By their presence and involvement in local affairs, they’re making Westport more comfortable for themselves — and more welcoming for all.

Westport 10 has grown rapidly. They’re now up to over 50 men and their families.

So Jay has announced a new name: Westport 100.

Congratulations! Here’s hoping for more name changes in the future.

At a recent Westport 100 lunch at Hudson Malone, clockwise from bottom right: Titus McDougal (wearing a cap), Alexis Johnson, Lorenzo Wyatt, Kevin Christie, Dr. Stephan Grevious, Ron Gordon, Trey Ellis, Vinny Spencer, Roy Adams, Timothy Tanksley, Jay Norris, Ted Parker, C.D. Glin,

=======================================================

New York Times crossword puzzle editor and NPR puzzle master Will Shortz entertained hundreds of puzzle solvers and word lovers yesterday, at the 24th annual Westport Library contest.

The crowd worked on 3 puzzles he brought — all yet to be published in the Times — and then followed along as 3 finalists competed onstage. Before the final round, Shortz led a series of word games.

“You’re sharp!” he said, as one man took about three nanonseconds to turn one word (“mechanize”) into the name of an animal by adding another (“chimpanzee”).

The crossword champion — who won a previous contest here — was Glenn Ryan. He finished the final puzzle — an always-tough “Saturday” one — in 6 minutes, 48 seconds.

The rest of us are still working on it.

Will Shortz, leading word games at the Westport Library. (Photo/Dan Woog)

=======================================================

Last week, Matt Murray’s radar detector started going bonkers at various spots it never had before.

He realized it was triggered by boxes on telephone poles. Looking closely, he saw that they’re property of the Connecticut Department of Transportation. He worried that “Big Brother” was monitoring speeds.

A state Department of Transportation traffic study box. (Photo/Matt Murray)

They are on (among other roads) North Avenue, Cross Highway and Bayberry Lane — all areas that are being studied for traffic patterns, prior to recommendations for improvement.

Westport Police Chief says, “the data is not vehicle specific. Nor is it being used for enforcement.”

Matt sends along this link, from a barcode on the radar box.

=======================================================

Kat Evans is this month’s featured artist at the Westport Book Shop.

Her luminous color field paintings are on display through February 28. All are available for purchase.

Kat’s art has been shown in juried solo and group exhibitions, and hangs in collections throughout North America, Europe and Japan. She is a member of the Artists Collective of Westport.

Kat Evans, at the Westport Book Shop.

=======================================================

The Westport Country Playhouse Script in Hand 2003 play reading series begins with  “As Bees in Honey Drown.”

The fun-filled, insightful social satire is set for Monday, February 13 (7 p.m.). Script in Hand eadings offer intimate storytelling. Professional actors bring words to life, without sets or costumes.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

=======================================================

Readers submit many great sunrise photos.

This one — from a few days ago, at Compo Beach — makes it to the top of the “Westport … Naturally” queue. The birds add a special touch.

(Photo/Simon Gurvets)

======================================================

And finally … today is National Fart Day. No s—.

(If you click here to contribute to “06880,” I’ll keep posting final items like this. If you contribute a lot, I’ll stop.)

\

5 Comments

Posted in Arts, Library, Local business, Transportation, Westport Country Playhouse, Westport life

Tagged , , , , , , ,

Roundup: Shop Local, Chris Frantz, Crossword Contest …

Posted on December 2, 2021 | 1 comment

======================================================

We’ve all heard the mantra: “Shop local!”

We don’t always know how.

Just in time for the holidays, FairfieldCountyShops.com can help. Searchable in many ways — clothing, kids, art, beauty and wellness, home, jewelry, accessories, outerwear, sales and more — it includes Westport merchants like Organachs Farm to Skin, Winged Monkey, West, Age of Reason, New England Hemp Farm, Gioiella Jewelry and more.

New stores are being added all the time.

Two of New England Hemp Farm offers holiday gifts.

======================================================

Speaking of shopping local: There’s no better place than Savvy + Grace.

And no better time than today (Thursday). From 3:30 to 7:30 p.m., Annette Norton and her crew host a holiday open house — and an UGG trunk show.

Enjoy raffles, light bites, drinks and fun. Plus free UGG crew socks with an UGG purchase. Just my style!

Annette Norton at Savvy + Grace.

=======================================================

A few seats remain for this Saturday’s inaugural “Chris Frantz Presents: Emerging Musicians” at the Westport Library. The 7:30 p.m. show (December 4) introduces New York’s Lulu Lewis and New Haven’s The Problem with Kids Today. Both play kick-ass rock, with punk influences.

The collaboration with the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce and Verso Studios features up-and-coming regional, national and international talent, hand-picked by Fairfield’s (and Talking Heads’) own star.

For tickets and more information, click here.

The Problem with Kids Today (band photo, not an editorial comment).

=======================================================

Speaking of the library: Registration is now open for the 23rd annual Crossword Puzzle Contest.

Led by legendary New York Times crossword editor Will Shortz himself, it’s a fun (and humbling) way to enjoy an often solitary activity in the company of other nerds, some of whom are even smarter than you.

It’s Saturday, February 5 (1 p.m.). Put down your pencil, and click here for registration and more information. Spots go fast!

Finalists in the 2020 event. (Photo/Dan Woog)

======================================================

Birchwood Country Club golfers know their pro, Kammy Maxfeldt, is a great teacher.

Now the entire nation knows it.

Golf Digest has just released its list of the top teaching pros in every state. Topping the Connecticut list: our own Kammy.

Voting is done entirely by peers. More than 2,000 teachers across the country weighed in on their colleagues. Click here for the full story.

But that’s not all. Three years ago, “06880” hailed Kammy as an Unsung Hero. She’d just earned a spot in the US Senior Women’s Open tournament — after battling leukemia. Click here for that even more interesting story.

Kammy Maxfeldt

=======================================================

Former Staples High School English teacher Daniel Geraghty has just published his first book.

According to Amazon, “Cast Away Stones” is “a raw, honest and lucid account of overcoming life’s challenges and developing personal resilience. The book details surviving the attacks of 9/11/2001 in New York City and a choice to serve the American people.

“A victim of violent abuse as a child on the verge of adolescence, Geraghty transformed pain and trauma into focus, drive and motivation. A US Army veteran, Airborne Ranger, Captain, 9/11 survivor, first responder, teacher and leader, he has waged a battle to overcome Post Traumatic Stress Disorder for over 20 years through a dedication to service and his family.

Click here for more information, and to order.

=======================================================

One of the best toy drives anywhere is the one sponsored by the Westport Police Department Union and Westport Police Benevolent Association. Gifts go to underprivileged children throughout Fairfield County, including St. Vincent’s Hospitals.

Westport police officers will accept new, unopened and unwrapped toys, as well as cash donations, in the parking lot of ASF Sports (1560 Post Road East) on this weekend (December 4-5) and next (11-12), between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. 

There will also be toy collection boxes in the police station lobby (50 Jesup Road), and at Toyota of Westport (777 Post Road East), now through December 13.

Questions? Email t ANowinski@WestportCT.gov or call 203-341-6000.

What a great gift: a police toy for the police toy drive!

======================================================

Save the Sound is hiring for 5 positions:

  • Regional director, water protection (Larchmont, New York)
  • Director of finance (New Haven)
  • Lands communications specialist (New Haven)
  • Clean water communications specialist (Larchmont)
  • Ecological communications specialist (New Haven).

Save the Sound fights climate change, saves endangered lands, protects the Sound and its rivers, and works with nature to restore ecosystems across Connecticut, Westchester, New York City and Long Island.

For more information, click here.

=======================================================

Linda Dobson — who ran D&D Refuse here for more than 30 years — died peacefully last month at home, after a long illness. She was 73.

She is survived by Sierra Dobson of Fairfield, brother Malcolm (Donna) Frazier Jr.. granddaughters Erica and Erin Flynn, and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband Sydney.

Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Fairfield County, 22 Danbury Road. Wilton, CT 06897, who took compassionate care of Linda. Click here to sign the online guestbook.

=======================================================

You gotta love this “love tree.”

Sandy Rothenberg spotted — and snapped — it on Greenlea Lane, near Bayberry, for our “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Sandy Rothenberg)

===================================================

And finally … this is National Cookie Cutter Week.

This is probably not what the organizers had in mind, but let’s celebrate!

1 Comment

Posted in Entertainment, Environment, Library, Local business, Obituaries, Police, Sports, Staples HS

Tagged , , , , ,

Roundup: Home Sales, Crossword Contest, Oyster Boat, More

Posted on December 9, 2020 | 7 comments

Wesetport’s real estate market continues to sizzle.

44 houses closed in November, up 63% from November 2019. The average closing price was 101.1% of the list price.

The average home spent 148 days on the market, down 38% from November 2019.

There were 72 houses pending (properties with signed contracts) on November 30, with an average list price of $1.96 million. (Hat tip: Chuck Greenlee)

Getting a spot for the Westport Library’s crossword puzzle contest can be tougher than solving a Saturday in the New York Times.

This year, it’s easier than a Monday.

The 22nd annual event is set for Saturday, February 6. This year it’s virtual — so there’s no limit to the number of attendees.

But some things never change. Times puzzle editor Will Shortz will again host. In addition to the puzzles, he’ll offer original word games and answer everything-you-always-wanted-to-know questions.

There are prizes for the winners. And this year — as you solve at home — you won’t have to look at everyone around who has already finished and think, “Wow, I might be the stupidest person here.”

Click here to register.

A small portion of the 130-plus puzzlers last year.

Recent “06880” stories and photos about the Catherine Wedmore oyster boat have intrigued many readers.

But she’s not the only oyster vessel in Long Island Sound.

The S.W. Sheppard regularly plies our waters, near Cockenoe Island. Here she is, hard at work:

(Photo/Jamie Walsh)

The Westport Police Department, Westport Human Services Department and Mental Grit Fitness are partnering for a holiday food drive scheduled. The dates are Thursday and Friday, December 17 and 18 (12 to 4:30 p.m.). The site is the Imperial Avenue parking lot. Contactless drop-off is available, from the trunks of cars.

All donations benefit needy families through Homes with Hope, and those affiliated with the Norwalk chapter of the NAACP.

Non-perishable items needed include:

  • Canned, jarred and boxed goods including chicken, salmon, Spam, tuna, fruit, applesauce, vegetables, soups/stews, peanut butter, jelly, pasta sauces, pasta, macaroni and cheese
  • Breakfast items like granola, breakfast bars,  cereal
  • Toiletries and cleaning products like paper towels, tissues, toilet paper, hand sanitizer, disposable gloves, sponges, sanitizing wipes, laundry detergent.

For more information, contact Andrew Berman: 203-733-1194; andy@mentalgritfitness.com.

And finally … on this date in 1851, the first YMCA in North America opened its doors — in Montreal.

7 Comments

Posted in Environment, Library, Media, Police, Real estate

Tagged ,

Pics Of The Day #1020

Posted on February 1, 2020 | 8 comments

The Westport Library was quieter than usual today — some of the time.

The 21st annual Crossword Puzzle Contest drew a record 130-plus cruciverbalists, from as far as Pittsburgh and Illinois. 

A small portion of the 130-plus puzzlers.

Led by New York Times puzzle editor Will Shortz — the host and grandmaster for all 21 years — the contestants tackled 3 crosswords. 

That was the quiet part. During breaks, there were loud, animated conversations — about puzzles, the genius of Will Shortz, and life. 

The judges at work.

After those preliminary rounds, the finalists took the stage. Glenn Ryan of Norwich dethroned defending champion Ken Stern, finishing a “Friday puzzle” without a mistake in a blazing 4 minutes, 50 seconds.

Finalists,just minutes after the championship round began.

He won a book about the origins of words — and an hour test drive in a Maserati, courtesy of the Westport dealer.

From left: finalists Ken Stern, Jesse Lansner and champion Glenn Ryan, with Westport Library executive director  Bill Harmer and New York Times puzzle editor Will Shortz.

That may the only thing faster than Glenn.

Not to brag, but — well, okay, a little. (Photos/Dan Woog)

 

8 Comments

Posted in Library, Media, People, Pic of the Day

Tagged , , ,

It’s No Puzzle Where Cruciverbalists Were Today

Posted on February 2, 2019 | 16 comments

There are 2 ways to do the New York Times crossword puzzle:

  1. By yourself
  2. In a room with a couple hundred other people, racing the clock and all those other geniuses who know that frybread is a “Naan-like Native American food,” epee is a “sword’s name with two accents,” and that shandy is a “beer and lemonade drink.” They also know who Danny Ainge, Joni Ernst and Gotye are, plus tons of other random stuff.

All those people who enjoy option #2 gathered this afternoon at the Saugatuck Congregational Church. They competed — good-naturedly, but fiercely — in the Westport Library’s 20th annual Crossword Puzzle Contest.

Solving crossword puzzles takes concentration.

For the 20th year, it was puzzle-master-minded — and presided over joyfully and cruciverbally — by Times crossword editor (and NPR star) Will Shortz.

New York Times puzzle editor Will Shortz and Westport Library director Bill Harmer entertain the crowd. The countdown clock is at right.

Contestants came from as far as North Carolina and Illinois. Ages skewed older, though there were enough younger faces to make Gotye a legit question.

After 3 rounds of increasing-in-difficulty Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday puzzles, the top 3 contestants (based on speed and accuracy) faced off for the title. They stood on stage, solving a tough Thursday crossword as the crowd watched.

The finalists (from left): Glen Ryan, Jesse Lansner and Ken Stern.

Glen Ryan finished in 6:50. However, he got one answer wrong.

Jesse Lansner was 2nd, in 7:30. But he got one wrong too.

So Ken Stern — slow, steady and perfect, in 11:37 — was declared the winner.

It was a fast, fun day. I know, because I was one of those solvers

I did not make the finals. But I was one of a few dozen to complete all 3 Monday through Wednesday puzzles perfectly.

Though I still have no idea who Gotye is.

16 Comments

Posted in Entertainment, Library, Media, People

Tagged , , ,

The Puzzle Of Alan Southworth

Posted on January 18, 2018 | 11 comments

Westporters have a special relationship with the New York Times crossword puzzle.

Every year, puzzle editor Will Shortz hosts a competition at the library. (The upcoming 19th annual event is February 3.)

When library director Maxine Bleiweis retired in 2015, Shortz showed up — and presented her with a specially created, “MB”-themed puzzle.

Two months ago, “Westport” was even the answer to a clue — “Affluent Connecticut town” — in a Times crossword puzzle.

But our special relationship goes only so far. To be published by the paper, a puzzle must be good. Very good.

Alan Southworth’s is. Which is why — ta-da! — the 2010 Staples High School graduate makes his debut today as a New York Times puzzle constructor.

Alan Southworth (left) and Will Shortz, at last year’s Westport Library crossword puzzle contest.

The best constructors know a lot, about a lot of things. They have varied interests. Southworth definitely does.

At Staples he sang with the Orphenians, joined the jazz band, competed on the math team, and played freshman basketball.

At Princeton he majored in geosciences (and was certified in sustainable energy and environmental studies). He works now as an energy market consultant, in a Manhattan firm run by 2001 Staples grads Gabe Phillips and Jonathan Spivak. In his spare time, he plays singer-songwriter gigs around the city.

Southworth always loved words. He grew up playing Scrabble and Boggle with his mom, and relaxed before bed with Sudoku and KenKen.

In college, he discovered crosswords. He and his friends challenged themselves with the Times puzzle in the dining hall.

After graduation, he commuted nearly 2 hours each way. Vowing to be as productive as possible, he spent his train rides writing song lyrics. That soon morphed into crossword theme ideas.

His college friend Ryan McCarty had a couple of puzzles accepted by the Times. He wanted to collaborate. So Southworth devised themes. McCarty did most of the grid construction. Together they wrote clues.

They’ve kept a Google Doc of puzzle ideas ever since.

Their first 2 puzzles were rejected. This one was accepted, Southworth thinks, because the theme answers were a  bit “cleaner,” and the grid more open (fewer black squares in the middle).

Having a crossword accepted is quite an accomplishment. Having your first one run on a Thursday is remarkable. That’s the toughest day for a themed puzzle. (Monday is the easiest; Tuesday and Wednesday are a bit harder. Friday and Saturday are reserved for themeless — but more difficult — puzzles.)

Southworth has a digital subscription to the Times. But today he’ll buy a dead-tree copy of the paper — and make copies for his co-workers.

Here in Westport, his parents have promised to save their copy for him too.

11 Comments

Posted in Entertainment, Media, People, Staples HS

Tagged , , , ,

And The Answer Is …

Posted on November 22, 2017 | 3 comments

Today’s New York Times crossword puzzle starts easily.

1 Across:  “Home to Santa’s workshop.” 4 letters. Hmmm…”North Pole” doesn’t fit. So…just “Pole,” right?

Okay. 1 Down: “Affluent Connecticut town.” Also 4 letters.

Wow. I can’t think of any towns that start with “P.” Or even any 4-letter affluent Connecticut towns. Well, maybe Avon…

On to 5 Across, to the immediate right:  “Popular outdoor clothing brand, with ‘The.'” The only one I can think of is “North Face.” But there are only 4 squares. Leave that for later…

I’ll try the next one on the top line. 9 Across:  “Minnesota NHL team from 1967 to 1993.” That’s simple: “North Stars.” But wait — there are only 5 letters. So…just “Stars,” no?

Aha!

Every answer on the top is missing “North.”

Why would that be?

Oh yeah! Because they’re on the top line — in other words, the “North”!

So that must mean, um — the bottom line would be “South.”

Let’s check it out. 67 Across is “Country hosting the 2018 Winter Olympics.” I haven’t paid attention yet, but I’m guessing it’s not South Africa. What about…South Korea?

Yep — there are 5 squares. Bingo!

So back to the top — 1 Down. I’m betting every answer on the left side starts with “West.”

Which would make that “affluent Connecticut town” — the one with only 4 letters, starting with a “P” — “Westport”!

It’s a clever crossword. And I’ll be sure to thank Times puzzle editor Will Shortz for it personally, next February.

You know — when he makes his annual appearance at the Westport Library Crossword Competition!

Will Shortz at the Westport Library, last February.

(Hat tip: David Schwartz)

 

3 Comments

Posted in Library, Media, People, Totally random

Tagged , , ,