Posted onJune 16, 2024|Comments Off on Roundup: Yankee Doodle, Ham Operators, Compo Crowds …
After a rained-out Friday, the Yankee Doodle Fair was packed all day and night yesterday.
Ava Bierman enjoys the Yankee Doodle Fair. (Photo/Bryan Bierman)
The unofficial kickoff to summer ends today. Hours are 1-5 p.m. at the Westport Woman’s Club on Imperial Avenue. As always, proceeds help fund dozens of grants to local non-profits, and scholarships.
It takes many volunteers to keep Yankee Doodle Fair-goers happy and safe — and not just from the WWC.
The Community Emergency Response Team — which supports first responders in Westport and Weston, and helps out with events like this — has been out in full force.
You may think they were manning (and womanning) a booth. In fact, they were keeping an all on all of us.
As they always do.
Karen Kleine, Westport Woman’s Club Yankee Doodle Fair chair, checks in with CERT president Mike Vincelli and vice president David Kinyon. (Photo/Jo Shields Sherman)
The Westport Astronomical Society’s ham radio club K1WAS hosts ARRL Field Day — an in-person amateur radio event — at their observatory on 182 Bayberry Lane site next weekend. It runs from 2 p.m. Saturday, June 22 until 8 p.m. Sunday, June 23.
Field Day is an annual amateur radio activity with over 40,000 ham radio operators across America. They participate by establishing temporary radio stations in public locations, demonstrating their skills and service.
But you don’t need a radio license to participate. Everyone can get on the air, using radios provided by local radio clubs hosted by the observatory.
Ham operators play a crucial role in emergencies. They may be needed soon, during an active hurricane season.
“Hams have a long history of service when critical communication infrastructure like cell towers are damaged,” says Dan Wright, Westport Astronomical Society board member and amateur radio operator N3DAW.
“Field Day exemplifies the resilience and ingenuity of amateur radio operators, who connect the world, no matter the circumstances.”
For more information on the Field Day event, click here.
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Yesterday was the first legit weekend beach day of the year (school’s out, 80 degrees, summer vibe).
Right on cue, Compo Beach was packed.
The photo below is just a taste of what’s to come. Enjoy!
One other sign of summer: the hot dog grill outside Mitchells of Westport.
They’re known far and wide for their coffee (always) and bagels (weekend). But on select days, you can grab a dog with your suits, shirts, slacks and jewelry.
What started as a mom-and-pop shop has come a long way since 1958. The 4th generation of Mitchells has just joined the ranks.
But they never forget their down-home roots.
Hot dogs al fresco, at Mitchells. (Photo/Ed Simek)
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You’ve probably seen Little Ralphie — the inflatable yellow duck — at various spots around town.
While he’s promoting the Sunrise Rotary Club’s Great Duck Race, human Rotarians are busy sorting Ralphie’s plastic brethren.
They’re getting ready for the family-friendly event on Saturday, June 29 (10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Jesup Green).
Attendance — and fun — is free. Click here to purchase tickets for the raffle.
PS: The top prize is $5,000. And all proceeds go to Sunrise Rotary’s charity efforts.
Sunrise Rotarians, sorting ducks. From left: Joe Scordato, Pete Wolgast, president Liz Wong, president-elect Katie Augustyn, Bruce Fritz, Mazie Zdanowicz.
But there’s no limit to the amount of non-humans that can enjoy the facility. This was the “Westport … Naturally” scene recently, at the Mahackeno Outdoor Center.
(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)
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And finally … Tupac Shakur was born on this day in 1971. The rapper and producer was killed in 1996, age 25.
(“06880” is your hyper-local blog. We rely on the support of readers like you. To make a tax-deductible contribution, please click here. Thank you!)
Comments Off on Roundup: Yankee Doodle, Ham Operators, Compo Crowds …
Friday’s Yankee Doodle Fair rainout made yesterday’s event even more special.
Folks of all ages packed the Westport Woman’s Club parking lot on Imperial Avenue, for the annual start-of-summer rite.
There were games of chance, a bake sale, and much more. But — as always — the carnival rides were king. And kids flocked to them. “06880” photographer Charlie Scott captured some of the scenes.
The Yankee Doodle Fair runs today (Sunday) from 1-5 p.m. Proceeds support the WWC’s grants to area non-profits, and scholarships.
The Westport Astronomical Society will be there in force tomorrow (Saturday). But they won’t be riding the Ferris wheel, or even playing one of those galactic games.
The WAS will set up solar telescopes, so fairgoers can view the sun.
It’s full circle (ho ho). In 2017, the organization received a Westport Woman’s Club Ruegg Grant. They bought a Lunt 100mm solar telescope, for pristine views of the sun and its active atmosphere.
It, and other telescopes, will be there tomorrow. See the sun like never before!
If you were at Staples Pops Concert last week — or the Candlelight Concert, or any other show at the high school, middle schools or elementary schools this year — this is not exactly stop-the-presses news:
The Westport Public Schools have been honored with another “Best Communities for Music Education” award from the National Association of Music Merchants Foundation.
The honor is getting routine. We’ve won it every year since 2013.
“Best Communities Music Education” designations go to districts that demonstrate outstanding achievement in efforts to provide music access and education to all students.
Criteria include funding, graduation requirements, music class participation, instruction time, facilities, support for the music program, and community music-making programs.
Over 200 students take part in the Candlelight Concert each year. Hundreds more participate in music programs at the middle and elementary schools.
Speaking of awards: Dozens of Westporters were proudly in the Hartford crowd Wednesday, as the Town of Westport, Westport Housing Authority and Homes with Hope were all honored by the Connecticut Coalition to End Homelessness.
All 3 groups received “Community Champions Awards,” for their continuing innovative practices and collaborative efforts, significantly impacting hundreds of people needing shelter and food.
Congratulations to all, on this major recognition!
Officials representing the town of Westport, Homes with Hope and Westport Housing Authority, and the Connecticut Coalition to End Homelessness, at Wednesday’s ceremony.
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There’s an old saying: “When you fall off a horse, get right back up.”
The same can be said about rowing shells.
In late March, over 2 dozen Saugatuck Rowing Club rowers and coaches were rescued from the frigid Long Island Sound after 3 shells capsized in a sudden squall. Significant equipment was lost.
Despite their challenging spring, the team put 8 boats into the A finals at USRowing Nationals last week — the most in the club history.
Now, for the first time, SRC will send a crew to the Henley Royal Regatta in England June 28 through July 8. It’s a great international test for the local club.
Though their commitments to attend the US Naval Academy and Military Academy, respectively, prevent them from competing in England, captains George Bentley and Dillon Bhutani have led fundraising effort for the trip by seeking sponsors for feats of endurance.
Travel to England is expensive, and requires specialized clothing (including a specific blazer and hat). Not all rowing families can manage the financial burden. To defray expenses, the team will stay with a host family rather than a hotel.
Donations of any size are welcome. Click here to help.
Westport Police made 4 custodial arrests last week.
An 18-year-old Weston man was charged with reckless driving, DUI under 21 years, passing in a no-passing zone and failure to drive n the proper lane, following a single-car rollover accident around 8:44 p.m. on May 14. Several witnesses described the driver’s reckless, aggressive habits prior to the crash.
A 26-year-old Danbury man was charged with evading responsibility, following too closely, and driving without a license, following an accident at 8:18 a.m. on May 9. A woman stopped in traffic on Bayberry Lane at Long Lots Road was struck from behind by an SUV. As she inspected the damage, the driver shrugged his shoulders and drove away. The woman took a photo of his license plate.
A 52-year-old Southbury man was charged with reckless burning, criminal mischief and threatening, following an investigation into an early morning April 2019 fire at the Saugatuck train station. Due to the man’s mental state at the time of the incident, he was transported to a local hospital for evaluation.
A 36-year-old Torrington man was charged with burglary and larceny, following a November report of a burglary while a family was not home. A security camera showed the man entering the home. He was arrested after being implicated in another burglary in the neighborhood.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 19 citatiosn
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 6
Traveling unreasonably fast: 5
Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 4
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 3
Failure to obey traffic control signals: 2
Evading responsibility: 1
Driving while texting: 1
Distracted driving 1
Improper passing: 1
Failure to drive right: 1
Following too closely: 1
Failure to obey stop sign: 1
Unsafe backing: 1
Unreadable license plates: 1
Failure to wear seat belt: 1
Improper turn signal lamps: 1
Failure to renew registration: 1
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April Cunningham’s Westport roots run deep.
Her maiden name is Carusone. Her father was a Westport police officer. Her grandfather James Dorta worked for the town.
She fell on hard times. Both she and her husband are on disability. She has severe arthritis, while he has cataracts and needs surgery.
A couple of months ago, generous Westporters helped her and her husband with housing and food, in Milford.
Once again, they are on the verge of homelessness and hunger.
Click here to read the story of a local resident in need, with a link to a fund for assistance.
Russell Barnard, co-founder and publisher of Country Music Magazine, and longtime resident of Westport, died on February 5. He was 86.
He grew up in Pampa, Texas, then earned a degree in chemical engineering from Yale University in 1960.
After beginning his career at Sinclair Oil he soon moved to the music industry, working for Columbia Records in New York from 1963 to 1970, before turning to media and publishing.
In the early 70s he was a consultant to various media outlets and publications. He served as publisher of Harper’s Magazine from 1972 to 1976.
In 1972, he co-founded Country Music Magazine. With over 700,000 subscribers, it appealed to fans, music artists and industry executives, while never shying away from controversy or honest criticism.
Longtime contributor Rich Kienzle said that Barnard encouraged his writers —including luminaries like Patrick Carr, Nick Tosches and Peter Guralnick — to be “outlaw journalists,” like some country artists.
Barnard’s ability to spot, and foster, writing talent was as important to the magazine’s success as his ability to spot musical trends.
In 1988 he moved the magazine and his family from New York to Westport. Country Music had offices on Riverside Avenue and then Post Road East at Turkey Hill Road, where it remained until Barnard sold the magazine in 1999. The last issue was published in 2003.
In 2012, Barnard and his wife Helen — who worked as an editor of the magazine in Westport — moved back to New York City. He donated a collection of archived material to the University of North Carolina Wilson Special Collections Library, which Ken Burns drew on extensively for his documentary on the history of country music.
He is survived by Helen; their children Anne, John and Christopher, as well as 2 grandchildren. A small funeral was held in February at Willowbrook Cemetery, where he is buried.
Russ Barnard and Johnny Cash, at the singer’s Tennessee cabin.
That’s not the only local spot to tread lightly. This is a shot from Sherwood Island State Park — an excellent reminder of the wonders of “Westport … Naturally:
Okay, now we know summer is just around the corner.
The Westport Woman’s Club has announced the dates for the Yankee Doodle Fair.
The century-old tradition returns Fathers Day weekend. From Thursday, June 13 through Sunday, June 16, the grounds and parking lot on Imperial Avenue will transform from a staid club into a carnival, for “kids” of all ages.
Profits support charities throughout Fairfield County, need-based scholarships to Staples High School students, and the Woman’s Club food closet.
Among the rides: a carousel, Flying Dumbo, Dizzy Dragon, Frog Hopper, Scrambler, Cliff Hanger, Zero Gravity and Expo Wheel. Unlimited ride wristbands make things easy (and inexpensive).
The youngest fairgoers will enjoy sand art and snowflake painting.
Entertainment includes rock and country/bluegrass bands. There are raffle prizes and a “take a chance” tent.
Plus of course a food court with hamburgers, hot dogs, Greek food, Good Humor ice cream, baked goods — and beer and wine.
Proceeds help support a wide array of Fairfield County charities, need-based scholarships for Staples High School students, and the WWC food closet.
Yankee Doodle Fair sponsors include Belta’s Farm Legacy, Ellen Hooker, Rich Dean Boxing & Fitness, Salon Paul Michael, Sam Sloat Coins, Westport National Bank, Continuum Card, National Express, Izzo’s Landscapes, JMG Insurance, Principal Wealth Partners, Toni Mickiewicz-William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty.
Effective immediately — well, at its next (June 3) meeting anyway — Planning & Zoning Commission sessions will begin at 6 p.m. The previous start time was 7.
P&Z Chair Paul Lebowitz says: “After many late night meetings, the Commission decided to start one hour, earlier with the hope of completing our meetings earlier.
“Our goal is to allow for more convenient opportunities for public participation, and also ensure a more focused and productive discussion between the applicants and Commission members.”
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Many Westporters love Earthplace, for its property, programs, and friendly, inclusive vibe.
Many other Westporters have never heard of it. Or if they have, they haven’t checked it out.
The non-profit science, conservation and education center, tucked into Westport’s northwest corner off Stony Brook Road, has an extensive menu of summer offerings. Click here for the program guide, listing drop-in activities, teen programs, and family and adult events.
There’s a summer camp for grades 3-8, and leadership training for 14- and 15-year-olds. Click here for camp offerings.
Taylor Swift joined over 50 Kings Highway Elementary School students on Wednesday, for their first-ever Rise ‘n’ Ride.
Well, at least “Shake It Off” played through a speaker.
Youngsters rode loops around the PJ Romano track. Westport Police representatives Gregory Gunter and Rachel Hall — the KHS School Safety Officer — talked about the importance of always wearing a helmet.
The event was a collaboration with Bike Westport, whose goal is to promote safer cycling and walking in Westport.
Principal Tracey Carbone called it “an incredible and energizing way to start the day. This might be the start of a new tradition at KHS.”
Bike Westport co-founder Markus Marty — a KHS parent — said, “There is nothing more joyful than seeing children’s happy faces, enjoying their independence pedaling on their own.”
Officer Gregory Gunter, and the Kings Highway bike riders.
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Multi-talented Andrew Wilk discussed his career in the arts on Wednesday, at a Y’s Men of Westport and Weston-hosted Library event.
Former Y’s Men president John Brandt interviewed his fellow Westporter. The former executive producer and director of “Live From Lincoln Center” — and much more — discussed the wide variety of music, theater, dance and solo performances he captured, over a 30-year span.
Bedside Reading is “a luxury amenity program that places books by the bedsides in 5 -star hotels and boutique properties.”
Serendipity Labs is neither. It’s a co-working space on Post Road West, just over the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge.
But Beside Reading has partnered with Serendipity Labs, for a “Books & Cocktails” event June 11 (5 to 7 p.m.), featurinng authors Jeanne McWilliams Blasberg, Stacey L. Tucker and Philip Myles Dane. Jane Ubell-Meyer, founder of Bedside Reading and book columnist for luxury lifestyle magazines and websites will host.
There’s also an oracle/tarot card reading. The event is open to the public. Reservations are necessary (click here), and books will be available for sale.
Devices have been placed at various points downtown.
Results will be posted, when available.
Meanwhile, here’s an early finding: There’s a lot of traffic these days.
Traffic survey device at Post Road East and Myrtle Avenue. (Photo/Sal Liccione)
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Tragedy was averted at 8:30 p.m. Friday night. A northbound SUV driver on Newtown Turnpike went into the woods. The vehicle caught fire, but he was pulled out by a neighbor.
A nearby resident notes that young children live in the area. “The road is very dangerous, because drivers who use it as a cut-through speed by.”
The Fire and Police Departments, and EMTs, were on the scene. Eversource responded quickly, and replaced the downed power line.
LymanAID — the huge party thanking Westporters for their support of our sister city in Ukraine — has a booth at the Yankee Doodle Fair.
Stop by today and tomorrow to learn about the big event. It’s Sunday, July 9, 1 p.m. until dusk, at the Ukrainian-American Club, Post Road in Southport next to northbound I-95 Exit 19 entrance ramp.
There’s music, food, drinks, and much more. And it’s free — though there will be opportunities to help support Lyman through raffles, a treasure sale, Yankee auction, coffee table book pull, plant sale, “LymanADE” stand and more.
VIP tickets are available too. Click here to register, and for more details.
Katya Wauchope, at the LymanAID booth at the Yankee Doodle Fair.
Davide — the new Church Lane pop-up — is a year-old brand. Its first retail outlet features its second collection ever.
Davide (pronounced dah-vee-day) is the brainchild of Joseph Davide Tacopina. A Westport native (and son of one of President Trump’s attorneys), he attended Cheshire Academy and met students from around the world.
Inspired by his father’s ownership of several Italian soccer clubs, Tacopina’s collection blends “athletic culture” with pieces inspired by Marlon Brando and Lake Como. There is plenty of loose-flowing linen and silk.
The 24-year-old designer is self-taught. He chose Westport as the site of his first pop-up because it’s his home. He hopes to take it global.
Real Estate University — the school for aspiring (and current) real estate professionals, founded in 2005 by Karena Piedmont — has moved from Norwalk to Saugatuck.
The move felt right. She’s already trained scores of Westport realtors over the years. Classes are both in-person and via Zoom.
The address is “Saugatuck Lofts, 101 Franklin Street” — the exposed brick, co-working space in a former grain facility at the Westport Metro-North station, as you take a right at the end of Railroad Place. It’s literally “steps from the train,” for students who travel that way.
“There’s so much synergy here,” Piedmont says. “I share space with real estate attorneys and other professionals. I love being part of a community of like-minded, hard-working small business owners. I wish I moved here years ago.”
“And I love hearing and seeing the trains pass.”
There’s one more bonus: She’s also just a few steps away from “The Benjamin“: the Airbnb she owns at 35 Franklin Avenue.
Saugatuck Lofts
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Also new: the Westport Weston Family YMCA’s director of gymnastics.
Former USA national team gymnast Bryon Knox brings over 40 years of competition. coaching and program development to his new role.
Most recently, he was head gymnastics coach at Southern Connecticut State University. Before that, he led the University of Bridgeport to 6 straight NCAA Division II national championships.
Byron coached 70 USA Gymnastics/All-Americans, and 150 scholar-athletes. He is a former USA women’s national team coach.
He has been with the Y part-time since October, coaching the competitive girls team and instructing coaches. Click here for more information on the Y’s gymnastics program.
Rob Docters’ new book — “Ethics and Hidden Greed: Your Defense Against Unethical Strategies and Violations of Trust” — answers questions like, “How do we protect ourselves and our business interests from the unethical behaviors of others? Why doesn’t intuition serve as the best guide for detecting unethical strategies?”
The 1975 Staples High School graduate hopes to make people more aware of (and armed against) scams, as well as choosing more ethical choices themselves. (A strong animal rights activist, he covers the brutality of boiling lobsters alive).
Charles McGillion-Moore of Westport helped Norwalk’s Maritime Rowing Club to a national championship in the Men’s Under-15 Coxed Quad, at least weekend’s 28th USRowing Youth National Championship in Sarasota, Florida.
Other top finishes by Westport and Weston rowers include Men’s Youth U-16 Coxed Quad, 4th place (Adam Turner and Matthew Lupinacci); Women’s Youth U-17 Quad, 6th place (Mina Leon); Men’s Youth U-17 Quad, 7th place (Jack Cushman); Women’s Youth U-15 Coxed Quad, 8th place (Syke Coats); Men’s Youth U-16 Coxed Quad, 12th place (Fox Parker), and Men’s Youth U-16 Eight, 18th place (Simon Meyers).
The regatta marked the final high school event for Maritime’s seniors, including Dan Kleeger and Lilly Murphy of Westport, and Justin Sun of Weston.
And finally … on this day in 1994, Los Angeles police chased OJ Simpson’s Ford Bronco for an hour and half. He finally gave up, and was arrested for the murders of his ex-wife Nicole Brown Simpson, and her friend Ronald Goldman.
(“06880” is your hyper-local blog — and a non-profit. Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)
The Yankee Doodle Fair — the way we know that’s true — is almost all set up.
(Photo/Matt Murray)
The annual fundraiser for (and at) the Westport Woman’s Club on Imperial Avenue opens Thursday, at 6 p.m. It continues Friday night, and throughout the weekend.
Neil Gaiman, author of “American Gods,” “Coraline” and “The Sandman,” is coming to Westport.
He’s the keynote speaker at StoryFest 2023. The 6th edition of StoryFest, the Westport Library’s annual celebration of reading, writing, ideas and community, will be held October 20-22.
Gaiman headlines opening night. The weekend includes panel discussions and other events, with authors Angie Kim, Gabino Iglesias, Stephen Graham Jones, Caroline Kepnes, Eric LaRocca, Josh Malerman and more.
Free registration for the keynote address begins June 20. The complete lineup and schedule for StoryFest 2023 will be announced this summer.
The largest literary festival in Connecticut and one of the biggest in New England, StoryFest drew more than 800 participants and 40 authors to the Library last year,
This year’s StoryFest keynote doubles as the Fall 2023 Malloy Lecture in the Arts,. The spring edition featured artist and former Psychedelic Furs frontman Richard Butler.
The Malloy Lecture in the Arts, delivered free to the public since 2002 thanks to the generosity of Westport artist Susan Malloy, highlight individuals who have had significant cultural influence and whose work has enhanced the understanding and appreciation of the arts.
Neil Gaiman
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The Saugatuck Rowing Club Junior Rowing program showed well last Sunday, at the USRowing Youth Nationals in Sarasota, Florida.
The largest Youth Nationals ever drew over 4,000 athletes from 225 clubs and schools. Saugatuck Rowing Club sent 12 boats.
The women’s U17 4+ A boat, including Clementine Kirt, Carolina Proctor and Alice Frascella of Wesptort, and Hannah Makmale of Weston), helped SRC defend its championships for the third year in a row.
In a thrilling finish, the Saugatuck 4+ B boat including Rylie Cordella and Olivia Saw of Westport, and Anne Studnicky of Weston, took silver, giving the club the top 2 spots.
Earning bronze: the men’s U17 4+ boat, with Westley Dick and Tommy Wright of Westport, and Daniel Lee and Davis Evans of Weston), along with the men’s U16 8+ boat, with Westporters Elena Nasar, Daniel Arava, Jack Mello, Liam Wiegand and Alex Proctor (Westport).
Saugatuck Rowing Club’s U-17 4+A boat national champions (from left): Coach Cody Silvester, Alice Frascella, Carolina Proctor, Madeline Casano, Clementine Kirt, Hannah Makmale.
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Congratulations too to Derek Amlicke.
The Staples High School pole vaulter won the New England championship, clearing 14′ 3″ in Bangor, Maine.
Earlier this year, he set a new Staples record: 15′ 2″.
On July 2, State Representative Dominique Johnson will fiddle while while Westport celebrates.
The legislator — whose 143rd district includes part of our town — brings her bluegrass instrument to First Folk Sunday (VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399, 12:30 p.m.).
Johnson began playing violin at 2 years old in a Suzuki program. She discovered bluegrass through her grandfather’s family in Kentucky.
First Folk Sunday is a popular new folk series featuring Suzanne Sheridan (vocals and guitar), Bob Cooper (keyboards). and guest artists.
There is a $10 music charge. Brunch, plus a make-it-yourself Bloody Mary bar and Mimosas are extra.
Last week, members of the Westport Domestic Violence Task Force and the student-led Staples High School Sexual Assault Awareness and Self Defense Club attended a private female self-defense training session at Fit Club Jiu-Jitsu in Fairfield.
The group practiced defensive tactics and learned practical skills, including situational awareness and how to avid potentially risky situations.
Instruction came from Fit Club owner/coach Joe Oppedisano, Staff Corporal Michael Ruttenber (Westport Police Department) Rob Curcio (Weston Police Department) and Detective Beth Leetch (Fairfield Police).
Trainers and trainees.
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Westport Sunrise Rotary and Westport Country Playhouse Staff teamed up to help visitors at the SCP’s recent open house have fun playing”Toss the
Duck into the Bucket.”
It was a great promotion for Sunrise Rotary’s Great Duck Race (June 24, Jesup Green). Click here for details.
Promoting the Great Duck Race, at the Playhouse. From left: Mike Hibbard (duck), Giovanni Orozlo, Joe Watson, Chris Conte, Erin Reynolds. (Photo/Ashley Sweet)
Cedar waxwings are today’s “Westport .. Naturally” feature.
They’re also, as Westport Community Gardens director/photographer extraordinaire Lou Weinberg explains, “the bandits of the bird world. With their black masks and paintbrush tails, these beauties travel in flocks and love the serviceberry tree.”
He adds: “If you love birds, plant serviceberry and other native trees, shrubs, wildflowers and grasses. Nature wins!”
Okay, now we know summer is just around the corner.
The Westport Woman’s Club has announced the dates for the Yankee Doodle Fair.
The decades-in-fact-almost-a-century-old tradition returns Fathers Day weekend. From Thursday, June 15 through Sunday, June 18, the grounds and parking lot on Imperial Avenue will transform from a staid club into a carnival, for “kids” of all ages.
Profits support charities throughout Fairfield County, need-based scholarships to Staples High School students, and the Woman’s Club food closet.
Among the rides: a carousel, Flying Dumbo, Dizzy Dragon, Frog Hopper, Scrambler, Cliff Hanger, Zero Gravity and Expo Wheel. Unlimited ride wristbands make things easy (and inexpensive).
Entertainment includes rock and country/bluegrass bands. There are raffle prizes and a “take a chance” tent.
Plus of course a food court with hamburgers, hot dogs, Greek food, Good Humor ice cream, baked goods — and beer and wine.
Last year, proceeds helped the WWC fund $300,000 for a new Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Services ambulance.
The greatest show on earth (or at least, in Westport). (Photo/Lee Scharfstein)
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Another sign of summer: The Wakeman Town Farm farm stand opens June 10.
Running every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. through October 28, the stand features fresh organic produce and flower bouquets from the Farm, WTF honey and logo wear, plus local artisanal products like organic coffee, bread, pastries, extra virgin olive oils, gourmet balsamic vinegars and salsas.
BMW of Darien is the summer and fall sponsor of the Wakeman Town Farm farm stand. The dealership will also serve as a lead sponsor of WTF’s annual fundraiser, Harvest Fest.
And if you don’t know — as I did not — what is replacing the Sunglass Hut, read this breathless press release from the Laguna Beach-based jewelry brand (which for some reason does not use a capital letter in its name):
“When gorjana Westport officially opens its doors, shoppers will be immersed in a welcoming coastal bungalow inspired by co-founders Gorjana Reidel and Jason Griffin Reidel’s Southern California roots. Light wood finishes, a crystal quartz chandelier, three sparkling window pendants and a hand-dipped Lauren Williams Tapestry inspired by the iconic Laguna Beach coastline create the perfect backdrop to gorjana’s elevated yet effortless designs.
“Located in a beautifully restored historic building along bustling Main Street, the store will bring together the best of Southern California with the charming history of Westport right in the heart of the coastal city. gorjana Westport is the perfect shopping destination for out-of-towners and locals alike.
This is gorjana’s 49th location, but only the second in Connecticut. The first was in Greenwich.
Two weeks ago, a college student named Emily posted a TikTok. She wanted to give a hand-painted romantic gift to a classmate she had a crush on, but needed her followers to give her confidence.
Replying to @Mikala Walker the highly anticipated cupdate: I didnt get a chance to package it up all cute, but I was too excited I couldn’t wait any longer💛🌼#fyp#foryou#wlw#wlwtiktok#dandelions
MoCA Westport just hired its first-ever director of performing arts.
Kristen Young knows MoCA well. She’s worked there for 3 years, most recently as its music associate. She created the Music at MoCA concert series, bringing a diverse range of emerging and established artists to the museum.
In her expanded role Young will curate all performing arts experiences, fostering collaborations with music programs across the region, and providing music education opportunities.
Young holds a master’s in violin performance and a graduate certificate in arts management and entrepreneurship from the University of Oklahoma, and a bachelor’s in music management from the University of Delaware.
Kristen Young (Photo/Nina Capozzi Photography)
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Speaking of music: Jazz at the Post favorite Melissa Newman returns this Thursday (May 25; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner begins at 7; VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399; $15 cover; reservations: JazzatthePost@gmail.com).
The Westporter will be joined by guitarist Tony Lombardozzi, bassist Phil Bowler and drummer Bobby Leonard.
Saugatuck Congregational Church song leader Anthony DeLuco hosts a recital at the church on June 10 (4 p.m.). It’s a fundraiser, to support his attendance at an intensive vocal workshop this summer in Salzburg, Austria.
DeLuco is a young Western Connecticut State University graduate (with many honors and awards). He’s in his second year as a high school teacher.
He’ll play works by Mozart, Schubert, Schumann and more. Donations can be made at the recital or by clicking on this GoFundMe link.
Yesterday’s “06880” Roundup announced the delivery of 2 trash trucks and 2 police cars to Westport’s new sister city: Lyman, Ukraine.
Katya Wauchope took yesterday’s videos and photos from Brian Mayer, and created this important report of the day. As mayor Alexander Victoravich Zuravlov notes, this was the most pressing need for his town.
The first announcement of VersoFest 2023 is a big one.
The Smithereens headline the Friday, March 31 concert at the Westport Library’s Trefz Forum.
Joining the Smithereens as lead vocalist that night: Marshall Crenshaw.
The opening act is Americana musician Amilia K Spicer, fresh off a rave review from NPR. Miriam Linna DJs the night, with 45s from one of the most revered record collections anywhere.
VersoFest is a multi-day music and media festival/conference, born at the Library’s Verso Studios.
The festival opens Thursday, March 30, and continues with a full slate of programs and workshops Saturday and Sunday, April 1-2. Famed producer Steve Lillywhite delivers the keynote Saturday afternoon.
Founded in New Jersey in 1980, The Smithereens have created electrifying, original rock ‘n’ roll for 42 years. Their take-no-prisoners, East Coast roots-rock sound was inspired by Buddy Holly, The Who, Nick Lowe and The Move.
They were in heavy rotation on MTV, and appeared on “The Tonight Show,” “Late Night with Conan O’Brien” and “Saturday Night Live.” The Smithereens have performed at the Greek Theatre in Los Angeles, Radio City Music Hall, and internationally from Europe to Australia. Tourmates include Tom Petty, Squeeze, the Pretenders, Lou Reed and the Ramones.
Tickets for the show are $40; click here to purchase. Click here for more information on the Smithereens, and VersoFest.
The Smithereens, with Marshall Crenshaw (white vest).
Westport Police report 2 custodial arrests between January 12 and 18.
One was a follow-up on a previous incident on Center Street where an individual was acting erratically, drinking motor oil. and yelling at officers. While fighting with the officers, the suspect punched them in their heads, causing one to fall and break his wrist. He referred to officers with derogatory names, and made threatening statements concerning officers and their families. He was charged with assault on a public safety officer, and threatening.
The second arrest came after damage to property owned by the Westport Housing Authority, caused by driving on grass. He was charged with criminal mischief.
Police issued the following citations:
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 8
Traveling unreasonably fast: 4
Misuse of plates: 4
Failure to obey control signal: 4
Speeding: 2
Distracted driving: 2
Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 2
Failure to display plates: 2
Failure to renew registration: 2
Violation of any traffic control regulation: 2
Insurance coverage fails minimum requirements: 2
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 1
Failure to drive in the proper lane: 1
Driving with out-of-state plates after 30 days: 1
Disobeying the signal of an officer: 1.
One arrest began when a suspect was drinking motor oil.
In other Westport Police news, the department yesterday conducted unannounced inspections of businesses that sell tobacco products and/or e-cigarettes. The goal was determine compliance with state laws prohibiting sales to anyone under 21.
Remember how much fun the Yankee Doodle Fair was? Of course!
Remember how the sponsors — the Westport Woman’s Club — told you it was a fundraiser for important local causes? Of course not!
But it was. It always is.
The WWC has just announced their 2023 grant recipients. Thanks to your generosity — well, your purchase of ride tickets, games of chance and food — these non-profits will share $41,000:
Burroughs Community Center
Cancer Care
Child Advocates of Southwestern Connecticut
Circle of Care for Families of Children with Cancer
Circle of Friends Connecticut
CLASP Homes
Domestic Violence Crisis Center
ElderHouse
Family & Children’s Agency
Food Rescue US
Hall Neighborhood House
Homes with Hope
Horizons at Norwalk Community College
Human Services Council/Children’s Connection
Liberation Recovery for Life Programs
Malta House
My Team Triumph – Connecticut
Norwalk Housing Foundation
Person to Person
Positive Directions
Regional Hospice and Home Care Western Connecticut
St. Catherine Center for Special Needs
Suzuki Music School
Urban Impact of Black Rock
VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399.
See you at the fair!
These kids helped raise $41,000 for charity. (Photo/Stephanie Mastocciolo)
On the heels of yesterday’s delivery of 2 police vehicles and 2 trash trucks to our new sister city, Katya Wauchope — a key member of the group that worked to raise $252,000 in 19 days for the war-torn town — sent a photo of her latest project:
It’s one of many camouflage hats she’s knitting for the Lyman police.
“Ukrainians are used to having their grandmas knit hats, socks and mittens for their family,” Katya — a native of that country — says.
“So I decided to be the town grandma!”
She began knitting last month. So far, she’s made nearly 2 dozen.
Against all odds, a group of residents continues to battle the Hiawatha Lane/Summit Saugatuck development. They write:
“Our historic, working-class, single-family neighborhood became the sacrificial lamb of Westport. Due to their lack of proper planning, the town of Westport had failed to meet their mandated 8-30g [affordable housing] quota, and allowing this project to go forward would remedy that oversight, so the rest of Westport would not be burdened.
“Please note: Our objection has to do with size, scale, environmental issues, traffic, pedestrian safety, and EMS access issues. Our objection to this development has nothing to do with permitting affordable housing, as that is acknowledged and recognized as the historic and existing strong community identifier and profile that is Old Saugatuck.
“Having taken our objections as far as we could through Town of Westport channels, we had to secure legal services from an attorney to fight this dangerous development in court… which is extremely costly. But we must Save Old Saugatuck.
“We have received contributions from very supportive neighbors and friends, and that has enabled us to begin this challenging legal process. We are forever grateful for their help. However, the battle is not over, and we desperately need further contributions to see this chapter through successfully.
“The court ruling has the potential to be a historic and ground-breaking (no pun intended!) ruling… we believe it is worth the effort to preserve the integrity and beauty of this historic neighborhood. After 20 years – we don’t want to give up!”
They created a GoFundMe page, to raise legal fees. Click here for the Save Old Saugatuck website.
Artist’s rendering of the proposed 187-unit apartment complex on Hiawatha Lane.
Business Networking International’s Westport chapter invites professionals to an open networking session (7 to 7:30 a.m.) and Visitor’s Day (7:30 to 9 a.m.) next Thursday (January 26, United Methodist Church, 49 Weston Road).
The organization — which is limited to one professional per category — has openings in these categories: LinkedIn expert, counseling services or psychotherapist, home security, HVAC, photographer, caterer or bakery, florist, event/wedding planner, home inspector, moving company, travel/tour operator, automotive repair, landscaper, electrician, payroll, product development firm/inventor, IP attorney, consumer products company and professional writer.
“Yesterday I looked outside to find 3 goats in my Clover Lane yard. When Animal Control walked over I asked if they escaped from Wakeman Town Farm, which is not that close, but not far.
“He said they came from a neighbor’s house on Victoria Lane. It took a while, but they wrangled one of them. I snapped a photo of the other two.
“I asked if it’s legal to keep them. The man from Animal Control said he would have a talk with the neighbors.”
(Where else but “06880” would you learn that drinking motor oil could lead to an arrest? Please click here to keep stories like that one coming. Thank you!)
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