Tag Archives: Y’s Men of Westport and Weston

Roundup: Luciano Paving, Winfield Coffee, Playhouse Show …

Posted on April 11, 2023 | 10 comments

There are (at least) 2 sides to every story.

A recent “06880” Roundup item about an advertising sign on a utility pole brought a ringing defense of the company.

Luciano Paving, the writer noted, is a long-time, very generous local business.

They donate to Westport PAL, and supply the equipment that keeps the Longshore skating rink clear. They bring equipment to the Touch-a-Truck event at the Imperial Avenue parking lot, and provide trucks and a car for the Westport Woman’s Club Memorial Day float.

Sam Luciano — former Westport chief of police, for whom the Saugatuck train station park is named — was Tim’s cousin. Every year, Tim sponsors a golf tournament in Sam’s name at Longshore.

More broadly, contractors are an asset to the town. In weather emergencies, they plow snow, clear roads and do whatever else is needed.

We would not be where we are without contractors like Luciano — a family that traces its heritage back to Antonio Gilbertie, founder of the floral business over 100 years ago.

Tim Luciano, of Luciano Paving, is a Westport native and Staples High School graduate.

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Winfield Street Coffee has come a long way from its start, 98 years ago in East Norwalk.

Under current owner Breno Donatti, there are locations in Westport (the old Art’s Deli, just over the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge) and Stamford; kiosks in the Croton-Harmon and Rye train stations, plus Q line subway stops in Manhattan, and 2 in Naples, Florida.

Now — in addition to coffee (f course), Italian deli sandwiches, healthy bowls and salads, and fresh pastry.

Donatti is not sitting still. Culinary director Chris Gonzalez has designed an expanded menu, adding side dishes like bacon mac & cheese, roasted brussels sprouts with hot honey and crispy shallots, fries options like (sweet potato wedges, polenta fries, home fries), and homemade baked goods.

Coffee director Caleb MacPherson is implementing new drinks and roasting beans.

I know all this because Westport’s own Stephanie Webster covered it in her great CTBites blog. Click here for the full story (and excellent food photos).

PS: Click on the “Restaurants” tab at the top of “06880,” for details on Winfield Street Coffee and many more.

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“Ain’t Misbehavin'” — a revival of the Broadway show celebrating jazz pioneer Fats Waller’s career, while exploring the “masks” he and his musicians wore while performing for white audiences — opens tonight at the Westport Country Playhouse. It runs through April 29.

Among the special events:

Taste & Chat (tonight, Tuesday, April 11, 6 p.m.): Wine and cheese with Marcella Monk Flake, of The Monk Center for Academic Enrichment and Performing Arts, and co-founder of Monk Youth Jazz and STEAM Collective.

Pride Night (Thursday, April 13, 6 p.m.): Pre-show cocktails for the LGBTQ community and friends.

Black Excellence Night (Friday, April 14, 6:30 p.m.): Free pre-show celebration for the Black and Brown community.

For ticket information, click here. For more on these special events, scroll down on that page.

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Al Jaffee — the Mad magazine cartoonist best known for his clever fold-in comics, on the back page — died yesterday in New York. He was 102.

His obituary is fascinating reading.

Especially fascinating is this Westport connection: His 2010 biography, “Al Jaffee’s Mad Life,” was written by local writer Mary-Lou Weisman.

A 2010 story explains:

He has always had a soft spot … for Mary-Lou Weisman, a 72-year-old author from Westport, Conn., who used to own a summer place near his (in Provincetown, Massachetts). Not only did she appreciate his eccentricities but she also donated a stupid question to his collection. (For that, she thanks the sister who demanded to know, “Where do you keep your ice cubes?”)

Their friendship has led to a collaboration that should cheer anyone with a secret affinity for Mad magazine. Written by Ms. Weisman, “Al Jaffee’s Mad Life” lays bare in harrowing yet often riotous detail how a Southern boy, twice uprooted by his mother to Lithuanian shtetls on the eve of World War II, grew up to become a tireless satirist for some of America’s cheekier magazines. HarperCollins published the book on Tuesday under its It Books imprint.

Readers will also be treated to 74 original drawings by Mr. Jaffee, nearly twice what he had pledged. “He was on fire,” Ms. Weisman said.

Click here for the full Times book review.

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It’s budget season.

So in this week’s “What’s Next in Weston” podcast, 1st Selectwoman Sam Nestor discusses her town’s projections — and urges residents to participate

Click below to listen, courtesy of the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston.

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Save the date!

The VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399 charity golf tournament is June 12, at Longshore.

Individuals, businesses and organizations can support the local club by sponsoring a veteran (or a vets’ foursome) to play.

Other ways to help: donating prizes, registering to play, buying a tee sign, even being a title sposnor.

For more information, contact tournament chairs Ed Cribari (203-451-0644; ecribari71@gmail.com) or Patty Kondub (203-767-3778; nortonpk@aol.com).

VFW on Riverside Avenue.

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Speaking of the VFW:

Ever-popular pianist Chris Coogan headlines this week’s Jazz at the Post (Thursday, April 13; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner at 7 p.m.).

Chris grew up here, and the area is home base for his multi-faceted career. He is a world-class jazz pianist; an in-demand accompanist for singers; a powerhouse Gospel pianist, choir director and bandleader; an inspiring educator, and an all- around good guy.

He’s joined this week at the VFW by bassist John Mobilio and drummer Joe Corsella.

Reservations are highly recommended: JazzatthePost@gmail.com.

Chris Coogan

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Starting yesterday, Church Lane will be closed to through traffic.

The move — begun during COVID, and continued in following years thanks to the popularity of outdoor dining and leisurely strolling — continues through November 6.

Outdoor dining on Church Lane. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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The Y’s Women spaced out yesterday.

Marty Yellin — a Ph.D. in engineering, who helped design and manage the Hubble Space Telescope — explained the differences between it and the James Webb Telescope.

His photographs, we are told, were “out of this world.”

Marty Yellin addresses the Y’s Women.

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Martha Stewart returned to Westport recently.

She sampled Arogya Holistic Healing & Tea’s teas, and shared recipes. The event was filmed for her TV show, “Martha Cooks!”

Click here, for the full episode on Roku.

Martha Stewart at Arogya.

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Judith Katz’s Harvest Commons magnolia tree serves beautifully as today’s “Westport … Naturally” image.

(Photo/Judith Katz)

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And finally … Happy Barbershop Quartet Day!

(Stay “in tune” with “06880” — and please support what we do. Click here — thank you!)

10 Comments

Posted in Restaurants, Weston, Westport Country Playhouse

Tagged Arogya, Chris Coogan, Church Lane, Luciano Paving, Martha Stewart, Marty Yellin, Mary-Lou Weisman, VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399, Winfield Street Coffee, Y's Men of Westport and Weston, Y's Women

Roundup: Sakura Trees, Laura Linney, Owl Release …

Posted on March 9, 2023 | 8 comments

Yesterday’s “06880” Roundup noted that several trees near Linxweiler House — on the Post Road between Fresh Market and McDonald’s — have been marked with pink tape.

Alert “06880” reader Andrew Colabella adds this information: “Those trees are proposed to be cut down for sidewalk installation and lane expansion.

“The state Department of Transportation also wants to cut down the 2 beautiful cherry blossom trees at Sakura.

“Want to save the Linxweiler trees, or have comments or concerns about the cherry blossom trees at Sakura? Email Joseph.Aiello@ct.gov.”

One of the trees possibly slated for removal near Sakura.

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Sixty Artists Collective of Westport members recently received a 12-inch by 12-inch blank panel, and a 6-inch square section randomly selected from a single iconic music-themed painting.

Their assignment: Created an individual piece, replicating a part of the larger painting in their own style.

The catch: They would not know what the final painting would look like until it was revealed at an opening reception.

That reception came last night. A large crowd was there to see the finished, 10 foot-by-6 foot work.

The reveal!

Contributors include Miggs Burroughs, Katherine Ross, Michael Brennecke, Nina Bentley, Susan Fehlinger, Eric Chiang and Elizabeth DeVoll.

“Piece by Piece” runs is on display at the Library through May 9.

Westport Library director Bill Harmer addresses last night’s reception, before the reveal. (Photos/Dave Matlow)

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Speaking of the Library: Their 2023 “Booked for the Evening” honoree is …

… Laura Linney.

The award-winning theater, film and TV actress will appear in person at the annual gala on July 13. Tickets go on sale in May.

For 24 years, “Booked for the Evening” has highlighted someone whose work “reflects the purpose of the Library: to nurture a love of learning, and to enhance our understanding of the world.”

Library director Bill Harmer says: “Laura Linney is not only one of the great actresses of her generation; she is also a lifelong supporter of the power of the arts and creativity, a humanitarian lauded for her work on behalf of cancer patients and their families, and a champion for women in film.”

Her film credits include Genius, Nocturnal Animals, Mr. Holmes, Kinsey, You Can Count on Me, Mystic River, Love Actually, and The Truman Show. Among her Broadway productions are The Crucible, Time Stands Still, Sight Unseen, and Six Degrees of Separation. On television she has starred in The Big C and the mini-series John Adams, as well as Tales of the City and Frasier. She currently stars as Wendy Byrde in Ozark, a role for which she has earned Emmy and SAG Award nominations.

Linney has been nominated for 3 Academy Award, 5 Tonys, and 8 Golden Globes.

Linney holds honorary doctorates from her alma maters, Brown University and The Julliard School. She has been honored for her work in cancer advocacy, and speaks often on reconsidering the arts as essential for success, easing the pain of cancer, finding beauty in tragedy, and navigating gender inequality in the film industry.

Previous “Booked” recipients include Shonda Rhimes, Tom Brokaw, E.L. Doctorow, Calvin Trillin, Wendy Wasserstein, Pete Hamill, Martin Scorsese, Doris Kearns Goodwin, David Halberstam, Oscar Hijuelos, Adam Gopnik, Will Shortz, Patti Smith, Barry Levinson, Jon Meacham, Nile Rodgers, Lynsey Addario, Ron Chernow, Alan Alda, Justin Paul, Frederic Chiu and Itzhak Perlman.

Laura Linney

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Leonard Schine Aspetuck Land Trust Preserve on Weston Road was the site of a majestic owl release on Sunday.

Three barred owls — all found injured in Westport over the past two months — were freed. Joint rescues had been performed by the Westport Police Department and Animal Control. They were transported to Wildlife in Crisis for rehabilitation.

Animal Control officer Peter Reid says, “It is common for owls to be struck by cars at night. They often hunt in the ‘edge habitat’ by the roadside. Once they are on their glide path, they have little peripheral awareness of approaching cars.

“They can also be dazzled by headlights, become disoriented, and side-slip into a car. Fortunately these 3 suffered only minor injuries — head trauma and concussion — and were ready for release fairly quickly.

“This species is an early nester. They are courting right now, so the release gives these owls a chance to get back into the owl dating pool.

“One of the barred owls was from Partrick Road, one from Compo Road North by Winslow Park, and one from Bayberry. The Weston Road property was a good central release point, and relatively close to their points of origin, as the owl flies.”

Three WPD members helped with the release: Chief Foti Koskinas, Lieutenant Matthew Gouveia and Officer Dominique Carr.

Also involved: Reid’s wife Dara, director of Wildlife in Crisis, and their resident owl expert.

Officer Dominique Carr, with rescued owl.

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The theme for this year’s Memorial Day parade is: “Veterans Serving the Community.”

Certificates will be awarded in 6 categories: Best Development of Theme, Best Youth Organization Float, Most Creative, Best Community Organization, Most Colorful, and the Best Overall Float.

Groups should concentrate on the first 5. The Y’s Men of Westport and Weston have won the last 2,2462 “Best Overall Float” competitions, dating back to the Peloponnessian War.

The Memorial Day parade steps off on Monday, May 29 at 9 a.m.

The Y’s Men’s 2021 award-winning Memorial Day float. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Rick Kalmans was concerned about the slow pace of reconstruction on the Bayberry Lane bridge.

He contacted town engineer Keith Wilberg. He quickly responded:

“The construction of the bridge is now in the phase called the Connecticut Department of Transportation shutdown period, from December 1 through March 31.

“That doesn’t mean that no work can be done in that period, but the nature of the work tends to be limited.

“Also, as asphalt plants have closed for the season as of the second week in December, we cannot reconstruct and pave the roadway until they open. That will most likely be at the end of March, give or take.

“The contractor has about a month’s worth of work left to finish, so my estimate is that they will be done by the end of April. The ‘on paper’ finish date is the end May 31. It is my belief they will be done and have the road open long before that, again, end of April.”

Fingers crossed …

(Photo/Bill Dedman)

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Westport Police made 4 custodial arrests last week.

One was for violation of condition of release (after being charged with disorderly conduct, and failure to appear.

One was for larceny and identity theft, after a fraudulent withdrawal from Webster Bank.

One was for criminal attempt of larceny and identity theft, after a fraudulent withdrawal from a bank account.

Another arrest was for failure to appear.

The Police Department’s system still cannot report citations issued.

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The Democratic Women of Westport celebrate Women’s History Month with a special panel: “Women Leading in CT: Yesterday, Today & Tomorrow.”

The event (March 13, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., Westport Woman’s Club) features Lieutenant Governor Susan Bysiewicz, Secretary of the State Stephanie Thomas (a Norwalk resident), former PepsiCo senior vice president Lori Tauber Marcus, Staples High School senior (and National Merit Semifinalist) Lilly Weisz, and League of Women Voters president Laura Smits.

The event is free. Light refreshments and wine will be served.

Secretary of the State Stephanie Thomas.

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Longtime Westporter Carol Frawley died Saturday at St. Joseph’s Manor, surrounded by her family, after a brief illness. She was 86.

The Norwalk native was employed part time as a cashier at Peter’s Bridge Market when her children were in school. She also enjoyed working weekends at Planter’s Barn in Darien and Geiger’s Nursery in Westport, where she indulged in her love of plants and flowers, and shared her knowledge.

In 1977 she joined Pepperidge Farms’ headquarters in Norwalk, and stayed until she retired.

She was a lifetime member of VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399 Ladies Auxiliary.

She is survived by her children Colleen (Edward) Mezerewski of Shelton, Debbie (Philip) Grabell of Milford, William of Shelton, Edward (Karen) of Milford, Michael (Stephanie) of Westport, James (Donna) of Fairfield; grandchildren Casey (Trinh) Mezerewski, Colby (Glendys ) Mezerewski, Jacob (Rachel) Grabell, Nicole (Thomas) Cadigan, Helen Frawley, Alex Frawley, Kyle (Elicia) Frawley, Katie (Scott) Frawley, Kenzie Frawley and Kieran Frawley, and great-grandchildren Trinity, Edward, Leia and Ethan Mezerewski, Kaylie, Adriana and Logan Mezerewski, Charlotte and Chase Cadigan, as well as many nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her husband Harold, andsisters Marcella Palinkas of Oklahoma, Georgianna Bolton of Norwalk and Joan Goulart of Norwalk.

Funeral arrangements will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Carol’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

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As spring nears, here’s a “Westport … Naturally” look back a couple of weeks:

(Photo/Richard Abramowitz)

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And finally … speaking of owls (see story above), Canned Head’s co-founder, co-lead singer, guitarist, harmonica player and primary composer was Alan “Blind Owl” Wilson. (It was either this, or a “Who” reference…)

(Today — like every day — “06880” rounds up every bit of news, big and tiny. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

8 Comments

Posted in Arts, Environment, Library, Obituaries, Police, Restaurants

Tagged Bayberry Lane Bridge, Carol Frawley, Laura Linney, Linxweiler House, Sakura restaurant, Wildlife in Crisis, Y's Men of Westport and Weston

Roundup: Cross Highway Work, Post Road Trees, Moscow Muppets …

Posted on March 8, 2023 | 9 comments

The dangerous stretch of Cross Highway between North Avenue and Bayberry Lane is slated for improvements.

Residents can review proposals at a public information meeting next Tuesday (March 14, 7 p.m., Town Hall auditorium).

1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, Department of Public Works engineering staff and other town officials will discuss and answer questions regarding the proposals, and any potential impacts to the neighborhood.

The design engineer will participate online, with data and drawings.

Proposed concepts range from minor traffic sign upgrades to complete intersection reconstruction. They include, but are not limited to:

Adding crosswalks in key areas
Construction of new and/or repair of existing sidewalks
Adding revised signage along the right-of-way
Relocation of utility poles
Installation of traffic signals
Roadway widening at the intersections to realign approach and turning lanes
Installation of roundabouts at the intersections
Bridge replacement over Dead Man’s Brook.

For questions about the project, call town engineer Keith Wilberg at 203-341-1128, or email kwilberg@westportct.gov.

A recent 3-car accident at the intersection of Cross Highway and Bayberry Lane. (Photo/Westport Fire Department)

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Alert “06880” reader Bob Weingarten writes:

“I drove by the Linxweiler Homestead house at 655 Post Road East (between Fresh Market and McDonald’s) — given to the town in 1981 — and saw 10 or so red ribbons on trees in the front and side of the property. This is normally an indication that the trees will be eliminated.

“Very strange. There seems to be too many to be ‘sick’.”

The tree warden has not responded to a request for comment.

Trees with red ribbons by Linxweiler House: the view from Post Road East …

… and from Crescent Road. (Photos/Bob Weingarten)

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The #7-ranked Staples High School boys basketball team easily dispatched #26 Manchester last night, in the first round of the state Division II tournament.

The score was 74-39, and the game was not even that close. But what the large crowd will remember most happened a few seconds from the end.

The Redhawks coach substituted in a player with a developmental disability. A Staples player fouled him softly, but deliberately, at the 3-point line, giving him 3 free throws.

He missed them all — not by much — but the referee detected a lane violation on the third. The young athlete sank his 4th attempt — swish! — to the roar of both teams, and fans on both sides of the gym.

The win advances Staples to the round of 16. They host #23 RHAM — an upset 61-52 winner over Enfield — tomorrow (Thursday, March 9). Game time is 6:30 p.m. (Hat tip: Jordan Schur)

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Television producer/filmmaker/author Natasha Rogoff talks about her debut book, “Muppets in Moscow: The Unexpected Crazy True Story of Making Sesame Street in Russia” tomorrow — and the public is invited.

It’s a true story from the mid-1990s, when the Soviet Union renounced communism and moved toward democracy. Amid bombings, assassinations and a military takeover of the production office, Rogoff and a talented Moscow team of artists, writers, musicians, filmmakers and puppeteers brought laughter, learning and a new way of seeing the world to children in Russia, Ukraine and across the former Soviet empire.

The Westport Library event (March 9, 10 a.m.) is sponsored by the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston.

Click below for more information:

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A wide variety of films will be shown at Friday’s “Teen Festival” at MoCA Westport (March 10, 6 p.m., 19 Newtown Turnpike).

High school students from around the area have submitted short films. Some are serious; some are funny — all are intriguing and worht seeing.

Tickets are $5 in advance (click here), $10 at the door). Proceeds fund the work of the Teens at MoCA club. Light snacks will be served.

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Jeremy Schaap — award-winning journalist, author, host of ESPN’s “E:60” and “Outside the Lines,” and a 1986 Staples High School graduate and current Westporter — spoke at the Westport Rotary Club’s lunch meeting yesterday.

Schaap — son of legendary sportscaster and writer Dick Schaap — described growing up immersed in the New York sports world when the Yankees, Mets, Jets and Giants loomed large.

Yet he called Mike Tyson one of his most fascinating interview subjects. They’ve spoken over 100 times, and “he’s the athlete that most let you into how he was thinking.”

Schaap was interviewed by his longtime friend Karl Mergenthaler (Staples ’87), Westport Rotary Club president.

Jeremy Schaap, at yesterday’s Westport Rotary Club meeting at Green’s Farms Church. (Photo and hat tip/Dave Matlow)

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Looking for a Westport-themed St. Patrick’s Day gift? Or yourself?

You’re in luck!

“Finding Westport” has just introduced a new collection of hoodies, tees, tank tops, blankets, mugs and more. Click here to see, and order.

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Young LGBTQ+ people are making their mark on Westport, and the world.

Now they’re eligible for a scholarship, up to $1,000.

Sponsored by Westport Pride, it is open to anyone who has planned or been part of activities or organizations in the LGBTQ+ community; anyone who feels their experiences as a young queer person has shaped their perspective as an aspect of themselves, or LGBTQ+ individuals who produced art that highlights the history, struggles or triumphs of the LGBTQ+ community.

High school students in Westport are eligible. Applications are available here, or at the Staples High School College & Career Center. Applications include an essay, video or art piece, and small write-up.

The application deadline is March 31.

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All 3 Westport selectwomen visited Staples High School on Monday, to celebrate Civic Learning Week. The goal is to empower students to become active, engaged members of their community.

In a meeting moderated by seniors Scarlett Siegel and Spencer Yim, Jen Tooker Andrea Moore and Candice Savin answered questions from students. Topics ranged from the structure of town government to efforts to address sustainability, traffic and other areas.

Members of the Rho Kappa Social Studies Honor Society assisted with the event.

Celebrating Civic Learning Week (from left): Superintendent of Schools Thomas Scarice, moderators Spencer Yim and Scarlett Siegel, and selectwomen Jen Tooker, Andrea Moore and Candice Savin.

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A Compo Beach sunset shows off our town’s beauty, in today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature:

(Photo/Jonathan Alloy)

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And finally … David Lindley was not a household name. But the session guitarist played on some of the most famous recordings by Jackson Browne, Linda Ronstadt, Rod Stewart and others. He performed on his own too.

Lindley died Friday, at 78. He had suffered from kidney trouble, pneumonia and other ailments. Click here for a full obituary. Click below to hear his work:

(Please make sure “06880” is not running on empty. Click here to contribute. Thank you!)

9 Comments

Posted in Education, Entertainment, Environment, Staples HS, Teenagers

Tagged Cross Highway, Finding Westport, Jeremy Schaap, Linxweiler House, MoCA Westport, Staples High School boys basketball, Westport Pride, Westport Rotary Club, Y's Men of Westport and Weston

Roundup: BMS, Budget Process, BOF …

Posted on March 7, 2023 | 1 comment

Matthew Balga — the 54-year-old Norwalk resident killed in a motor vehicle/pedestrian accident Saturday night on Riverside Avenue — worked at The Whelk, not far from where he was struck.

A small memorial honored his life yesterday, near the scene of his death.

(Photo/Jennifer Johnson)

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This morning’s “06880” lead story described Bedford Middle School’s 7th grade project: sending letters and artwork to their counterparts in Westport’s sister city of Lyman, Ukraine.

But that’s not the only way BMS engages with the world outside Westport.

Yesterday, 6th graders capped off a 2-month “Walk for Water” fundraiser. It coincided with their social studies Africa unit, featuring the book “A Long Walk to Water” to Linda Sue Park.

Students learned that many people around the globe lack reliable access to clean, fresh water. They walk an average of 3.7 miles — sometimes several times a day — to access potable water.

Over the course of 2 months, each BMS 6th grader and member completed a 3.7- mile walk, to understand the struggles that come with fresh water insecurity, and raise awareness and funds for the cause.

Bedford’s 6th grade students and associated community raised over $10,000 to support the “Iron Giraffe Challenge 2023.” The non-profit organization provides safe, fresh water and hygiene to villages in South Sudan.

The cost to build a new well is $15,000. As thanks, a plaque will be placed next to a new well in the village when it is built.

Yesterday, BMS 6th graders participated in a virtual meeting with Elissa Rowley from the Water for South Sudan organization. She described their work, and answered questions.

Then the 6th graders, teachers and staff walked to the Staples High School track, to recreate their Walk for Water.

Contributions are still being accepted. To give, and learn more, click here.

6th graders meet with Elissa Rowley yesterday.

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It’s budget season. Buckle up!

Whether you’re an old-timer or newcomer; whether you know Westport’s budget process, or don’t have a clue, this week’s “Westport … What’s Happening” podcast is for you.

1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker explains the budget season, step by step. She also introduces the proposed 2023-24 budget, explaining how it was developed and where the money goes. (Or hopes to go.)

Click below, for this very informative Y’s Men of Westport and Weston feature:

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Speaking of the budget (spoiler alert): The Board of Finance plays a crucial role.

Who are they? How do they operate?

The League of Women Voters pull back the curtain on March 15 (7 p.m., Westport Library). Chair Lee Caney and others will explain everything you need to know, at this free event.

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“Free Renty” is a documentary about Tamara Lanier, an African American woman now living in Norwich, Connecticut, who was determined to force Harvard University to cede possession of daguerreotypes of her great-great-great grandfather, Renty Taylor — an enslaved man — and his daughter Delia.

The images were commissioned in 1850 by a Harvard professor to prove the superiority of the white race. The film tracks Lanier’s lawsuit against Harvard, and features attorney Benjamin Crump and author Ta-Nehisi Coates.

The documentary will be screen on March 18 (6 p.m.), at The Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport — followed by a discussion led by Lanier herself.

Admission is free. A potluck dinner is served before the viewing, at 5. For more information, email events@uuwestport.org.

Tamara Lanier

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VersoFest 2023’s concert pass is now on sale. It includes 3 shows at the Westport Library’s Trefz Forum:

Friday, March 10 fundraiser with supergroup Blue Coupe (members of Alice Cooper and Blue Öyster Cult)
Thursday, March 30: Sunflower Bean and DJ Hysterica
Friday, March 31: The Smithereens, Amilia K. Spicer, DJ Miriam Linna.

The $90 pass is a 22% discount from the $115 face value. Only 150 are available; click here to purchase. For more information on VersoFest, click here.

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Speaking of entertainment:

Brian Marsella headlines this week’s Jazz at the Post (Thursday, March 9, 7:30 and 8:45 p.m. shows; dinner at 7 p.m.; VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399).

Called “a psychedelic Art Tatum,” Marsella recently finished a world tour. He’s joined by bassist Reid Taylor and drummer Brian Floody — returning after a fall appearance at The Post — and series curator/saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall.

Reservations are highly recommended: JazzatthePost@gmail.com.

Brian Marsella

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New to Westport: Vanessa Lewis’ latest iteration of her Penfield Collective retail concept, in Sconset Square. She brings the physical store from Fairfield, and a customer base from far and wide.

Penfield Collective is a “highly edited collection of must-have apparel and accessories.” That fits in well, with many of its design and lifestyle neighbors in the recently renovated shopping center on Myrtle Avenue.

Click here to learn more.

Vanessa Lewis

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Large houses now line the banks of Sherwood Mill Pond. But there is still room for nature, as shown in this “Westport … Naturally” photo by Rick Benson:

(Photo/Rick Benson)

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And finally … Gary Rossington, a founding member of Lynyrd Skynyrd — and their last surviving original member — died Sunday at 71.

The guitarist survived both a bad car accident in 1976 (which inspired the song “That Smell”), and the 1977 plane crash that killed 3 band members. Rossington suffered 2 broken arms, a broken leg, and a punctured stomach and liver.

He had quintuple bypass surgery in 2003, suffered a heart attack in 2015, and underwent several heart surgeries later. Click here for a full obituary. (Hat tip: Amy Schneider)

(From Westport’s budget process to VersoFest — and on to Lynyrd Skynrd — the “06880” daily Roundup is your place for news and information. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

1 Comment

Posted in Education, Entertainment, Library, Local business, Local politics, religion

Tagged Bedford Middle School, Jazz at the Post, Penfield Collective, Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport, VersoFest 2023, Westport Board of Finance, Westport CT budget, Y's Men of Westport and Weston

Roundup: Grand List, Nomade, Antarctica …

Posted on February 7, 2023 | 6 comments

How grand is the Grand List?

1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker discusses that important financial document — what it is, how it’s grown, how it helps fund town services, and what it all means to residents — on the latest “Westport … What’s Happening?” podcast.

Click below to listen. The series is sponsored by the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston.

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Connecticut Magazine’s “Best New Restaurants” list is out.

And the statewide winner — in the “Readers’ Choice” poll — is Nômade.

The Main Street spot with the international menu did not make the “Experts’ Picks” list.

But what do they know?

Click here for the full poll.

Nomade

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Just in time for the Super Bowl, the Westport Police Department and Westport Sunrise Rotary Club are sponsoring a “Souper Bowl of Caring” food drive. All donations support Homes with Hope, and Westport’s Department of Human Services food pantries.

Non-perishable foods can be brought to Stop & Shop this Saturday (February 11, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.).

Can’t make it then? Hammer & Nails — the new men’s grooming lounge at 606 Post Road East — is accepting food donations all week long.

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Westporters love to travel. Some have climbed Mount Everest; many roam far and wide. But visiting all 7 continents is still quite rare.

Last month, 3 Westporters completed their quest to visit all 7 continents.

Rick and Totney Benson, and Mark Mathias, visited both South America and Antarctica, qualifying us for membership in the 7 Continent Club.

Mathias was with his wife Kim. That’s her 6th continent; she’s missing only Australia.

They were with one group. Meanwhile, the Bensons traveled with Wilton-based Tauck Tours.

They found out about each other when the Bensons arrived in Buenos Aires, and saw Mathias’ name on a card from someone picking them up at the airport.

It’s a small world indeed. But, as Stephen Wright said, I wouldn’t want to have to paint it.

Rick and Totney Benson in Antarctica …

… and Mark and Kim Mathias, with friends.

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And — because “06880” truly is “Where Westport meets the world” — here is another local story from Antarctica. Bill Kutik writes:

“I love adventure travel. I just rode an expedition ship from the southern tip of South America, hugging the coast of Antarctica, and finishing near the southern tip of New Zealand.

“It took 30 days to get from the Western Hemisphere to the Eastern Hemisphere under the bottom of the earth. Despite being upside down the whole time, we didn’t fall off once!

“An intrepid hiker (and founding editor of Backpacker magazine in 1972), I had to tour New Zealand’s famous mountains used in the movies Lord of the Rings’ and ‘The Power of the Dog.’ Here’s a photo of me from Fiordland National Park on the southwest coast (fresh from the helicopter).

Bill Kutik above Doubtful Bay.

“But my heart was captured by this eager, welcoming sign outside Westport, New Zealand. It’s a former port town — just like us.”

Bill Kutik in Westport — New Zealand.

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Expanding our horizons even beyond Antarctica: “Our galaxy was a quasar.”

That’s the topic for the next Westport Astronomical Society lecture. This one — with Professor Joshua Tan of LaGuardia Community College — is live, in the WAS classroom (February 21, 8 p.m.).

This will be Tan’s third appearance at the Astronomical Society. An optical astronomer, he studies short-period binary millisecond pulsars, open problems in binary modeling, neutron star physics, and 3-body dynamics.

Joshua Tan

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Each year, Westport middle and high school students rock the National History Day competition.

They do it thanks to beyond-the-call help from their teachers — and extra attention from community members, who help students through the research and writing process.

Dr. Lauren Francese, townwide social studies coordinator, invites community members to help in a new capacity this year: as judges in the Fairfield County regional competition (Saturday, March 18, Sacred Heart University).

Judges do not need to be history or education experts. What’s needed is engaged, empathetic feedback to students on their papers, websites, museum exhibits, performances, and documentaries). Training is provided to all volunteers the morning of the event.

Click here to sign up as a judge. Questions? Email tony48nhd@gmail.com.

The Bedford Middle School National History Day team, at the 2018 national competition.

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Hey! It’s Henry Hey!

The keyboardist — who has toured and recorded with David Bowie, George Michael and Rod Stewart, and served as musical director for Kennedy Center extravaganzas — headlines this Thursday’s Jazz at the Post (February 9, VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner at 7 p.m.; $15 cover).

Hey will be joined by Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall, Dave Richards and Jason Tiemann. Reservations are highly recommended: JazzatthePost@gmail.com.

Henry Hey

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After 2 weeks, bagels are still sitting on High Gate Road.

Chris Grimm reports on the scene, off Maple Avenue South: “The 2 piles have been joined by a smaller, breakaway third pile, to the left, while a few to the far left seem to be trying to flee. Behind the larger pile to the right seem to be a large number of casualties.”

(Photo/Chris Grimm)

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A full moon brings out a full complement of “06880” photographers.

This one was captured by Rick Leonard, on Wright Street. Naturally, it’s today’s “Westport … Naturally” image.

(Photo/Rick Leonard)

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And finally … in honor of Mark and Kim Mathias, Rick and Totney Benson, Bill Kutik, and anyone else who has traveled the world (see stories above):

(From Connecticut to New Zealand, “06880” is where Westport meets the world. Please click here, to continue helping us do all that we do. Thank you!)

6 Comments

Posted in Economy, Entertainment, Police, Restaurants

Tagged Antarctica, Homes With Hope, Jazz at the Post, Mark and Kim Mathias, Nomade, Rick and Totney Benson, Westport Astronomical Society, Westport New Zealand, Westport Sunrise Rotary, Y's Men of Westport and Weston

Roundup: RTM’s Saugatuck Vote, Josh Koskoff & Alex Jones …

Posted on January 18, 2023 | 17 comments

By an overwhelming majority last night, the Representative Town Meeting affirmed the Planning & Zoning Commission’s recent decisions to allow text and map amendments in Saugatuck.

There were 33 RTM members in favor, 1 against (Sal Liccione) and 1 abstention (Matthew Mandell). The vote — following similar margins in the RTM’s Transit and Planning & Zoning Committees — means that planning can proceed for the Hamlet at Saugatuck.

That project could bring new retail, restaurants, residences, and a hotel and marina to the area near the train station.

The RTM vote was required, based on a petition from voters. Twenty-four members had to vote to overturn the P&Z decision — but only 1 did.

Next up: A site plan for the Hamlet project, and approval from the P&Z.

Artists’ rendering of an interior courtyard of The Hamlet at Saugatuck.

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What’s the newest hot place in town for teenagers?

The Westport Library.

It’s been filled all week long, with Staples High School students studying for midterms.

The Trefz Forum — and the rest of the building — has been a place where friends can work together, but where others can find space to be alone. It’s serious, but also social — perfect for teens’ needs.

The other night, library officials surprised the students with 25 pizzas.

They were gone quicker than you could say “good luck with exams!”

Where do Westport teenagers head at night? The Westport Library. (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

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Speaking of the Westport Library: The Trefz Forum will be packed tomorrow morning too (Thursday, January 19, 10 a.m.).

Local attorney (and Staples High graduate) Josh Koskoff will discuss his latest victory: the largest verdict in history in a defamation suit. Koskoff led the case against Alex Jones, who used his Infowars website and daily radio show to present counter-factual information about issues including the Sandy Hook school shooting.

Koskoff’s talk will also be livestreamed. Click here for the link.

The event is co-sponsored by the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston.

Josh Koskoff

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Speaking still of the Library:

It was packed in November, for the Board of Education’s first “Community Conversation.”

Plenty of topics were discussed — but others, like challenges to books in the high school library, and diversity, equity and inclusion planning — did not have time for exploration.

A second open discussion — picking up where last fall’s left off — is set for next Tuesday (January 24, 7 to 8:30 p.m., Westport Library). All residents are invited, for a “back-and-forth exchange) with Board of Education members, and school administrators.

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Spiga is a popular New Canaan restaurant, specializing in handmade pasta, brick oven pizza and other Italian fare.

Soon, they’ll add a Westport location. They’re replacing Tarry Lodge on Charles Street. The target date for opening is late March.

It’s one more Italian business in a line that began with Esposito’s gas station, and continued through Abbondanza. (Hat tip: Maria Funicello)

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Speaking of Saugatuck: Mackenzie Winner Berman has a question that’s on the minds of many other Westporters. She writes:

“On Saugatuck Avenue, roughly across the street from the old Westport Chinese/ new Lomito restaurant, is a home with a small storefront on street level.

“The home is being renovated. I assumed the storefront would go, but recently it has been improved with new windows, among other things.

“Does anyone know the plans for that space? It has always interested me. Every time I drive by, I try to imagine what sort of activity used to take to place there.”

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Sacred Heart University’s beautiful new Martire Family Arena is drawing raves. And fans.

Those spectators are helping the Pioneers’ men’s ice hockey program raise funds for great causes.

The January 21 game (7 p.m., vs. Holy Cross) will benefit the Chad Jacobs Hockey Foundation — run by Westporter Karen Jacobs — and the CT Hockey Foundation. The Jacobs fund was a major supporter of education for Charlie and Will Capalbo, grandsons of Westport writer Ina Chadwick. Charlie fought a long, courageous battle against several cancers.

A February 4 game (7 p.m., vs. American International) for CapalboStrong will benefit Dana Farber Cancer Institute, specifically pediatric research. That date is the anniversary of Charlie’s life-saving bone marrow transplant from his brother Will, in 2019.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

Charlie Capalbo (Photo/Dave Gunn)

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The bad news: There was plenty of trash at the I-95 Exit 18 commuter parking lot on the Sherwood Island Connector.

The good news: A crew of dedicated Westporters picked it up last weekend.

The bad news: There will always be more garbage in need of collection.

To find out what’s next for our civic-minded citizens — and help — email Andrew Colabella: acolabellartm4@gmail.com.

Town employees haul away the trash collected at the commuter parking lot. (Photo/Andrew Colabella)

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“Surface Alchemy” — a new exhibition featuring Donald Martiny and Stuart Disston — opens this Saturday (January 21; reception from 5 to 7 p.m.) at Amy Simon Fine Art (123 Post Road East).

The exhibit runs through February 25.

“The Picnic” — Acrylics, encaustic and photo transfer on canvas mounted on panel (Stuart Disston)

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You can teach an old dog new tricks. Or — in the case of Bobo — a new dog can enjoy old tricks.

Either way, here’s today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo, from (naturally) Compo Beach:

(Photo/Sunil Hirani)

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And finally … today is the birthday of David Ruffin.

One of the lead singers of the Temptations from 1964-68, and later a solo star, was born on this date in 1941. He died in 1991, from an accidental overdose of crack cocaine.

(“06880” ain’t too proud to beg. Please support your hyper-local blog! Just click here — and thank you!)

17 Comments

Posted in Arts, Education, Library, Local business, Local politics, Restaurants, Saugatuck, Sports, Staples HS

Tagged Amy Simon Fine Art, Charlie Capalbo, Josh Koskoff, Spiga restaurant, The Hamlet at Saugatuck, Westport Public Schools, Westport Representative Town Meeting, Y's Men of Westport and Weston

Roundup: Intensity, Longevity …

Posted on January 17, 2023 | 2 comments

The ad said: “INTENSITY — everything must go!”

Westporters worried that the tennis/squash/fitness/dance center just over the Norwalk line would close.

Racquet sports are still there. But the health and fitness component is changing.

Clair Mason, owner of Elliptica, and co-owner of Intensity — says that the health and fitness industry has changed. COVID, and the rise of paddle and pickleball, provided an opportunity to remodel both businesses.

Elliptica developed a virtual offering, with a class and partnership with a machine manufacturer.

And all Intensity fitness classes are now under the Elliptica brand at a new (and nearby) location: 345 Post Road West, Westport. They include barre, Herman Walker Body Design System, dance fitness, bodypump, Pilates, bootcamps and more. For more information on Elliptica, click here.

On January 1, Intensity became a racquets-only club. There are 6 indoor tennis courts, 4 squash courts, 4 pickleball courts and 2 new paddle courts. A warming hut opens soon. For more information on Intensity racquets, click here.

Clair Mason owns both Elliptica and Intensity.

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Speaking of fitness: For Peloton, COVID was just what the doctor ordered.

The stationary bike company’s sales surged during the pandemic. With gyms closed, home workouts — which Peloton delivered, via its equipment and streaming platforms — were the only game in town (or anywhere else).

Since 2018, Peloton had a retail presence here. The Main Street store — one of the few of its 80-plus outlets not in a mall — closed temporarily, along with nearly every other retailer.

It reopened (though supply chain issues made it difficult to meet the enormous demand for bikes and treadmills).

This coming Sunday, it will close for good. The decision is part of an “aggressive” reduction in retail stores (and, last summer, the elimination of roughly 780 employees.

Peloton’s fortunes crashed as quickly as they rose. As COVID eased, people returned to the gym.

The Main Street tenant before Peloton sold Sperry boat shoes. There is no word on what kind of business — sports and leisure-related, or not — will replace it.

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Speaking still of fitness: Longevity Westport — the center offering non-invasive, quick and very sophisticated testing of muscle mass, bone density, metabolism, cardiovascular health, oxygen consumption and more — opened on Post Road East in 2021.

But — true to their name — they may be the business with the longest time before hosting an official ribbon-cutting.

It’s set for this Saturday (January 21, 1835 Post Road East). First Selectwoman Jen Tooker does the honors at 1 p.m.

She’ll be followed by 3 speakers: Ralph Esposito, a naturopathic physician and head of nutrition at Athletic Greens; Atlas Nutrition chiropractic physician Dr. Beth Atlas, and Sherpa Westport’s Jean Paul Desrosiers.

All will offer specials for customers. In addition, Longevity will provide 50% off a second test, with the purchase of a full price test (and 20% off a bundle package).

There’s food too. Healthy, of course.

Inside Longevity. The DEXA scan machine is at left.

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Hard to believe, but Westport Book Shop is 2 years old.

The used book store (and much more) honors the milestone with several community events.

A Volunteer Appreciation Celebration is set for January 28 (10:30 a.m. to noon), at the Westport Library across Jesup Green from the shop.

A “Show Your Love” competition offers a $50 Westport Book Shop gift card. Just film a short video showing why you love the Book Shop, then post it on social media.

Every entrant receives a free vinyl record, CD or book of their choice from the current inventory ($6 or less). The deadline is 6 p.m. January 27. Click here for details, and the entry form.

Meanwhile, story time for kids at the Book Shop runs on Saturday and Sunday, January 28-29. Call for details: 203-952-0070.

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Westport favorite Melissa Newman — one of our own — headlines this week’s Jazz at the Post (Thursday, January 19; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner from 7 p.m.; $15 cover; reservations strongly suggested: JazzatthePost@gmail.com).

Joining Melissa: guitarist Tony Lombardozzi, bassist Phil Bowler and drummer Arti Dixson.

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PFAS chemicals in the Weston water supply?

On this week’s “What’s Next in Weston?” podcast, 1st Selectwoman Sam Nestor describes how her town has addressed the issue, with remediation and clean water for every family.

The bi-weekly series is produced by the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston. Click below to listen:

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Aspetuck Land Trust’s first “Lunch and Learn” webinar of 2023 is called “Landscapes for Better Living.”

On January 27 (noon to 1 p.m.), Jay Archer of Green Jay Landscape Design will discuss how ecological landscape design, organic horticulture and land stewardship can improve human health (and save the planet).

In addition to designing, building, managing and maintaining beautiful, natural ecosystems and plantscapes, Archer has taught, lectured and consulted with organizations from NYBG and The Institute for Ecosystem Studies to the Native Plant Center, Nature Conservancy and Audubon International.

For more information and to register, click here.

One of Jay Archer’s ecological landscapes.

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Many “Westport … Naturally” photos are gorgeous.

This one isn’t.

A reader who lives nearby writes: “I saw these giant birds in the dumpsters behind Gaetano’s.

“The dumpsters are open, and so is the door on one side. There were others in a tree, walking nearby, and sitting on the roof of a house, all waiting their turn. Apparently they are black buzzards.

“I called Gaetano’s. The woman who answered said, ‘yeah, it’s been like that all week.’ I said, ‘just close the dumpsters.’ She thanked me.”

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And finally … today is the birthday of Muhammad Ali. “The Greatest” boxer — and an important political activist was born in 1942. He died in 2016, age 74.

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(If all the stories above about fitness leave you exhausted … take a break! As you rest, please click here to support “06880.” Thank you!)

2 Comments

Posted in Downtown, Environment, Local business, Sports, Weston

Tagged Aspetuck Land Trust, Elliptica, Intensity, Jazz at the Post, Longevity Westport, Melissa Newman, Peloton, Westport Book Shop, Y's Men of Westport and Weston

“Westport … What’s Happening”: Jen Tooker, Foti Koskinas And Lyman

Posted on January 9, 2023 | Comments Off

Today’s “Westport … What’s Happening” podcast is special.

1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker and Police Chief Foti Koskinas talk passionately about Westport’s new sister city: Lyman, Ukraine.

They provide background information on the war-torn town; describe the logistics of our humanitarian aid; note the close ties our chief has developed with his security counterparts in Lyman, and emphasize the importance of our relationship — not just for delivering crucially needed goods and materials, but for morale too.

Tooker and Koskinas also note that our sister city partnership has only just begun. Students, and many other townspeople, will be involved in a variety of projects in the weeks and months ahead.

“Westport … What’s Happening” is produced by the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston. Click below to see:

Comments Off on “Westport … What’s Happening”: Jen Tooker, Foti Koskinas And Lyman

Posted in Local politics, Police, Politics

Tagged 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, Lyman Ukraine, Police Chief Foti Koskinas, Y's Men of Westport and Weston

“What’s Next In Weston”: Police Chief Speaks

Posted on December 26, 2022 | 1 comment

In Episode 4 of “What’s Next in Weston,” 1st Selectwoman Sam Nestor interviews Police Chief Ed Henion.

He speaks about a new hire, the rest of his force, community involvement, school resource officers, and more. Click below to learn everything you always wanted to know about the Weston Police Department.