Tag Archives: Y’s Women

Roundup: William Tong, Jake Sussman, Marc Selverstone, Talmage Boston,

Posted on March 25, 2025 | 1 comment

Attorney General William Tong spoke to a large Y’s Women crowd yesterday.

He described the impact of state lawsuits against tobacco and pharmaceutical firms. Up next: social media companies.

The AG — one of nearly 2 dozen who have sued Donald Trump and his administration, in several cases — said that the president must follow judges, and the law. States have the “checks and balances” power to keep the executive branch in check, he noted.

Connecticut Attorney General William Tong with (from left) Y’s Women president Vera DeStefano and vice president Catherine Albin. (Photo/Jilda Manikas)

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Jake Sussman is not yet 30. But — as founder of Superpower Mentors, an online mentoring program that empowers young people with learning differences to confidently succeed in any environment — he has already made a difference in thousands of lives.

On April 10 (6:30 p.m., Woodway Country Club, Darien) the Westport native will be honored at Smart Kids with Learning Disabilities‘ annual gala. Sussman will receive the Norwalk-based non-profit’s “Be the Difference” Award.

Jake has spent thosands of hours personally mentoring neurodiverse youth around the world. He often uses his own experiences with learning differences in his work.

“As someone who once struggled to see my own potential, I know firsthand that the right mentorship can change everything,” he says.

“The world’s biggest problems will be solved by those who think differently. I am committed to making sure every young person sees their differences as their greatest superpower.”

Click here for tickets, and more information.

Jake Sussman

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Sunday’s community conversation about the Representative Town Meeting was informative, insightful and fun. (And I’m not just saying that because I was the moderator.)

If you want to know more about our town’s legislative body — what it does; what motivates people to run; what they get out of it — click below.

PS: RTM members want competitive races. It makes everyone better. If you’re thinking of running for a seat this fall, the video above may motivate you.

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Westport did it again!

On Sunday — in just one hour — residents donated 180 bags of food and household items — to Homes with Hope’s Gillespie Center and food pantry.

Others send supplies through Amazon.

The collection was sponsored by Marcy Sansolo, the Facebook “What Up Westport” page creator and avid town volunteer (and most recent “06880” Unsung Hero).

Along with donors, the Imperial Avenue parking lot collection point was visited by Homes with Hope CEO Helen McAlinden, Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Service president Jaime Bairaktaris, CLASP Homes president Tracy Flood, Gillespie Center pantry manager Sarah Carusone, and the general manager of Fresh Market.

Fresh Market had offered a great deal to Marcy. She bought 100 pounds of beef, and 100 more pounds of chicken, to augment the other donations.

Marcy got a tour of the newly renovated Gillespie Center. “I was so moved by everyone involved, and in awe of all the goodness surrounding me” she says — referring to the homeless shelter, food pantry, and all who helped with the collection.

Marcy Sansolo and Sarah Carusone, Homes with Hope food pantry manager. (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

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More politics (national version): Last Thursday was “Westport Day,” at the prestigious Virginia Festival of the Book.

Historian (and 1972 Staples High School graduate) Talmage Boston, discussed his new book, “How the Best Did It: Leadership Lessons from Our Top Presidents.”

The moderator was 1980 Staples grad Marc Selverstone, the University of Virginia Miller Center of Public Affairs’ director of presidential studies.

Referencing America’s 8 greatest presidents, Boston explored how their leadership traits can be applied today. 

In the audience were Dave Harrison, a legendary Staples social studies teacher who taught both Boston and Selverstone, and his wife, former SHS educator Marianne Harrison, along with Selverstone’s parents, Bob and Harriet. Bob — a psychologist — also worked as a Staples guidance counselor and teacher, while Harriet is a retired media specialist and library department chair at Norwalk High School.

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Staples’ recipients for March Students of the Month are senior Massimo Sequenzia, juniors Angela Dellorusso and Vincent Vega, sophomores Hayley Epstein and Igancy Nieweglowski, and freshmen Chloe Endich and Petra Schwartz.

Students of the Month — nominated by their teachers — help make Staples a welcoming place for peers and teachers. They are “the type of kind, cheerful, hard-working, trustworthy students that keep the high school together.”

From left: Angela Dellorusso, Hayley Epstein, Ignacy Nieweglowski, Massimo Sequenzia, Vincent Vega. Not pictured: Chloe Endich, Petra Schwartz.

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John Basile — the jazz guitarist and composer known for his “soulful melodic playing, sophisticated harmonic sense, and deep conversational approach to improvisation” — headlines this week’s Jazz at the Post (Thursday, March 27; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner at 7 p.m.; VFW Post 399; $20 music cover, $15 for veterans and students; click here to reserve).

Basile has worked withPeggy Lee, Rosemary Clooney and Tony Bennett. He’ll be joined by bassist Yuriy Galkin, drummer Carmen Intorre Jr., and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall.

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Speaking of music: pianists Dr. Liang-Fang Chang and Dr. Uriel Tsachor perform April 6 (2 p.m.), at Saugatuck Congregational Church.

The Y’s Men of Westport & Weston co-sponsor the free event, on the church’s Steinway grand piano.

Dr. Liang-Fang Chang and Dr. Uriel Tsachor

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Four stone pillars have stood on Morningside Drive South for decades. It’s not going anywhere.

But there’s plenty of ever-changing life all around at least one, as today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo shows. In a few days, this scene will look very different.

(Photo/Bob Weingarten)

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And finally … happy 78th birthday, Sir Elton John!

(We’ve got news, videos, music — everything you need. But we need your support. If you enjoy “06880” — your hyperlocal blog — please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

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Roundup: CNN’s Alisyn Camerota, WFD’s Santa Run, UNC’s Marisa Shorrock …

Posted on December 10, 2024 | 11 comments

Alison Camerota surprised her many fans Sunday — first on Instagram, then on the air — by announcing it was her last day with CNN.

After 10 years with the network, the Westport resident signed off with a smile.

Alisyn Camerota’s Instagram post.

She recalled interviewing “presidents and heroes and extraordinary people (in) peak career experiences that I had dreamed of since I was a teenager.”

She thanked her colleagues and her viewers, and encouraged them to follow her on Instagram (@alisyncamerota) for updates on what’s ahead.

In a social media post minutes later, she said: “I’m on to new horizons. I’ll just share this bit of wisdom. New horizons are great when you’re ready for them. There have been times in my life when I was not ready to leave a place that I loved and that was really sad and really hard. But I think am ready to leave this place that I’ve loved.”

Before joining CNN in 2014 — where she was a co-anchor on “New Day,” “CNN Newsroom,” “CNN Tonight” and, most recently, “CNN Newsroom” — Camerota worked at Fox News.

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The Westport Uniformed Firefighters Charitable Foundation “Santa Run” is one of Westport’s most cherished traditions.

(Spots are limited. IYKYK).

For a donation to the Firefighters Foundation, Santa arrives by fire truck to drop off a present at a (limited number of) children’s houses.

Kids, stop reading here! The gift is dropped off at the firehouse previously, by the parents.

This weekend, for the third year in a row, Staples High School’s Service League of Boys (SLOBs) joined the firefighters.

They helped the little ones spread joy, fend off the Grinch, and make the holidays special.

Pausing for a photo opp, at the annual Santa Run.

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Westport has another NCAA Division I national champion.

Marissa Shorrock is a goalkeeper on the University of North Carolina women’s soccer squad. The Tar Heels won their 23rd championship last night in Cary, North Carolina. They defeated Wake Forest University 1-0.

The 2020 Staples graduate was not in the nets (teammate Clare Gagne was named the tournaments Most Outstanding Defensive Player). But she’s got her championship ring.

At Staples, her 14 shutouts as a senior helped her team to a 19-1-2 season. She also played 4 years of varsity lacrosse and basketball, helping the hoopsters to the state semifinal.

Shorrock walked onto the Bowdoin College soccer, basketball and lacrosse teams, before seasons were canceled due to COVID. She transferred to Yale University, appearing in 22 games over 3 years at Yale after walking-on midseason in 2021. She started 20 matches. Shorrock helped the Bulldogs break the program’s consecutive shutout record, and tie the record for shutouts in a season in 2022.

After graduating with a degree in economics from Yale last spring, Shorrock transfered to UNC with one more year of eligibility. (Hat tip: Don Kubie)

 

Marisa Shorrock, with the national championship trophy, and her new cap. (Photo courtesy of David Shorrock)

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WEST boutique hosts a special “Sip & Shop” event this Thursday (December 12, 6 to 8 p.m., 117 Post Road East).

20% of all purchases, and 20% of the proceeds, go to Neighborhood Studios of Fairfield County, the great arts non-profit for underserved youngsters.

One Hope Winery and The Granola Bar will be on hand too.

WEST boutique. (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

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Yogi Bear stopped by the Westport Police Department/Westport PAL  toy drive this past weekend.

He donated to the great cause, and thanked the officers for all they do.

The toy drive continues this coming weekend. New, unopened and unwrapped toys for all ages and genders — along with cash to buy toys — will be collected at Athletic Shoe Factory (1560 Post Road East) Saturday and Sunday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

You can also drop off unwrapped toys at Police headquarters on Jesup Road (any time), or Awesome Toys & Gifts and The Toy Post, during business hours.

Yogi Bear and friends, at the Police Department’s toy drive collection spot: Athletic Shoe Factory. (Photo/Cathy Malkin)

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Birchwood County Club is usually about golf, tennis, swimming and dining.

This weekend, they added gingerbread house decorating to the list.

150 youngsters, along with parents and grandparents, gathered for the annual holiday brunch, and creative fun.

Gingerbread house decorators, hard at work. (Photo/John Schmidlin)

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The Y’s Women had 2 special guests yesterday.

1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker talked about issues on many residents’ minds. She reported that while Post Road traffic remains a big problem, many stop signs and sidewalks have been added all around town.

Parking is still a work in progress.

The 1st selectwoman also discussed Longshore improvements (more pickleball courts, an 18-hole golf clubhouse, a pool upgrade), and Long Lots Elementary School construction (expected to begin this spring, with completion in 2027).

After Tooker’s talk, Y’s Women enjoyed a holiday concert by Staples’ elite Orphenians a cappella group, in the acoustically wonderful Green’s Farms Church.

1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker (center), with Y’s Women president Vera DeStefano and vice president Catherin Albin.

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Congratulations to Staples’ December Students of the Month.

Seniors Olivia Berg and William Vanamee, junior Madeline Leventhal, sophomore Nathaniel Maurillo and freshmen Gabriella Juliano and Kai Massicott were nominated by their teachers.

They make Staples a welcoming place for peers and teachers, and are, principal Stafford Thomas says, “the type of kind, cheerful, hard-working, trustworthy students that keep the high school together.”

From left: Kai Massicott, Gabriella Juliano, Olivia Berg, Madeline Leventhal,  Nathaniel Maurillo, William Vanamee.

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Michael Mossman has done it all.

After apprenticing as a youngster with jazz legends Lionel Hampton, Dizzy Gillespie, Art Blakey and others, the trumpeter forged a brilliant career as a soloist, arranger, music director and educator.

This Thursday he brings his talents to Jazz at the Post (December 12, VFW Post 399; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner service from 7; $20 tickets, $15 for veterans and students).

Mossman willk be joined by pianist Jeb Patton, bassist Phil Bowler, drummer Ryan Sands and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall. Click here for tickets.

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature shows what Michele Sorensen says was left untouched after bulldozers renovated Riverside Park:

(Photo/Michele Sorensen)

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And finally … on this date in 1817, Mississippi became the 20th US state.

(“06880” is your hyper-local source of news you can use. If you appreciate our work, please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

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Posted in Entertainment, Local business, Media, Police, Sports, Staples HS

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Roundup: Collecting Toys, Feeding the Hungry …

Posted on November 27, 2024 | 3 comments

The Westport Police Department toy drive is one of our town’s most popular giving traditions.

This year, there’s an added way to donate. The WPD will collect unwrapped toys at the Westport PAL tent during the “06880”/Westport Downtown Association Holiday Stroll. The date is Saturday, December 7 (5 to 7 p.m.).

There are 4 collection dates at Athletic Shoe Factory (1560 Post Road East), too: December 7-8, and 14-15, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

You can also drop off unwrapped toys at Police headquarters on Jesup Road (any time), or Awesome Toys & Gifts and The Toy Post, during business hours.

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Another great Westport tradition — the Slice of Saugatuck — always leads to another: a donation from the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce, to Homes with Hope’s Gillespie Center food pantry.

This year’s Slice raised $5,000. Over 12 years, the event has contributed $54,000 to the  pantry.

From left: Homes with Hope CEO and president Helen McAlinden, Chamber of Commerce director Matthew Mandell, Homes with Hope COO and vice president Paris Looney.

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Thanksgiving dinner for over 200 clients of the Light on the Hill Food Pantry at Summerfield Methodist Church in Bridgeport were delivered from Westport on Monday.

The third annual Thanksgiving Turkey Drive was organized as a joint project of the Westport Rotary Club and the United Methodist Church of Westport & Weston.

In addition, Kim Weigle organized a UMCWW drive to collect warm coats and winter clothing to donate to SUMC.

Members of the Rotary Club and church raised over $3,000 to supply 50 turkeys, 10 roasting chickens and 220 servings of stuffing, gravy, rice, mac ‘n‘ cheese, canned vegetables and cranberry sauce.

The items were assembled with the help of Stop & Shop Westport manager Lemar Feliciano and his team, then delivered to the food pantry by a dozen Westport volunteers.

The project developed in 2022, when Westporter Gillian Anderson — a member of both the Rotary Club and United Methodist Church — learned that the pantry’s commitment to feeding their community was in jeopardy.

Both organizations rose to the challenge, and have continued helping each year.

Westport Rotary Club, United Methodist Church and Summerfield Methodist Church members gather together.

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Tom Canavan worked on the 47th floor of the North Tower of the World Trade Center. As he escaped the wreckage on September 11, 2001, he was caught under the collapse of the adjacent 110-story South Tower.

Digging his way out of steel and debris, Canavan became one of 19 people to survive the collapse of the Twin Towers.

On December 3 (7 p.m., Westport Library), Canavan shares his story in an interview with Christie Seyglinski and Andrew Colabella.

Colabella is a Westport Town Representative Meeting member, and civic volunteer.

Seyglinski grew up in the shadow of the Twin Towers. When the 9/11 Memorial opened, she became a volunteer. She is a close friend of Canavan’s.

Tom Canavan, and the Twin Towers.

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Two favorites — Truman Capote’s “A Chrismas Memory,” and “Christmas” by Vladimir Nabokov — are the subjects of next month’s Westport Book Shop Short Story Book Club.

The discussion is set for December 19 (6 p.m.) Registration is required; email bookshop@westportbooksalesventures.org, or call 203-349-5141.

Christmas Short Stores, at the Westport Book Shop.

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Dan Horowitz has joined a group of Westporters at the Sylvan Tennis Club on Saturday mornings for the past 15 years. 

One day, he mentioned that he still has his Björn Borg racquet. Other players said that they too have their own ’70s-era racquets. The idea for a tournament was born.

Horowitz runs a non-profit. Architecture Is Free Foundation provides education, mentoring and grants to students and young architects from underserved communities around the world. AIFF underwrites the event, and participants donate their entry fees to it.

The “Vintage Racquet Open” round robin was held at Sylvan last weekend. It featured food, drinks and classic ’70s tunes. Each team was required to wear vintage tennis outfits and play with vintage racquets.

A silver cup went to the winning father/son team of Alan and Joshua Kravetz. The Best Vintage Outfit award was won by Jim Kirsch. 

Vintage racquets and outfits, at Sylvan Tennis Center. Front row (from left): Michael Cooney, Marvin Feinberg, Dan Horowitz, Jennifer Bentley, Todd Cheema. Rear: Michael Guzzetti, Jim Kirsch, Eiki Mera, Joshua Kravetz, Alan Kravetz, Richard Cotton, David Kaplan.

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The Y’s Women were wide awake this weekend, when Dr. Robert Altbaum spoke about sleep disorders.

The retired physician offered relief from fears. He told the audience that insomnia can be overcome by lifestyle changes and medical treatments; sleep apnea can be helped by treatment too.

Dr. Robert Altbaum

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Yesterday, he was on Bayberry Lane.

Today, he’s the subject of our “Westport … Naturally” feature.

Tomorrow … who knows?!

(Photo/Elissa Moses)

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And finally … the first Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade was held on this date, 100 years ago.

Wikipedia says: “In 1924, store employees marched to Macy’s Herald Square, the flagship store on 34th Street, dressed in vibrant costumes. There were floats, professional bands and live animals borrowed from the Central Park Zoo. At the end of that first parade, Santa Claus was welcomed into Herald Square. At this first parade, Santa was enthroned on the Macy’s balcony at the 34th Street store entrance, where he was then crowned “King of the Kiddies”. With an audience of over 250,000 people, the parade was such a success that Macy’s declared it would become an annual event, despite media reports only barely covering the first parade.”

(Before you head to New York for the Macy’s parade — or sit in front of the TV to watch it — please consider giving thanks to “06880.” Just click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. THANKS!)

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Roundup: Gun Locks, 2nd Street, Joey Zelkowitz …

Posted on November 12, 2024 | 20 comments

Staples High School students — the teenagers who have endured lockdown drills for as long as they can remember — want action on gun safety.

They can try to affect policy. They can also take action here in Westport.

On Saturday, Aidan Lapatine and Logan Noorily — presidents of the Students Demand Action club — stood on the post Road/Main Street corner.

They gave out gun locks, and talked about safe firearms practices.

Many people stopped to talk, and learn more. The teens talked with parents about proper storage, and with children about safety measures.

Many attendees took locks for family members and friends.

To learn more about gun locks,, mail aidanlapatine@gmail.com.

Aidan Lapatine and Logan Noorily hand out gun locks, stress safety — and demand action.

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Meanwhile, coming soon to downtown: 2nd Street.

The second-hand clothes and accessories store will take over the space vacated by The Loft, next to Shoe-Inn.

Their first Connecticut location — one of about 50 nationwide — opened last month, in New Haven.

The idea to repurpose clothing and reduce waste is not new.

And I don’t mean Goodwill.

In the 1960s and ’70s, Functional Clothing was a popular shop down some stairs, next to the building that is now The Gap.

It was great. I think I may still have some jeans from there.

(Photo/Jem Sollinger)

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Congratulations to Joey Zelkowitz!

The Class of 2013 Staples High School and ’17 Middlebury College football star has been named to Sports Business Journal‘s “New Voices Under 30.”

Zelkowitz, now 29 years old (and called “Joseph”), is a senior associate with JP Morgan’s sports finance group. Previously, he was a financial operations analyst with the New York Yankees. (Hat tip: Amy Schafrann)

Joey Zelkowitz

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Congratulations too to more Stapleites: the school’s Students of the Month.

Seniors Molly Oliver and Nathan Smith; juniors Jocelyn Connors, Matthew Perez and Leila Stein; sophomore Luke Cooper, and freshman Emma Rivel, have been nominated by their teachers.

Principal Stafford Thomas calls them “the ‘glue’ of the Staples community — the type of kind, cheerful, hard-working, trustworthy students that keep the high school together, making it the special place that it is.”

From left: Emma Rivel, Matthew Perez, Leila Stein, Molly Oliver, Jocelyn Connors, Nathan Smith, Luke Cooper.

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The other day, John Brandt brought his illustrative presentation “The Soundtrack of Our Lives” to the Y’s Women.

It demonstrated visually how music is part of our everyday lives, from film and dance to Broadway. Brandt’s journey included “Casablanca,” “Star Wars,” “Titanic,” “Exodus” and “Gone with the Wind”;  Martha Graham and “The Nutcracker,” and “A Chorus Line.”

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Trombonist/composer/bandleader Altin Sencalar brings his magic to this Thursday’s Jazz at the Post (November 14, VFW Post 399; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner from 7; $20 music charge, $15 veterans and students).

Sencalar has shared the stage, toured, and/or recorded with Christian McBride, Michael Bublé, The Temptations, Four Tops, Martha Reeves, Ne-Yo, Big Sean and many others. An apt musician to close out the first NextGen Fest.

He’ll be joined by pianist Tylerl Henderson, bassist Gram Kozak, saxophonist Greg Wall and drummer Mike Camacho. Click here for reservations, and more information.

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We’ve had a bumper crop of acorns this year.

Pam Docters spotted these nuts near Compo Road South. They make for a perfect “Westport … Naturally” spread.

(Photo/Pam Docters)

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And finally … in honor of 2nd Street, our soon-to-be-new second-hand clothing store:

(The recording above is 103 years old. “06880” is 15. To help us reach the century mark — or, at least, 16 — please click here. Thank you!)

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Posted in Downtown, Entertainment, Local business, Politics, Sports, Staples HS

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Roundup: Vide06880, Bruce Becker, “The Apprentice” …

Posted on May 14, 2024 | 5 comments

Our readers have spoken!

Our new Instagram feature will be called “Vide06880.”

Pronounced “vide-06880,” it features Dave Briggs helping local merchants, restaurants and organizations tell their stories.

Each week, the longtime Westporter (and nationally known CNN, NBC Sports, Fox News and Turner Sports broadcaster) will interview a different retail store, restaurant, home builder, fitness establishment, etc.

Dave’s very informative and entertaining Instagram reels, stories and IG Live interviews will live on our “06880” Instagram feed (“06880danwoog”), this blog (via the “Video” tab) and the app, and be posted on Dave’s feed (“DaveBriggsTV”). He’ll follow up daily with stories about that week’s feature.

This week, Dave features Romanacci — the new operator of Old Mill Grocery & Deli. Learn about their food, their vibe, and their petition to sell wine. Click below to see.

Got a suggestion for a feature? Want to learn more? Email us both: 06880blog@gmail.com and dbriggsproductions@gmail.com.

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Yesterday’s “Roundup” item on Bruce Becker — president of Becker + Becker, who has reimagined the Brutalist former Armstrong Rubber/Pirelli headquarters in New Haven into the Hotel Marcel, called “the greenest hotel in America” by CNN — neglected to mention that on Friday, he was appointed by President Biden to the US Commission of Fine Arts.

That’s because we did not know, until his neighbor and friend Larry Hoy told us the news.

Since 1910, the commission has advised the federal government on matters pertaining to the arts and national symbols, and guided the architectural development of Washington.

The 7 members, all with arts expertise, serve 4-year terms.

Becker designs and builds projects with social and environmental value. His work includes conversion of the Bank of America tower in Hartford into a 285-unit LEED Platinum mixed-income community; the 500-unit, 360 State and Elm City Market in New Haven; adaptive re-use of the Wauregan Hotel in Norwich, Connecticut to create affordable housing, and redevelopment of the historic Octagon on Roosevelt Island in Manhattan into a mixed-income community.

Bruce Becker, with a “Westport Green Building Award” for “meaningfully contributing to a sustainable Westport, and furthering the town’s goal of being a net-zero community by 2050.”

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Speaking of art: If you hear “student art” and think of a work hung on a refrigerator that only a mother could love — think again.

The Westport Public School’s visual arts exhibition, “Spark” opens May 25 at MoCA Westport. It runs through June 2 (closing reception 2-4 p.m.).

The very imaginative show highlights the creative spirit at work in our schools each day, from pre-K through 12th grade.

It is well worth seeing, even — perhaps especially — if you don’t have a young artist at home.

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First came Donald Trump’s “The Apprentice.”

Now there’s Gabe Sherman’s version.

The Westport native — who grew up in Westport and graduated from Middlebury College in 2001 — wrote a film with that familiar name.

“An exploration of power and ambition, set in a world of corruption and deceit,” it explores Trump’s efforts to build his real estate business in New York in the ’70s and ’80s, along with his relationship with attorney Roy Cohn.

“The Apprentice” has been chosen as one of 20 (out of 2.000) entries to premier at the Cannes Film Festival, which starts this week.

In a story about 5 things to look for at the movie mecca, the New York Times says:

If any Americans traveling abroad are counting on Cannes for 2 weeks of respite from this contentious election year, the festival has a rude reminder in the form of Ali Abbasi’s “The Apprentice.”

This political origin story of sorts stars Sebastian Stan as a young Donald J. Trump, Maria Bakalova as his first wife, Ivana, and the “Succession” star Jeremy Strong as Trump’s mentor, the fixer Roy Cohn. Could this be the only film at Cannes this year eligible for both the Palme d’Or and a clapback on Truth Social?

Gabe Sherman

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Longtime Westporter Jay Dirnberger brought Y’s Women members back to the Vietnam days yesterday.

As guest speaker, the former Army combat helicopter pilot discussed the various roles of Hueys: ferrying soldiers in and out of missions, and supplying water and ammunition to the troops already there circling over terrain with dangerously high tree canopies and mountains.

Capt. Dirnberger described the draft as a “leveler of men,” surrounding people with others they’d never otherwise know, broadening the world at a very young age.

Once strangers, they now held each other’s fates in their hands. One mistake could be deadly.

Capt. Dirnberger speaks often at high schools and colleges.

Jay Dirnberger addresses the Y’s Women.

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May is Mental Health Awareness Month.

In this week’s “Westport … What’s Happening” podcast, 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker and Department of Human Services director Elaine Daignault discuss the extensive programs available to Westporters.

As always, it’s courtesy of the Y’s Men of Westport & Weston. Click below to listen:

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Jazz pianist/composer Ted Rosenthal leads this week’s Jazz at the Post (Thursday, May 16, 7:30 and 8:45 p.m. shows; dinner service at 7 p.m.; VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399; $20 music cover, $15 veterans and students).

Joined by trumpeter Scott Wendholt, bassist Martin Wind, drummer Tim Horner and saxophonist Greg “Jazz Rabbi” Wall, the evening will feature many Gershwin gems — plus Rosenthal’s jazz adaptations of the his symphonic works.

Reservations are highly recommended: JazzatthePost@gmail.com

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“Westport … Naturally”‘s springtime beauty continues.

Today’s featured photo is a Sargent crabapple, in the front yard of Joseph Carpenter’s home in the Hunt Club area.

“It is heaven for bees,” he says.

(Photo/Joseph Carpenter)

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And finally … Happy Stars & Stripes Forever Day!

It’s observed every May 14, to celebrate the first public performance (in 1897) of John Philip Sousa’s stirring tune. In 1987, it became the National March of the United States.

(Be a great American — or at least a good Westporter. Please support “06880,” your hyper-local blog. Just click here. We thank you!)

 

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Roundup: Youth Sports For Parents, Staples Hoops, Power Outages …

Posted on February 29, 2024 | 8 comments

As pressure mounts on young athletes to be more competitive than ever, Sebastian Little says: Enough!

The leadership coach — who works with clients in MLB, the NBA and NHL, and is in his 3rd year as Yale University football’s performance coach — will speak on a Westport Public Schools and Westport Together panel called “For the Love of the Game: How Parents Can Promote Successful Athletes on and Off the Field.”

The session — for parents and coaches — will offer insights and strategies into “balancing competition with compassion and growth with enjoyment.”

The event is on Tuesday, March 5 (7 p.m., Bedford Middle School auditorium). Click here to register.

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Speaking of sports: The Staples boys basketball team is in the FCIAC (league) final for the 2nd time in 2 years tonight.

The #4-seed Wreckers — fresh off Tuesday’s huge upset over #1 Ridgefield — are playing for the championship for the 2nd straight year. Tip-off is 7 p.m. at Wilton High, against Trumbull.

Staples fell to Danbury in last year’s title match (and then went on a great run, to the state Division II final).

But it’s been a while since the Westporters last won the FCIAC crown. 61 years, in fact. Their first — and only — league championship came in 1963.

Charlie Scott — Staples’ talented senior video producer/WWPT-FM announcer — has created another superb pump-up video. Click below to see:

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Last night’s winds knocked out power in a few areas of Westport and Weston.

Trees and wires were down at 15 Partrick Road, 119 Hillandale Road and 30 Prospect Road.

Outages affected the Greens Farms and Wilton Road neighborhoods.

At 8:30 a.m., 78 Westport customers (0.61%) were without power. There were 105 outages (2.66%) in Weston. The total number statewide was 3,399 (0.26%).

Wires down at South Morningside Drive and Hillandale Road. At 8:30 a.m., crews were on the scene. (Photo/Bob Weingarten)

 

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Dara Horn forcefully addressed the recent rise of antisemitism last night, at Chabad of Westport.

Dara Horn — author of “People Love Dead Jews” — headlined the event, part of Chabad’s Critical Conversations series. Nearly 200 people attended.

“People ask: Are Jews a race, a religion, or a nationality? she said.

“Jews existed before these structures existed. What is clear is Jewish civilization is indigenous to the land of Israel. It’s not a political statement. It’s fact.

“People want to erase Jewish culture, but instead that is exactly what needs to be explained and taught to ensure its survival.”

Dara Horn, at Chabad of Westport. (Photo and hat tip/Matthew Mandell)

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Her fans know here as Jean Louisa Kelly. Her Westport neighbors and friends call her Jean Pitaro.

Whatever name she goes by, Jean is featured at the Westport Country Playhouse’s first Mic in Hand of 2024. She takes the stage April 4 (7 p.m.).

Jean’s stage and screen credits include the original Broadway cast of “Into the Woods,: and the movies “Mr. Holland’s Opus,”  “Uncle Buck” and “Top Gun: Maverick.”

Her uplifting show will be a journey through her life in and out of show business, with songs from “Gypsy,” “The Fantasticks,” “Next to Normal” and “Company.”

All tickets are $40. Click here to purchase, and learn more. Proceeds benefit education programming at the Playhouse.

Also new at the Playhouse: the first Barnstormer event.

It’s “Ann Talman: Elizabeth Taylor and the Shadow of Her Smile” (April 21, 7 p.m.).

Broadway veteran Talman portrayed Taylor’s daughter on Broadway in “The Little Foxes,” beginning a lifelong friendship.

This show is an evening of story and song about Ann and Elizabeth’s bond.

All tickets are $20. Click here to purchase, and learn more.

Jean Louisa Kelly Pitaro

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The Y’s Women’s newest group sure gets around.

Called “Jewels of Westport,” they visit the hidden — or at least lesser-known — gems of our town.

On Tuesday they toured Westport Public Art Collections’ Town Hall display.

Overall, WestPAC’s collection includes over 2,000 artistic treasures. Many are in schools, where they are enjoyed by students and staff, yet often unseen by the public.

But how many of us walk by all the art on the Town Hall walls, without giving it a second glance?

The Y’s Women Town Hall tour was led by WestPAC co-president Anne Boberski. It was “eye-opening,” for sure.

Anne Boberski leads the Y’s Women Westport Permanent Art Collections tour in Town Hall.

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Westport Police made 6 custodial arrests between February 21 and 28.

One — reported earlier — was for larceny, in connection with the theft of 5 Israel flag yard signs in December.

One was for larceny, illegal use of a credit card, identity theft, criminal impersonation and forgery, following a February 7 complaint that a mailed check was stolen, altered from $830 to $18,300 and deposited.

A woman was arrested for criminal attempt at larceny, identity theft and forgery, after a complaint in April 2022 that a check had been stolen from a US Postal Service box on Myrtle Avenue, altered from $250 to $4,300, and attempted to be cashed.

Another woman was arrested for criminal attempt at larceny, larceny and identity theft, following a complaint in January that a check had been stolen, altered and cashed.

A man was arrested after he and a juvenile shoplifted $492 worth of groceries from Stop & Shop. They were found with the bags at the HomeGoods bus stop. The man was charged with larceny, criminal impersonation and failure to appear. The juvenile was issued a summons and released.

One woman was arrested for failure to appear.

Police also issued these citations:

  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 5 citations
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 3
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 3
  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 2
  • Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 2
  • Speeding: 1
  • Driving while texting: 1
  • Improper turn: 1
  • Failure to drive in the proper lane: 1
  • Failure to grant right of way: 1
  • Failure to obey stop sign: 1
  • Failure to renew registration: 1
  • Failure to return plates: 1
  • Improper use of markers: 1

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Kicking + Screening is a film festival dedicated solely to soccer. (Now do you get the clever name?)

It returns next month for its 15th year in New York. But it’s very much a Westport production.

Current Westport resident Rachel Markus co-founded Kicking + Screening in 2009, with former professional player Greg Lalas.

Always an avid fan (and a ruthless striker), Rachel studied film at New York University. She has worked in the film industry for over 2 decades.

The other local connection: This year’s festival will be held at Football Cafe, the Lower East Side “soccer cultural center” founded by Kyle Martino.

He’s the 1999 Staples graduate — and former Gatorade National High School Player of the Year, MLS Rookie of the Year, US men’s national team player and NBC Sports Premier League broadcaster. Kyle is now a soccer analyst with Warner Brothers Discovery Sports.

The 2024 festival lineup — 11 features and shorts, plus panels, special guests and more from March 14 to 16 — includes Eric Cantona’s Manchester United biography, “The United Way.” Click here for more information, and tickets.

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Norwalk Hospital — once independent, now part of Nuvance Health — may soon become part of a larger group.

Nuvance — owner of 4 Connecticut hospitals, and 3 in New York — plans to merge with Northwell Health. They are New York State’s largest healthcare provider and private employer, with more than 81,000 employees.

Together, the companies will own 28 hospitals, and more than 1,000 other care sites.

Click here for the full story, from CT Mirror.

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In 2019, Ruth Sherman was an “06880” Unsung Hero of the Week.

At 79 years old, she had just returned from a 100-mile spiritual trek in Spain.

We hailed her for her civic work — teaching exercise and fitness at the Westport Weston Family Y, Senior Center and Arthritis Foundation family aquatics program.

We noted that every day for 50 years — in all kinds of weather — Ruth walked from Hillspoint Road to the top of Compo Hill.

She’s now in her mid-80s. And she’s still walking.

Tammy Barry spotted her yesterday. The weather was meh, but there was Ruth, getting in her (many) steps.

Tammy writes: “Ruth walks in rainy, snowy, and sunny weather. What a beautiful woman, on the inside and out!

“She is an inspiration and role model for us all. She told me she wakes up every day and never has a complaint— it’s not allowed. Keep on moving and grooving. Ruth!”

Tammy sent a great photo too.

So — apropos of nothing, and everything — here’s another “06880” to the indefatigable, wonderful Ruth Sherman!

Ruth Sherman (of course!) (Photo/Tammy Barry)

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo is a rare (for this feature) night image.

On Tuesday, Matt Murray shot the Snow Moon over the Sherwood Mill Pond.

It’s called that because, according to some Native American cultures, the February full moon often coincided with heavy snowfall.

Of course, that was before climate change.

(Photo/Matt Murray)

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And finally … do you know how hard it is to find a leap year song?!

I’ve spent my February 29 searching the internet. This will have to do.

(“06880” is your hyper-local blog. We cover news, events, businesses, restaurants, sports, trends, history and more — and we do it 24/7/365. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

8 Comments

Posted in Arts, religion, Sports, Westport Country Playhouse

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Roundup: Anti-Racism Protest, Joanne Woodward, Linxweiler House …

Posted on February 27, 2024 | 7 comments

A few dozen protesters stood quietly on North Avenue this morning, protesting reports of racial incidents at Staples High School across the street.

The crowd included students and adults. Some parents joined the crowd after dropping their youngsters off at school.

Many held signs. One summed up the feeling of the protesters: “Racism is unacceptable.”

(Photo/Ruby Kantor for Inklings)

(Photo/Ruby Kantor for Inklings)

(Photo/Kevin McLaughlin)

(Photo/Kevin McLaughlin)

(Photo/Kevin McLaughlin)

(Photo/Lily Rimm)

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Happy 94th birthday to a Westport icon: Joanne Woodward.

Over 60 years on stage and television she won an Academy Award, 3 Primetime Emmys, and 3 Golden Globes, and a Screen Actors Guild Award. She is one of the last surviving stars from the Golden Age of Hollywood, and the oldest living Best Actress Oscar-winner.

Just as importantly, she — and her husband, Paul Newman — contributed mightily to the civic life of Westport.

Whether helping save the Westport Country Playhouse or dishing up popcorn at the Westport Historical Society, Joanne Woodward made our town a better place.

Thank you, Joanne. Have a great day!

The happy couple, near their home.

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Among the items at the next Planning & Zoning Commission meeting (Monday, March 4, 7 p.m.; Zoom, and Optimum channel 79 and Frontier channel 6020): a request from First Selectwoman Jen Tooker to temporarily amend the lease at 655 Post Road East (the Linxweiler house, between McDonald’s and Fresh Market) to allow Gillespie Center clients to be housed and supported there temporarily, during renovation of the downtown homeless shelter.

Click here for the full agenda, and additional materials.

Linxweiler House, on Post Road East.

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Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Service president Mike Burns gave an in-depth, eye-opening look at the most recent Y’s Women meeting.

Many members were surprised to learn that the 45-year-old non-profit relies entirely on donations. The 75 EMS volunteers — who respond in 7 minutes or less to everything from strokes, seizures and births to accidents on I-95 and the Merritt Parkway (and even incidents on Metro-North) pay for all their own supplies: heart monitors, gurneys ($70,000 each), and ambulances.

WVEMS’ 3 ambulances are 10 years old. The first of 2 new ones will arrive next year — at a cost of $450,000.

All donations are welcome (83% are less than $100); click here.

WVEMS president Mike Burns, at the Y’s Women meeting. (Photo/Jilda Manikas)

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Westport resident Tom Kretsch spent his career as a teacher in the Norwalk schools.

And for almost 40 years he’s been involved with that city’s partnership with Nagarote, Nicaragua. They’ve created and run a community development project that provides opportunities for young people and families to improve their economic and educational lives.

A benefit cabaret — “Spring Into Song” — is set for Sunday, March 24 (5:30 p.m., Westport Woman’s Club).

Attendees can bring food and drink to share at small tables before the music begins. Nine great vocalists — including Westporters Michelle Pauker, Bill Hall and Emily Hall Stevens, and Charlotte Roth of Weston — are donating their talents. They’ll sing tunes from Broadway shows, original music and other covers.

For more information and tickets ($50), email kretscht@yahoo.com.

Michelle Pauker (Photo/Brynn Owen)

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Trumpeter Andy Gravish plays the music of Hank Mobley and Lee Morgan — 2 iconic musicians of the “hard bop school” — at this Thursday’s Jazz at the Post (February 29; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner at 7 p.m.; $20 music cover charge, $15 for veterans and students).

Gravish performs at top international jazz festival, and has been the featured soloist with the Village Vanguard Orchestra, Toshiko Akiyoshi/Lew Tabackin Big Band, Paquito D’Rivera and many others.

Joining Gravish are pianist Michael Cochrane, bassist Essiet Essiet, drummer Steve Johns, and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall.

Reservations are highly recommended: JazzatthePost@gmail.com.

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It’s been 15 years since the Staples High School Class of 1974 had a reunion.

Now they’re ready for their 50th. And members of adjacent classes — with friends among the ’74 graduates — are invited too.

It’s the weekend of October 18-20. There’s a Friday night social at the VFW, a Saturday night main event with dinner and dancing (and the class’ Mark Santella as DJ) at the Westport Woman’s Club, then Sunday at the Compo Beach Ned Dimes Marina.

Click here for details, and tickets.

Class of 1974 member Alix Land in Long Beach Peninsula, Washington. She lives in Portland, Oregon.

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Lost your license plate?

Someone found it, and propped it up against the post office flagpole:

(Photo/Dan Woog)

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo comes from Kevin LaForce.

He writes: “I saw this beauty trot across the top of Hillspoint Road on Sunday. I tracked him/her to the back of Loretta Court. Pretty cool.”

(Photo/Kevin LaForce)

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And finally … sharing a birthday with Joanne Woodward (story above) is Josh Groban. Happy 43rd birthday, to the platinum-selling singer.

(“06880” is your hyper-local blog. We rely on reader support for all that we do. Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

7 Comments

Posted in Entertainment, Local politics, Staples HS

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Roundup: Santa Run, Downtown Trees, Staples Football …

Posted on November 29, 2023 | 2 comments

It’s a Christmas miracle!

Lucia Palmieri — who every year cooks, then gives away, a whole bunch of Thanksgiving dinners — is also bringing Santa Claus to her home.

And she’s inviting Westport kids and parents, too.

The Westport Uniformed Firefighters Charitable Foundation already sponsors “Santa” runs, complete with a fire truck. But spots are limited, and not every parent who wanted to could sign up.

So on Friday, December 8, Santa (and the fire truck) will come to Lucia’s house, at 4 Narrow Rocks Road.

The Big Guy will hand presents to children. But first (kids — stop reading here!) — their parents need to make a minimum $35 donation to the Firefighters Foundation. Click here to do that.

Parents also must drop off a wrapped gift for their child (kids — you should not be reading this!) at Lucia’s house before the event.

Lucia will also provide a fire and hot chocolate. She may even lead a few carols.

And — spoiler alert — she is not just a very generous woman. Lucia is also a professional opera singer, with gigs at Carnegie Hall and the US Open, and on ESPN, Bravo, ABC and NBC.

To RSVP, and for questions, email luciapalmieri@yahoo.com or call 917-578-8443. (Hat tip: Katherine Calise)

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Westport Downtown Association president Maxx Crowley and his SCA team picked up 3 Christmas trees this week, from Izz0 & Son Country Gardens.

Each is 12 feet tall.

They’ll go up around downtown tomorrow — just in time for Saturday’s Holiday Stoll (5 to 7 p.m.; co-sponsored by the WDA and “06880”).

Click here for Stroll details. Meanwhile, check out these beauties:

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Also, just in time for the holidays, a shop has popped up in Westport.

West | Out East — with locations in New York City, East Hampton and Miami — is now open at 1 Main Street. That’s near the intersection of Post Road East — the previous site of POP’Tart  gallery.

This is a bigger space than their previous location, 9 Riverside Avenue.

Modular products are “versatile in style and function, accentuated by customizable millwork.” The collection includes indoor and outdoor furniture, decorative and architectural lighting, closets, storage systems, kitchens, bath fixtures, rugs and accessories.

PS: West | Out East is part of the “06880”/Westport Downtown Association Holiday Stroll. They offer prosecco, presents and a raffle to win home décor accessories.

West | Out East pop-up, at 1 Main Street.

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Congratulations to the Staples football team!

Led by quarterback Caleb Smith and the offensive line, they rallied from a 9-6 halftime deficit to nip Fairfield Prep 13-12, in last night’s state “LL” (extra large schools) quarterfinal game.

The Wreckers are seeded first; the Jesuits were 8th. Prep ended the Westporters’ season last year, with a 23-22 state playoff win.

The victory earns Staples a home semifinal contest against #5 Southington, at 12:30 p.m. this Sunday. Staples beat the upstaters 34-27 earlier this year.

Quarterback Caleb Smith. (Photo/John Nash for The Ruden Report)

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Neighborhood Studios — the multi-discipline, multi-dimensional Bridgeport arts program supported by many Westporters —  and the Curtis Summer Camp Fund have partnered on a very cool benefit concert.

With very cool local musicians.

“Give Kids a Chance!” (December 5, Fairfield Theatre Company; reception at 6 p.m, concert at 7 p.m.) features great local talent. They’re backed by the Zambonis: the greatest (and only) hockey rock band on the planet.

Many musicians’ names are familiar to Westporters: Jim Francis, Jeffrey and Laurie Gross, Dave Hart, Stanton Lesser, Rob Morton, Leila Shields, Rick Smilow and 5th State Band. They’re joined by students and alumni of the Neighborhood Studios Contemporary & Jazz Ensemble.

Neighborhood Studios serves more than 1,000 Bridgeport youth, ages 3 to 19, with after-school programs and summer camps. It transforms lives through arts education, and empowers youngsters to make differences in their community.

The Curtis Summer Camp Fund changes lives by sending Bridgeport youths to sleepaway camp.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Dr. Robert Altbaum is now retired. But he’s still helping Westporters live healthy lives.

On Tuesday, he brought 40 years of experience to the Y’s Women meeting. Altbaum discussed osteoporosis — its causes, dangers, and how to live with it.

It was an important topic. Osteoporosis predominantly affects women over 50.  30% of women over 65 have the disease; only 4% of men do.

Altbaum said that strong bones are the key to osteoporosis prevention. He recommends weight-bearing exercises like walking, running or the elliptical; vitamin D; reduced alcohol consumption, and no smoking.

He also discussed ways to reduce falls, including night lights, getting rid of throw rugs, clearing clutter, a chair or grab bars in the shower, and always using stair rails.

Dr. Robert Altbaum, at yesterday’s Y’s Women meeting.

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Tomorrow’s Jazz at the Post features The Caribbean Jazz Connection (Thursday, November 30, 7:30 and 8:45 p.m., VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399; dinner at 7 p.m.; $15 music charge).

Led by drummer Jim Royle, who crosses jazz and Caribbean Latin styles, it features steel pan player Bryan Garbe, an internationally acclaimed percussionist who grew up in Fairfield.

The band also includes bassist John Mobilio and pianist David Childs.

Reservations are highly recommended: JazzatthePost@gmail.com.

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“Lux Freer” — the award-winning short film shot and produced in Westport last year — screens this Sunday at the Dances With Films festival in New York.

Show time is 2 p.m., at Regal Union Square.

It was the first film directed by actress (and Staples High School graduate) Cynthia Gibb, known for her on-screen work in “Gypsy,” “Fame” and “Youngblood.”

“Lux Freer” won Best USA Film, and Gibb was named Best First-Time Director, at the New York  Cinematography Awards. It was also honored as Outstanding Narrative Short at the Ridgefield Independent Film Festival). Gibb’s film also earned Honorable Mention in the Best LGBTQ Short Film category at Los Angeles’ Indie Short Fest.

The lead, Echo Bodell, will attend the New York showing, along with Gibb, writer Jill Johnson Mann and other cast members, including Staples senior Cameron Mann (who played the killer in HBO’s “Mare of Easttown.”

Click here for tickets.

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Thanksgiving is nearly a week in the rear view mirror. Most turkeys are gone — eaten (including leftovers), the carcasses disposed of.

Except for this one.

Judy Auber Jahnel spotted it in an usual spot: the Riverwalk, outside the Westport Library and smack in the middle of downtown.

There must be a back story.

If you know what it is, click “Comments” below.

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In all his decades in Westport, John Kantor says, he never saw a bobcat around Grove Point.

Until this one visited his garden yesterday afternoon.

It doesn’t get more “Westport … Naturally” than this.

(Photo/John Kantor)

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And finally … Jean Knight — whose only hit (“Mr. Big Stuff”) lives on more than 50 years after its release — died last week in Florida. She was 80.

It was nominated for a 1971 Grammy Award nomination for best female R&B vocal performance (Aretha Franklin won for “Bridge Over Troubled Water”), and best R&B song (Bill Withers won for “Ain’t No Sunshine”).

Click here for a full obituary.

(Hey, Mr. Big Stuff! Please consider a donation to “06880.” It’s tax-deductible, too. Just click here. Thank you, sir!)

2 Comments

Posted in Arts, Children, Sports

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Roundup: Parks & Rec’s Gardens & Field; Hunt Club & Pickleball; I-95 & Traffic

Posted on October 31, 2023 | 36 comments

The Westport Community Gardens/Babe Ruth baseball field saga continues.

A week after the Long Lots School Building Committee recommended relocating the gardens to Baron’s South, the Parks & Recreation Commission voted to place the diamond where the garden is now, just south of the elementary school.

Meeting last night at Town Hall, commissioners spoke about field use and scheduling, including possibilities for new fields to allow the gardens to remain.

Community members spoke. Issues raised included possible toxic chemicals at Baron’s South; the importance of fields for youngsters; the importance of the gardens for mental health and the environment, and contrasts between how often the gardens and Long Lots baseball field are used.

Commissioners then read prepared statements, favoring the baseball field over the gardens. They hope to keep as much of the Long Lots Preserve as possible, as a buffer for neighbors.

Other town bodies will now continue to discuss the entire Long Lots project, including the Board of Finance, Board of Education, Conservation Commission and Representative Town Meeting.

The Parks & Recreation Commission voted that a new Babe Ruth baseball field should replace the Westport Community Gardens.

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Yesterday, 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker acknowledged recent antisemitic incidents in Westport, like the vandalism of an Israeli flag. She said:

“Hate incidents are on the rise in the US following the deadly terrorist attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. Specifically, antisemitic incidents have increased by 388% according to a report released by the ADL last week.

“This data is shocking and horrifying. Leaders like me all around the country, in large cities and in small towns, are monitoring these trends and communicating with organizations like the ADL and our local clergy to publicly stand against these incidents in our communities.

“I want the residents and business owners of Westport to know that there is no place for hate — no place for antisemitic behavior — in Westport. Our community strongly rejects hate in all forms. The safety and well-being of each member of our community are my top priority and that of Police Chief Foti Koskinas. If you hear something or see something, please report it.

“We are here for you. We want you to feel safe, and heard. We want you to know that you are a valued member of our community, that you belong here. It is up to all of us to stand together and speak up – clearly and unequivocally – against hate, and specifically antisemitism, and any language or actions that feed or normalize it. Again, when one of us is harmed, we are all harmed.”

A defaced Israeli flag was found near Temple Israel last weekend.

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Fairfield County Hunt Club has withdrawn its Planning & Zoning Commission application to construct to construct 2 pickleball courts, along with a proposed tennis court expansion and parking lot modification.

At a recent meeting, commission members and neighbors questioned the plan, focusing on noise and related issues.

A revised plan may be resubmitted in the future, the Hunt Club says.

This is the second application to be taken off of next Monday’s meeting agenda. Yesterday, the town withdrew its application for a redesign of Parker Harding Plaza.

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It bears repeating: The second “bridge slide” is set for this weekend (Friday, November 3, 8 p.m. to Monday, November 6, 6 a.m.). Traffic throughout town will be heavier than usual.

Then again, it always is.

To keep up to date, bookmark this website.

And check it often.

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Westport Country Playhouse archivist Bruce Miller led the Y’s Women through 93 years of history yesterday.

He described the 1930 beginning, when Broadway producer Lawrence Langner bought a barn and hired a set designer, through Stephen Sondheim’s apprenticeship, and the Joanne Woodward-led renovation 2 decades ago.

Miller took his guests backstage, showing the lighting and sound board; onto the storied stage, then downstairs to see the dressing rooms, green room, and “wall of honor” with head shots of actors who have performed there, including Tyrone Power, Henry Fonda, Ethel Barrymore, Gene Kelly, Olivia de Havilland, and of course Paul Newman.

Y’s Women begin their tour in the Westport Country Playhouse lobby.

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Trombonist Steve Davis and musical partner/pianist David Hazeltine headline this week’s Jazz at the Post.

Davis has appeared on over 100 recordings, while Hazeltine has been on hundreds more.

Also on the bill: Jason Tiemann (drums), Rich Zurkowski (bass) and Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall (saxophone).

The 2 shows are this Thursday (November 2, 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner at 7; VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399; $15 cover charge). Reservations are strongly recommended: JazzatthePost@gmail.com

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A new panelist has been added to Sunday’s TEA (Thinkers, Educators, Artists) talk at the Westport Library (2 p.m.).

The event — which explores the impact of artificial intelligence on the arts — will now include Luciano Floridi. A professor of philosophy at Yale University, he’s also founding director of the Digital Ethics Center. He writes extensively about the philosophy of information and technology, digital ethics and the ethics of AI.

He joins Brian Keane, the Grammy Award-winning composer/producer (and a 1971 Staples graduate), Westport Public Schools K-12 arts coordinator Steve Zimmerman, and arts consultant Liz Liggett. Click here for more information.

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In case you don’t have kids, and (somehow) forgot: Today is Halloween.

Stock up on candy.

And enjoy this sign, on Terhune Drive:

(Photo/Ed Simek)

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Sure, it’s Halloween (see above).

But flowers still bloom. Lauri Weiser sent this photo of the scene at Lansdowne condos, for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature:

(Photo/Lauri Weiser)

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And finally … everyone plays “Monster Mash” today.

But this if my favorite Halloween song:

(No candy for “06880,” thanks. But if you really want to give us something, a tax-deductible contribution would be sweet. Please click here. Thanks. Now we won’t toilet paper your house.)

36 Comments

Posted in Entertainment, Library, Local politics, Politics, Transportation, Westport Country Playhouse

Tagged , , , , , , , ,

Roundup: Yard Signs, Emmy Squared, Adult Halloween …

Posted on September 12, 2023 | 13 comments

As Election Day looms, lawns and traffic islands will be filled with political signs. And the Westport Police Department will field complaints about the removal of them.

The WPD says: “Residents and visitors are advised against taking it upon themselves to remove signs that do not belong to them, from either public or private property.

“The enforcement of the town’s rules is the responsibility of the town of Westport, not that of private citizens. The removal of signs from public or private property by someone not authorized to do so by the town, or by the owner of the sign, may constitute theft.  Entering onto private property to remove signs may also constitute trespassing. Both of these acts can ultimately result in an arrest.

“Town property includes traffic islands and road rights of way. It is not advisable to place signs on State of Connecticut property (including rights of way and islands along Routes 1, 136, 57, 33, and the Sherwood Island Connector, or on the exit or entrance ramps of I-95 or the Merritt Parkway) as the state may remove them.

“In addition, signs may not be placed on school property without permission of the superintendent’s office, nor may they be put inside Compo Beach or Longshore, Town Hall, or on trees or utility poles. Signs my not interfere with traffic visibility.

“Signs on private property cannot extend beyond the property line or into the town right-of-way. They should be removed within 2 days after the election.”

Political signs, 2012.

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Emmy Squared’s arrival was eagerly anticipated by Westporters who know — and love — its New York locations.

The new restaurant in the old Bedford Square Amis space has not disappointed.

Its square Detroit-style pizza, mammoth burgers and decadent brownie dessert draw big crowds and great raves.

Emmy Squared prides itself on friendliness and customer service. Here’s how they walk the talk: I was there last night. When it came time to bring out the meal, there were apologies instead.

My friend’s pizza had not come out right. The server did not want us to have a less-than-perfect experience. They were making a new one.

The attention to quality — and honesty — was refreshing.

And the wait was worth it. Emmy Squared is a winner.

Pizzas from Emmy Squared.

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Halloween: It’s not just for kids anymore.

The Westport Weston Chamber of Horrors –er. Commerce — has conjured up a new event to die for. A Halloween Concert and Costume Ball, featuring Bella’s Bartok, is set for Saturday, October 28 (8 p.m., Westport Library).

The event is an adult alternative to the Children’s Halloween Window Painting Contest, held earlier the same day (also run by the Chamber).

Costumes are encouraged. Prizes will awarded for best outfits, in several categories.

Specialty cocktails, beer and wine will allow patrons to pick their own poison.

Bella’s Bartok is an inspired choice for entertainment. Their raucous theatrical performances edge toward the macabre. Their high energy mix of funk, pop and folk will have even the deadest attendees dancing.

Tickets are $35. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

Bella’s Bartok.

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Taking a reflective walk yesterday at Compo Beach, recalling the September 11 of 22 years ago, Andrea Metchick saw this sight:

(Photo/Andrea Metchick)

It was a team-building activity, for Coleytown Middle School 7th graders. Their mission: build a raft that floats.

“It was so cool, on this somber day,” Andrea says.

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Many towns have “new neighbors” groups.

In Westport, it’s “Neighbors & Newcomers.” All are welcome. It’s a way for recent arrivals to meet folks who have been here a while — and vice versa.

It must work. Neighbors & Newcomers has been around for 60 years.

They celebrate that anniversary this Friday (September 15, 6:30 p.m., Compo Beach).

Food and water will be available. RSVP: presidentnnwestport@gmail.com.

Ignore the tagline — it’s now over 60 years.

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Declining audiences is not just a Westport Country Playhouse woe.

It’s a national issue.

Several days ago, the New York Times examined the trend. Yesterday, they published letters in response.

Among them: Carole Schweid’s.

The organizer of the “Play With Your Food” series — which never went out of style — wrote:

As I like to say: “If Joe Papp can do ‘Shakespeare in the Park,’ we can do Chekhov in the parking lot.” Performances like these are one of the ways my nonprofit arts organization brought our audiences back at the end of the pandemic.

As producers of Connecticut’s popular lunchtime play-reading series, “Play With Your Food,” we’ve learned a lot about survival from our five-star Westport Library, which has evolved from an excellent library into a vibrant center for the community. Like it or not, books are not enough, and I fear that it is much the same for theater.

We have been developing programs: talkbacks, theater lovers’ book groups, reading lists, a book group where we read plays out loud together, and, my current stock in trade, staged readings, to name a few low-cost, engaging, community-building activities.

We try to remind our audiences of the joy and the unique fun that can be had being part of our community. I think of it as an investment in our future.

Carole Schweid/Westport, Conn.
The writer was in the original Broadway cast of “A Chorus Line” and is the author of “Staged Reading Magic.”

Carole Schweid

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Speaking of the Playhouse: If you missed “Justin Paul & Friends” Saturday night there, what a shame.

The evening was both joyful (high energy, huge talent, memorable music) and important (it was a fundraiser).

Justin — the 2002 Staples High School graduate/Grammy-, Emmy- and Tony-winning songwriter (“Dear Evan Hansen,” “La La Land,” “The Greatest Showman) — brought his “A” game. He not only rocked the piano and vocals, and not only enlisted a ton of great friends (Kelli O’Hara, James and Greg Naughton, Jacob Heimer, Staples Players …), but he described — again and again — the lasting influence that both Westport and Staples had on his development as a musician and a person.

If you were not there, this photo will have to suffice. If you were, you’ll appreciate once again Justin’s connection with the sold-out audience

Justin Paul (Photo/Jerri Graham)

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Speaking of pianists: Ragtime rang out yesterday, at Green’s Farms Congregational Church.

The Y’s Women hosted Orin Grossman, professor emeritus of visual and performing arts at Fairfield University. His “From Ragtime to Stride: American Music Comes of Age” spanned many ages, from Scott Joplin to novelty piano and George Gershwin.

Grossman noted that when jazz was first introduced in the 1920s, it was looked upon as disparagingly as when Elvis burst on the scene 3 decades later.

Dr. Orin Grossman, at Green’s Farms Church. (Photo/Molly Alger)

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Speaking still of pianists: Ethan Iverson makes his first-ever Jazz at the Post appearance Thursday (Sept. 14, 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399; cover charge $15).

Iverson — also a composer and writer — was a founding member of The Bad Plus.

Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall met Iverson in 1998 at a Brooklyn recording session. They recorded together … and the rest is jazz history.

Iverson and saxophonist Wall will be joined by bassist Yuriy Galkin and drummer Vinnie Sperrazza.

Dinner service begins at 7 p.m. Reservations are highly recommended: JazzatthePost@gmail.com

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Westport plastic surgeon Flora Levin and her daughter Miri — a 10th grader at Hopkins School — recently returned from Guatemala. For the second year in a row, they volunteered with the International Esperanza Project to provide medical and surgical services, as well as building stoves and installing water filters 2 hours outside of Guatemala City.

Supplies are limited, in the poverty-stricken area. Levin brought sutures, lighting and anesthetic from her Connecticut office.

On the last day she did 8 lachrymal surgeries, but had only enough post-operative medication for 5. She went to a pharmacy and bought eye drops for $7 — an unaffordable cost for her patients.

Though Miri missed the first week of school, her mother says, “it was definitely worth the experience, and I am glad Hopkins appreciates that. The kids are amazing, always willing to help, first ones to get there, last ones to leave with the group. This is no summer camp, but there is an amazing sense of purpose and teamwork for a common cause.”

Click here for more information on the International Esperanza Project, including ways to help.

Dr. Flora Levin (left) and a Mexican colleague operate, in Guatemala. Miri Levin (rear) assists.

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Jerry Kuyper’s orchids got a bit of fresh air the other day.

He captured the shot, for a colorful “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Jerry Kuyper)

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And finally … in honor of “ragtime professor” Dr. Orin Grossman, and his Y’s Women appearance (story above):

(If you enjoy our daily Roundup, please round up some loose cash, and toss it our way. “06880” relies on support from readers like you. Please click here — and thank you)

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