Roundup: Mobile ID, Veterans Day, Lachat Holidays …

Posted on November 8, 2026 | 1 comment

mobile id: put driver’s license on your phone

Starting November 18, Connecticut Mobile ID will allow residents to carry a digital version of their driver’s license or state ID on their phones.

Mobile ID complements — but does not replace — physical cards.

It will be accepted by TSA at a number of security checkpoints while flying, for instance, but will not be accepted during interactions with law enforcement or voting as examples.

Businesses will also have the option to accept or not accept Mobile ID. Those that do must adopt verification apps. Click here for more information.

celebrating veterans day at town hall & vfw

A color guard, speakers — including an always-impressive Staples High School senior — and recognition of veterans highlight Westport’s Veterans Day ceremony.

The event is in the Town Hall auditorium on November 11, at — appropriately — 11 a.m.

The public is invited afterward to a free Veterans Day luncheon and open bar at VFW Post 399 (465 Riverside Avenue). There too, our servicemembers will be honored for their service, thanks to Post members and the Women’s Auxiliary.

Donations are sought to defray the cost. PayPal to VFWPost399CT, or send a check to VFW Post 399, 465 Riverside Avenue, Westport, CT 06880.

Honoring our veterans, 2024 (Photo copyright Ted Horowitz)

HOLIDAY FUN AT LACHAT TOWN FARM

Lachat Town Farm hosts a host of holiday activities, now through December. They include:

  • Children’s winter program registration (art, cooking, STEM) begins November 10.
  • Kneads Bakery offers pies, cakes, breads, pastries and side dishes for Thanksgiving; a portion of sales benefits Lachat. Ordering deadline: November 21.
  • Thanksgiving Community Feast (November 26, 12 noon)
  • Wreath decorating (December 4, 6:30 p.m.)
  • Block print gift wrap workshop (December 8, 7 p.m.)
  • Winter market (December 13, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.)

Click here for details, and registration.

MOCA, CORA FOUNDATION EXPLORE CONNECTICUT MANUFACTURING

The final community conversation for MoCA\CT’s “Looking for History” explored the past, present and future of Connecticut manufacturing.

From river valley mills to aircraft engines and nuclear submarines, panelists traced the ways manufacturing has shaped — and continues to shape — our state, in ways we often overlook. They also shared their admiration for Borders’s work and its ability to bring this rich but little-known history to light.

Paul SLavoie, Connecticut’s former chief manufacturing officer, said, “Connecticut is the 48th largest state in America, and we have 4,800 manufacturers. Swing a Wiffle ball bat and you’ll hit a manufacturing company. You drive by them every single day and don’t even know it.”

The CORA Foundation sponsored the event. The exhibit closes November 15.

CORA Foundation president Robin Tauck, at the MoCA\CT exhibit.

SIGN OF THE TIMES AT SAUGATUCK CHURCH

Since 1832, Saugatuck Congregational Church has kept track of its pastors on a large sign in the narthex.

Rev. Dr. Steven Savides is the 23rd person to fill that role.

He’ll be the first on a new sign. The original one has no more room.

Saugatuck Church has a long and storied history. In 1835, it’s where the founding fathers of Westport — yes, they were all men — met to form a new town, breaking away from Norwalk, Weston and Fairfield.

They met in the church’s original location, diagonally across the street (where the gas stations are now).

Rev. Savides’ predecessor, Rev. Alison Patton, was the second woman to serve Saugatuck Church. He is the first pastor there to be born in South Africa.

Rev. Steve Savides, with the Saugatuck Church sign. (Hat tip and photo/Mark Mathias)

AARTI, TIFFANY & DIWALI

For 14 years, Aarti Khosla poured her heart into Le Rouge Chocolates.

She’s moved away. But she continues to give back to the world.

The other day, she created chocolates for Tiffany’s Diwali celebration, at New York’s LVMH Tower.

Aarti tells “06880,” “It was one of those moments when you look back at the journey, and realize just how many people helped you get there.

“Westport was such an important part of that journey. The community embraced my creations, trusted me with its celebrations, encouraged my experiments, and gave me the confidence to keep dreaming a little bigger.

“Westport will always feel like home, and I wanted to share this moment with the people who helped make it possible.”

Aarti Khosla, at Tiffany’s Diwali celebration.

OLIVIA JACKSON IS AN ORPHAN

A (new) star is born.

Coleytown Middle School student Olivia Jackson takes the Yorktown Stage stage next Saturday, in “Annie.”

She plays an orphan in the popular musical, alongside a talented cast of professional and local performers. The show runs through November 29.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

“Hometown trivia”: How well do you know westport?

A West Haven company has released free “Hometown Trivia” kits for 131 Connecticut towns. Westport is included.

Each kit contains a few printable large-print pages: multiple-choice questions about the town’s history and famous residents, a “Remember When” page of conversation starters, a word search, and an answer page for the activity leader.

They’re aimed at senior center and assisted living activity directors, public libraries, and families visiting older relatives, but anyone can use them. They are free to download, with no sign-up; click here.

The first trivia question.

“WESTPORT … NATURALLY,” & SONG OF THE DAY

Fall foliage continues to delight us.

But it won’t be around too much longer. That’s why we’re grateful to Claudia Sherwood Servidio, for today’s “Westport … Naturally” image.

A couple of weeks from now, it will remind us of this very special time of year.

Not far from downtown. (Photo/Claudia Sherwood Servidio)

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And finally … although Olivia Jackson doesn’t go on stage until next week (story above), we’re thinking about:

(Don’t wait until tomorrow! Before you leave, please click here to support this hyper-local blog, with a tax-deductible contribution. We thank you today, tomorrow, and forever.)

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Posted in Arts, Entertainment, Environment, religion, Weston

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Bridge Street Historic District: Homes, School, Span Connected A Community

Posted on November 8, 2026 | 4 comments

Werner Liepolt is a longtime resident of Bridge Street, and a former Westport teacher. He writes:

As Westporters prepare for Thursday’s state Department of Transportation meeting about the Cribari Bridge (November 12, 7 p.m., Town Hall auditorium),
a look at the Bridge Street National Register Historic District can help clarify what’s at stake.

The National Register nomination shows how the bridge, houses, stone walls and a former school tell the story of a neighborhood that grew around the river
crossing.

That history can help residents assess CTDOT’s presentation, ask specific questions, and submit informed comments by November 27.

The original Bridge Street School. It later became Saugatuck Elementary; it is now The Saugatuck co-op housing.

Westport residents and the Representative Town Meetings’s Cribari Bridge Subcommittee still need clear information from CTDOT and the Federal Highway Administration about how the preferred alternative and other
feasible options could adversely affect the historic district.

The agencies should:

  • Identify the 10 properties and 1 dock that CTDOT indicated last April could be affected by right-of-way acquisition, including possible use of eminent domain.
  • Provide studies assessing potential changes in truck traffic, noise, vibration and diesel pollution.
  • Clarify whether the Area of Potential Effects has been revised to include the entire Bridge Street National Register Historic District.
  • Provide updated visual assessments that show views when trees are bare, and from higher ground.

With this information, residents and consulting parties could propose specific measures to avoid, minimize or mitigate adverse effects.

The Frederick Hotchkiss House dates to 1876.

Bridge Street tells a story larger than the history of its houses. Its winding roadway, low stone walls, former school and iron swing bridge record how Westport grew from separate settlements into a connected community.

Together, these features form a historic landscape whose significance rests on the relationships among its parts.

The Bridge Street Historic District nomination, prepared by architectural historians at the Public Archaeology Laboratory, describes approximately 22.46 acres extending from the western bank of the Saugatuck River east to Compo Road South, with a branch along southern Imperial Avenue.

It identifies 28 contributing buildings and 3 contributing structures, including the bridge. Its period of significance stretches from 1809 through 1945.

The district’s oldest building, the Delancy Allen House at 192 Compo Road South, predates Bridge Street itself. Built in 1809, it recalls a time when much of the land between Compo Road and the river belonged to the Allen family.

Delancy Allen House, Bridge Street

Before a local crossing existed, residents on the east side faced an inconvenient journey to reach Saugatuck’s businesses and railroad station. The
river connected Westport to maritime commerce, while also dividing its neighborhoods.

The nomination traces the neighborhood’s development to the Allen family’s donation of land for Bridge Street in 1869, and the establishment of a river crossing.

Those changes opened land for subdivision and residential construction. The present swing bridge followed in 1884, replacing the earlier crossing.

Bridge and neighborhood consequently developed as parts of the same story: the crossing made the residential district possible, and the district preserves evidence of the community that grew around it.

The Bridge Street Bridge once carried trolleys.

Today’s William F. Cribari Memorial Bridge remains the district’s most recognizable structure.

Its iron trusses frame the river crossing. and mark the transition between Saugatuck and Bridge Street. The nomination explains that substantial rehabilitation in the early 1990s changed the bridge’s structural system, leaving the historic trusses supporting their own weight above a newer platform.

Nevertheless, it identifies the bridge as a contributing resource and an integral
part of the neighborhood’s development. The bridge had already been individually listed in the National Register in 1987.

East of the crossing, the houses reveal successive generations of residential architecture.

The 1884 Rufus Wakeman House. 

Italianate, Queen Anne, Colonial Revival, Craftsman, and other styles give the district variety within a generally consistent domestic scale. Porches, projecting bays, decorative shingles, wood clapboards and traditional windows distinguish individual buildings.

Setbacks, vegetation, fences and retaining walls connect them into a recognizable streetscape.

The inventory also includes more modest 20th century residences.

The Anna E. Dolan House at 12 Bridge Street, built in 1932, contributes to the district alongside its 19-century neighbors. This range matters: the neighborhood records and preserves continuing development across generations.

The Anna Dolan House was built in 1932.

Some of its most significant features stand close to the ground. The nomination identifies the Bridge Street System of Stone Walls as a contributing structure in its own right.

Portions may date to the roadway’s layout around 1869; others reflect later replacement and repair.

Sections appearing original are identified in front of 12 and 20–24 Bridge Street, and along the south side of 192 Compo Road South. These walls help define the roadway’s historic edges. and the relationship between public passage and private property.

The former Saugatuck Elementary School at 35 Bridge Street adds another dimension. Its 1931 building represents the neighborhood’s educational and civic life, while its later conversion to Westport’s affordable housing illustrates continued use of a substantial community landmark.

Former Saugatuck Elementary School, now co-op housing. 

The nomination’s photographs also document the adjoining athletic fields open to the public, placing the school within its broader setting.

The historians found that the district retained integrity of location, design, setting, workmanship, materials, feeling and association.

Their assessment recognizes a coherent neighborhood whose historic character survives through both buildings and surroundings.

For Westport residents, that provides a practical way to understand what deserves attention when major infrastructure changes are proposed: the bridge, homes, walls, roadway, and setting belong to an interconnected place.

1886 Orlando Allen House.

Residents can use this nomination and its property inventory to support specific Section 106 comments by November 27, the extended deadline communicated by RTM subcommittee chair Melissa Levy.

In your comment, identify the historic feature, explain how the project could affect it, and request a specific measure to avoid, minimize or mitigate that effect — for example, protecting stone walls, monitoring construction vibration, or evaluating traffic-related changes to the district’s setting.

Ask that agreed protections be incorporated into the project’s Memorandum
of Agreement, with responsibility, timing, and follow-through clearly stated.

Email: James.Barrows@ct.gov; Copy: Mandy.Ranslow@ct.gov
Subject: Project 0158-0214 – Section 106 Mitigation Request – [your address]
Mail: ATTN: James Barrows, Connecticut Department of Transportation
2800 Berlin Turnpike, P.O. Box 317546, Newington, CT 06131-7546

Project documents and updates: https://portal.ct.gov/Cribari-Bridge

(“06880” has covered the Cribari Bridge controversy since we began in 2009. We’ll continue to do so — with reader support. Please click here to donate to your hyper-local blog. Thank you!)

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Posted in History, Local business, Real estate, Transportation

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Pics Of The Day #3489

Posted on November 7, 2026 | 1 comment

Old Mill, near Compo Cove … 

… and not far away …  (Photos/John Maloney)

… and around the corner (Photo/Matt Murray)

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Remembering Tommy Nistico

Posted on November 7, 2026 | 9 comments

Thomas Nistico, Sr. — known universally as “Tommy,” and a member of the beloved Nistico family who epitomized old Saugatuck as owners of the Arrow restaurant, then served new generations when they revived the famed Red Barn — died yesterday. He was 76

The son of Virginia and Frank Nistico Jr., he grew up in Westport and graduated from Staples High School. He furthered his education at  Staunton Military Academy and Memphis State University, before dedicating the rest of his life to his family’s restaurant businesses.

Tommy was an avid sports fan, from football and golf to boxing and fishing. Especially important to him was his involvement in youth sports, and mentoring young children.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years Joan Domalewski Nistico; sons Thomas Jr. & his fiancée Charissa, and Daryl (Lisa); siblings Frank III, Lou, Pam, Richard, and brother-in-law Ron Domalewski, plus many nieces, nephews and godchildren.

He was predeceased by his younger brother John.

Visitation is set for Monday (November 9, 4 to 7 p.m., Collins Funeral Home, 92 East Avenue, Norwalk). A funeral service will be held Tuesday (November 10, 10 a.m., St. Philip Church, 1 Father Conlon Place, Norwalk)

In lieu of flowers, he requested any donations be made to the The Navy Seals. Checks can be written to the Navy League; in the memo line, write “for the RDAC Program.” Checks can be mailed to Captain Andrew Bisset, 18 Canfield Drive, Stamford, CT. 06902.

Tommy Nistico

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Posted in Obituaries, Restaurants, Saugatuck

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Roundup: Wakeman Lights Lawsuit, Stolen Vehicle Update, Felice Sunday Dinner …

Posted on November 7, 2026 | 3 comments

neighbors file suit to stop wakeman lights

Last month, the Planning & Zoning Commission approved a proposal for permanent lights on the Wakeman and PJ Romano athletic fields.

On Thursday, 4 Whippoorwill Lane neighbors of the Wakeman property filed suit in Bridgeport Superior Court, appealing the decision for that field.

Shelby Keefer, Christopher Mashia, and Dorothy and John Francis allege that the P&Z’s actions were “illegal, unlawful, arbitrary and capricious and in abuse of powers.”

In addition to charging that the application and supporting documents were incomplete, and the decision was “inconsistent with procedural and substantive requirements,” the plaintiffs says that use of Wakeman for evening events will “interfere with the peaceful use and enjoyment of their property.

The case will be heard December 29.

The turf field (center) is proposed for lights.  Whippoorwill Lane runs behind the grass field (top). 

POLICE: STOLEN VEHICLE UPDATE

Westport Police have provided an update on Thursday’s stolen vehicle incident.

The driver of a vehicle stolen in Enfield raced away when he saw a police cruiser on Compo Road South. He later crashed on Greens Farms Road, near Prospect Rpad.

Three suspects were quickly apprehended — one through a canine track, one on the I-95 northbound ramp, and the third walking without shoes in Fairfield.

Two were 22-year-old men from Hartford. One was a 21-year-old from Middletown. One was charged with larceny of a motor vehicle and interfering with an officer ($250,000 bond); larceny of a motor vehicle, interfering with an officer and possession of a controlled substance ($75,000 bond), and larceny of a motor vehicle, interfering with an officer, reckless driving, possession of narcotics with intent to sell, and possession of a controlled substance ($250,000 bond).

An 18-year-old from Hartford was arrested later, after seeking assistance from a Greens Farms Road homeowner. He was charged with larceny of a motor vehicle, interfering with an officer and failure to appear, and was held on a $900,000 bond.

The WPD was assisted by Fairfield and Bridgeport Police Departments, and the Connecticut State Police.

book it! big library sale continues today

Bad weather was a boon to the Westport Library’s Big Fall Book Sale.

Yesterday’s opening day drew a big crowd. The big — actually, huge — event continues (in better weather) today through Monday. The schedule:

  • Today (Saturday): 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • Sunday: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Almost everything half-price; $1 fiction and $1 children’s books remain $1)
  • Monday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Shoppers can fill the Library’s logo bag for $10, or their own same-sized bag for $8, or buy individual items at half price).

Browsing for books yesterday. (Photo/Susan Garment)

mangia! felice offers traditional sunday dinner 

Felice — the hot new Main Street restaurant — says, “Somewhere between growing up and getting busy, the Sunday family dinner became a bit of a lost art.”

Now they’ve found it. And brought it back.

Every week they host an “Italian Sunday Table.” The family-style meal includes (of course!) one big table, shared plates, and no rush.

Six dishes are served family style, for $55 per person (4-person minimum; children under 10, $35; under 5, complimentary). Felice wine is $34.

Sunday dinner at Felice.

classic “nutcracker” set for playhouse stage

Sure, you can go to New York to see “The Nutcracker.”

But you can also enjoy Tchaikovsky’s classic ballet much closer to home: at the Westport Country Playhouse.

And at the Norwalk Metropolitan Youth Ballet‘s performances December 5 (1 and 6 p.m.), every role will be danced by a local student.

Including Alissa Zimon. The Greens Farms Elementary School 5th grader has the plum role of Clara.

Tickets are on sale now. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

Alissa Zimon and Marku Lehnerd-Reilly.

SHOP AT “THE mARKET”; HELP REFUGEES, IMMIGRANTS

“The Market” — a holiday event featuring “goods and gifts for a greater good” — takes place Saturday, December 5 (10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Branson Hall at Christ & Holy Trinity Church).

Vendors — including Thistle Farms, Collected Haus antiques and Ajiri Teas, plus jewelry, accessories, ceramics and home decor — join pastry chef Michael Finehirsch, who will serve palmiers, hot chocolate and other treats.

Proceeds benefit the Connecticut Institute for Refugees and Immigrants.  There is a suggested entry donation of $20 to $50.

Organizer Margaux Caniato says, “We hope to swap holiday hustle for a more meaningful shopping experience. You can support small businesses, help important causes, and choose from special items for everyone on your list.”

The weekend includes music, crafting workshops, pastry making demonstration, a community circle and more.

“hero to hero” benefit (and “blue bunny”) set for tuesday

Dave Briggs lends his substantial MC talents to many causes.

One of the best is Hero to Hero, the non-profit dedicated to transitioning servicemembers.

They, and the team behind the upcoming film “Blue Bunny,” host their 2nd joint fundraiser, “An Evening of Honor and Service,” this Tuesday (November 10, 6:30 p.m., Fairfield Theatre Company).

Guests will enjoy a sneak peek of footage from “Blue Bunny,” personal appearances from stars of the film, and powerful firsthand accounts from veterans whose lives intersect with the mission of Hero to Hero.

The evening also features food, wine, beer, and a specialty Hero cocktail. creating a warm and celebratory atmosphere in support of a meaningful cause.

Click here for tickets. For more information. click here.

WESTON HOLIDAY MARKET HELPS HEAT TOWN

Weston is a small town, with a big heart.

Next Friday and Saturday (November 13–14), the Weston Women’s League hosts “Main Street Weston,” its 14th annual holiday market, at St. Francis of Assisi Church. It features over 30 local makers, brands and boutiques.

Proceeds benefit the Weston Warm-Up Fund, which helps residents pay for heating oil, gas and electricity and covers critical heating repairs, and to Weston Human Services.

Last year the market donated $25,000, split evenly between the two.

BOAT PHOTO EARNS TOP STATE PRIZE

Congratulations to Weston photographer Peter Mendelson!

His “Boat Work” has been selected to represent Connecticut in VSCO’s “The Fifty.”

The nationwide project features 1 photographer from each state. The selected image appears on a billboard in that winner’s home state. The site of the Connecticut billboard will be announced soon.

Mendelso took his photo at a Norwalk marina, in the off-season. He was drawn to the red and blue boat hulls, weathered surfaces and intersecting boat stands.

It’s part of “New England Narratives,” his ongoing exploration of the region’s traditions and sense of place.

Mendelson retired after more than 30 years in law, to pursue fine art photography full time. He is a member of the Artists Collective of Westport, and exhibited at Faherty this past summer.

Click here for more information on the contest. Click here to learn more about Mendelson. 

“Boat Work” (Peter Mendelson)

OBITUARY: FRAN MATIK

Longtime Weston resident and local realtor Francine Matik died Wednesday in Wilton. She was 86.

The Bronx native and Hunter College graduate first worked as a speech therapist in New York schools.

She and her husband Mickey lived in Yonkers, Rochester and Simsbury, before spending 32 years in Weston.

Fran earned a real estate license in 1976. She worked with Carmen’s Country Homes, Edith Davidson Real Estate, Riverside Shavell and Coldwell Banker.

Fran loved collecting antiques and decorating. She especially enjoyws pieces with history and stories to tell. Many clients sought her help decorating their new homes.

Fran was also passionate about dance and tennis.

She found a spiritual home at Temple Israel. She was a member of the first adult bat mitzvah class, proudly learning to read Hebrew after all 4 children had become B’nai Mitzvah on the same bima.

Fran is survived by her children Leslie (Arthur) Hahn, Amy (Michael) Berkin, David (Libia) and Scott; grandchildren Jesse, Sam (Erica), Lily, Drew, James, Nicholas, Peyton, Talia and Cooper; nieces Laurie and Cathy Casriel and Myong
Feiner, and nephews Eric Casriel and Bruce Feiner. She was predeceased by her
husband Mickey, beloved sister Tamara Casriel and Tamara’s husband, Carl Casriel; sister-in-law Marilyn Feiner and Marilyn’s husband Burton Feiner, and nephew Robert Feiner.

Funeral services will be held at Abraham L. Green and Son Funeral Home in Fairfield this Sunday (11 a.m.). Shiva will be observed at the home of Amy and Michael Berkin in Weston on Sunday (2:30 to 7 p.m.) and Monday (noon to 3 p.m., 5 to 7 p.m.). To join a livestream or send a condolence, click here.

Contributions may be made to The Alzheimer’s Association or Make-A-Wish Foundation.

The family extends their gratitude to the nursing staff and care team at Evergreen at The Greens at Cannondale, and RVNA Health & Hospice of Ridgefield.

“westport … naturally” & song of the day

The number of boaters ebbs, as cooler weather settles in.

But don’t tell this guy. He’ll do his thing as long as he can.

Saranda Barisa captured the moment for “Westport … Naturally” — while (of course) out on the water.

(Photo/Saranda Barisa)

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And finally … speaking of “The Nutcracker” (as we were above):

(“06880” is gearing up for the holidays, as seen in this Roundup. Of course, it’s jampacked — 24/7/365 — with lots of other helpful items too. If you rely on us, please support us by clicking here. Thanks!)

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Posted in Arts, Library, Local politics, Obituaries, Police, Restaurants, Sports, Weston, Westport Country Playhouse

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Online Art Gallery #343

Posted on November 7, 2026 | Leave a comment

This year’s fall foliage is spectacular.

And so are some of the colors in the works shown in this week’s online art gallery.

In the photos — and paintings too.

That’s the whole idea of this feature: to showcase the many talents of our “06880” reader/artists.

No matter your age; the style or subject you choose — and whether you’re a first-timer or old-timer — we want your submissions. Watercolors, oils, charcoal, pen-and-ink, acrylics, mixed media, digital, lithographs, collages, macramé, jewelry, sculpture, decoupage, needlepoint — we want whatever you’ve got.

Just email a JPG to 06880blog@gmail.com. And please include the medium you’re working in.

“Descending Bear Mountain After a Sunrise Summit” (Maggie Gomez)

“Big Sur” (Claire Bangser)

“Sunrise, Eloise Ray Park” (Michael Chait — Available for purchase; click here)

“The Moon and the Shepaug River” (Patricia McMahon — Available for purchase; click here)

Untitled (June Rose Whittaker — Available for purchase; click here)

“Autumn Leaves Join the Halloween Mask Festivities” (Jerry Kuyper)

“Unmoored Vestiges” (Nancy Breakstone — Available for purchase; click here)

“Greens Farms Train Station” (Eric Bosch)

“Democrat? Republican? Other? Let’s Treat Each Other with Respect!” (Mike Hibbard)

“Sam and the Monarch” — oil on linen, 24 x 20 (Werner Liepolt)

“Let There be Light” — watercolor (Steve Stein)

“A Street in Provence” (Lawrence Weisman)

(Entrance is free to our online art gallery –as it has been for 6 years. But please consider an anniversary donation! Just click here — and thank you!)

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“Bye Bye Birdie” Bounds Onto Staples Stage

Posted on November 7, 2026 | 1 comment

Staples Players enjoyed their 68th successful season last year.

They wowed audiences with “Les Misérables,” “Urinetown” and “Twelve Angry Men.”

All 3 shows were staged with Players’ trademark near-Broadway quality. All 3 provoked their sold-out houses.

And — to varying degrees — all 3 can be considered a bit dark.

This fall’s production offers not a revolution, dystopia or courtroom.

“Bye Bye Birdie” is a fun, old school musical. Between high-energy music, tons of dancing and great ’50s-style costumes, it’s a feel-good show for all ages.

“The Telephone Hour”

Players directors David Roth and Kerry Long have always loved “Bye Bye Birdie.” It was a summer production in 2014.

“There’s a reason it’s a classic,” Roth says. “The songs are great. And it’s very, very funny.”

The 1960 Tony Award-winning Broadway show was influenced by Elvis Presley being drafted into the Army 3 years earlier. The star character’s name — Conrad Birdie — is a play on the name of Conway Twitty, the country music star who was one of Presley’s biggest rivals.

The role is double cast. One of the Birdies is Jeffrey Nwafor. A senior who was in, among others, “Twelve Angry Men,” he is an A Better Chance of Westport scholar. He follows in the footsteps of previous ABC Players stars, like Jahari Dodd and Jeremie Mayes.

Jeffrey Nwafor as Conrad Birdie.

Jeffrey shares the role with sophomore Grayson Jandora. He played Jean Valjean last fall, in “Les Mis.”

Roth and Long look forward to full houses, in the newly renovated Staples auditorium. “It’s always great to have young kids introduced to theater,” Roth notes.

Ari Sklar (left) as Albert Peterson with the ensemble, in “Put on a Happy Face.” (All photos/Kerry Long)

As always, Players will raise awareness of important causes. Audience members are encouraged to bring non-perishable food and household items for Homes with Hope’s pantry.

There’s also a “pink out” opening night for breast cancer awareness, and a “kiss wall” fundraiser.

The curtain rises this Friday (November 13, 7:30 p.m.). “Bye Bye Birdie” also runs at 7:30 on November 14, 19, 20 and 21, with additional performances at 2 p.m. on November 15, 21 and 22.

Click here for tickets, the double cast list and more information.

(“06880” frequently covers Westport’s entertainment scene — and everything going on at Staples too. But we can’t do it without our readers’ support. Please click here to donate. Thank you!)

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Pics Of The Day #3488

Posted on November 6, 2026 | 4 comments

Today’s downtown rainbow … (Photo/Franco Fellah)

… and not far away … (Photo/Sarah Alloy)

… while over at the Westport Library … (Photo/Lisa Gold) 

… and on Evergreen Avenue … (Photo/Todd Ehrlich)

… and not far away, at Winslow Park …  (Photo/Rick Benson)

… while it perfectly frames MoCA\CT … (Photo/Maggie Farrell) 

… and Bedford Middle School, across town … (Photo/Poli Toledo)

… and over Imperial Avenue (Photo/Katherine Ross)

… and behind CVS … (Photo/Gene Borio)

… and Old Hill … (Photo/Lisa Hofmeister)

… and finally, Schlaet’s Point, Hillspoint Road (Photo/Tammy Barry)

 

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Posted in Beach, Downtown, Pic of the Day, Weather

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Friday Flashback #527

Posted on November 6, 2026 | 15 comments

Christopher Maroc is a frequent Facebook poster.

He regularly offers photos of bygone Westport. The other day, he shared an intriguing map of Main Street, and environs.

It seems to be from the late 1970s or early 1980s — but readers could not give a definitive date.

Have at it, “06880” readers!

And to give the conversation an added boost: What was your favorite place, on the map below? And what’s the spot that most jogs an unexpected memory?

(Friday Flashback is one of “06880”‘s many regular features. If you enjoy this — or anything else on our website — please consider a tax-deductible contribution. Just click here. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Cops, Kids, Deadheads …

Posted on November 6, 2026 | 3 comments

4 CAPTURED AFTER FLEEING, CRASHING

Early yesterday morning, a license plate reader alerted Westport Police officers that a stolen vehicle had entered town limits at Wilton Road near the Merritt Parkway. A canvas of the area did not locate it.

Later that morning, the vehicle was observed on Compo Road South, near the Minute Man monument. Seeing a police cruiser, the driver sped away at a high rate of speed.

Believing it might be headed toward I-95, the officer continued east on Greens Farms Road, and found it crashed into a tree near 142 Greens Farms Road.

Officers quickly located and took into custody 3 people alleged to be occupants in the stolen vehicle.

Police continued a presence in the area, searching for evidence that may have been discarded by the suspects, and to determine if anyone else was in the car.

Late yesterday morning, a fourth person was taken into custody at a residence on Greens Farms Road, after requesting assistance from the homeowner.

55 greens farms road gets conservation hearing

The proposed 250-unit apartment complex at 55 Greens Farms Road gets a Conservation Commission hearing November 18 (7 p.m., Town Hall).

Work is within the upland review area setbacks and waterway protection line ordinance area of Pussy Willow Brook. Click here, then scroll down for meeting materials.

Meanwhile, on Wednesday the Flood & Erosion Control Board heard the application for the site. They continued the discussion to their December 2 meeting.

Apartments have been proposed for the south end (bottom) of the 55-57 Greens Farms Road office complex.

WILL YOUR ROAD BE PAVED THIS YEAR?

The fall paving program began Wednesday. It continues through the end of November, though not necessarily in this order:

  • Old Road
  • Hale Street
  • Maple Avenue North
  • Forest Drive
  • North Avenue
  • Bulkley Avenue
  • Hogan Tail
  • Narrow Rocks Road
  • Elizabeth Drive

Questions? Call the Public Works office: (203) 341-1120.

(Photo/Mark Mathias)

WHAT TO DO WITH THE KIDS TODAY?

Looking for a list of local things to do with kids — without scrolling through ads?

Diego Bravo offers The Day Scout.

It covers covers nearly 2 dozen towns in Fairfield and Westchester County. Activities are searchable a child’s age in months.

It lists every local school’s days off too, with a printable calendar. Click here to see The Day Scout. 

Screenshot from The Day Scout.

sunrise rotary: uncorked

The Inn at Longshore was packed yesterday, for Westport Sunrise Rotary‘s 35th annual “Westport Uncorked” wine tasting.

Guests sampled (and bought) over 100 sustainable, organic wines, curated by Cory D’Addario of the Fine Wine Company.

There was food too — and handmade chocolates from Knipschildt Chocolatiers.

All proceeds — along with those from the June Great Duck Race — enable Sunrise Rotary to distribute hundreds of thousands of dollars to charitable organizations, in Fairfield County and abroad.

A small portion of the big Westport Uncorked crowd.

spadtastics raise the dead at library

You can’t see the Grateful Dead in Westport. (Well, no one can, anywhere.)

But the Spadtastics — a great tribute act — headlines the next “Supper & Soul” concert.

The band performs 2 full sets next Saturday (November 14, Westport Library). They’ll recreate a seamless show from the Dead’s 30-year run.

Because of the length of the concert, there will be no dinner associated with the event. However, attendees can enjoy a “Dead-inspired drink” before or after, at Walrus Alley.

Beer, wine, spiked seltzer and water will be available at the Library.

According to the Chamber, the Spadtastics “create lysergic-laced interstellar jams that will make you question reality and quit your day job. They reach into your solar plexus, tear out your heart, and beat it with mallets made of cocobolo, milled steel, and peonies, and shove it back in at the end of the set. You don’t just leave a Spadtastics show having been entertained; you are made a better, more compassionate human being.”

Tickets are $35; click here to purchase. 

SOUND BATH MEDITATION SET FOR SAUGATUCK CHURCH

Churches are places of worship and meditation.

Tomorrow (Saturday, 3 p.m.), the Saugatuck Church sanctuary is the setting for a sound bath healing. Harmonious Healing sponsors the free event, which is open to all.

SENIOR CENTER SETS HOLIDAY GIFT SALE 

Save the date: The Senior Center’s annual holiday craft and gift sale is December 4 (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).

The event includes handmade crafts, jewelry, art, fused glass, ornaments, shells, sea glass, wreaths, wood-tuned bowls, walking sticks, healing beads, sewn aprons, quilts, mah jongg and much more (plus cookies — and free gift wrapping).

All — seniors and those not yet there — are invited.

5 RUNNERS, 26.2 MILES, $30,650

Congratulations to Positive Directions.

And — more specifically — to the 5 runners who represented them at last Sunday’s New York Marathon.

George DeNoto, Doug Feinberg, Piya, Brian McGarvey and Gianna all crossed the finish line. Together, they raised $30,650 for the Westport non-profit dedicated to improving mental well-being, and preventing substance misuse.

They’re still working at it. Click here to donate, through November 30.

Positive Directions’ 5 marathoners.

PROBATE JUDGE THANKS VOTERS

Lisa Wexler writes: “Thank you so much to the residents of Westport and Weston who elected me to serve as your probate judge for another term. I appreciate it so much.

“I especially thank the Westport and Weston Democrats for choosing me as your candidate, and to the Republicans as well for your support in allowing me to run unopposed. I look forward to continuing to help those who come before the court, and to treat each case with compassion and concern.”

Probate Judge Lisa Wexler

police reports

Westport Police made 3 custodial arrests between October 28 and November 3.

A 51-year-old New London man was charged with engaging police in pursuit, 2 counts of evading responsibility, interfering with an officer and reckless endangerment. These formal charges resulted from investigation into an August police motor vehicle pursuit from Saugatuck, over the Cribari Bridge and onto Imperial Avenue. He was held on a $250,000 bond.

A 61-year-0ld Fairfield man was charged with operating a motor vehicle under suspension, interfering with an officer, failure to comply with fingerprint requirements, failure to keep registration plates readable and improper use of registration marker plate, following an enforcement stop. He was uncooperative throughout the process. He was released on a $2,500 bond.

A 32-year-old Thomaston man was charged with criminal trespass, after he was found sleeping inside a closed business. He had declined assistance from an officer several hours earlier. He was held on a $2,000 bond.

Westport Police also issued these citaitons:

  • Failure to obey stop sign (10 citations)
  • Failure to renew registration: 10
  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 6
  • Texting while driving: 5
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 4
  • Speeding: 3
  • School zone violation: 2
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 2
  • Illegal purchase of alcohol for a minor: 1
  • Distracted driving: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
  • Improper turns: 1
  • Littering on private property: 1

This was not the littering violation. For illustration purposes only. (Photo/Jerry Kuyper)

“westport … naturally” & song of the day

This is not the first time we’ve featured horseback riders at Sherwood Island State Park in our “Westport … Naturally” series.

Let’s hope it’s not the last.

They never get old.

(Photo/Jamie Walsh)

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And finally … to get you in the mood for the Spadtastics (story above):

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