Unsung Heroes #438

Posted on July 1, 2026 | Leave a comment

Karlin Gray writes:

I would like to nominate the Staples High School library team as Unsung Heroes.

They’re heroes not for any one big act (though they are certainly heroes who stand up to book banning), but for their everyday acts creating a space that inspires learning, connection, and creativity for our kids.

Four years ago my son started as a freshman at Staples, and I signed up to volunteer in the library. If you’ve volunteered there, you know how much the librarians and paraprofessionals do for our kids.

If you haven’t had the opportunity to visit our high school library, here are just a few things that I learned about the staff’s responsibilities, beyond managing the organization and circulation of books:

They are gracious hosts. All smiles, librarians Jen Cirino and Nicole Moeller, and paraprofessionals Chris Harris and Jen Dayton immediately set the vibe as they greet students and assist them with any requests. There is a quiet section in the back for those who want it. They have designed sections for socializing, study groups and computer use too. There are also rooms for classes, and a large Maker station. The library also hosts special events like author visits, and talks with town officials.

Staples librarians Jen Cirino (left) and Nicole Moeller. Cirino was the Westport Public Schools’ 2024 Teacher of the Year.

They are tech-savvy. If students need help connecting to WiFi, charging their laptops, printing out their classwork or troubleshooting a broken computer, the library staff is there. Equipment like cameras, video recorders and a 3D printer are available for use. Fun fact: In Staples Players’ production of “Lord of the Flies,” the big conch shell thrown around on stage was printed in the library!

Paraprofessionals Jen Dayton (left) and Chris Harris.

They have our teachers’ backs. The library staff supports Staples’ educators by providing them with necessary resources for their job. This includes space for special class activities, carts of books for their curriculums, equipment for projects, tech training and more. And because teachers are just like us, I often heard them thanking the staff for recommending their last great read.

During Teacher Appreciation Week, librarians encourage students to thank their instructors.

They are creative curators. The book displays at the library rival those of any bookstore’s. Great thought and creativity go into each one, whether for serious subjects like honoring our veterans or fun event tie-ins like March Madness Book Brackets. All aim to catch students’ attention and direct it to the books. And they even sneak reading into bathrooms, by posting snappy little book blurbs inside the stalls.

The Staples Library celebrates March Madness with a “Tournament of Books” bracket (top), and an eye-catching display (below).

They are crafty. Friday Fun Days are when students can de-stress in the library by playing games or doing arts and crafts. I was skeptical, but it turns out that teens really will use their lunch breaks to create a pop-up birthday card, a “May the 4th Be With You” button, or a bouquet of paper flowers — all with the help of the library’s beloved Cricut machine. I was floored by how much the kids love to make and collect the winter gnomes each year (IYKYK). And, in library lore: Once upon a time, one of the sports teams did not receive part of their uniforms in time for a game. The library staff came to the rescue, creating them in the Maker Space!

Staples principal Stafford Thomas, with gnomes he made in the library.

Now that my son has graduated, my time as a volunteer is over. This fall, new students and parent volunteers will enter Staples Library and experience firsthand why we are so lucky to have Jen, Nicole, Chris and Jen working in our school system. Until then, I hope these unsung heroes have a relaxing summer break (with plenty of time to get lost in a big pile of great books).

Congressman Jim Himes addresses students in the Staples library.

(“06880” regularly covers Westport real estate, history … and much more. If you enjoy features like this, please click here to support our work.) 

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Remembering Tom Lowrie

Posted on July 1, 2026 | 4 comments

Tom Lowrie — Westport’s “Mr. Pickleball,” an avid member of both the Sunrise Rotary Club and Y’s Men, and a longtime Westporter who during several decades here touched many friends, neighbors and strangers’ lives — died yesterday. He would have been 98 on Friday.

The former architect was passionate about many things — especially pickleball. He was a driving force behind construction of the Compo Beach courts, and introduced countless residents to the game.

Tom Lowrie posed for the Westport Library’s “I geek…” campaign with — of course — pickleball gear. (Photo/Pam Einarsen)

Tom’s energy was infectious. Nearly 3 years ago, he celebrated his 95th birthday by going skydiving.

It was his second time. He went skydiving for his 9oth birthday too.

Representative Town Meeting member Andrew Colabella was one of many residents honoring Tom at his 97th birthday last summer. Andrew offers these thoughts:

Every town is fortunate to have a few people whose impact extends far beyond titles or accomplishments. Westport had one of those people in Tom Lowrie.

Tom’s passing marks the loss of not just a respected resident, but a man whose quiet leadership, generosity, and unwavering commitment to community left an enduring mark on our town.

A graduate of Princeton University and the Columbia University Graduate School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation, Tom enjoyed a distinguished career as an architect after serving our nation in the US Navy.

Lt. JG (Ret.) Tom Lowrie (center), with VFW Post 399 quartermaster Phil Delgado and fellow Westport resident Bob Terrerno look at a photo of Lowrie’s radar aviation squad.

Yet those achievements tell only part of his story. Those who knew Tom understood that his greatest passion was never personal recognition — it was building community.

For decades, Tom quietly gave his time to Westport through volunteerism, civic engagement, and organizations such as the Westport Sunrise Rotary. He approached every conversation with kindness, humility and optimism. Whether discussing town issues or welcoming someone new to the community, Tom always made people feel heard.

Tom Lowrie, promoting the Sunrise Rotary Club’s Great Duck Race.

In recent years, Tom became synonymous with one of Westport’s fastest-growing recreational activities: pickleball. Long before the sport became a national phenomenon, Tom recognized its unique ability to bring people together across generations. He championed new courts, encouraged beginners, mentored players, and helped transform a small group of enthusiasts into a thriving Westport pickleball community.

His advocacy was never loud or divisive. It was thoughtful, respectful, and persistent. Tom believed that recreation strengthens communities, friendships matter, and public spaces should serve everyone. Those values helped shape Westport’s recreational landscape for years to come.

Tom’s handmade and hand-delivered manila envelopes with his drawings, full of detail and description, were not only thoughtful, but of immense care and deep belief to improve and enhance Westport for all.

It was fitting that the town of Westport honored Tom during his lifetime by naming the Compo Beach pickleball area the Lowrie Courts.

Tom Lowrie at the pickleball courts dedication, with Andrew Colabella and his daughter Anne Lowrie. 

It was more than a dedication ceremony. It was our community expressing gratitude to a man who had devoted years to making those courts, and the relationships formed on them, possible.

But Tom’s true legacy is not found on a plaque.

It lives in every new player welcomed onto a court, every friendship formed over a game, every volunteer inspired to give back without seeking recognition, and every reminder that leadership can be accomplished with grace instead of ego.

Tom Lowrie showed us that one person, armed with kindness, perseverance and a genuine love for community, can leave a town better than they found it.

Westport is richer because Tom Lowrie called it home.

In 2012, Tom Lowrie was runner-up in the Longshore Men’s Golf Association tournament.

May we honor his memory not only by remembering what he accomplished, but by striving to live with the same generosity, humility and unwavering commitment to others that defined his remarkable life.

Family, friends, neighbors, and all whose lives were touched by Tom are invited to celebrate his remarkable life on what would have been his 08th birthday — this Friday, July 3 — at 6 p.m., at the Lowrie Courts at Compo Beach.

Please bring a beach chair and your own refreshments as we gather to share stories, memories, laughter and gratitude for a man who gave so much to Westport.

It is a fitting place to honor Tom — surrounded by the community and the courts that stand as a lasting testament to his vision, dedication, and love for bringing people together.

Tom’s  legacy will continue to inspire generations of Westporters.

A pickleball cake for Tom Lowrie’s 90th birthday …

… and skydiving for his 95th, with Peter Donovan and Bob Mitchell.

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Roundup: Fireworks Traffic, Old Homes, Motown …

Posted on July 1, 2026 | 2 comments

Today is July 1.

Tomorrow — 2 days ahead of the holiday — the annual PAL fireworks will light the sky over Compo Beach. It’s Westport’s biggest and best party of the year.

It also has a major impact on traffic.

The beach closes to the public at 4 p.m. Only vehicles with fireworks passes hanging from their rearview mirrors can stay in the parking lot. The beach reopens to ticket holders no later than 5 p.m.

Access to the fireworks is through Compo Road South only. Hillspoint Road south of Greens Farms Road will be closed to through traffic.

Uber, Lyft and taxi services will drop riders off where Soundview Drive runs into Compo Road South. However, return service will not be possible until 11 p.m., due to one-way traffic exiting the beach. There will be delays of an hour or so after the fireworks end (approximately 9:30 to 9:45) for residents return to the Compo Beach area from elsewhere, and for anyone picking up people at the beach.

Westport Police emphasize that parking restrictions in the Compo Beach area will be strictly enforce. No parking is allowed on Compo Road South and Hillspoint Road. Illegally parked vehicles will be ticketed, and towed to Longshore parking lot F.

The fireworks are sponsored by Melissa and Doug Bernstein, and are an important fundraiser for Westport PAL. A few tickets remain, at the Parks & Recreation Department office in Longshore (during business hours), and the police station.

The traffic is worth it. (Photo/Elissa Moses)

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Speaking of the fireworks: If you’re headed there via Hillspoint Road, you’ll see one less historic home.

The “Captain Allen” home fell to the wrecking ball this week. Named for the founder of the old Allen’s Clam House, it stood on Sherwood Mill Pond near Burnham Hill for over a century.

(Photos/Jimmy Izzo)

(Photo/Matt Murray)

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Speaking of old homes: Bob Weingarten launches his new book “Westport, Connecticut: The Old and New Historical Accounts, 1639–2025” with a special reception July 7 (6 p.m., Westport Book Shop). It’s a deep dive into Westport’s past — with a particular emphasis on homes, and the Greens Farms neighborhood.

The event is co-sponsored by MoCA\CT, in conjunction with their new exhibition, “Looking for History.”

The evening includes wine, light bites, a book signing, and Westport memories. Guests can purchase the book before it becomes available to the public the next day. RSVPs are required; click here. 

Bob Weingarten, at his historic house.

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Speaking of book launches: The Westport Library is the setting for “Ransom,”  The latest Gabriel Allon thriller gets the star treatment July 14 (6:30 p.m.).

Silva will be joined in conversation by his wife, CNN correspondent Jamie Gangel — proving, the Library says, “he’s nearly as fearless as his iconic protagonist.”

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Back to the fireworks: Preparations are well underway for tomorrow’s bash.

Parks & Recreation, Police, Fire, EMS … everyone is getting ready.

Including the most important folks of all, seen earlier this morning at Compo Beach:

(Photo/Amy Schneider)

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Motown music is the soundtrack of many lives.

Today, for example, has us thinking of Martha & the Vandellas’ “Heat Wave.”

On August 14 (7 p.m.), we’ll be “Dancing in the Street.” Well, at least the aisle.

That’s when the Westport Country Playhouse welcomes “Motown in Your Town.”

The Motown Band brings Smokey Robinson, Marvin Gaye, the Temptations, Supremes, Four Tops — and many other stars — to life.

“Ain’t Too Proud to Beg”? You don’t have to. Just click here for tickets, and more information.

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Last night’s Pics of the Day featured Monday’s full “strawberry” moon.

Here’s another view, from Compo Beach’s Ned Dimes Marina — a great addition to our “Westport … Naturally” gallery.

(Photo/Lawrence Zlatkin)

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And finally … speaking of Motown coming to the Westport Country Playhouse (above) — and the weather:

(As Westport swelters — and gets ready to celebrate America’s big birthday — “06880” is here with you. That’s how we roll. If you enjoy this hyper-local blog, please click here to support us. Thanks!)

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Posted in Beach, Entertainment, Library, Looking back, Police, Real estate, Westport Country Playhouse, Westport life

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Send Us Your Fireworks Photos!

Posted on July 1, 2026 | Leave a comment

There’s a lot going on tomorrow.

The beach will be jammed. Folks will deck themselves out in red-white-and-blue. Get ready for cookouts, picnics and flags galore.

“06880” wants to show the world what a Westport July 4th 2nd celebration looks like. Please send photos — of your kids, your decorations, your dog — to 06880blog@gmail.com. The deadline is 10 p.m. tomorrow.

* NOTE: Please stay away from actual photos of fireworks. They pretty much all look the same.

Be creative — and have fun!

Here’s looking at you, America!

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Keep Fido Safe During Fireworks

Posted on July 1, 2026 | 3 comments

Cat Malkin is both a longtime Westport resident and a lifelong animal lover.

For over 30 years she has given them a “voice,” as an animal communicator. She is also an animal Reiki master teacher and practitioner, pet meditation master teacher, and a pet loss and grief counselor.

As America gets set to celebrate Independence Day — with plenty of fireworks, of course — she worries about pyrotechnics’ effects on animals. Cat writes:

Many pets struggle over the 4th of July holiday. And more pets go missing now than at any other time of year.

My own Yogi Bear is not a fan of fireworks. It’s heartbreaking to watch him suffer over the long holiday.

Yogi Bear is not a fireworks fan. (Photo/Cat Malkin)

America’s 250th birthday fireworks have already started. They will get louder and more frequent throughout the weekend.

That’s bad news for pets who are sensitive to sound, and for the people who love them.

Animals have much sharper hearing than humans. Sudden loud noises like fireworks can trigger their fight-or-flight response, causing them to run for their lives and hide from the scary noises.

This can happen even if your animal hasn’t reacted to fireworks before. Their fear can come on suddenly.

It’s like someone turned the volume way up on a scary movie they don’t understand.

The worst part is that they might not hear your voice or respond to your usual calming techniques.

That’s why some pets end up chewing through crates, slipping out doors, jumping fences, or even breaking windows in their desperate attempt to escape the noise.

Here are some tips to create a safe, secure environment for your animal family during the 4th of July holiday:

✅ Microchip and ID Checkup:

  • Make sure your pet’s tag and microchip are current.
  • Take a picture with your pet for easier identification at animal shelters should they go missing.
  • For an extra layer of security, consider attaching an AirTag or other GPS tracking device on their collar for real-time tracking.
  • Make sure your animal is wearing their ID.

✅ Communication is Key: Let your animal family know what is in store for them, and reassure them that you will keep them safe. Talking with your pet during an animal communication session can reduce their fear and anxieties, and help you create a calming strategy together.

✅ Create a Safe Haven: Keep your pet indoors in a quiet, secure room, with windows closed and shades drawn during fireworks displays. To reduce anxiety further, use a thundershirt, play calming music, or give your pet a rescue remedy for added comfort.

✅ Project Calm: Your pet picks up on your emotions, so do your best to stay calm and reassuring. Meditating or sharing Reiki can help both of you stay grounded and present as fireworks explode.

✅ Vet Talk Now: If your pet has noise phobias or you have any concerns, discuss your options with your vet today.

Don’t wait until the fireworks frenzy begins to reduce your pet’s stress and ensure everyone has a safe and, hopefully, enjoyable 4th of July.

Click this American Kennel Club website for more information.

(To learn more about Cat Malkin’s work with animals, click on her website, Animal Muse.)

(“06880” is a full-service blog. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Pics Of The Day #3359

Posted on June 30, 2026 | 5 comments

One view of Monday strawberry moon … (Photo/Neil Katz)

… and another … (Photo/Eileen Lavigne)

 

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Staples Players Rewind: “Jesus Christ Superstar”

Posted on June 30, 2026 | 2 comments

On the one hand, Staples Players’ summer productions had an advantage: Young actors could concentrate on their show without the distractions of school.

On the other hand, directors David Roth and Kerry Long had much less time to pull everything — acting, choreography, staging, sets, costumes, music — together.

The results were (of course) off-the-charts smashes.

Previous Players’ “nutshells” — highlight reels, compiled lovingly by former Staple High media teacher Jim Honeycutt, who taped all the shows — featured “Les Misérables” and “Rent.

This week it’s “Jesus Christ Superstar,” from the summer of 2011. Click here or below to see.

In the 15 years since the show, many of the actors have gone on to careers in entertainment. Among them:

Johnny Shea (Jesus) is a New York based actor. He has appeared in “Spring Awakening” and “Peter Pan” and more, at Goodspeed, Shakespeare Theater Chicago, Portland Stage Company and others.

Clay Singer (Judas)  has extensive theater credits including “Masquerade” (New York), “Fiddler On the Roof” (St. Louis), “Perchik” (Westport), “The Band’s Visit” (North American tour), “Into the Woods” (Pittsfield, Massachusetts), “Next to Normal” (Vero Beach, Florida), “Man of La Mancha” (Westport), “Romeo and Juliet” and “Ragtime” and “The Full Monty” (both Pittsburgh).

Max Samuels (Pilate, Thaddeus) is a stage and screen actor known for his roles in “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” and “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt.” He also appeared in “George Kaplan,” “Angry Young Man,” “The Winter’s Tale” and “The Brothers Karamazov.”

Audrey Twitchell (Annas) has appeared in many commercials, print ads and on television. In 2006 she originated the role of Lee Bouvier in the Broadway musical “Grey Gardens.” She lives and works in New York City.

Charlie Greenwald (Priest 3, Nathaniel, Tribe, Guard) is an actor, voiceover artist, comedian, copywriter and children’s book author. He has appeared in the Academy Award-winning film “The Trial of the Chicago 7” and the TV special “Jesus Christ Superstar Live in Concert.” (2018).

Matthew Van Gessel (Matthew)  is an actor, director and writer. He played Isaac Goodenow in the “The Sudbury Devil,” appeared in the film “Bookworm,” was featured as an actor in the project RedDrop, and was cast as Father Rand in “The Vampires of New Orleans.”

Michelle Pauker (Mary Magdalene, Tribe) is a singer and actor. She has appeared in “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” (Idaho Shakespeare Festival), “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” (Great Lakes Theatre Company), and “Into The Woods (Forestburgh Playhouse). On July 5, her band Back to the Garden 1969 will perform at the Levitt Pavilion.

(If you like these nutshells — or any other “06880” feature — please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Taxes, Fireworks, Farmers Market …

Posted on June 30, 2026 | 12 comments

If it’s (almost) the beginning of July, it’s time for … taxes.

Most Westporters received their new real estate, personal property and motor vehicle taxes, plus any sanitary sewer use and assessment charges, yesterday. They’ll be available online too, beginning tomorrow (Wednesday).

First quarter payments are due July 1. Fortunately, we’ve got until August 3 to pay them, without penalty. Late fees are 1.5% per month.

Payments may be made by credit card, debit card, or direct withdrawal from a checking account on-line at www.westportct.gov. The tax collector’s PO box has been closed, but checks made payable to “Town of Westport” can be mailed to Tax Collector, Room 109, 110 Myrtle Avenue, Westport, CT 06880.

Payment can also be made in person (Town Hall Room 109), 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays.

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Speaking of the beginning of July: Westport’s annual fireworks display is Thursday (July 2).

Just a few tickets remain for the town’s biggest and best bash of the year.

The pyrotechnics begin just after 9 p.m., at Compo Beach. But hours earlier, residents begin partying — eating, playing, strolling, meeting friends and strangers. They keep going all night long.

The event is sponsored by longtime residents Melissa and Doug Bernstein, the Police Athletic League and Parks & Recreation Department.

This year they promise new, never-before-seen fireworks effects, plus an extended, extraordinary finale.

You need a ticket to park at the beach. Thanks to the Bernsteins, every purchase includes a “FlowArt Guided Art Pad” — custom-designed for Westport.

Ticket proceeds benefit Westport PAL, and their programs and scholarships serving thousands of youngsters. The few remaining tickets are available at Police headquarters on Jesup Road (24 hours a day) and the Parks & Recreation office at Longshore, near the first tee (8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.).

Party at Compo! (Photo/Celia Campbell-Mohn)

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Speaking of the fireworks … Seen on social media, and posted without comment:

“Looking for someone to set up a group of beach chairs early in the morning this Thursday July 2nd at Compo. Please DM me if you are interested or have a college kid home for the summer who would be! Thank you.”

Also posted without comment. (Photo/Matty Murray)

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As a heat wave settles in, the Westport Farmers’ Market will open this Thursday an hour earlier than usual (9 a.m.), and close promptly an hour earlier too (1 p.m.). Vendors who can set up by 9 will do so. Some may arrive later.

Shoppers are encouraged to arrive early, in the cooler morning hours.

Stay cool with strawberries!

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The heat wave will send droves of Westporters onto (hopefully cooler) Long Island Sound.

Here’s an important reminder from Michelle Larson. She went boating yesterday, and writes: “We picked up at least a dozen Mylar balloons between Compo and Peck’s Ledge. Most are Father’s Day, Graduation Day and a few red and blue stars.

“Might be a good reminder on tying tight and disposing of properly. Or better yet: Just don’t buy balloons!”

Reagan Larson, age 9, with her bounty of balloons.

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As The Inn at Longshore and La Plage restaurant get set to reopen (soon!), they’re looking to fill positions, of all kinds.

A job fair will be held on-site today and tomorrow (Tuesday and Wednesday), from noon to 6 p.m.

Questions? Email mryan@innatlongshore.com.

Putting the finishing touches on The Inn at Longshore.

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“Bernstein’s Wall” — Westport filmmaker Doug Tirola and producer Susan Bedusa’s documentary about Leonard Bernstein — earned rave reviews at the Tribeca Film Festival, then at its theatrical premieres in New York and Los Angeles.

Now — finally — it will be screened locally.

The one-night-only event is July 9 (7 p.m., SHU Community Theatre, Fairfield).

Extra special highlight: Tirola and Bernstein’s daughter Jamie will take part in a post-show talkback, moderated by longtime film critic (and Westporter) Susan Granger.

“Bernstein’s Wall” traces the composer/conductor’s lifelong struggle to create social change and bring people together through his work.

While towering over the worlds of classical music, Broadway, television and culture, he advocated for progressive political change. He lent his name to numerous causes and groups, at great personal risk.

The film captures the sweeping arc of Bernstein’s life, sharing his private thoughts about America, politics, race, family, media, sex and religion. Click here to purchase tickets. (Hat tips: Fred Cantor and Caroline Owens)

Leonard Bernstein

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Nina Bentley — the very creative, always whimsical Westport artist — is featured all month in a Senior Center art show. The title is “I Do, Or Maybe Not.”

Thirty pieces of art — some including her trademark typewriter — are on display during operating hours (9 a.m. to 4 p.m.).

She’ll give a special artist talk on July 16.

Several pieces from Nina Bentley’s art show.

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The other day, Michael Chait snapped this intriguing view of the downtown Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge:

(Photo/Michael Chait)

No, the town has not put the iconic span up for sponsorship.

That’s just a (very long) truck crossing the bridge.

Although, come to think of it, maybe a corporate sponsor for that other bridge over the Saugatuck River could fund its renovation, without surrendering to the state …

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There is always something special to see at Sherwood Mill Pond.

Judith Katz captured extra-special light the other day, for our “Westport … Naturally” feature:

(Photo/Judith Katz) 

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And finally … David Clayton-Thomas, “a homeless Toronto runaway who learned guitar in prison and went on to become the lead singer of the gritty, blues-inspired band Blood, Sweat & Tears,” died Wednesday in Toronto. He was 84.

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P&Z Delays Field Lights Decision

Posted on June 30, 2026 | 8 comments

The third time was not the charm for lights on 2 athletic fields.

The Planning & Zoning Commission once again delayed a decision on the Parks & Recreation Commission request, for the Wakeman B and PJ Romano Fields.

At last night’s Zoom meeting, Parks & Rec director Erik Barbieri and recreation superintendent Carmen Roda presented charts and graphs showing field usage, the number of participants in current programs (including those turned away because of lack of space), the impact of 50-, 60- and 70-foot poles, and the deterioration of grass fields due to overuse (without the availability of lit, synthetic turf surfaces).

They cited the support of several hundred youth sports families, and groups like the Westport Soccer Association and Westport PAL.

Rendering of 4 70-foot light poles at Wakeman B Field.

However, the majority of speakers — nearly all of them neighbors — objected to the plan. Many cited a lacrosse tournament last weekend, sponsored by a private organization, that brought noise, traffic, even outdoor barbecues to the Wakeman fields.

Other objections included the height of the poles, the effect on the environment, the length of time lights would stay on, field usage by adults and outside (non-school and town) groups, and how well Parks & Rec would manage oversight of the lights.

Attorney Joel Green, representing the ad hoc “Lights Need Limits” group, questioned whether the lights plan met the P&Z’s own requirements.

But one neighbor — John Sabino, who said he is the second-closest neighbor to Wakeman — spoke in favor of lights. The sound of children playing, even air horns, was preferable to “the deafening silence” of youngsters using cellphones and computer screens, he said.

Rendering of 70-foot light poles at PJ Romano Field. 

Though 2 fields are in the Parks & Rec proposal — and the P&Z agenda included both Wakeman and PJ Romano Field, behind Saugatuck Elementary School — nearly all of the discussion centered around the Bedford Middle School property.

The P&Z voted unanimously to continue the hearing to July 20.

To see last night’s full Parks & Recreation Department proposal, click here. To see all materials relating to the lights proposals — including plans, letters from interested parties, etc. — click here; then scroll down to 70 North Avenue (for Wakeman B) and 170 Riverside Avenue (for PJ Romano). 

(“06880” regularly covers town politics, sports and more. If you appreciated this hyper-local blog, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Staples Students Create AI Start-ups

Posted on June 30, 2026 | 1 comment

Artificial intelligence has ushered in a new world. And several Staples students are taking full advantage of it.

They’re  using AI to turn innovative ideas into reality … using AI itself. Here are stories of 2 intriguing startups.

Noah Tomasovic is a rising junior. He’s runs track , plays rugby, is a member of Service League of Boys, started a club that monitors water safety, competes nationally with Future Business Leaders of America, and is working this summer at a commercial real estate firm.

Noah is also the founder of Pilotier. The company installs custom AI systems into local Fairfield County businesses. They handle many details a small business owner has no time or talent for, like building a website, organizing and responding to emails, and scheduling. It’s all done through a dashboard he devised.

Some of those tools already exist, of course. But, Noah says, configuring email through, say, Google Cloud can be difficult. His system allows a user to click one button to connect.

Pilotier integrates many functions into one.

One local client, the owner of Alma Mexican Foods, had trouble reaching decision-makers at large outlets like Big Y and Stop & Shop. Noah built a system that personalizes emails, and ensures they reach the right executive.

His agent also reads all emails that come in. It summarizes them, suggests follow-up actions — then handles them.

Pilotier also handles lead follow-ups for every inquiry and quote, so “nothing falls through the cracks”; social media content, drafted in the client’s voice on a pre-determined (yet flexible) schedule, and invoicing.

Every morning, there is a “briefing,” with to-do lists and suggestions.

Noah Tomasovic offers a free AI audit for businesses. 

“The whole goal of AI is to automate tasks, and help you scale up,” he notes.

“A lot of businesses don’t know too much about AI — or they’re intimidated by it. They don’t know how to use it, but they’re worried about being surpassed by it.”

Noah charges a set-up fee, and a monthly retainer.

It’s all explained in a comprehensive, clear website. Built by Noah — with, of course, help from AI.

(To learn more, visit the Pilotier website, or email noah@getpilotier.com.)

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In the financial world, 4 students have spent a year building a tool for wealth management firms.

Right now, they say, advisors spend hours reading Department of Labor filings and data to find companies whose plans are not performing well, then write custom outreach by hand.

The quartet — Mikael Nagy, Ignacy Nieweglowski, Pranav Tamilselvan and Lucas Nilsson, all rising seniors and juniors interested in computer science and finance — make the prospecting process faster. They use AI to scan public data and create full pitches, score plans automatically, and help advisors land more clients.

Their company, Polamin (the name combines their Polish, American and Indian backgrounds), analyzes hundreds of thousands of retirement plan filings to help advisors find underperforming plans, then generates data-backed proposals.

They say all 146,000-plus plan sponsor in the country is profiled and searchable. More than 152,000 plans are scored, 0 to 100, against size, industry and regional benchmarks, using 3 “proprietary layers”: advisory, core and risk.

AI does all the (very) heavy lifting.

The 4 friends talked for a while about starting a company. They considered analyzing crypto, but realized it was complicated and scam-filled.

From left: Mikael Nagy, Pranav Tamilselvan, Ignacy Nieweglowski.

Speaking with a local wealth management analyst, they learned he spent an enormous amount of tedious time prospecting, looking for poorly performing plans, then reaching out to convert clients.

“We didn’t realize how massive the retirement plan industry is,” Ignacy says.

The proposals Polamin creates are tailored to a prospect’s experiences and interests. They use a variety of voices and styles: conservative, modern or data-heavy.

Screenshot from the Polamin website. 

They were accepted to present at last month’s Yale Innovation Summit. “There were a lot of adults — really, really smart people,” Mikael reports.

They did not win. But they picked up a ton of tips, and networked well.

Since its March launch, the founders have added new features. It’s being tested by a Westport client now. Other interested users can test it for free, too.

Mikael, Ignacy, Pranav and Lucas are decades away from retirement. They haven’t even been to college, or landed their first full-time jobs.

But thanks to their start-up, retirement may become more affordable for countless older men and women they’ll never meet.

(To learn more, visit the Polamin website, or email mikael.d.nagy@gmail.com.)

(“06880” reports often on local businesses — and the achievements of Staples students. Sometimes they intersect. If you enjoy stories like these, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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