Roundup: Ned Dimes Marina, Sherwood Island Lane, Natural Disasters …

Posted on April 25, 2026 | Leave a comment

The fuel dock at Ned Dimes Marina is gone!

A new (and temporary) look for the Ned Dimes Marina. (Photo/Ron Poserina Jr.)

It was removed — temporarily — as part of a project to replace the piers, wood dock and deck at the office and clubhouse.

The Parks & Recreation Department reports that, due to extreme winter conditions that impacted water and electrical service on the docks (as well as South Beach bathroom facilities), water service to the docks at Ned Dimes Marina will be restored by late May.

Electrical service will be delayed until sometime in June. Officials are working on a solution for boaters to be able to charge batteries starting in June, most likely on a temporary generator supply to the individual docks.

South Beach bathroom facilities cannot be opened until the project is done. completion. Temporary  facilities will remain until the restrooms are opened.

Meanwhile, also over on South Beach, Parks & Rec is installing power. It will be used for special events like LobsterFest.

Security cameras may be added too.

Electrical trench on South Beach. (Photo/Dorothy Robertshaw)

Parks & Rec also notes issues with navigational aids at the entrance to the Saugatuck River channel.

Can 5 and Nun 6 are missing. Nun 8 and Can 9 are significantly off station. The Coast Guard has been notified, and will replace them as soon as possible.

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One of the most interesting properties in Westport is on the market.

And it’s the first time for it, in 65 years.

4 Sherwood Island Lane is a 7-bedroom, 6 1/2-bathroom, 6,215-square foot home — on a 20.85 acre lot.

You don’t see that very often these days.

4 Sherwood Island Lane

Located off the Sherwood Island Connector, south of I-95 on the way to Sherwood Island State Park, it’s been owned by the same family for nearly 7 decades.

There are no immediate neighbors — but plenty of birdlife and other nature.

The property includes 2 1940s 3-bedroom guesthouses with water views — plus a tennis court, indoor pool, pool house and formal gardens.

It’s listed for $15 million. Click here for more details, or to purchase. (Hat tip: David Loffredo).

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It’s important to plan for natural disasters.

It’s even more important to plan correctly.

The Western Connecticut Council of Governments is doing “resilience planning,” to inform hazard plans.

Efforts will lead to mitigation that can reduce loss of property and life due to floods, severe wind, winter storms, wildfires, droughts, extreme heat and earthquakes.

Residents can click here to take a 2-minute, 5-question online survey.

Damage from Hurricane Isaias on Grove Point Road. (Photo/John Kantor)

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A large crowd filled Clarendon Fine Art Thursday night, for a reception with Mr. Brainwash.

The French-born, Los Angeles based artist earned international prominence through the Bansky film “Exit Through the Gift Shop.”

The current exhibition reimagines Van Gogh’s most recognizable motifs through his signature fusion of street art, vibrant color, mixed media and layered cultural references

The show runs through May 3. For more information, click here.

Mr. Brainwash, with one of his works. (Photo/John Videler for Videler Photography)

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As summer arrives, Fleet Feet is racing ahead.

On the local running store’s calendar:

  • Apex Performance Runner’s Workshop (April 27, 5 p.m.): New client specials and custom footwear fittings.
  • Moms Who Move (May 6, 5 to 6:30 p.m.): Women-focused movement workshop
  • Kane Summer Launch x Beastie Burger (May 11, 5 to 6:30 p.m.): Try on new Kane footwear; bites from Beastie Burger

Upcoming races include:

  • Minute Man: April 26
  • Breast Cancer Alliance 5k for Hope: May 3
  • Weston Memorial Day 5: May 23
  • Savin Rock Waves of Hope 5k: May 23
  • Athletic Brewing Road Races: June 6-7

Click here for details. (Hat tip: Sal Liccione)

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Congratulations to Staples High School’s We the People team.

Suzanne Kammerman’s class recently returned from national competition in Washington, where one group won the “Unit 4” award.

The competition is a congressional mock trial hearing.  Students showed mastery of different parts of the Constitution, Bill of Rights, American history and the 3 branches of government. government. Participants are judged on their ability to understand, apply, and reasoning.

Unit 4 winners include Chloe Beitel, Mehmet Madigan, Lauren Potter and Leo Viner. All are juniors.


Staples’ We the People team, at the US Capitol.

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Congratulations too to Adelia Purcell!

The 2023 Staples High School graduate has just been selected as a Truman Scholar.

The College of William & Mary junior is one of 55 students nationally to receive the prestigious scholarship for aspiring public service leaders. Nearly 800 candidates were nominated.

Truman Scholars demonstrate “outstanding leadership potential, a commitment to a career in government or the nonprofit sector, and academic excellence.” Scholars receive funding for graduate studies, leadership training, career counseling, and internship and fellowship opportunities in the federal government.

Adelia Purcell

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Bloodroot is gone.

But the beloved vegan/feminist Black Rock restaurant — co-founded 49 years ago by Westporter Selma Miriam, which closed in December — can live on.

In your home.

Some great items remain, in their online auction. Among them: tables, china, glassware, framed menus, feminist books and signed cookbooks and sculpture.

The entire library — of feminist and political hard and softcover books — is being sold as one lot, too.

The online auction ends in 4 days. Click here to see, and bid. (Hat tip: Carol Waxman)

Buy the Bloodroot library.

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“Bernstein’s Wall” — Westport filmmaker Doug Tirola and producer Susan Bedusa’s documentary about Leonard Bernstein, using TV interviews, news footage, home movies, audio clips and personal letters, to explore the legendary artist’s views on freedom, politics, creativity and more — had its US theatrical premiere yesterday, at New York’s Film Forum.

Click here for the New York Times’ review.

Leonard Bernstein

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Two memorial services are set for Janet Filling. The longtime Westport American Red Cross director, who also held important Red Cross posts at the state and national levels, died in February at 91.

A memorial mass will be held on June 1 (10 a.m., Fairfield University’s Egan Chapel). There will be informal reception afterward.

A celebration of life is slated for June 14 (2 p.m., Westport Library). The public is invited to both. Focusing on Janet’s deep roots and relationships in Westport, it is a time to share memories, stories and photos. Anyone wishing to speak, send a photo, or offer words though unable to attend, should email Janet’s son Greg: gfilling@gmail.com.

Janet Filling

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David Ohman is a native Californian. But he lived in Westport from 1992-98. He loved those years, and still considers it his “adopted home town.”

A photographer (some of whose images were featured on “06880” last month), he is a fan of Frames Magazine, an exquisitely printed London quarterly.

Recently, Frames interviewed him. He discussed portraiture, photojournalism, working with light on location, trusting spontaneity, and staying open to unexpected moments that seem to appear only for those who are truly paying attention.

After decades of making pictures, meeting people, telling stories, and navigating the transition from film to digital, Ohman still speaks about the camera with curiosity, gratitude and excitement.

Click here or below, for a fascinating and educational half hour.

PS: If you or a family member had portraits taken by Ohman in the 1990s, “06880” may have beautiful prints of your session. Email 06880blog@gmail.com with the name of the subject. We’ll check through the files that he very generously sent!

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And now, the first 2026 “Westport … Naturally” appearance for an Eastern tiger swallowtail:

(Photo/Bob Liftig)

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And finally … on this date in 1915, the Battle of Gallipoli began. One of the longest and bloodiest campaigns of World War I, it is a defining moment in Turkey’s history. It is also considered the beginning of Australian and New Zealand national consciousness. Today is Anzac Day, a national commemoration in both countries.

(Sure, it’s Saturday. But neither the Roundup nor “06880” takes weekends off. If  you appreciate our 24/7/365 coverage of all things Westport, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Online Art Gallery #315

Posted on April 25, 2026 | Leave a comment

Noted Westport photographer Michael Chait joins our online gallery this week.

We welcome him — and all other artists.

Professional and amateur; 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.

“NYC Newsstand Circa 1977 — Lexington Avenue & 53rd Street” (Michael Chait — Available for purchase; click here)

“It Dawned on Me” (Michael Tomashefsky — Available for purchase; click here)

Untitled (Duane Cohen — Available for purchase; click here)

“Really Big Rudbeckia” — watercolor on Arches paper, 16.5 x 11.5 (Kathleen Burke — Available for purchase; click here)

 

“My Little Pony” — acrylic and resin, 24 x 36 (Patricia McMahon — Available for purchase; click here)

“Butterflies Are Free” — doodling of color with 3D butterflies (Dorothy Robertshaw — Available for purchase; click here)

“Night Guard” — abstract (Tom Doran — Available for purchase; click here)

“PSOS” (Mark Yurkiw — Available for purchase; click here)

“Lucky Me! 46 Years Ago She Said ‘Yes!'” — watercolor black paint on paper (Eric Bosch)

“Strong, Handsome, and Friendly with Great Vibrations – His Entourage Also Enjoys the Music and More!” (Mike Hibbard)

Untitled  (Martin Ripchick — Available for purchase; click here)

“And We Were Told Everything is Under Control!” — watercolor and graphite (Steve Stein)

“Conversation” (Lawrence Weisman)

“Sissy” — pencil on paper (Bill Fellah)

(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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[OPINION] With Focus On Cribari Bridge Traffic, Don’t Forget Another Mess

Posted on April 25, 2026 | 10 comments

While Westport’s attention is focused on the Cribari Bridge — and the traffic issues that already plague Saugatuck — an “06880” reader urges us not to forget about the “worst intersection” in town (and perhaps the state).

That is, of course, the cluster**** that is Riverside Avenue, Wilton Road and Post Road West. The reader writes:

Below is a 5 p.m. Google Maps screenshot of “live” traffic on the Tuesday of school vacation last week.

Wilton Road at top; Riverside Avenue at bottom; Post Road West cutting through.

I can only imagine how red the lines will be now that schools are back in session, and everyone rushes to get home from school, work and play.

A quick AI search on “06880” turns up several suggestions, offered in the past:

Traffic Officers: Some suggest assigning police officers or traffic agents to direct traffic, especially during peak hours. This has been noted to significantly improve traffic flow at similar problematic intersections, such as the Cribari Bridge. (Click here for a previous “06880” story.)

Traffic Light Timing and Configuration: Many readers suggest altering the timing of traffic lights to allow for better flow. One idea is to have green lights for only one direction at a time (e.g., green for northbound Wilton Road traffic only, then green for Post Road West traffic only; then green only for the other 3 streets, moving counter-clockwise one at a time. That would prevent backups caused by cars waiting to turn while opposing traffic is also trying to move. (Click here for a previous “06880” story.)

Installing a left-turn arrow for cars on Wilton Road turning onto Post Road West has also been suggested. (Click here for a previous “06880” story.)

An all-too-typical scene on Wilton Road.

Road Widening and Lane Adjustments: Past opportunities were missed to widen the road or create turning lanes by acquiring properties at the intersection corners. While difficult now, widening the road, particularly at the intersection of Wilton Road and the Post Road, could create a much-needed right turning lane. (Click here for a previous “06880” story.)

Many of these suggestions involve state roads, which means changes require the Connecticut Department of Transportation’s planning, funding, and approval. (Click here for a previous “06880” story.)

In the mid-2010s, David Waldman proposed a creative solution: move the building at the corner northwest corner of Wilton Road and the Post Road — at that point, it was a liquor store — to create a turning lane.

Town officials turned him down.

Now, in 2026, the state is looking to acquire 77 square feet with eminent domain at the same location, according to recent media reports.

The Department of Transportation would install Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant sidewalks ramps, and a pedestrian push button there.

Aerial view of the intersection — without, remarkably, any traffic.

But instead of incremental tweaks to lights and sidewalks, why don’t we take time — and perhaps one of the Cribari Bridge Committees — to engage with DOT and the town, for a holistic look at the intersection for more permanent solutions?   

It may be expensive to buy and/or move buildings (including, perhaps, the one at the foot of Post Road West on the eastbound side, where traffic turns sharply onto Riverside Avenue). That’s another solution proposed in the past.

But unless we build another bridge, in addition to the Cribari Bridge changes or bore a tunnel under the Saugatuck River, the traffic problems will continue to get worse in Westport.

Who is interested in shaping another solution to make Westport safer and faster?

(“06880” regularly covers transportation, local politics, real estate — and, like today, their “intersection.” If you appreciate stories like this, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Downtown, Saugatuck, Transportation

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Pic Of The Day #3292

Posted on April 24, 2026 | Leave a comment

Lost at Compo Beach (Photo/Lauri Weiser)

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Friday Flashback #500

Posted on April 24, 2026 | 8 comments

As Westport prepares to celebrate the 249th anniversary of the Battle of Compo Hill — well, at least Sunday’s Minute Man road race gives a nod to our heroic effort during the Revolutionary War — let’s remember a time when our town remembered (and honored) that historic event.

The other day, Morley Boyd sent along photos of a commemorative coin. He believes it was struck in 1935, to honor the centennial of Westport’s incorporation as a town.

One side shows the Minute Man monument, with the date “Apr. 25, 1777.”

That’s the day 26 ships carrying 1,850 British troops under the direction of General William Tryon — a force larger than at Lexington or Concord — landed at Compo Beach at dusk.

Tory loyalists planned to guide them up Compo Road to Cross Highway, across to Redding Road, then north through Redding and Bethel to Danbury, where they would burn a major supply depot. It contained much-needed tents, clothing, bedding — things necessary for a long military campaign.

Patriots fired a few shots at the corner of the Post Road and Compo, but the British marched on. In Danbury they destroyed the Continental Army’s munitions, then headed back toward their waiting ships at Compo.

Hastily assembled patriot forces fought them in the fierce Battle of Ridgefield. Led by Brigadier General Benedict Arnold — not yet a traitor — and outnumbered 3 to 1, the patriots deployed a strategy of selective engagement.

British forces landed at Compo Beach, marched to Danbury, marched back south and -- after the Battle of Compo Hill -- retreated to Long Island.

British forces landed at Compo Beach, marched to Danbury, returned south and — after the Battle of Compo Hill — retreated to Long Island.

The next day — April 28, 1777 — patriots tried to capture the Redcoats at a bridge across the Saugatuck River. That forced the soldiers to march 2 miles north, and swim across.

Meanwhile, marksmen waited on Compo Hill (the current site of Minuteman Hill road).

Twenty colonials were killed, and between 40 and 80 wounded when the British made a shoulder to shoulder charge with fixed bayonets — but, wearing everyday work clothes and using hunting guns or pistols, they gave them a fight.

It was reported that resistance here was more severe than at Lexington and Concord.

Graves of some of the patriots who fell that day lie along Compo Beach Road, just past the Minuteman statue. British soldiers are buried across Gray’s Creek, by the Longshore golf course.

Though Tryon returned to burn Norwalk and Fairfield, never again during the American Revolution did British troops venture inland in Connecticut.

The other side of the coin shows a stylized view of the Saugatuck bridge, and nearby homes.

The scene was similar to that of Westport’s original town seal.

Morley says, “I don’t think I have ever seen one of these centennial coins.”

And if one of Westport’s leading amateur historians is surprised, that’s impressive.

Do any “06880” readers know anything about that commemorative coin? If so — or if you just want to commemorate the Battle of Compo Hill — click “Comments” below.

PS: Next year is the 250th anniversary. We should not let that date pass without an, um, bang.

(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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[OPINION] Special Ed “Business As Usual” Is Failing Our Students

Posted on April 24, 2026 | 11 comments

Last night, the Board of Education began a review of the special education program.

It included a discussion of how to evaluate it, who should do the evaluation, and whether to have a community conversation for special education families. 

It was the beginning of what may be an extended discussion — with the BOE, Westport Public Schools officials, and the public — about special education in Westport.

Several residents spoke too. Among them was Rosa Balestrino. She said:

I am the parent of a student who received special education services in our district, from kindergarten through 6th grade. I am here tonight because, like you, I want Westport to be a leader in educational excellence — not just for some students, but for all students, especially those with disabilities.

I recently sent you an email outlining systemic issues for consideration in the upcoming district-wide special education program audit. I want to highlight why those proposed recommendations, such as a file-by-file review and a 3-year look-back, are so critical to me.

For my family, this isn’t just academic. It is a matter of safety and survival.

My son, a student with ADHD (attention deficit) and learning disabilities, reached a point during 6th grade where he was regularly speaking about self-harm.

He felt stupid, and didn’t see a way out of his situation as the academic demands increased and he was falling further and further behind his peers.

He told me he didn’t want to live because he didn’t want to have a learning disability and be different from his peers. As a parent, that is a devastating reality to face.

What made it worse was the breakdown in communication with the district. When I reported these cries for help to the school psychologist in a recent meeting, I was flatly told I never reported them.

When I followed up on a bullying report, I was told it didn’t exist — despite having written proof of both.

I forwarded proof of both things the district denied in a PPT (planning and placement team) meeting, and have yet to get an acknowledgment they were wrong.

I am concerned the district never knew or understood my son, which is why an appropriate program was not put into place.

Screenshot, from the Westport Public Schools’ special education page.

With my son speaking out and suffering, I didn’t wait for a tragedy to happen. To protect my son’s life and his education, I moved him to a private school where individualized instruction is a reality, not just a line on a form.

He is thriving in his new school. He knows he can learn, and is smart. This change has been life altering to him. I have my son back.

I should not have had to outplace him. The district should have provided what he required. But they did not, and instead became aggressive towards me for advocating. This is unconscionable.

I share this to illustrate why “business as usual” is failing our most vulnerable children. We need this audit as soon as possible, so Westport can once again become a premier town for educating students, with and without disabilities.

Specifically, I urge the Board to:

  1. Form an Oversight Committee that includes parents of students with disabilities to ensure the scope of work proposed captures systemic issues, such as “Child Find” and IEP fidelity.
  2. Conduct a File-by-File Audit to verify that the services taxpayers are paying for are actually being delivered to the students, and that they are appropriate.

We have a chance to move from a culture of denial, to a culture of accountability and acceptance. Let’s make sure this audit provides the clear roadmap we need to keep our children safe and learning.

Thank you.

(“06880″‘s Opinion pages are open to all. Please send submission to 06880blog@gmail.com. To support this hyper-local blog, click here. Thank you!)

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Roundup: STAR Walk, Earth Day, Car Wash …

Posted on April 24, 2026 | Leave a comment

STAR’s annual Walk & Roll is a great community event. Hundreds of people gather for an energetic celebration, to raise funds for the non-profit that for nearly 75 years has supported children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

This year’s 21st annual Walk & Roll (Sunday, May 3, 10 a.m. to noon) has a new — and very appropriate — location: STAR’s center (182 Wolfpit Avenue, Norwalk).

Some people walk. Others roll in chairs. Some cheer. All have a great time.

Click here to find a team, create your own, and/or donate.

And note: The team leader in donations so far is Laura Blair. The long-time, well-known Westporter — who is always near the top of the board — is raising funds this year in honor Jenna Herbst. Laura worked with Jenna — a STAR client and Westport native — for many years, before her death this winter.

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Earth Day was Wednesday.

But we can — and should — celebrate sustainability every day.

A great chance comes Sunday, May 3 (11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Lachat Town Farm, Weston).

Ecofest features student performers, food, kids’ activities, eco-demos, and more.

Plus: For every 25 bottles or cans you bring, you get 1 entry in a chance to win $250.

Ecofest is sponsored by Lachat Town Farm, the town of Weston, Sustainable Weston, and the Weston Public School Green Teams.

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It’s car wash time!

Kings Highway Elementary School’s 5th graders have you covered.

This Sunday (April 26, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., front of KHS), they’re washing cars for charity.

They’re charging $10 per car. Additional donations are of course welcome.

Proceeds will go to 3 charities, selected by the youngsters: Make-A-Wish Foundation, Project Rescue and New York Marine Rescue Center.

Kings Highway Elementary School

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Delano Melvin was not in school yesterday.

And millions of Americans know why.

Craig Melvin’s 12-year-old son got up early — very early — and left Westport, to join his dad on the “Today” show. (Spoiler alert: It was Take Your Kids to Work Day.)

But Delano did not just sit in the wings.

He got his own star turn.

And we do mean “turn.”

Click here, or watch below. (Hat tip: Sal Liccione)

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A large crowd gathered Wednesday at the Saugatuck Rowing Club, for the Center for Children’s Advocacy’s “Giving Children a Voice” event.

Chris Mattei — a trial attorney and longtime advocate for the state’s most vulnerable youth — gave the keynote address.

In just the last year, CCA:

  • Provided 942 children and youth with legal consultation and representation
  • Advocated for 421 children to address educational barriers; 99% stayed in school or graduated
  • Provided 157 families with help to prevent utility shut-offs, access safe housing and ensure other basic supports
  • Helped 64 children access medical or behavioral health care
  • Represented 94 children involved in immigration proceedings, through a statewide team of pro bono lawyers.

Speakers described some of the work done with children — as young as 5 — swept up by immigration officials, separated from families, and (until CCA intervened) without access to legal help.

Click here for more details on the Center for Children’s Advocacy.

Chris Mattei, at the Center for Children’s Advocacy event. 

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“This Is Your Life” — the person-to-person interview program at the Westport Senior Center — offers 2 intriguing upcoming events.

Former “60 Minutes” writer/producer Tom Anderson visits on May 7. State Senator Ceci Maher follows on June 4. Both are from 2 to 3 p.m. Rozanne Gates moderates.

Since 2023, the Senior Center and Legacy Project USA have collaborated on “This Is Your Life.” The series gives residents a chance to learn about the lives of friends and neighbors. Click here for previous interviews

The public is invited to both events. To register, call 203-341-5099.

State Senator Ceci Maher.

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Westport Police made 6 custodial arrests between April 15 and 21.

A 30-year-old Stamford man was arrested for larceny of a motor vehicle, after officers using a license plate reader at 4 a.m. noticed a BMW X4 that had been stolen a day earlier from a residence in New Jersey. Officers used a stop stick tire deflation device on the Sherwood Island Connector, but the driver drove southbound on I-95. When the vehicle became disabled near Exit 6, 3 individuals fled. A Westport officer located a suspect nearby. He was held on a $25,000 bond.

A 75-year-old Newtown woman was charged with larceny, conspiracy to commit larceny and identity theft, following a 2021 complaint by the conservator of a Westport estate alleging impropriety in the handling of assets. The woman – a former business associate of the man — had held power of attorney. An extensive investigation revealed she had authorized expenditures, and credit and identity usages, exceeding $300,000, made in her and her family’s self-interests. She was held on a $300,000 bond.

A 33-year-old Westport woman was charged with assault, threatenin and disorderly conduct, after a verbal argument escalated to an attempted stabbing with a kitchen knife. The victim sustained minor injuries. The assailant was released on a $2,500 non-surety bond.

A 50-year-old Bridgeport man was charged with failure to appear, after a license plate reader detected a canceled plate that did not match the vehicle. The driver could not produce valid registration or insurance. Computer checks showed he was the subject of an active court warrant for failure to appear, in New Haven. He was released on a $2,500 bond.

A 26-year-old New York City man was charged with failure to appear, after being incarcerated at the Bergen (New Jersey) County Jail on a different charge. He was held on a $100,000 bond.

A 54-year-old New York City man was charged with 2 counts of failure to appear, after being incarcerated at Rikers Island for a different charge. He was held on a $30,000 bond.

Meanwhile, the month-long statewide crackdown on texting while driving continues. Westport Police issued these citations:

  • Texting while driving: 48 citations
  • Distracted driving: 6
  • Failure to renew registration: 5
  • Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulation: 5
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 3
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 2
  • Failure to obey stop sign: 2
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 2
  • Speeding in a school zone: 1
  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 1
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
  • Failure to display license plates: 1
  • Failure to appear: 1

We keep saying it: Don’t text and drive! It’s illegal even when stopped at a light or stop sign.

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Howard Edelstein never gets tired of Saugatuck Shores sunrises.

Here’s yesterday’s — perfect for today’s “Westport … Naturally” series.

(Photo/Howard Edelstein)

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And finally … Alan Osmond, the oldest member of the family singing group, though overshadowed by siblings Donny and Marie — died Monday in Salt Lake City. He was 76, and suffered from multiple sclerosis. He was 76.

Click here for a full obituary.

(Don’t be a bad apple. Or a freeloader. “06880” relies on readers like you. Please click here to support your hyper-local blog. Thank you!) 

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Onyx Needs Help

Posted on April 24, 2026 | 7 comments

Onyx dedicated her life to the Westport Police Department.

As a member of the K-9 unit, she helped officers sniff out drugs and track bad guys. She was faithful, energetic, and very good.

Now, the retired police dog faces a potentially serious medical challenge. A tumor is affecting her eye.

Surgery can remove it. Though difficult, it will prevent further pain and help stem the spread of disease.

Onyx is strong, resilient, and surrounded by people who are committed to fighting for her every step of the way.

Onyx

But this is just the start of Onyx’s medical journey. Surgery will cost a few thousand dollars. If a biopsy confirms malignancy, total care will be much higher.

Harlow’s Heroes is a non-profit that provides medical care, critical services and support for active and retired K-9s.

They’ve already covered all pre-operation expenses. Now they’re looking for help through surgery, and after.

Funds would cover surgical removal of Onyx’s eye; biopsy and diagnostic testing; post-operative care and medications, and follow-up treatment.

Click here to contribute. Then click “Emergency Medical” from the dropdown menu.

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Pic Of The Day #3291

Posted on April 23, 2026 | Leave a comment

Near Saugatuck train station (Photo/John Beckwith)

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“Primary Trust”: Tender Script, Rich Characters, Unexpected Turns

Posted on April 23, 2026 | 4 comments

“06880” culture correspondent Robin Moyer Chung reports:

Over the past few days, “06880” has posted several readers’ praises of Westport Country Playhouse’s latest production, the Pulitzer Prize-winning “Primary Trust.”

I’ll add mine.

Eboni Booth wrote the play during the pandemic, while a student at Juilliard. It premiered Off-Broadway in May 2023.

Touching on isolation, neurodiversity and self-worth, “Primary Trust” illuminates the “invisible” people who float in the margins of our lives.

The characters are rich. The powerful script is tender and charming, with unexpected turns — a quiet uncoiling of the long, relentless tentacles of childhood trauma.

Alphonso Walker Jr., and Lance Coadie Williams.

The show follows Kenneth (Alphonso Walker Jr.), a lonely and unobtrusive 38-year old Black man. Kenneth has worked in the same small bookshop for 20 years. He wanders to Wally’s Tiki Bar every night for the 2-for-1 mai tai special, which he drinks with his only friend, Bert.

Bert, played brilliantly by Lance Coadie Williams, is a jovial and committed companion.

Jasminn Johnson, who effortlessly plays a carousel of entertaining Wally’s waitresses, also plays Corinna, Kenneth’s favorite waitress.

When the small bookstore closes, Kenneth follows a tip from Corinna and applies for a teller position at a local bank.

I don’t want to reveal much else.

Alphonso Walker Jr. and Jasminn Johnson. (Photos/Carolyn Rosegg)

For me, there was one small nag. The 3 main characters — Kenneth, Bert and Corinna — are Black (in accordance with the script). One actor is white: Kenneth’s boss at the bookstore, then the bank, played by the comical Greg Stuhr.

Though not denoted in the script, this casting choice was also in its original smash success off-Broadway.

An antagonistic relationship between older white men and younger Black men is a strong thread throughout modern theatrical and cinematic history, and it threw me off-course. Throughout the show I anticipated a clash or misunderstanding to be its climax, which never happened.

This expectation distracted me from the important themes of the play. Perhaps the casting was intended to disrupt this thread, and alter our preconceptions. I’m all for that.

Lighting designer Jonah Bobilin and sound designer Andrea Allmond deserve a special shout-out for their mastery of some tricky and impactful effects.

“Primary Trust” runs through May 2, 2026.  Click here for show times, tickets and more information.

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