Roundup: Staples Basketball, Overdose Education, Entertainment Options …

Posted on March 14, 2026 | 1 comment

Congratulations to the Staples High School boys and girls basketball teams!

Both pulled away in the second half from solid opponents in last night’s state tournament quarterfinals, before raucous crowds in a home doubleheader.

Both now move on to the state semis — a first in school history.

Staples’ boys  — ranked #1 in Division I — downed #8 New London 56-35. That vaults coach Dave Goldshore’s squad into a matchup against #5 Notre Dame Prep-Fairfield.

The girls of coach Tommy Sparks — seeded 3rd in Division II — topped South Windsor 42-35.

The neutral sites and times of the semifinals will be announced soon. Up next: #10 Bristol Central.

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If you want to learn more about overdoses — and who doesn’t? — check out “CT Save a Life Day.”

The April 8 event (6 p.m., Westport Library) is organized through the Westport Prevention Coalition.

You’ll get liquor stickers and lock bags to prevent access to abusable substances, parent handbooks, and brief training to recognize and respond to an overdose (with a free Narcan kit). Click here to RSVP. 

Narcan nasal spray.

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Speaking of Positive Directions: They’ve partnered with Westport Together, to sponsor a “Night Out” for high school students who live in Westport, or attend school here.

The March 27 event (7 to 9 p.m., Westport Weston Family YMCA) includes an open gym, games, music and food.

The cost is just $5. Click here to register.

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Speaking of the YMCA: Professional ballroom dancer Karina Smirnoff (“Dancing With the Stars”) offers a special ballroom master class on Tuesday (March 17, 10:45 to 11:45 a.m.).

Open to all ages and experience levels, it includes a performance, Q-and-A and photo opportunity. The cost is $40 for Y members, $50 for non-members.

Click here for more information, and to register. To learn more about the Y’s ballroom program, click here. 

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New restaurants are opening at a fast clip downtown.

But one just left: Gogi.

The Korean barbecue spot — located in an out-of-the-way spot, inside Bedford Square behind Emmy Squared — is not completely closed.

They’ve relocated to Shelton.

(Hat tip and photo/Sal Liccione)

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The United Methodist Church is located on Rabbit Hill. The previous owner was Robert Lawson — author/illustrator of the beloved children’s series.

So it’s the perfect site for an Easter egg hunt on March 28 (2 p.m.). All kids are welcome. Click here to register.

There’s a suggested donation of non-perishable food, for local pantries.

Easter egg hunt, at the United Methodist Church.

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Speaking of kids: 2 new family-friendly shows come this spring to the Westport Country Playhouse.

“Click Clack Moo” — based on the Caldecott Honor Book by Doreen Cronin and Betsy Lewin, aimed at pre-K through 4th graders — is set for 2 shows May 16 (1 and 4 p.m.).

“Pete the Cat” follows on June 7. It’s recommended for pre-K through grade 3.

Click here for tickets, and more information. 

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Speaking of entertainment: Westport and Weston will have a strong presence at next weekend’s 6th annual Norwalk Film Festival.

Board member (and Staples High graduate) Jennifer Bangser notes some of the connections:

Friday, March 20: The opening night Sundance-premiered film “Little Richard: I Am Everything” takes a deep dive into the life and career of the charismatic, complicated musician. Emmy and Peabody Award-winning filmmaker/novelist/playwright/essayist/producer/professor Trey Ellis will be in conversation after the film with director/producer Lisa Cortes. Email info@norwalkfilmfestival.org for ticket information.

Saturday, March 21: Staples graduate Cynthia Gibb’s short film “Straight Laced” will be shown during the Connecticut Shorts Block (12 to 2 p.m.). It’s the story of a conscientious honors student who buckles under academic pressure in her town of overachievers and overearnest parents.

In the 2 to 4 p.m. Narrative Shorts Block, “Sit with Me While I Die” stars award-winning actor James Naughton of Weston. He plays a priest who must reconcile his lifelong dogmatic views on suffering with real-life pain.

The Norwalk Film Festival includes many more films, plus workshops and an audience-voted awards ceremony.

More information plus individual tickets, day passes, weekend passes and student discounts are available at www.norwalkfilmfestival.org. Questions? Email Jennifer.Bangser@gmail.com.

James Naughton in “Sit With Me While I Die.”

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Chris Delorier writes: “Help, before someone gets seriously hurt!

“I live on High Point Road. At least once a week a near accident occurs from people blowing through the stop sign down the hill on Long Lots Road.

“There are many new drivers every year, many kids walking to school or on bikes. My fear is nothing will be done until it’s too late.

“Half, I bet, are innocent mistakes. It’s a tough sign to see. On Cross Highway at Bayberry Lane they put in flashing solar stop signs. At a minimum that should be done at Long Lots and High Point.

“Let’s not wait for a life to be taken. This seems like a no-brainer.”

Drivers coming down the Long Lots Road hill often ignore the stop sign (right) at High Point Road.

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Congratulations to Staples’ 8 Students of the Month: seniors Isabel Jo and Henry Wood, juniors Samantha Armentano and Catalina Zapata, juniors Olivia Flinn and Nickolas Glekas, and freshmen Maya Luo and Sophia Muriel.

The honor recognizes “students who help make Staples a welcoming place for peers and teachers alike. They are the ‘glue’ of the community: the type of creative, thoughtful, conscientious students that keep the high school together, enabling it to grow and thrive.”

Recipients are nominated by teachers, in recognition of hard work, friendliness to staff and students, and positive contributions inside and outside the classroom.

Students of the Month (from left): Catalina Zapata, Samantha Armentano, Olivia Flinn, Isabel Jo, Maya Luo, Sophia Muriel, Henry Wood.

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Journalist/author/former “Good Morning America” host Joan Lunden spoke about her new memoir — “Joan: Life Beyond the Script” — on Thursday, at the Westport Library.

With sports reporter and Westport resident Lindsay Czarniak, Lunden talked about life transitions, and the importance of embracing change.

Joan Lunden and Lindsay Czarniak on the Westport Library stage; “Good Morning America” stage is behind. (Photo/Susan Garment)

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The Sally was a Fairfield County merchant sloop that was converted into a Revolutionary War vessel.

It played an important role in espionage, raids against the British, and privateering in Long Island Sound during the The Sally – and was involved in Nathan Hale’s ill-fated spy mission.

On April 11 (2 p.m., Weston History & Culture Center), historian Edward Eckert discusses The Sally. The event is free, but registration is required. Click here. 

At 3:15 p.m the same day, Laura Clark Murray speaks on for “Genetic Genealogy in Action: From Researching Patriots to Solving Cold Cases.”

It too is free, but registration is required. Click here.

Merchant ship, back in the day.

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State Representative Lucy Dathan of New Canaan hopes to add Westport to her list of constituents.

She has joined the race to succeed Ceci Maher, for the 26th State Senate seat.

Dathan now chairs the Government Oversight Committee, and sits on both the Appropriations and Human Services Committees. Beyond her legislative work, she has been a CPA and CFO for start-ups.

The 26th district includes Westport, Weston, and all or part of 6 other towns. Weston First Selectwoman Sam Nestor is also running for the seat.

State Representative Lucy Dathan

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” featured photo is a reflective shot of Sherwood Mill Pond.

Much more wildlife will return soon, to the tranquil 84-acre tidal pond and estuary.

(Photo/Nikki Gorman)

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And finally … Happy Pi Day!

(The music will never die. And — thanks to continued reader support — let’s hope “06880” won’t either. To help keep us alive, please make a tax-deductible contribution by clicking here. Thank you all!)

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Posted in Children, Entertainment, Library, Politics, Restaurants, Sports, Staples HS, Westport Country Playhouse, YMCA

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Online Art Gallery #309

Posted on March 14, 2026 | 1 comment

From the Cribari Bridge in Westport to a Buddhist temple in Asia, this week’s online art gallery once again spans the world.

It also covers a wide variety of mediums, styles and themes.

Please join us — not only as a gallery-goer, but an artist.

As always, we invite you to be part of next week’s exhibition. No matter your age; the style or subject you choose — and whether you’re a first-timer or old-timer — we welcome 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 — art lovers want to know.

“Cribari” (Patricia McMahon — Available for purchase; click here)

“Into the Woods” — leather hot tool drawing (Dorothy Robertshaw — Available for purchase; click here)

“Dave Playing Cream’s 1968 ‘Crossroads'” — watercolor (Eric Bosch)

Untitled — collage (Lauri Weiser)

“Metamorphosis” (Ava Rock — age 14, One River Art student)

“New National Bird” (Mark Yurkiw — Available for purchase; click here)

“Spaghetti” — oil on canvas, 32 x 32 (H. Schoelhammer — Available for purchase; click here)

“FarmaCity” (Tom Doran — Available for purchase; click here)

“Artistic Candles” (John Maloney)

“Walkabout” — acrylic on original metal sign (Jerry Kuyper)

“Pelagic Reverie” (Nancy Breakstone — Available for purchase; click here)

“Buddhism is Well Rooted in Many Countries” (Mike Hibbard)

“Good Housekeeping Seal” (Martin Ripchick — Available for purchase; click here)

“Sketching” — watercolor (Steve Stein)

“Eminence Gris” (Lawrence Weisman)

“Drawing of Aphrodite’s Bust” — pencil on paper (Bill Fellah)

 

(Entrance is free to our online art gallery. But please consider a donation! Just click here — and thank you!)

 

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GFS Teacher Takes Autism Experience Overseas

Posted on March 14, 2026 | 6 comments

For 10 years, special education teacher Sarah Innes has served students from kindergarten through 4th grade.

From working in the classroom to catching up with former students and parents at Trader Joe’s or Compo Beach, she feels a deep connection to Westport families.

This summer, she will take the experience she’s gained in our district, and stretch it — and herself — far beyond our borders.

Innes will volunteer overseas as a SkillCorps member with the Global Autism Project. She’ll be assigned to a school devoted specifically to children on the autism spectrum.

Sarah Innes

Innes — who began her special ed career in 2010, in the first New York City public school for children with autism — is a board certified behavior analyst. She joined the Westport Public Schools in 2015.

She does not yet know which of 4 countries she’ll be assigned to. But wherever it is, she looks forward to helping.

“Our kids here have so much more than other parts of the world,” Innes says. “There are so many places that need support and funding.”

She’ll pay for all her travel expenses. In addition, she has pledged to raise $9,500 to help with curriculum development, staff training, professional conferences and mentorship programs. She’s already nearly halfway there. (Click here to donate, and for more information.)

“I believe that location should never determine the quality of a child’s education,” Innes says.

“My career has been defined by my work in 2 of the nation’s leading school systems for individuals with disabilities.

“Having seen the life-changing results of these programs, I am passionate about taking the lessons I’ve learned and sharing them with the world. I am dedicated to enriching communities that haven’t yet had the opportunity to provide this level of specialized support.”

6 Comments

Posted in Education

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Pic Of The Day #3250

Posted on March 13, 2026 | 2 comments

One of Westport’s most interesting trees: Long Lots Road (Photo/Ed Simek)

2 Comments

Posted in Environment, Pic of the Day

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Friday Flashback #494

Posted on March 13, 2026 | 19 comments

Six years ago this week, COVID slammed into Westport.

Those were dizzying days. On Sunday, March 7, 2020 town officials held a meeting at the Westport Library, about the looming crisis.

The in-person crowd was small — and nervous. Hundreds more watched via livestream. For many, it was the first experience with a “virtual” meeting.

Three days later, on March 10, the situation had rapidly escalated. Officials held a press briefing — outside, in front of Town Hall.

“06880” covered those events — and everything else associated with “the coronavirus” — in depth.

Today, we present 2 of those stories. The first is a report on that Sunday meeting at the Library. The second is about that Town Hall meeting.

What do you remember about those first day, in Westport? Click “Comments” below.

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Town’s COVID-19 Forum: Many Questions. Lots Of Answers. Much Unknown.

Posted on March 8, 2020

A small, well-spaced-apart crowd was joined by many more online participants this afternoon. They gathered, in real space and cyberspace, to hear from experts about the looming threat from COVID-19.

The Westport Library event — called “a forum in the Forum” by 1st Selectman Jim Marpe — provided plenty of detailed information. Presentations were clear and cogent; questions were wide-ranging and thoughtful; answers were direct and honest.

It was a powerful display of active, coordinated town leadership on many levels, and a reminder that good government has a powerful place in society.

1st Selectman Jim Marpe (far right), and today’s COVID-19 panel at the Westport Library.

The key takeaways, from Marpe, Westport Weston Health District director Mark Cooper, fire chief and director of emergency management Robert Yost, Westport Public Schools health services supervisor Suzanne Levasseur and others:

It is virtually inevitable that COVID-19 will come to Westport. It’s not a matter of “if,” but “when.” Our population is too mobile, and the virus is too relentless. In fact, it may already be here.

Town officials — including the 1st Selectman, Health District and public schools — are in constant contact with the state and CDC. Conversations are frequent, ongoing and productive.

There are dozens of “what-ifs.” No one knows how many people will be affected or how. Planning is taking place to cover many scenarios.

The best precautions include rigorous hand-washing, frequent cleaning of surfaces, and careful monitoring of surroundings and contacts. Plus, self-monitoring. And save face masks for health care providers and people who are already sick.

State Representative Jonathan Steinberg (left), who co-chairs the Legislature’s Public Health Committee, and 1st Selectman Jim Marpe demonstrate the best way to say hello, COVID-19-style.

If you feel ill but have not traveled to somewhere affected, are not in a high-risk category, or had contact with someone who is ill, contact your health care provider.

If, however, you have traveled to a high-risk area, or are in a high-risk category (elderly or immuno-compromised), contact the WWHD (www.wwhd.org; 203-227-9571).

The Westport Schools are being very proactive. This includes enhanced cleaning; education about the disease and proper hygiene procedures. and monitoring of student health. Nurses are on heightened awareness; there are signs, videos and plenty of soap and sanitizers in every school. Discussions are “ongoing” about things like field trips.

Here are some of the key questions from audience members and online participants — and the answers:

Should people over 60 be particularly worried? Those in this higher-risk group should follow CDC guidelines to limit exposure — particularly people with underlying health issues.

Where is testing being done? Right now, only in hospitals.

The in-person audience was small. But many more residents viewed the forum on the Westport Library’s streaming feed and Facebook page.

How is the Senior Center handling this? Director Sue Pfister said that, thanks to the day and night custodians, “it’s never been cleaner.” There are wipes and signs throughout the building, with an information table out front. “We are operating as normally as possible,” she said. “We are monitoring and educating, without panicking.” Clients are self-monitoring too, and not coming in if they don’t feel well. The staff is making contingency plans for meals for people who depend on the Center, in the event of closure.

Can we trust the CDC? Cooper said the organization is filled with excellent scientists, who are coordinating with colleagues around the world.

Who decides if schools will close? The superintendent — though Governor Lamont could make an emergency declaration. The cause could be infected students or staff, or as a preventive measure to avoid further spread. Daycare centers are also making contingency plans. Marpe noted that because many teachers — and other town employees — live elsewhere, decisions on closing are “complex.” For that reason, they may be made on a regional or statewide basis, rather than town by town.

What about budget implications? Marpe said he and the town’s legal staff are examining the implications of not being able to meet publicly for discussions  — though public meetings are mandated for things like budget decisions.

What about Metro-North? They have enhanced their cleaning procedures — and have seen a drop in ridership. The most at-risk riders should think about using alternative travel methods.

What about restaurants? Owners should check the CDC for checklists. Clorox solutions are the best way to clean. The WWHD will send owners detailed information, if the risk increases.

What about gyms, fitness centers and the Y? They are no more (or less) at risk than other gathering places. Most places seem to be wiping their equipment well; users can do the same.  “Social distancing” is important, as is good hygiene. There is no evidence that the virus is spread by sweat; it is spread through coughing, sneezing, and on surfaces.

What about Westport business with many employees who live elsewhere? Some are encouraging them to work from home. Bridgewater, for example, has taken the virus “extremely seriously.” They are in contact with the WWHD, and have limited travel by their employees.

Do Westport’s first responders have enough equipment? Yost says we have been very proactive. And if the situation goes on for a very long period of time? “Probably.”

Westport’s Emergency Medical Services staff were out in force at today’s COVID-19 forum. (All photos/Dan Woog)

Anything else we should know? Our emergency responders and the Health District are watching everything carefully — and everything else too. “We could have severe weather tomorrow that takes out power to everyone,” one panelist said. “We’re preparing for that too.”

In conclusion: Every action has a reaction. We don’t know what the reaction to all this will be, but town officials are planning assiduously and relentlessly. As for the tipping point of this pandemic: “We don’t know when it will come. But we do know it won’t disappear. We’ll keep watching, offering information, and making recommendations.”

The best sources of information:

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COVID-19 UPDATE: Town Officials Offer Latest Information On Schools, Services, Safety And More

Posted on March 11, 2020

The weather outside Town Hall was springlike and beautiful.

The faces on the officials arrayed on the front steps were grim.

First selectman Jim Marpe, Westport Weston Health District director Mark Cooper, Westport Public Schools director of administration John Bayers and others outlined today’s rapid developments regarding COVID-19.

Flanked by town officials, 1st Selectman Jim Marpe announces the latest COVID-19 news. From left: Fire Chief and town emergency management head Robert Yost; Westport Weston Health District director Mark Cooper; Police Chief Foti Koskinas; Westport Public Schools director of administration John Bayers; 2nd Selectwoman Jen Tooker, and 3rd Selectwoman Melissa Kane.

Last Thursday (March 5), approximately 40 people attended a private party in Westport.

One attendee — a man from an unnamed other nation — was there. He’d been in the US, and was headed home. He did not feel ill.

When he returned to his home country, he developed flu-like symptoms. WWHD officials received verbal notification today that he tested positive for COVID-19.

Of the 40 or so attendees at the party, approximately 14 have since reported flu-like symptoms. “We’re making the assumption it’s COVID-19,” Cooper said. The Health District is compiling a list of all attendees, and assessing their conditions.

“It’s likely many people were exposed,” Cooper said. “And others will be.”

Westport Weston Health District director Mark Cooper.

The party included school-age children. When education officials learned the news, shortly before noon, they made the decision to close all Westport public schools.

Schools will be closed — along with all related activities — for an undetermined period of time. Meanwhile, deep cleaning of all buildings will begin.

“The schools have been working closely for several weeks with the Health District,” Bayers noted. “Our plans were accelerated today.”

His office will communicate information about next steps for students tonight and tomorrow. More updates will follow, in the days ahead.

Westport Public Schools director of administration John Bayers.

Also closed: Town Hall.

Marpe announced it will be shut tomorrow (Thursday) and Friday. Officials will spend time determining how best to offer essential services to the public, while maintenance staff performs deep cleaning.

All municipal meetings are canceled for “the foreseeable future,” Marpe said. The first casualties: Thursday’s Planning & Zoning and Board of Finance sessions.

Human Services Department head Elaine Daignault noted that — as announced earlier today — the Senior Center is closed. The Toquet Hall teen center is similarly shut.

Senior Center director Sue Pfister (far right) listens to the press conference.

Daignault reiterated that staff will assist anyone, such as seniors and people with financial need, despite the closures. Meals to homebound residents will continue to be delivered. For questions or more information, call 203-341-1050.

“We’ll maintain essential services,” she said, urging Westporters to be “good neighbors” to those in need.

Westport Library director Bill Harmer said that his facility will be closed tomorrow (Thursday) and Friday for deep cleaning. Meanwhile, the staff will devise plans moving forward.

The library will reopen Monday for “essential services” only: book checkouts, and reference questions. Harmer encouraged residents to use the library’s extensive digital resources.

Print and television reporters kept their distance from each other, at the press conference on the steps of Town Hall. (All photos/Dan Woog)

The Parks & Recreation Department is limiting the use of fields. The goal is to “avoid gatherings,” Marpe said.

Marpe called the COVID-19 crisis “a constantly evolving situation,” then asked for questions.

In response to one about the availability of test kits, Cooper said that the Health District has been told, “they’re coming.”

Marpe has spoken with Governor Ned Lamont about the issue.

“He’s as frustrated as we are that the kits are not available yet,” the first selectman said. “He’s using every technique possible to get them.”

Marpe reiterated the basic health advice — “wash your hands!” — and noted the importance of avoiding large gatherings.

Private institutions must decide for themselves which events to cancel. “We recognize these are tough decisions,” he said.

(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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Posted in Education, Friday Flashback, Library

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Roundup: Jim Himes, Urinetown, Hazardous Waste …

Posted on March 13, 2026 | 3 comments

Jim Himes is a longtime friend of Homes with Hope.

On Wednesday, Westport’s non-profit that works to end homelessness and food insecurity in Fairfield County welcomed the congressman to the Gillespie Center.

Homes with Hope staff, board members, community partners and local leaders thanked Himes for his continued advocacy in Washington, on behalf of our most vulnerable neighbors.

Himes met with HwH board chair Becky Martin, emeritus chair John Walsh, and board member Amanda Castellano, along with selectpersons Kevin Christie and Amy Wistreich.

During the visit, a veteran now residing at the Gillespie Center thanked Himes for helping him obtain medical benefits. Another resident said that the congressman had helped her too.

Congressman Jim Himes (2nd from right), with 1st Selectman Kevin Christie (far left) and Homes with Hope staff members and friends.

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“Urinetown” opened last night, to a raucous reception.

Staples Players’ spring production of the Tony Award-winning satiric musical is a worthy successor to the fall’s “Les Misérables” (with a few winks and nods to that popular show).

The cast has a great time conveying the dystopian-with-a-song message. Young kids enjoy the potty humor; older ones, and adults, understand the deeper theme.

The show runs this weekend only: tonight (Friday, 7:30 p.m.); tomorrow (Saturday, 2 and 7:30 p.m.) and Sunday (2 p.m.). Click here for tickets, and more information.

Grayson Jandora (center) as Officer Lockstock, with the ensemble of “Urinetown.”

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Westport’s next Hazardous Waste Day is Saturday, April 11 (9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Greens Farms railroad station).

The free program enables residents of Westport, Norwalk, New Canaan, Darien, Stamford and Greenwich to safely dispose of household hazardous wastes.

Residents of those towns may bring these types of hazardous waste: gasoline, kerosene, spray paint, paint strippers, paint thinners, solvents, paints, stains, turpentine, varnishes, wood preservatives, degreasers, fertilizers, fungicides, herbicides, insecticides, pesticides, bleach, charcoal lighter, cleaning chemicals, drain cleaners, mercury thermometers, moth balls, pet flea shampoos, photo chemicals, rug shampoos, spot removers, art supplies and paints.

  • Make sure items are clearly labeled.
  • Never mix chemicals!
  • Keep products in their original labeled containers.
  • Place leaky containers in clear plastic bags.
  • Tighten lids of all containers, and pack items in sturdy cardboard boxes lined with paper.
  • Put boxes in the trunk or in back of the vehicle, away from passengers.
  • Leave pets and children home when bringing hazardous materials for collection.

Westport residents may recycle antifreeze, motor oil, batteries of any type, light bulbs and electronics at the transfer station on the Sherwood Island Connector, weekdays from 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.; Saturdays from 7 a.m. to noon.

The following items are NOT acceptable: ammunition, flares, commercial hazardous waste.

Questions? Call Westport’s Public Works Department: 203-341-1793.

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Last week, Sustainable Westport offered some tips on how to “UnPlastic” your kitchen.

Today they follow up with a how-to video.

Program manager Gretchen Hoffman shows how small changes can make a big difference.

She leads a tour of her own kitchen, describing reusable product bags, a variety of storage containers, cutting boards and stainless steel cooking utensils.

Click here to view on Instagram, or below for the YouTube version.

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Westport is not Vermont.

But we can try.

A “maple syrup boil and demonstration” (March 28, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Wakeman Town Farm) offers a chance to talk to WTF farmers about tapping and producing maple syrup, and to check out the Farm’s homestead-sized evaporator.

It’s also a great time to ask the farmers any general gardening questions.

The event is free, but registration is required. Click here to reserve a spot.

Maple syrup tapping, at Wakeman Town Farm.

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Speaking still of the environment:  The 2023 film “Common Ground” unveiled a dark web of money, power and politics behind our food system. But it also profiled farmers who use alternative “regenerative” models of agriculture that could balance the climate, save our health, and stabilize America’s economy.

Connecticut farmers feature prominently in the documentary.

The Westport Farmers’ Market is sponsoring a free showing this Sunday (March 15, 4:30 p.m., The Warehouse @ Fairfield Theatre Company). Click here to reserve a spot.

 

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The Longshore golf course reservation system will transition from Chelsea to a new tee time reservation platform — ForeUp — ext week.

To ensure a smooth changeover, all handpass holders must log into their Chelsea account and confirm that their contact information is current before the system transfer.

To update your information, click here.

The new reservation system requires each handpass holder to have a unique email address associated with their account. If multiple accounts share the same email address, or if account information is not updated prior to the transfer, delays or issues booking tee times at the start of the season may result.

Fore! (Photo/Susan Garment)

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Will this be Westport’s biggest tag sale ever?

On May 2, the Nolan Team at Compass is sponsoring a town-wide tag sale. Residents can participate by hosting a sale at their own home.

It’s a great way to get plenty of publicity. The Nolan Team handles all promotion (including a sign for your lawn or driveway). Your address will be included on a map, and all publicity.

Shoppers can plan their own route, and visit multiple sales all day.

To participate, and for more information, click here.

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The Westport Library is a town gem. The only 5-star library in the state offers an astonishing array of events, programs, services — even a state-of-the-art recording studio.

But it doesn’t just happen. A board of trustees provides guidance and oversight.

As upcoming vacancies loom, they’re looking for qualified, eager candidates.

Responsibilities include governance and fiduciary duties, strategic oversight, collaboration with leadership, financial stewardship and support, and more.

Candidates must be Westport residents. Fundraising experience and strong community connections are key. Skills in strategic planning, finance, law, nonprofit operations or areas supporting innovation and digital strategy are valued but not required.

Trustee appointments are for 4 years, this year beginning July 1. Interested candidates should email a resume and letter of interest to  spresutto@westportlibrary.org by March 20.

Trustees needed!

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Congratulations to Amelia Guimond!

Last weekend, she became the first Staples female wrestler ever to place in the state open tournament.

Amelia placed 6th, at 138 pounds. Great work, Amelia.

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Despite the dismal end to the week, the earlier part gave us hope that spring is lurking nearby — somewhere.

Amy Schneider spotted these snowdrops along the Library Riverwalk.

(Photo/Amy Schneider)

May there be many more to follow.

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And finally … Today is the second straight month with a Friday the 13th.

That’s pretty rare. In fact, it can only happen in a non-leap year, when the first one is February. Enjoy!

(Despite the unlucky day, we are lucky to have you as an “06880” reader. And it will truly be our lucky day if you click here, to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Environment, Library, Longshore, Staples HS

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Lee Goldstein Joins State Rep Race

Posted on March 13, 2026 | 12 comments

A second Westporter has joined the race to succeed State Representative Jonathan Steinberg.

Board of Education chair Lee Goldstein joins Matthew Mandell in the campaign for the 136th District. Steinberg is retiring.

Goldstein — a Yale University graduate and former high school English teacher, writer, editor and manager of a family foundation, and volunteer with the Westport Arts Advisory Committee and Mercy Learning Center — filed paperwork on Thursday.

“Westport deserves experienced, thoughtful leadership that protects our schools, strengthens our communities, and takes the rising cost of living seriously,” says Goldstein. “I’m running to bring that leadership to Hartford.”

As BOE chair for 4 years, Goldstein helped lead the renovation of Coleytown Middle School, plan for a new Long Lots Elementary School and Stepping Stones Preschool, and develop a comprehensive capital improvement plan.

School budgets have passed unanimously, which she attributes to collaboration she fostered between the Board of Ed, Board of Finance and Representative Town Meeting.  

Lee Goldstein

However, she notes, “Federal instability threatens funding, public health and safety, education, reproductive rights, and common-sense gun safety laws. Connecticut needs steady, values-driven leaders in Hartford who recognize what’s at stake and bring people together to solve problems.”

Goldstein tells “06880”: “I am proud of our remarkable schools. But over the past 4 years on the Board, I’ve learned that more depends on relationships and trust than on any single decision.

“Whether we’re aligning budgets with long-term priorities, advancing overdue capital work or developing complex strategic plans, progress comes from listening, persistence, and a willingness to bring people together around shared goals. The most durable decisions are rarely the most dramatic ones — they’re the ones people have a hand in creating themselves.

“What is drawing me toward Hartford right now is a mix of optimism and urgency. I think Connecticut has the capacity to respond thoughtfully to this moment -strengthening public education, protecting reproductive rights, public health, and gun safety laws, addressing affordability pressures, and helping communities plan responsibly for the long term.

“But optimism only matters if you’re willing to take responsibility for what comes next. Over time, I’ve come to feel that the next phase of the work I care about needs to happen at the state level.”

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Posted in Education, Politics

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Toquet Hall: Touring The Town’s Teen Center

Posted on March 13, 2026 | 2 comments

As a homeschooled middle schooler, Quinn Fitts was vaguely aware of Toquet Hall.

Yet until, as a Staples High School freshman, she heard youth board members of the town’s teen center talk about an upcoming “’20s Night” — 1900s, not 2000s — she had never gone.

But she climbed the stairs to Toquet (it’s in one of those if-you-know,-you-know locations, in the alley between the Post Road and Jesup Road by the Westport Book Shop).

Toquet Hall’s funky exterior.

Quinn walked into the wide-open room, with couches, a stage, video games and snacks. She played table games, and card games.

“It was pretty cool,” she recalls.

Toquet Hall: the view from the stage.

Two years later, Quinn is on the Toquet Hall youth board herself.

They meet weekly. They plan, and run, events. “It’s a great way to get involved in the community of Westport,” she says.

And to offer fun, low-key activities to middle and high schoolers here.

As the youth board has done for nearly 3 decades — ever since the center opened in 1998, in a 19th-century building that was once an opera house — they’ve tried to get the word out that it is a great place to hang out.

Plenty to do for everyone, at Toquet Hall.

One of the first big events Quinn helped with was “Spicy Twos” — a “Hot Ones”-esque evening. More recently, she worked on another “20s Night.”

On Friday, March 20 Toquet Hall is open from 5 to 10 p.m., for board games, card games, video games (there’s a Switch, Wii, and 3 types of Smash Bros), pool, or just talking with friends.

Pool, video games, and much more.

The next event (Saturday, March 21) is “Jeopardy Night.” In the works: a “Star Wars” movie.

And of course, there is music.

The Townies get ready to play.

Toquet also offers events for middle schoolers. (Tonight — Friday — there’s a Super Smash Bros. tournament, from 7 to 9 p.m.). And it’s open for drop-ins after school for that age group too.

Quinn is part of Staples Players. Her friends enjoy Toquet Hall (and serve on its youth board).

She wants other friend groups to come too.

“It’s a fun place to hang out,” she notes. “We don’t have other places where you can just exist for free, except the library.”

For more information, including a calendar, click here. The Instagram is @toquethall.

(“06880” often covers Westport’s youth scene — plus everything else in town. If you enjoy stories like this, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Downtown, Teenagers

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Pics Of The Day #2349

Posted on March 12, 2026 | 3 comments

One view of the Parker Harding Plaza footbridge … 

… and another (Photos/John Maloney)

3 Comments

Posted in Downtown, Pic of the Day

Tagged

Roundup: Post Office, Restaurant, Music, Sports & More …

Posted on March 12, 2026 | 8 comments

It’s that time of year again: People put tax payments in the mail.

And once again: Other people are stealing them, from the mail.

Our friends at the Westport post office say: Hand all important mail directly to the clerks behind the counter.

That’s right. It’s not only dangerous to use your own mailbox, and the one outside the post office in Playhouse Square — it’s also risky to use the drop box inside. 

It’s a sad state of affairs. But you’ve been warned.

The only upside: Our postal clerks are the best, and friendliest, anywhere. It’s always nice to have that little bit of human interaction.

Nope! Don’t use the drop box inside the post office. Hand important mail directly to a clerk at the counter!

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From Mediterranean to pancakes to Japanese.

That’s the journey of the 2-floor restaurant at 43 Main Street.

Yuzu has opened its doors, at the Parker Harding Plaza side of the “Tunnel of Love” connecting the parking lot with Main Street. The spot was most recently the Original Pancake House. Before that is was Acqua, preceded by Boca.

Yuzu brings “a fresh take on Japanese cuisine,” featuring “a premium cuisine and omakase experience.” Their goal is to create “a welcoming space where Westporters can gather, and enjoy high-quality dining.”

Yuzu is the newest in a recent spate of Main Street restaurant openings. Just last week Felice debuted, in nearby space previously filled by Mexicue.

Click here for Yuzu’s website, with menus and more information.

Inside Yuzu.

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Musicians get most of the headlines at VersoFest.

But the Westport Library’s annual music, media and more extravaganza includes plenty of non-artists, headlining intriguing panels.

The newest addition is “Coffee with the C-Suite: Creators, Technologists, and Music’s AI Frontier” (Sunday, March 29, 10:30 a.m.).

Executive-level leaders from across music tech, rights investment, AI creation tools and licensing platforms will discuss the seismic shifts redefining the industry.

Speakers include Westporter Sam Hendel, managing partner at Chord Music Partners and Dundee Partners (and co-founder of StartUp Westport); Paul Sinclair, chief music officer at Suno; Daniel Rowland, vice president of strategy and partnerships at LANDR, Danny Newcomb, CEO and co-founder of Incantio. Music industry veteran and Westport resident Dick Wingate will moderate the free panel.

For more information on this AI panel, click here. For the full VersoFest schedule, and more information, click here.

Sam Hendel

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Speaking of music: The Mamas and the Papas, Byrds, Buffalo Springfield, Doors, Crosby Stills & Nash, Neil Young, James Taylor, Carole King, Joni Mitchell and the Eagles all come to the Westport Country Playhouse on March 22.

Well, maybe not the actual artists.

But their music will sure be there.

“Live from Laurel Canyon – Songs and Stories of American Folk Rock” is an evening of live music and narrated stories of some of the most influential songwriters who lived in Laurel Canyon in the 1960s and ’70s. them.

It’s a tribute evening — and much more. Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Great bluegrass comes to the Levitt Pavilion on June 11.

Greensky Bluegrass is the latest addition to the outdoor summer series lineup.

The quintet’s underground die-hard fans pack venues across the country. The group has sold out multiple-night runs at venues like Red Rocks and the Ryman. Tickets go on sale to the public tomorrow (March 13, 10 a.m.). Click here to purchase, and for more information.

The Levitt also added a new free ticket show. Circles Around the Sun — tangibly linked to Grateful Dead history, and “sharing shelf space with post-rock, psych-rock, jazz-funk and good old fashioned psychedelia” — has been booked for June 27. Click here for free tickets, and more information.

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TOPSoccer — the program for youngsters with physical or learning differences — returns for a second spring season.

Blake Serotta — a freshman player at Staples — leads the program, in conjunction with the Weston Soccer Club and Westport Soccer Association.

TOPSoccer is open to boys and girls in grades K-8. It runs Saturdays, 11;30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., from April 11 through June 6 at Morehouse Farm Park in Weston.

The program is run by Coach Felipe of Ole Soccer, and includes fun games, drills, and small-sided games. Each child is paired with a buddy, who stays with them on the field.

High schoolers are welcome as volunteers and buddies.

To learn more, and sign up as a player or buddy, click here.

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Speaking of sports: The Westport Swim Club’s first “Candy” meet of the year last Sunday got the season of to a fun, energetic start, at the Staples High School pool.

The intra-squad meet for swimmers in grades 2-8 was a first for many. Candy Meets are a friendly introduction to competitive swimming. Participation, confidence and fun come first (with a little candy as motivation after each race). Staples swimmers volunteer, and help the youngsters learn to cheer for each other.

There is still room for young swimmers (and divers). Click here, or email swimwestport@gmail.com.

All smiles at the Westport Swim Club “Candy Meet.”

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Miggs Burroughs has had quite a career.

And on Tuesday, the Staples High School graduate, noted artist/graphic designer/photographer/civic volunteer took the Y’s Women through it all.

He spoke about his engineering studies at the Carnegie Institute of Technology; working at Pepperidge Farm; designing a stamp for the US Postal Service, and his many efforts on behalf of countless local organizations.

And he did it all with his trademark good humor, and great modesty.

Miggs Burroughs (Hat tip and photo/Vera DeStefano)

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Westport Police made no custodial arrests between March 4 and 11.

They did issue these citations:

  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 15 citations
  • Failure to renew registration: 10
  • Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 6
  • Texting while driving: 5
  • Distracted driving: 5
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 5
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 3
  • Speeding in a school zone: 2
  • Reckless driving: 1
  • Speeding: 1
  • Traveling too fast for conditions: 1
  • Disobeying the signal of a police officer: 1
  • Interfering with a police officer: 1
  • Passing in a no-passing zone; 1
  • Following too closely: 1
  • Failure to yield right of way 1
  • Unreadable license plate: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1

Disobeying the signal of a police officer is against the law.

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Speaking of police: We don’t know what this driver did to get booted.

But here’s a sight you don’t see every day, at the Westport train station:

(Photo/Michael Diggin)

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Speaking still of police: Where were they Tuesday at Compo Beach, when this egregious breach of the law occurred?

(Photo/Nancy Lewis)

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Staples High School graduate Jeffrey Ruden and his family have been touched by Alzheimer’s disease.

His mother Carole suffered. That journey inspired Jeffrey and his brother Dave to help others. They have chaired the CT Walk for Alzheimer’s, and Jeffrey served on the CTALZ board for several years.

Jeffrey wishes he had known about CaringKind during his mother’s illness. With over 45 years of experience, they work directly with community partners to develop information, tools, training and support for caregivers.

Now he is chairing an inaugural “Hope Blooms” gala for CaringKind (May 14, Fairfield County Hunt Club).

For tickets or sponsorship opportunities, click here or email jmruden@yahoo.com

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It’s that time of year.

A mother hawk trains her fledgling near Bayberry Lane, in today’s “Westport … Naturally” featured photo.

Hopefully, they won’t go after Carl’s chickens.

(Photo/Carl McNair)

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And finally … just to reinforce the Post Office alert (story above):

(The good news: You don’t have to mail a check to support “06880.” Click here for the many ways to contribute to your hyper-local blog. Thank you! PS: Be careful out there.)

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Posted in Beach, Entertainment, Library, Police, Restaurants, Transportation, Westport Country Playhouse

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