Superintendent of Schools Thomas Scarice sent this note today to the Westport School Community:
I am writing to provide an update regarding police activity along Long Lots Road this morning that led Staples High School and Bedford Middle School to activate the district’s security protocol and place both buildings in temporary holds.
Shortly before 8 a.m., the Westport Police Department received reports of a man acting erratically and yelling at vehicles in the area of Long Lots Road. In response, police officers, including multiple members of the department’s School Security Unit, acted quickly to assess the situation and identify the individual.
Through their coordinated efforts and ongoing communication with school administrators, the situation was addressed, and both schools were able to return to normal operations.
We understand that any situation requiring the activation of our school security protocols can be concerning for students, staff, and families. Please know that these protocols are in place to help protect our school communities, and decisions to implement them are made with careful consideration of the information available at the time.
This morning’s response demonstrated the importance of our strong partnership with the Westport Police Department and the constant communication between law enforcement and school administrators. That coordination allowed us to respond promptly, take appropriate precautions, and return both schools to normal operations as quickly as possible.
The safety and well-being of our students and staff remain our highest priorities. We are grateful to the Westport Police Department and our school security personnel for their swift response and continued partnership in keeping our schools safe.
Westport is filled with sharp, creative startup entrepreneurs.
Even so, Dylan Diamond stands out.
The co-founder and CEO of Saturn — the wildly successful calendar app for high school and college students, which raised $44 million in a 2021 funding round, before its acquisition by Snap — was also Tesla’s youngest intern.
In the world.
He created his killer app, and joined the red-hot EV car firm, while still at Staples High School.
He’s still only in his mid-20s.
The Dealroom — an online business site — just posted an interview with the Class of 2017 graduate.
He talks about his career, his coding, his time at the University of Pennsylvania (he did not finish, in order to pursue his business interests) and more. Click here to read the full story. (Hat tip: John Dodig)
Dylan Diamond
WESTPORT MOMS’ FALL FESTIVAL SET FOR SATURDAY FUN
Fine weather is forecast for this Saturday’s WestportMoms’ 6th annual Fall Festival.
The event (October 24, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Gilbertie’s Herbs & Garden Center) is one of the town’s family friendliest autumn activities.
There’s a DJ, mini music classes, face painting, a bubble show, ninja wall, sports games, costume contest, Halloween crafts, cookie and pumpkin decorating, food trucks and more.
Kids can also meet Skye and Chase from PAW Patrol, and families will receive a special gift from Melissa & Doug (while available).
Westport’s annual, much anticipated, and fun-but-not-too scary Halloween Parade strolls down Main Street next Wednesday (October 28, 3:30 p.m.). It begins at the Post Road East corner.
The event — specially geared for children 8 and under — is co-sponsored by the Parks & Recreation Department, Downtown Merchants Association and Westport PAL.
From Main Street, the parade turns right on Avery Place, then left on Myrtle Avenue. Youngsters may trick or treat along the route, and on Veterans Green. Entertainment, refreshments and small gifts will be provided there, at 4 p.m.
There is no parking along the route, from 2 to 4 p.m. Vehicular and pedestrian access to Town Hall will remain available for anyone voting early in the auditorium.
Captain Nemo leads last year’s Halloween Parade. (Photo/Gabriela Hayes)
TODAY’S HALLOWEEN HOUSE
Meanwhile, spooky decorations are on display all over town.
This creative driveway is on Long Lots Road, near High Point.
(Photo/Ed Simek)
MEET JEFF O’LANTERN — JACK’S YOUNGER BROTHER
Speaking of Halloween: Westport author Charlie Greenwald will read from his new children’s book, Jeff O’Lantern. He’ll also sign copies for young trick-or-treaters.
The event is this Sunday (October 25, 1 p.m., Barnes & Noble).
Aimed at kindergartners through 2nd graders it’s a “funny, heartwarming picture book about a shy little pumpkin.” (Jeff O’Lantern — Jack’s younger brother — is not quite as spooky.)
Readers can discover that being shy or gentle is not a weakness. and that kindness can be its own kind of bravery.
Kids will love the pumpkin hero — and learn about confidence and finding their own strengths.
happy 81st birthday, un!
Halloween is not the only holiday this month.
Tomorrow (Friday, October 23, 3:15 p.m., Town Hall), Westport celebrates the founding of the United Nations 81 years ago, on October 24, 1945.
First Selectman Kevin Christie will issue a proclamation, followed by brief statements on critical global issues by members of the Staples High School Model UN Club.
There will be a special message from the UN Secretary- General and a flag raising ceremony too. The public is invited.
From tomorrow through Monday, the flags of many UN member countries will fly on the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge downtown.
public dock nears completion
A large barge moved through the open Cribari Bridge yesterday, on its way up the Saugatuck River.
There, work continued on the public dock at Arezzo restaurant.
It’s getting closer to completion, adding one more amenity to downtown.
And one more reason to get moving on that long-delayed dredging project.
Working on the dock, yesterday … (Photo/Ken Warren)
… and this morning’s view. (Photo/Janine Scotti)
focus grOUps focus on stars
Serena Diamond is a Staples High School junior. But the teenagers has already spend many years study astronomy, and working at and with the Westport Astronomical Society.
Now she’s searching the skies — or at least Westport — for ways to involve more young people in the very cool, but way under the radar institution.
Serena is researching how the observatory can better serve local youth and families.
She has organized 2 focus groups for this Saturday (October 24). Students, and at least one parent, are invited to discuss programs, events and experiences. Frequent visitors and first-times are all welcome.
This Saturday’s sessions are 2 to 3 p.m. (grades 3-6), and 4 to 5 p.m. (grades 7-9). Both take place at the Westport Observatory, 182 Bayberry Lane.
Westport Police made 3 custodial arrests between October 14 and 20.
A 28-year-old Port Chester, New York man was charged with harassment, assault, criminal attempt to commit assault, threatening, reckless endangerment and kidnapping, following a complaint by a victim who had recently ended a relationship with the man. Over several days via telephone and threat, he threatened to kill the victim. The victim eventually agree to meet him, and got into his vehicle. He drove erratically throughout Westport. When the victim attempted to get out, he struck and restrained the victim. He continued to drive throughout the assault, and struck a guardrail while attempting to get on I-95 at Exit 17. At that point the victim fled, but he allegedly began driving at the victim. He was held on a $500,000 bond.
A 26-year-old Plainsboro, New Jersey woman was charged with identity theft and illegal possession of a personal identifying information device, following a report of a fraudulent bank withdrawal. She was released on a $75,000 bond.
A 49-year-old Fairfield man was charged with harassment, for emailing and texting the victim despite being warned to cease all contact. He was released on a $25,000 bond.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Failure to renew registration: 3 citations
Traveling unreasonably fast: 2
Operating a motor vehicle with handheld electronic device: 2
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 2
Failure to obey traffic control signals: 2
Reckless driving: 1
Engaging police in pursuit: 1
Distracted driving: 1
Following too closely: 1
Failure to drive right: 1
Failure to drive in the proper lane: 1
Failure to obey stop sign: 1
Failure to display lights: 1
Failure to display reflectorized plates: 1
License/permit violation: 1
Operating a motor vehicle without an endorsement: 1
“westport … naturally,” & song of the day
In today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo, the buck stops at Sherwood Island State Park.
And finally … the annual downtown Halloween parade is less than a week away.
(The buck may stop at Sherwood Island — but it should also head to “06880.” Our hyper-local blog relies on reader support. Please click here to help. Thank you!)
She earned a BFA in acting at Virginia Commonwealth University, then moved to Chicago and Los Angeles.
But with her Italian and Panamanian background, she says, she was pigeonholed as “the maid or nanny.”
Disheartened, she told her story to Nick Sadler, the actor she was dating. (And, since 2003, her husband.)
He encouraged her to write it down.
She realized that — based on her years spent learning dialogue — she had an ear for it.
Gigi New
Gigi landed a job as a personal assistant on “Everybody Loves Raymond.” On the set, she watched how scenes were put together. That led to work as a writer for Nickelodeon. She then developed film and television projects with Killer Films, AGC and Lifetime.
Writers often critique other writers’ work. Gigi realized she had a talent for that too.
Gradually, she turned a side hustle — teaching writing — into a full-time gig.
In 2016 Gigi, Nick and their son Cooper moved to Connecticut. Nick had been in the cast of “All the Queen’s Men” at the Westport Country Playhouse, and loved the town.
Cooper joined Staples Players; he’s now a junior at NYU Tisch School of the Arts.
Gigi set up an office in an old caboose, set in the woods off Newtown Turnpike, between the Country Store and Bette Davis’ old house. (That’s a story in itself; click here to read.)
Gigi New, at work in her caboose.
Gigi taught at the Westport Writers’ Workshop. Word of mouth grew. She branched out.
The result: New Way Writer (get it?). It’s a one-stop shop for aspiring and professional television and film writers. Services include personal consultation, online classes, special workshops, and work with film school applicants, plus high school and middle school students.
She helps analyze scripts and explore ideas. She also consults on projects.
Workshop topics include story fundamentals, creating a character or series, finding your voice, and writing a pilot.
It sounds straightforward. But Gigi wants clients to dig deep. “Everyone has a story. I always ask, ‘Why are you the one to tell this story?'” she says.
“Things pour out from there. We begin with the emotional side of storytelling.”
Feelings are key. “You have to put yourself into your writing,” she says. “Lean into the mess — because life is messy.” She helps writers understand “how your character can grow out of this mess.”
Writers grow as well, finding stories inside themselves that are “scratching to get out.”
Gigi grows too. “The process of teaching makes me a better writer,” she notes.
Some writers want a single conversation, in which Gigi critiques their work. Others work with her in 4- or 6-week blocks.
Success can be measured in many ways. One student recently won the Nantucket Film Festival — and with it a chance for meetings in Los Angeles with studios and agents.
Another just sold a script.
For some writers though, success means the satisfaction of putting ideas on paper, and molding them into a script.
Every client is different. (They’re in different places, too, from New York and Atlanta to Dallas and San Francisco. Gigi works primarily by Zoom.)
With some, she speaks “script shorthand.” With others, she patiently explores every angle and possibility.
High school students are especially exciting. “Their minds are so open and fertile,” Gigi says. “Anything goes!” Teenagers get a special discount rate.
Gigi New is not the actor she once thought she’d be.
But her journey might make an interesting film or TV show.
(“06880” often covers entertainment, the lives of interesting Westporters — and, like today their intersection. If you enjoy stories like this, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
A few times a year, a few lucky folks get to share a private Saturday morning of movement, breakfast, conversation and community, on a rooftop overlooking the Saugatuck River.
Jennifer Ruspini’s Above Saugatuck offers a chance to “step away from the noise. Say hello to the neighbor you have not had time to meet. Move gently. Enjoy the morning without pressure, a sales pitch, or a crowded room.”
Jennifer’s rooftop event, in Saugatuck.
The most recent one was scheduled for this past Saturday morning. A dozen or so people were ready.
But the weather forecast seemed too cold for the rooftop.
She headed to Dandelion, the popular restaurant in the Delamar Westport hotel.
The manager knows Jennifer. “Your community got a nice writeup in ‘06880!'” she noted.
“That’s what I need to talk to you about,” Jennifer said.
Within minutes, Dandelion had agreed to host the event indoors.
And the room, coffee, pastries — all were complimentary.
From dining room to yoga, at Dandelion.
“They loved the idea of having something like Above Saugatuck in Westport,” Jennifer says — even if it as the opposite end of town.
“This is what a community gathering is all about: People coming together and helping each other,” Jennifer says.
Kudos to her, for creating such an interesting, unique space.
And a big shout-out to Dandelion and the Delamar for helping out, when Jennifer and her guests had to come in from the cold.
(Do you know an Unsung Hero? Email 06880blog@gmail.com. “06880” is proud to honor them — and tell many other tales of town too. Please click here to help us do that, by supporting this hyper-local blog.)
Yesterday, the Westport Police Department responded to multiple reports of mail stolen overnight from mailboxes, and discarded in several neighborhoods.
Areas include Hillspoint Road, Prospect Road, Greens Farms Road and Compo Beach area.
Police suspect that thieves were seeking items of value and checks, credit cards, etc.
Residents can help reduce opportunities for theft by:
Retrieving mail and packages as soon as possible after delivery.
Arranging for a trusted neighbor to collect deliveries when away from home.
Using secure delivery locations, parcel lockers or signature confirmation when available.
Signing up for delivery notifications, and tracking expected packages.
Hand delivering any outgoing mail containing checks or sensitive information directly to a post office facility.
Arranging for a mail hold when traveling.
Installing security cameras or video doorbells to help monitor delivery areas.
Reporting suspicious activity around mailboxes, mailrooms, and residential properties.
If you believe your mail or a package has been stolen, report the incident and provide tracking information, delivery confirmations, photographs or video footage.
Residents should also notify the delivery carrier or postal service and contact the sender or retailer regarding missing shipments.
Anyone with information about these incidents should call the WPD: 203-341-6000.
Discarded mail after thefts, in the Compo Beach neighborhood.
PARKS & REC WINTER PROGRAM REGISTRATION BEGINS
Registration has begun, for Parks & Recreation Department winter programs.
They include:
Ice skating: Parent and Tot, Tot Basic, Intro to Figure Skating, and Inclusive Skating.
Winter tennis: Indoor offerings at Sylvan Tennis Club.
Pickleball: Indoor play at Northeast Athletic Center.
Aquatics: Westport Swim Club, water polo and lifeguarding classes.
A water polo clinicover the Thanksgiving holiday, led by Barcelona International Water Polo Academy, focuses on skill development and tactical training.
A new beginner fencing program for ages 10–14 launches in January.
For program details, registration, fees and other information, click here. Questions? Call 203-341-5152.
WAKEMAN, PJ ROMANO LIGHTS: CLARIFICATION
Yesterday, “06880” reported that the Planning & Zoning Commission voted 4-1 on Tuesday to allow lights on Wakeman and PJ Romano Fields.
Two clarifications: commissioner Craig Schiavone asked the Parks & Recreation Commission to ensure that games are not played on nights that there are other student or parent activities planned at Saugatuck Elementary School — not Staples, as originally reported — to cut down on traffic, and ensure adequate parking.
It should be noted too that lights will be allowed Mondays through Saturdays only. There will be no lights on Sundays.
Restrictions on the use of lights at PJ Romano Field, behind Saugatuck Elementary School, will help alleviate traffic concerns. (Drone photo/Brandon Malin)
voter guide to 2026 election: be ballot smart!
Voting is underway. On the ballot: Candidates for governor, Congress, and the Connecticut General Assembly.
Don’t dog it! Check out CT Mirror’s Voter Guide. (Photo/Jo Shields)
Speaking of the election: on Monday, the League of Women Voters Westport hosted a debate with 4th District congressional candidates Jim Himes, Michael Goldstein and Ben Wesley, at the Westport Library.
Click here or below to watch. (Hat tip: Sal Liccione)
positive directions: $125K to PREVENT UNDERAGE DRINKING AND DRUGS
Positive Directions – The Center for Prevention & Counseling has been awarded a 5-year grant of $125,000. The funds, from the Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, will expand efforts to prevent underage alcohol and cannabis use in Westport.
The grant builds on a collaboration between Positive Directions, Westport’s Human Services and Police Departments, the Aspetuck Health District, Westport Public Schools, parents and guardians, youth, and other community partners.
The grant will fund a full-time prevention coordinator and youth peer advocate at Positive Directions. It will also support expanded youth leadership opportunities, parent and caregiver education, community awareness efforts, substance-free teen activities, and enhanced prevention strategies.
robo wreckers reach out
This spring, the Staples High School Robotics Club team won the RAINS Drone Competition. as All-Around Champions.
This year, they’re spreading their robotic wings. They’ll compete in Aerial Drone and SeaPerch.
The “Robo Wreckers” are giving back too. Club members are writing an open-source drone curriculum for other Connecticut schools. They hope to get drone kits into schools that can’t afford them.
To make it all happen, they’ve started a GoFundMe. Donations will go toward competition fees, drone kits, parts, travel and more. Click here to help.
Staples Robotics Club
SHERRY JAGERSON’S SUSTAINABLE FOUNTAIN
The new water refill station at Winslow Park has an even newer name.
On Sunday, Sustainable Westport dedicated its contribution to conservation in memory of Sherry Jagerson.
Family, friends and neighbors celebrated the longtime environmental activist.
Earth Animal joined Westport’s Parks & Recreation Department as partners. The many dogs on hand enjoyed natural dog treats, and a basket of earth-friendly toys and accessories.
The Winslow Park refill station is part of UnPlastic Westport, Sustainable Westport’s community-wide effort to reduce single-use plastic. More stations are planned around town. To help fund the next one, click here.
Fill ‘er up!
GOOD VIBEZ FOR GIRLS
Good Vibez is a great idea.
Two Westport moms organize retreats for girls ages 11–15. They build healthy habits, boost confidence, and learn practical tools to help them feel their best, while having fun.
Each retreat is led by a team of professionals. Activities include yoga, mindfulness and meditation, healthy cooking lessons. art projects, group discussions and opportunities for reflection and connection.
The goal is to create a warm, uplifting environment where girls can unplug, recharge, and leave feeling more confident and grounded.
The “Career Coach” returns to the Westport Library parking lot tomorrow (Thursday, October 22), for a session on “Job Seeker Strategies for the Digital Age.”
Future sessions include “Excel II” (November 19) and “Intro to PowerPoint” (December 17).
There are 2 sessions ( 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.) each day; both are 2 hours long. Registrants can choose one.
The service is available to people who are exploring career opportunities, actively looking for a job, or seeking additional part-time employment. Click here to reserve a spot.
HALLOWEEN ON HILLANDALE
Today’s spooky Halloween decorating scene comes from the free library at the Hillandale Road/Morningside Drive South corner:
(Photo/Bob Weingarten)
OBITUARY: BERNIE ORENSTEIN
Noted television comedy writer and producer, and longtime Westport and Weston resident, Bernie Orenstein died September 14. He was 95.
Throughout his 40-year career he collaborated with stars like Joan Rivers, Dean Martin, Judy Garland, Dick Van Dyke, Marlo Thomas, Redd Foxx and Bing Crosby.
With creative partner Saul Turteltaub he wrote and produced classics including “That Girl,” “The New Dick Van Dyke Show,” “Cosby,” “What’s Happening!!” and
“Sanford and Son.”
Bernie was also a generous mentor and educator, inspiring a new generation of writers and producers through LIU Brooklyn’s TV Writers Studio MFA program.
He is survived by beloved wife Barbara Rhoades Orenstein; children Lisa, Barbara, Jenny and Alec; 8 grandchildren, and 4 great-grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Westport Center for Senior Activities.
For an obituary in the Hollywood Reporter, click here.
Bernie Orenstein
“WESTPORT … NATURALLY” & SONG OF THE day
“Egrets” — the 7 1/2-foot stainless steel sculpture by Babette Bloch — enhances Canal Park every day.
These days, it too is enhanced — by the trees and plants that surround it. John Maloney’s autumnal shot is a golden addition to our daily “Westport … Naturally” series.
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Buoyed by support from his parents and sister, and many others — including eye doctors and occupational, speech and physical therapists — he survived.
And thrived.
At Staples High School he ran cross country, and competed in indoor and outdoor track. He graduated in 2017.
That was only the start.
Daniel ran 4 marathons. He got his undergraduate degree in human services from Beacon College; he’s now an adaptive special needs master trainer and special education paraeducator. His passions are physical activity and wellness science.
Triumphant Daniel Maya, after the New York City Marathon.
He earned Red Cross certification as a lifeguard and water safety instructor. He’s also a certified personal trainer, with master certification in adaptive special needs.
He works with special needs children and adults. Most satisfying, he says, is training and mentoring autistic young adults, as well as helping young adults with disabilities perform aquatic exercises. (Particularly satisfying: teaching a boy with cerebral palsy how to swim).
Oh, yeah: Daniel also serves on Westport’s Commission on People with Disabilities.
Two years ago, he helped start a social club for people between the ages of 18 and 30. They meet for lunch or dinner, and take walks around Compo Beach and Longshore.
He is grateful for all that he has — including his vision. (One eye is better than the other.)
He never had a mindset of “I can’t do this,” he says. It’s always been, “I can do it!”
Daniel’s athletic career began early, accompanying his mother on runs throughout Westport.
Running in the rain …
It was work. But as he got faster, he enjoyed it more. Training for Staples — and then for 5 and 10Ks, half-marathons and marathons (including New York City) — were a satisfying break from school (and life).
Running remains a way to stay in shape, and “clear my head.”
His latest project: starting a fitness group — Miles4Smiles — for neurodiverse individuals.
“Fitness is about more than exercise,” Daniel says.
“It can be an opportunity to build confidence, make friends, develop social skills, and discover what you are capable of.”
Miles4Smiles would include group fitness classes, walking, jogging and other activities.
His goal is simple: to “create a place where everyone feels welcome, supported, and encouraged to participate at their own level.
“You don’t have to be an athlete. You don’t have to be an experienced exerciser. You simply have to be willing to take that first step.
“Every mile matters,” Daniel adds. “Every smile matters. Every person matters.”
Right now, he is looking for feedback on interest and activities. Email danielimaya@gmail.com, or text 203-644-6877. Click here for Daniel’s website.
… and better weather.
(“06880” often celebrates the accomplishments of outstanding Westporters. If you enjoy stories like these, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
Thanks to former media teacher Jim Honeycutt, our weekly “nutshell” series — highlight reels of Staples Players productions — rolls along to spring 2018.
That’s when directors David Roth and Kerry Long staged Stephen Sondheim’s musical.
What has the cast been up to, over the past few years?
Nick Rossi(Franklin Shepard) is a professional singer, actor and musician. He has appeared regionally in “Master Harold … and the Boys,” “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” “Pericles,” “La Cage Aux Folles” and “Jersey Boys
Charlie Zuckerman (Charley Kringas) was a production assistant for “Millions” at Lincoln Center. A graduate of The Boston Conservatory, he was also an intern at the 52nd Street Project, a non-profit that pairs young people with professional artists to create original theater.
Avery Mendillo (Mary Flynn) is a New York–based actor and singer with roots in musical theatre, and a career in film and TV. She recently filmed her first feature film.
Daisy Brackett(Gussie Carnegie) earned a master’s degree in advanced classical acting training from the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art. Her credits include short films, independent projects, showcases and reels.
Mia Kobylinski(Beth Spencer Shepard) is a designer at Snake River Interiors. Her love of travel and photography help her gather design inspiration from all over the world.
Jamie Mann (Valedictorian) graduated from the University of Michigan’s musical theater program in 2025. He made his Broadway debut in “Stranger Things: The First Shadow.” He appeared previously on the Netflix show “Country Comfort,” and toured nationally as the lead in “Billy Elliot.”
Antonio Antonelli (Terry, Studio Owner) is an actor and crew member. He voiced the character Shane in “Santaman,” an appeared as Wes in “Maybe Today, Maybe Tomorrow.”
Georgia Wright(Scotty, Frank’s Agent, Audrey, Scotty’s Significant Other) is a non-binary, New York-based emerging playwright, actor and director. They have written and staged several independent and festival plays,
Sophia Sherman (Scotty, Frank’s Agent, Audrey, Scotty’s Significant Other) studied acting and performing arts management at the University of Michigan. Based in Los Angeles, Sophia has focused on screen acting.
Chad Celini (Bunker, An Actor) is an actor and performer who works in regional theater and independent productiosns. He has appeared in “Godspell,” “Curtains” and holiday musical revues, and on screen in the 2025 film “Game Over.”
Jake Watzman (Bunker, An Actor) is a voice actor and theatre performer. He graduated with a BA in theatre from Muhlenberg College. He is recognized for his work in indie animation, visual novels, and voiceover projects.
Ari Sklar is a senior at Staples. He is known for his work in regional theater, and providing backup vocals for the Netflix film “13: The Musical.”
Lexi Holoubek-Sebok (Mrs.Spencer, Beth’s Mother) transitioned from acting into professional marketing and data analysis, working as a community strategy and intelligence analyst at Burson.
(If you like these nutshells — or any other “06880” feature — please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
Absentee Ballot
To have a ballot mailed directly to you, click here. Online Absentee Ballot Application.
Vote Early In Person
Early voting at Town Hall runs from now through November 1. Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., with extended hours (8 a.m. to 8 p.m.) on Tuesday and Thursday, October 27 and 29.
Vote on Election Day
All 5 Westport polling locations are open Tuesday, November 3, from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.:
Now, have a chance to learn how to prevent damage by bad guys — and to meet Sam, one of the real good guys.
The event is next Tuesday (October 27, 6 p.m., VFW Post 399). It’s hosted by (of all groups) the Wilton Drum Hill chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (who only had to worry about Benedict Arnold).
But that’s not all.
Soon, Sam will team up with the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce, for a pair of Verso University “Lunch and Learn” sessions at the Westport Library.
Both are at noon, on November 13 and December 11. The first topic is “AI for Small Businesses“; the second builds on that one, for “Next Steps” (though previous attendance is not required).
No technical background required. The Library says: “Bring your lunch, your questions, and a real task you’d like help with.”
Sam Disraelly
PINKALICIOUS halloween
Halloween’s color is orange.
But this Sunday (October 25, 2 to 3 p.m.), the holiday turns pink.
Westport “Pinkalicious” author Victoria Kann will read her new book, “Snickerdoodle.” It’s a family-friendly event, with books available for purchase and signing.
Then comes trick-or-treating on Jesup Green. Westport Animal Shelters Advocates will join the fun. Guests can bring items from their wish list to donate.
Email (kids.westportlibrary@gmail.com) a photo of your dog dressed in costume, for possible inclusion in a slideshow.
EVERLASTING EVERGREEN SEWER WORK
As anyone who has tried to take the Evergreen Avenue shortcut knows, you can’t get to Myrtle Avenue from there.
As part of ongoing work, homes on that road were connected to temporary water a few weeks ago.
Now, digging has begun on Evergreen Parkway. They’ll go about 100 feet a day. That involves digging a trench navigating around gas, sewer, roots, rocks and other buried stuff; laying the pipe, then covering it all up, including an asphalt patch on the road.
Once the water main is installed, it is pressure tested for leaks. When the main is secure, workers dig up the road again and connect every house to it.
There is no estimated date for completion.
Evergreen work. (Hat tip and photo/Mark Mathias)
SKELETON SAYS: SLOW DOWN!
Today’s featured Halloween home decoration doubles as an important warning to all drivers on Compo Road North, near Cross Highway:
(Photo/Diane Bosch)
vince mcmahon crash: charges dropped
Speaking of speeding: In July of 2025 WWE co-founder Vince McMahon was involved in a high-speed accident on the Merritt Parkway, in Westport.
Driving northbound near Exit 20 (formerly Exit 41) at a speed of 110 to 115 miles an hour, the 79-year-old Greenwich resident slammed his Bentley Continental GT into the back of a BMW. He caromed off a guardrail, then continued driving before a Connecticut state trooper pulled him over.
The WWE owner told the officer he was in a hurry to get to his granddaughter’s birthday. Click here or below for a dashcam video.
He received a misdemeanor summons for reckless driving and following too closely, and was released at the scene on a $500 bond. In October, he was granted accelerated rehabilitation for one year, on the condition he make a charitable contribution.
On Thursday, a judge dismissed the charges completely.
McMahon’s lawyer, Mark Sherman, said, “As we’ve maintained in this case, not every car accident is a crime and Mr. McMahon is grateful to the court for this quick dismissal.” (Hat tip: Bill Dedman)
food drive saturday at the y
Members of the National Charity League Westport chapter volunteer at — and donate food and clothes to — Person to Person.
Now, they’ve organized a food collection event, to benefit clients of the Norwalk nonprofit. It’s this Saturday (10 a.m. to 5 p.m.), at the Westport Weston Family YMCA.
Most-needed items include hearty soups, pasta and sauces, peanut butter and jelly, dried and canned beans, cold cereal, oatmeal, snack and granola bars, rice (1-pound boxes), mac and cheese, canned fruits and vegetables, pancake mix, and shelf-stable milk.
“COLOSSI” AT MOCA: WHAT IT ALL MEANS
Visitors are flocking to MoCA\CT, for Rick Schaefer’s monumental charcoal drawings.
On Saturday (October 24, 4 p.m.), the artist will discuss the historical, political and visual dimensions of his work.
He’ll be joined by Avon Theater executive director Peter Gistelinck, and artist/ educator/urban policy leader Rick Bell. MoCA director Robin Jaffee Frank will moderate.
Together, they will explore Shaefer’s “Colossi” series. His images of vast walls in open landscapes evoke ancient monuments, while addressing contemporary questions of borders, land use, security and environmental change.
The event is free, with support from the CORA Foundation.
dave kardas band rocks the vfw
Blues, rock, jazz and original music fill VFW Post 399 this Friday (October 23, 6 to 8 p.m.).
The very popular Dave Kardas Band returns. Also on tap: happy hour drinks, and bar food.
at the vfw too: jazz @ the post
Pianist Brian Marsella returns to the VFW, for Thursday’s Jazz at the Post (October 22, 7 and 8:15 p.m.; dinner service at 6:15). The “psychedelic Art Tatum” is joined by bassist Reid Taylor, drummer Brian Floody and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall.
Westport resident Carolyn Landis died Friday. She was 87.
A graduate of the Bronx High School of Science and Barnard College, with a degree in zoology, she taught science in the New York City public schools. After moving to Connecticut, she became a technical science writer.
Carolyn was a voracious reader and tennis player. Later, water aerobics at the YMCA became a daily ritual, and a source of both exercise and friendship
She is survived by her husband of 67 years, Alan; sons Eric (Johanna) of Rye, New Hampshire, and Mark (Deb) of New York, and grandchildren Beau (Katie Sweeney), Aaron, Justin (Maddie) and William (Emily).
A memorial service is set for Thursday (October 22, 2 p.m., Abraham L.
Green & Son Funeral Home, Fairfield). Contributions in Carolyn’s name can be
made to the Westport Library or Saint Jude’s.
Carolyn Landis
“WESTPORT … NATURALLY,” & SONG OF THE DAY
Some of the trees have turned, in Winslow Park.
But many others have not — as today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo sure shows.
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Success can be measured in many ways. One student recently won the Nantucket Film Festival — and with it a chance for meetings in Los Angeles with studios and agents.
