Our 11th annual “06880” blog party was the biggest and best yet.

(Photo/Susan Garment)
Early morning rain and midday clouds gave way to blue skies, with just enough of a breeze to keep things comfortable.
Over 200 folks — those born and raised here, 97-year-old “Mr. Pickleball” Tom Lowrie, and 2 couples who moved her 2 months ago; daily readers, and casual ones; politicians and normal people — all came to Compo’s South Beach.
They ate, drank, chatted, stayed, and proved once again why “06880” (the online community, and the real-life one) is so warm, embracing and fun.
There was swag (waterproof pouches from Savvy + Grace; homemade jam thanks to Mary Lou Roels); beverages courtesy of Matt Bannon; music by Warren Bloom, plus the Westport Parks & Recreation Department’s help and hospitality.

Jam and waterproof pouch swag. (Photo/Thomas Samaranayake)
And of course, everyone enjoyed another spectacular Compo Beach sunset.

(Photo/Debra Krayson)
“06880” — the online community, and the real life one — feels truly blessed.

Rick and Totney Benson. (Photo/Tom Lowrie)

Matt Bannon took care of the thirsty crowd … (Photo/Dan Woog)

… while Warren Bloom entertained. (Photo/Mary Sikorski)

The Hive (Frederic Chiu and Jeanine Esposito, 2nd and 4th from left) and friends were in the house.

(Photo/Nancy Axthelm)

The Weinbergs’ treat.

(Photo/Thomas Samaranayake)

97-year-old Tom “Mr. Pickleball” Lowrie, and daughter Anne. (Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

Lou and Marjorie Weinberg enjoy a moment. (Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

Looks like a great time was had by all! Thanks for all of this Dan! So sorry I was not able to make it! Some of us had to work! But thanks for all you do to keep this wonderful community connected from near and far!
I am so sorry that we missed this! Was it on your blog and I just didn’t see it? I am glad the weather was perfect and everyone had a great time.
You have created something very special Dan. Thank you.
No name tags?👀👀
We tried them a few years ago. No one wore ’em!
Dan ‼️ you draw a bigger assembly of supporters than most politicians so when will you round out your career and become Westport’s First Select Person ?
Not a bad gig…400k💰 over 4 years.
You have the brains and talent to have fun in the job.
Ready? Here goes:
Dan you OWE it to Westport to lead it for at least one term 😢
Thanks, Tom, but I know my lane. And 110 Myrtle Avenue ain’t it!
Robin and I would def vote for Dan…
Even though I was unable to be with you live, my heart and soul is with Westport always & what you do Dan to share the stories of Westporters in such a fun and joyful way- priceless!!!
Qi gratitude for your tireless storytelling of a magical place we call Westport!
You are absolutely 1 of a kind Dan!! Thanks for a great event!
Thanks, Matt. And you helped make it special, for sure!
Great job, Dan. So glad you got such a big turnout! I hope to make it one of these years.
Wish I was there in spirit! I can’t be in 2 places at once so here I am in Michigan, enjoying the cooler summer weather and missing you 😘