“Young Shoots” may be the most underrated contest name we’ve ever heard.
The annual Westport Farmers’ Market event offers ribbons, prestige — and cash prizes — for images taken there, by young photographers in 3 age groups (5-9 years old, 10-14 and 15-18).
So: They’re young shooters, shooting (among other things) produce with shoots.
Yesterday’s weekly market honored the winners of the 14th annual contest. 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners are below.
A new prize — the “06880 Honor Award” — was given. Rising 1st grader Ziggy White earned the inaugural honor. “06880” founder and executive editor said his shot — which also won first prize in the 5-9-year-old division — “captured the essence of the Westport Farmers’ Market. It shows its appeal to all ages, along with the wonders, colors and joy” that draw hundreds of people to the Imperial Avenue parking lot every year.
Also cited: Juliana Rosenoer. This is the International Year of the Woman Farmer. One of her photos showed a WFM vendor hefting a pair of cucumbers, like weights.
(Photo/Juliana Roseoer)
Yesterday’s ceremony was overseen by Farmers’ Market director Lori Cochran-Dougall, and contest organizers Anne Burmeister and Miggs Burroughs. Badass Bagels — a regular WFM presence — provided treats.
(“06880” reports regularly on the environment, arts, young people — and, like today, their intersections. If you enjoy stories like this, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
Top Hat Tutors — Staples’ High School highly regarded, student-run, very popular (and cool) tutoring service — is gearing up for a new year.
They’re looking for both new tutors, and families needing them.
Top Hat Tutors are juniors and seniors from around Fairfield County. They provide high-quality, in-home tutoring across a wide range of subjects, including science, math, English, social studies, world language, music and SAT/ACT. Last year, they worked with 150 clients.
All tutors have taken the classes they work with — and passed it with at least a 90.
Top Hat charges $50 per hour for individual students. Group sessions are $25 per hour for each additional student ($75 for 2 students, $100 for 3, etc.).
Derek Yach is a 3-time cancer survivor: melanoma, prostate and, most recently, esophageal. He swims regularly at Compo Beach, in summer and winter.
Mary Money — a breast cancer survivor — is a regular swimmer too. (And a baker, famous for her 6 a.m. Friday muffins.)
With prostate cancer survivor Keith Kirkpatrick (who swims mainly at Fairfield’s Penfield Beach) and fellow Westporter Leila Shields (a regular Compo swimmer, and strong supporter of several community based programs), they’ve formed a tight-knit community.
Next month, they’ll take the plunge in different waters, in a far different way — and for an excellent cause.
On September 10, they’ll swim 28 1/2 miles around Manhattan. That’s right: from Battery Park, up the East River, into the Harlem River, then down the Hudson River to the Statue of Liberty.
The 8-hour event will raise funds for cancer treatment in underserved Kenyan communities. The Phangisile Mtshali Cancer Center and other health facilities provide desperately needed chemotherapy ports, to deliver treatments.
“As cancer survivors we know that our diagnosis, treatment and follow-up has been successful due to outstanding care available in Connecticut — mostly at Yale Smilow,” says Derek.
“So much care is often taken for granted. My work takes me with the Catholic Medical Mission Board to Kenya, where a rural cancer center lacks most of the critical diagnostics, treatment and even chemo ports we take for granted.”
The swim is especially timely. given recent deep cuts to global health programs. Click here to contribute.
Derek also urges “06880” readers to “join advocacy efforts to urge greater support for cancer care through government, corporate and nonprofit programs.”
And, he adds, “join us in our early morning swims. It’s the best way to promote your health!”
There’s always something special at the Westport Farmers’ Market.
Tomorrow (Thursday, Imperial Avenue parking lot), winners of the Young Shoots photography contest will be honored at 12:30 p.m.
Photos will be on display throughout the market’s regular hours (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.).
Michael Veltri’s award-winning Young Shoots photo, 2025.
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The most recent Red Cross blood drive goal was 29 units. They blew past that number, finishing with 44. An impressive 14 donors were there for the first time.
Eight were “Power Red” donations, equating to 16 units. Those are very valuable, often prioritized for trauma, surgical, and cancer patients.
There were 25 Type O donors, especially critical for their universal compatibility.
But the need for blood is constant. Nationwide, someone needs a unit of blood every 2 to 3 seconds. Most of us will need blood at some in our lives
The next Westport blood drive is Friday, August 28 (11 a.m. to 4 p.m., VFW Post 399). .
Donors are encouraged to schedule appointments to donate blood or platelets in advance. Click here; then use sponsor code VFWWESTPORT; call 800-733-2767, or use the Red Cross Blood Donor app.
A small mini-plaza opposite Goodwill includes a popular Italian deli (Gaetano’s), 2 Asian restaurants (Shanghai Gourmet and Yama Fuji Sushi), and a nail salon.
Soon, you can buy all your closet and organizing needs there too.
Around Labor Day, Closet Factory will open a flagship showroom there. The owners — Westporters Dan and Melanie Zuller — already own franchises in Westchester and Fairfield County.
The Westport location will replace the current Darien site. It will occupy half of the former Calico Corners space. The design and fabric store moved to 224 Post Road East in 2021.
Westport Swim Club — the great, fun program for young swimmers of all abilities in grades 1-8 (and a feeder program for the Staples High School swim teams) — has added 3 tryout dates: Sunday, August 23 (9:45 a.m.), Saturday, August 29 (10 a.m.) and Sunday, August 30 (9:45 a.m.). All are at the Staples pool.
There are 5 practices a week — but they are not mandatory. An option of 1 weekly practice is available, for 50% of the regular fee. Westport Swim Club offers 4 seasons a year. Click here to register for a tryout.
Speaking of sports: The old(er) guys did it. Congratulations to Team Schur!
They took last night’s Compo League men’s basketball championship was won by Team Schur 59-48, over the younger team of recent Staples graduates.
Both teams prevailed in their semifinal by double digits to advance to the title game. The top 2 seeds were tied 28-28 at the half.
A not-quite-sold out crowd watched the match, held at the Staples fieldhouse due to lighting issues at the beach courts.
Compo Beach men’s basketball champs. From left: Charlie Stoebe, Travis Test, Noah Hammond, Jordan schur, Don Snyder, Baptiste Bataille. Team members not pictured: Zach Gut, Kevin Cline, Michael Carter-Williams, Brandon Barton, Steve Goldenberg, Connor Whelan.
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A reader writes: I was at Compo Beach on Sunday after the storm — Schlaet’s Point, where Soundview Drive runs into Hillspoint/Compo Road South — when I saw something large at the water’s edge.
“I found a large, heavy sign. It is a memorial for a dog, Ollie. It must have been placed on Cockenoe Island, and floated away in the storm.
“Whoever made it would probably want to know where it is — and maybe bring it back.
“I dragged it to the top of the beach, and planted it next to the benches at the corner of Compo South and Hillspoint. My guess is it’s still there.”
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We all know that love rocks.
But here’s literal proof.
Kim Mathias painted some rocks at her Saugatuck Church’s women’s retreat. She placed them — gently and lovingly — around the base of her mailbox, for anyone strolling by (and looking down) to enjoy.
Longtime Westport resident Mary Condon died peacefully in her sleep on August 13, in Southport.
Born in Cork City, Ireland in 1944, Mary carried deep pride in her Irish heritage throughout her life. At 14 she emigrated to New York, and lived in the Bronx with her family. After marrying she moved to Westport, where she raised her family.
Mary’s passions reflected both her Irish heritage and her deeply held values. She treasured time spent with friends, loved literature and lifelong learning, and generously supported organizations that were meaningful to her, including the ASPCA, NPR, PBS, Planned Parenthood and the American Cancer Society.
Her daily ritual of drinking Barry’s Tea was a lifelong comfort, and a cherished connection to Ireland.
After surviving breast cancer, she gave back by volunteering for many years at Norwalk Hospital.
Mary is survived by her brother, John O’Donnell; her children Christopher and Claire, and her grandchildren, Ryder and Teagan.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Mary’s memory to the American Cancer Society. A celebration of life will be held at the Gaelic-American Club, 74 Beach Road, Fairfield, Connecticut, on August 28 (12:30 to 2:30 p.m.).
Mary Condon
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Wendy Levy sends along today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo, and adds, “Backyard garden veggies still going, despite various animal tastings.”
As families prepare for the school year, Westport’s Department of Human Services sees an increased need for assistance from local families.
And an urgent need for community donations to ensure that every child begins the school year with the supplies and resources they need to succeed.
Human Services seeks donations of new school supplies, backpacks, Walmart gift cards, and monetary contributions to support local children and families.
Needed items include new notebooks, folders, binders, pencils, pens, crayons, colored pencils, markers, glue sticks, scissors, highlighters, calculators and other classroom supplies.
Gift cards may be dropped off at Human Services in Town Hall.
Monetary donations may be made by check payable to Westport Human Services (110 Myrtle Avenue, Westport, CT 06880). or online (select “Family to Family Programs—Seasonal Program”).
Human Services also seeks financial support for its Afterschool Program, for children in kindergarten through 5th grade. It is a safe, supportive environment where children receive homework assistance, participate in enriching activities, build friendships, and develop important social and emotional skills.
Elaine Daignault, Human Services director, says, “Our residents have always demonstrated extraordinary compassion and generosity. Every backpack, gift card, school supply and financial contribution helps ease the burden on families and gives children the tools they need for a successful school year.”
(Both the Back-to-School and Afterschool Programs are 100% funded by community donations and contributions. To donate or learn more click here, call 203-341-1050, or email humansrv@westportct.gov
Every student needs a backpack.
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Speaking of children: The Westport Public Schools and Westport Weston Family YMCA are coordinating before- and after-school care for children in grades K-5.
The program offers STEM exploration, art, outdoor play, social-emotional learning, homework help and more. Flexible scheduling (2 to 5 days per week) is available.
Students in the Westport and Weston school districts are eligible for the after-school program (3 to 6 p.m.). The 7:30 to 9 a.m. before-school sessions are for Westport only. Transportation to and from schools is included.
MoCA\CT re-opens today. The new exhibit — “Michael Borders: Connecticut Industry” — is a large-scale mural. Its 8 panels represent each of the state’s counties.
The impressive work joins Rick Shaefer’s “Colossi.” Both shows — part of the exhibition “Looking for History,” are on view through November 15. For more information, click here.
The best views of yesterday’s solar eclipse were in northern Europe.
But Franco Fellah made the most of it, at the Westport Astronomical Society’s Bayberry Lane observatory.
He sends this image, at the maximum point — approximately 35%, at 1:54 p.m. He notes, “These views of the sun are in what is called ‘white Light,’ visible to the human eye.”
(Photo/Franco Fellah)
Meanwhile — because “06880” is “Where Westport meets the world” — there was indeed a reader who traveled to Spain, in part for the eclipse.
Chris Grimm was near Burgos yesterday. He sends this image:
Craig Melvin and and Lindsay Dzarniak’s support of the Colorectal Cancer Alliance is strong and deep.
It continues next month. The Westport TV personalities are again hosting the Bottoms Up Invitational: a concert at Fairfield Theatre Company (Sunday, September 13, 5 p.m.) and celebrity golf tournament (Monday, September 14, Shorehaven Golf Club, Norwalk).
Melvin — co-host of “The Today Show,” sits on the Alliance’s board of directors. His brother died of colon cancer at 43 years old.
We’re not sure why folks leave food out like this:
(Photo/Laurie Weiser)
It’s hard enough keeping the birds away when there are people nearby.
When you leave it out in the open — well, FAFO.
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As obnoxious as gulls are, they’re not as gross and destructive as spotted lanternflies. (Though to be fair, the insects do not swoop down and take ice cream out of your hand.)
Another lanternfly infestation has begun. We’re not sure what this contraption — “spotted” outside the Westport Library — is.
Westport Police made 7 custodial arrests between July 29 and August 7.
A 28-year-old Westport man was charged with 5 counts of risk of injury to a child, interfering with an officer, disorderly conduct, 7 counts of violation of a protective order, assault, strangulation and unlawful restraint, after officers responded to a disturbance at a local residence. He had his hands around a victim’s throat, and refused officers’ command to disengage. He then physically resisted attempts to handcuff him. Five juveniles were present. All, and the victim, were protected parties by court order. He was unable to post a $150,000 bond.
A 36-year-old Hampton, New Hampshire man was charged with disorderly conduct, 6 counts of violation of a criminal protective order, and 7 counts of failure to appear, following an investigation into a June incident at the Delamar Hotel. A guest complained to staff about a loud argument in an adjacent room that turned physical. He left prior to officers’ arrival. Computer checks showed the victim had 6 court orders of protection. He was unable to post a $225,000 bond.
A 32-year-old Yonkers man was charged with larceny, conspiracy to commit larceny and risk of injury to a child, following an investigation into a theft of $3,157 worth of items from Ulta Beauty by someone accompanied by a young juvenile and an infant in a stroller. He was unable to post a $60,000 bond.
A 29-year-old North Bergen, New Jersey man was charged with larceny and identify theft, following an investigation into a May complaint that a personal check for $,608.34 had been intercepted, endorsed and cashed by an unknown party. He was identified, turned himself in, and released on a $5,000 bond.
A 31-year-old Woodbridge man was charged with larceny, and conspiracy to commit larceny, following an investigation into a February shoplifting incident of more than $297 worth of Ensure packages at Walgreens. He was unable to post a $10,000 bond.
A 40-year-old Westport man was charged with disorderly conduct and risk of injury to a child, following a physical disturbance at which a juvenile was present. He was released on a $1,500 bond.
A 62-year-old Norwalk man was charged with disorderly conduct, following a verbal argument. He was released on a $1,500 bond.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Texting while driving: 20 citations
Failure to renew registration: 10
Failure to obey stop sign: 6
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 5
Failure to drive in the proper lane: 4
Distracted driving: 3
Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 3
Failure to obey traffic control signals: 3
Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 2
Reckless driving: 1
Failure to grant half the highway: 1
Failure to grant right of way: 1
Unsafe backing: 1
Unsafe movement of a stopped vehicle: 1
Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 1
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 1
Failure to insure a motor vehicle: 1
Improper use of markers: 1
This may be the site of the most shoplifting incidents in Westport. Perpetrators are often caught.
Staples High School Class of 2007 graduate, track athlete and former lifeguard Emily Langham Delangue died peacefully in her sleep on August 6.
She attended Washington University in St. Louis, first studying at the Sam Fox School of Design & Visual Arts before moving to the Olin Business School where she earned a BS in Business Administration in 2011. She was a member of Pi Beta Phi sorority, serving as rush chair her senior year.
After graduation, Emily began a career in advertising, at Discovery Communications and several agencies.
She married Clément Delangue in 2018, in Dourdan, France. They divorced amicably in 2023.
Emily moved to San Diego that year. She enrolled in a master’s program in clinical psychology at Pepperdine University, with plans to graduate this December.
She became a therapy trainee at Steppingstone of San Diego, a non-profit.
Emily was deeply involved in the 12-step program, where she found a meaningful and important community. She had nearly two years of sobriety when she passed away, an accomplishment of which she was very proud.
Her family says, “She was a remarkably talented and accomplished person with a rare ability to immerse herself in whatever captured her fancy. She played classical piano, painted vivid still-lifes and self portraits, created extraordinary works of food art, read tarot cards, and crafted whimsical floral displays. She also had a distinctive flair for fashion.
Emily pursued her too short life fully, embracing countless adventures. Those who knew and loved her often called her a wildflower — free-spirited, unconventional and beautifully her own.”
She is survived by her parents, Dana and Jim Langham; her brothers Wes (fiancée Emma Peters), and Jeremy (Madi Fogarty); grandmother Emilia; uncles Donald, Daniel (Chris Vatis), Douglas, David (Katie),Max (Sue) and Sam (Lauren); aunt Luann Jacobs (Matthew); many cousins, and her cat Eddie.
A celebration of Emily’s life will be held September 5 (11 a.m., Nordike Funeral Home, Carlyle Illinois). The service will be livestreamed.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Steppingstone of San Diego.
Emily Langham Delangue
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American oystercatchers are enjoying Burying Hill Beach.
Seth Schachter sends along today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo, and this info.
“I believe these birds lay their eggs directly on the shore, typically above high tide line. They make a shallow dent in the sand or shell beds. They don’t build a nest out of twigs or grass. Or maybe these guys are just looking for food.
:These are protected birds as well as being designated ‘species of high conservation concern’ by the US Shorebird Conservation Plan. They’re beautiful to see, regardless.”
And finally … on this date in 1918, Opha May Johnson became the first woman to enlist in the US Marine Corps. She was 30 years old, and signed on as a reservist.
At the end of World War I the Marines (and all services) began to disenroll women from active service. They were allowed to join permanently as regular, active duty members beginning in 1948.
Beginning in 2016, military combat jobs became open to female Marines, permitting service in frontline infantry and combat roles.
It’s a familiar feeling for parents of young kids.
You see a social media post about a street fair, musical event or other fun event — after the fact.
How could I have missed that? you wonder.
A better question is: How can I keep up with everything going on around here?
The answer is easy: Get Kindo.
The website (ourkindo.com) and social media platform (@ourkindo) is your go-to spot to find family activities, events and places, across Fairfield County and into New Haven.
It’s free (and ad-free).
And — here’s the secret sauce — it’s filterable.
Want to find something to do with art, science, water, sports or nature? Choose whichever categories you care about. Ignore the rest.
Other filters include dates, cost or free, and age (0-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12).
Kindo is the brainchild of Dörte Inett. The Hamburg, Germany native came to New York in 2015, for her husband’s job. They were young and childless.
Dörte Inett
As often happens, the arrival of children brought moves: first to Brooklyn, then the ‘burbs.
They knew exactly 2 families in Westport, but fell in love with the town. They arrived in 2020, just before COVID. “We were so lucky,” Dörte notes.
With the pandemic raging, it was difficult to meet people. The best opportunities came through daycare, and a network of German expats.
When the world opened up again, Dörte realized the difficulty of finding — and then sorting through — the many activities for families.
In addition to raising her sons (now 6 and 4), she was managing e-commerce sites for web businesses. As a sideline, she began developing Kindo.
“It was part selfish,” she admits. “I’d be its number one user.”
Dörte Inett, her husband Tom, and sons Finn (left) and Noah.
She was fortunate to work on it one long day, with few interruptions. It came at the Stamford courthouse, waiting until 4 p.m. for a jury duty call that never came.
Friends and family provided feedback and suggestions.
Kindo — the name works on several levels, including “kinder,” which is German for “children”; it’s pronounced “kindoo,” suggesting “doing” something — launched in June.
It’s comprehensive, offering activities at museums, aquariums, libraries and zoos, along with hikes, story times, crafts classes, street fairs, playgrounds and more. On any weekend, Kindo lists scores of events.
“There are already great local resources out there,” Dörte says. “But they’re just lists. I wanted Kindo to let you filter by what your family actually needs.”
Kindo categories …
Many of the listings are pulled in and organized by AI. Dörte provides the important human-touch. “Some of what AII thinks is ‘family friendly’ really is not,” she explains.
She’s kept it ad-free “to be genuinely helpful.” She has no plans to monetize it (or leave her full-time job).
She’s marketed Kindo through chat groups, asking users to pass it along to their networks.
… and drilling down, with filters …
Less than 2 months in, the word is getting out. At last week’s StartUp Westport summer social, she explained what she does to a small group.
(“06880” regularly spotlights children’s activities in Westport — and the Westporters who make them happen. If you like stories like this, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
When it comes to safe bike riding practices, kids may not always listen to their parents.
But if it means free ice cream … well, now you’re talking.
The Westport Police Department, Westport Youth Commission and Sunny Daes have partnered on an initiative to reward good biking habits.
Officers will keep an eye out for young bicyclists who follow essential rules, like:
Always wearing a helmet
Riding safely and smartly
Being responsible.
Young riders “caught” practicing safe habits will receive a special reward voucher. Each card can be redeemed at Sunny Daes for free kiddie cone or cup.
Now, if anyone can convince another local business to do the same for adults — in bikes and cars …
There is life after the Planning & Zoning Commission.
In 2021 Chip Stephens — a native Westporter, 1973 Staples High School graduate and longtime civic volunteer — surprised many here.
After 3 terms on the P&Z (including a stint as chair); service on the Superstorm Sandy Recovery Regulation Committee; preservation efforts for Bedford Elementary School (now Town Hall), Cockenoe Island and open space; a run for state representative, and coaching Staples wrestling, and PAL football, basketball and baseball, he headed north.
For 5 years, Chip was code enforcement officer, plumbing inspector, and Department of Environmental Protection and health official for Readfield and Wayne, Maine — 2 towns northwest of Augusta.
Now, he’s launched a new business. Kennebec Shore and Land Use Consulting helps property owners navigate shoreland zoning, permit applications, board presentations and regulations — “clearly and efficiently,” Chip says.
For decades in Westport, Chip was the man to call with land use questions and concerns.
Now central Maine residents can do the same. With — as always — a response that is professional, fast and (even) fun.
Chip Stephens. He seldom wore a tie in Westport. He’s probably never worn one in Maine.
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It doesn’t quite rise to the level of “Unsung Hero.”
But Jonathan Alloy sends along a social media post, from the mother of a young child. He’d lost his favorite blankie at the beach. She described it, and said, “If you find it PLEASE let me know. PLEASE PLEASE.”
Donna Stark did.
But, the mother said, there were other heroes too. “EVERYONE walking the beach was so kind and helpful. Someone else found it first and put it on a bench. So whoever that was is also our hero!”
Westport Police officials were not sure what to expect, when they organized the town’s first-ever National Night Out.
The event — part of a campaign to promote police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie, in all 50 states — was planned for yesterday, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Jesup Green and the Taylor parking lot.
It’s early August. Families are away. Would the ones that are here be attracted to an unknown affair? Would they even know about it?
No problem!
Westport’s newest tradition was a grand slam. Hundreds of residents — many of them families with young kids, but plenty of others too — came right at the start.
They filled the large space. And they had a blast.
Officer Dominique Carr demonstrates a drone.
There was face painting and glitter, a touch-a-truck, and booths for a variety of non-profits and businesses.
Police offered drone and K-9 demonstrations, an impaired driving course, crash simulator — and a dunk-a-cop booth.
What kid doesn’t love a dunk tank? The dunkees — Westport Police officers — were great sports.
The Fire Department brought a smoke trailer. Emergency Medical Services demonstrated lifesaving techniques.
Jonathan Alloy, Nicole Donovan and Sandy McPherson of Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Service demonstrate CPR.
Two local bands played. There was plenty of pizza and ice cream — for free.
The Splits — from left Harry McLaughlin, Seamus Brannigan and Ari Sklar — rocked the National Night Out.
The sun was still shining, when the last folks left the National Night Out.
So were the smiles on their faces.
And on the Westport Police organizers’ faces too.
They rolled the dice on a new event.
And hit the jackpot.
Westport Police Captain Eric Woods (right) and friend.
The glimmer body art booth was packed.
Officer Sean Doyle demonstrates fingerprinting.
Yvonne and Guy Claveloux, their daughter Izzy (left) and grandchildren enjoy the “night.” (All photos/Dan Woog)
(“06880” reports on Westport’s oldest traditions — and the newest ones too. If you enjoy stories — and photos — like these, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
The last time we mentioned Josh Suggs, the 2021 Staples High School graduate had just been featured in the Wall Street Journal.
Yesterday, the 23-year-old was seen by an even bigger audience: NBC’s “Today” show.
Brian Cheung interviewed him about Street Talk. That’s the company he formed, after dropping out of Syracuse University. It is “disrupting advertising,” Cheung said.
Josh’s route to social entrepreneurship started in Westport, he told “Today.” As a 14-year-old, he got free haircuts for social media posts.
When a Syracuse friend paid Josh $2,000 for 30 street interviews, a light bulb went off. Today, Street Talk earns 8 figures in revenue by conducting authentic, unscripted street interviews that companies large and small can use as brand ads.
“I bet on myself, and the future fo social media,” Josh said.
RERUN: Last fall’s story was not the first to feature Josh Suggs. Click here to read this one, from 2016. It features Josh and his great Bedford Middle School friend, Jamie Mann. A fellow SHS grad, Jamie has also made a name for himself in New York: on Broadway.
Congratulations to Russell Greenberg and Gadi Slade!
The Chabad of Westport friends recently participated in the Maccabi Games in Israel (aka “the Jewish Olympics”). Over 5,000 athletes attended, including 900 from the US.
Greenberg swam in the Masters division, and captained his team. He captured gold in the 65-69 age group in the 100 meter freestyle, then added silver medals in the 50 free, 50 butterfly and 200 free. He was also part of 3 silver medal relays. Greenberg called the competition “the highlight of my swimming career.”
Slade’s story starts in 1932. A blonde, blue-eyed Jew from Frankfurt traveled to Tel Aviv where, by chance, the 1st Maccabi Games were being held. She met a doctor from Galilee. They exchanged phone numbers and addresses. But she returned to Germany and did not think about him.
Six months later, Hitler came to power. Nine months after that, the German woman and her parents fled to Haifa, where she knew just one person: the doctor from the Maccabi Games. They got together, fell in love, and were married. Slade is their grandson.
He planned to gain citizenship in Ecuador, make the national basketball team, and play in the Atlanta Olympics — all to get into Harvard Business School.
When that failed, he tried out in 1997 (also unsuccessfully) for the inaugural Maccabi USA field hockey team. Finally, this year he make the Games for masters table tennis. He won a gold medal in the team competition.
94 years after his grandparents met, Gadi marched in the opening ceremony with his son Leo (who also participated in table tennis, for 16 and under).
“The medal was a nice surprise, but for me just being there and wearing the Team USA shirt was my definition of victory,” Slade says.
Gadi Slade (left) and Russell Greenberg, with Maccabi medals.
Between email, texts and now AI, we’ve forgotten how to have conversations with actual human beings we don’t know.
Help is near.
Staples High School Class of 2012 graduate Tom Karrel has just published “The Lost Art of Random Conversations: How One Conversation with a Stranger Will Change the Way You Connect with Everyone.”
Drawing on over 10,000 hours of group facilitation experience across nearly 50 countries, Karrel offers practical tools and honest stories to help readers break through phone addiction, overcome social anxiety and loneliness, and create real world connections.
Every Thursday for several years, VFW Post 399 has hosted 2 jazz shows. They kick off at 7:30 and 8:45.
Now, every other Thursday, the Dave Kardas Band plays original jazz, blues and rock, right before (5:30 to 7:15 p.m.). Upcoming dates are tonight (July 31), August 13 and 27, and September 10.
The music is free. There’s happy hour food and drink prices too.
Westport Police made 2 custodial arrests between July 22 and 28.
A 50-year-old Fairfield man was charged with evading responsibility, traveling too fast for conditions, failure to drive right and reckless endangerment, following 2 notifications on Sturges Highway from iPhone crash detection. Two calls were made, and the man denied being involved in an accident. However, a witness reported a damaged and disabled Tesla unoccupied in the middle of the road, and a man walking away. An investigation determined that the vehicle left the road twice, striking several large rocks. He was released on a $5,000 bond.
A 68-year-old Westport woman was charged with driving the wrong way on a 1-way street, interfering with an officer and failure to appear, following an investigation into an April incident on Franklin Street. The woman approached an officer driving the wrong way. After being signaled to stop, she rolled up her window and attempted to change direction multiple times. When she stopped she was argumentative with officers. She refused to exit the vehicle, and engaged in a physical struggle. She was released on $3,500 bonds.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Texting while driving: 21 citations
Traveling unreasonably fast: 9
Failure to obey stop sign: 8
Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations 8
Failure to renew registration: 4
Failure to obey traffic control signals: 4
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 2
Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 2
Failure to insure motor vehicle: 2
Distracted driving: 2
Following too closely: 2
Improper use of markers: 2
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 1
Speeding: 1
School zone violation: 1
Disorderly conduct: 1
Criminal mischief: 1
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A crepe myrtle tree makes its first-ever “Westport … Naturally” appearance today. This beauty is on Compo Road South.
And finally … in honor of Tom Karrel, and his book on how to have a conversation (story above):
(Speaking of conversations: Let’s talk! If you appreciate even a small part of this hyper-local blog, please consider clicking here to support our work. We rely on you — our readers — so thank you!)
But this was the scene this morning at Burying Hill Beach:
(Photo/Seth Schachter)
Seth Schachter — who made the early morning discovery — searched AI for information.
It says, “based on the shape and markings in your photo, this appears to be a juvenile smooth dogfish (Mustelus canis), which is one of the most common small sharks found in Long Island Sound.”
He notes that it’s a baby; the photo makes it look larger than it is.
Seagulls were picking at it. Seth guesses that high tide will carry it back into the water.
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Wakeman Town Farm is a place of wonder for many youngsters.
And for plenty of others, from nearby communities.
This summer, Wakeman Town Farm welcomed young campers from around the area for a week of discovery, connection and hands-on learning.
With muddy boots, curious minds and big smiles, campers harvested fresh vegetables, met friendly animals, and explored composting, planting and regenerative farming practices.
Through WTF’s Room to Grow initiative, hundreds of students from Hall Neighborhood House, the McGivney Center and Horizons embraced every opportunity to learn, explore, and grow — for free.
The Room to Grow Fund was launched at the 2025 Harvest Fest gala. Generous donors, and the Westport Woman’s Club and Town Fair Tire Foundation, provide added support.
It’s one of several Wakeman Town Farm initiatives that connect young people from neighboring communities with nature, fresh food, and the lifelong benefits of land stewardship.
Fun at Wakeman Town Farm.
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Westport resident Carl Wistreich is the son of Holocaust survivors from Poland and Germany. Pursuing a career in business and law, he achieved the financial security his grandparents had in their respective countries, before making the lifesaving decision to leave it all (including close relatives) behind.
Finally, in his 50s, Wistreich had time to read family memoirs describing miraculous stories of survival. He realized the stories his parents rarely spoke about needed to be shared.
The result — My Lethal Obsession, a novel about ruin, resilience and rebirth, of one family and the Jewish people as a whole — will be published September 1. The next day — September 2 (7 p.m), Wistreich launches his book at the Westport Library, in a conversation with Temple Israel’s Rabbi Michael Friedman. An audience Q-and-A and book signing will follow. Click here for more information.
Each year they offer free music lessons, summer camps and instruments, to 600 youngsters in 21 schools.
A front lawn party this Sunday (August 2, 4 to 6 p.m., 53 Compo Beach Road) will introduce guests to the organization, including volunteer, donation and support opportunities.
Park at Compo Beach. Bring a lawn chair if you’d like. Learn more about KEYS –and enjoy their very “empowered” jazz group, who will perform live. For more information, email KanikaTaylor@hotmail.com.
Grammy Award-winning trumpeter/composer/arranger Michael Mossman has done it all.
After apprenticing as a youngster with jazz legends Lionel Hampton, Dizzy Gillespie, Art Blakey and others, he took center stage as music director for Blue Note Records’ “boy band”, Out of the Blue. Mossman went on to be a key performer in Latin jazz, working with the Afro-Latin Jazz Orchestra and others.
He returns this Thursday for “Jazz at the Post” (July 30, shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner from 6:45; VFW Post 399).
He’ll play with pianist Luis Perdomo, bassist Alex Ayala, percussionist Carly Moldonado, drummer Vince Cherico and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall. Click here for tickets, and more information.
The Newton, Massachusetts native trained as a secretary at Katherine Gibbs in Boston. She married Paul in 1052. The family moved to Westport in 1966.
Jean loved Compo Beach, and raising her children here. She was a parishioner and volunteer at St. Luke Church for over 60 years, working with the Friendly Visitor Program, Multiple Sclerosis Society, Sacred Heart St. Anthony’s School, and St. Luke Women’s Guild. She also cared for the altar linens.
Jean was predeceased by her husband and siblings Peg Davis, Dick McLellan, Ruth Vlass (Gordon) and Tom McLellan. She is survived by her children Dr, Karen Edwards (Lawrence), Joseph (Kan), Paula Bruns (Robert), Nancy Schiavone (Norman Schulman) and Barbara Pinkerton (Steven); grandchildren Katherine Bernard (Scott), Benjamin Bruns (Christina) Timothy Bruns (Eleni) Emily Schulman (David Stone), Peter Schulman, Molly Edwards, Alison Pinkerton, Michael Pinkerton, and great-grandchildren Alice Bernard, Elijah Bruns, Noah Bruns, Lucia Bruns and Anais Stone; sisters-in-law Sally McLellan and Betty McLellan; brother-in-law Gene Davis, and many nieces and nephews.
Visiting hours will take place at Harding Funeral Home this Thursday (July 30, 9:30 to 10;30 a.m.). A funeral mass for Paul and Jean will follow at 11 a.m. at St. Luke Church.
Donations in Jean’s memory may be made to the Matthew 25 Fund at St. Luke Church, which provides food and assistance to individuals and families in need.
These 2 chicks — the subjects of today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature — look as happy as if they were just hatched in, say, a tree or bush somewhere.
Hey — none of us has any control over where we’re born.
And few Westporters know kids and sports better than Jon Deren and Michael Maurillo.
Deren and his wife Sara are raising 3 children here. He’s coached PAL football, Little League baseball and youth basketball. As owner of Camp Manitou, the developer of other camps and programs (including for underserved youths), he’s impacted tens of thousands of children and families. He and Sara also co-founded Experience Camps, a national non-profit that provides programs to boys and girls who have lost a parent or caregiver.
Maurillo and his wife Jen raised 2 boys here. He’s coached youth lacrosse, basketball and flag football, and served on the PAL Lacrosse board. As co-owner and director of Academy Camps, he offers quality instruction and leadership skills to hundreds of young athletes — many of them from Westport — each year.
Both men know how much our town provides its youngsters.
And how much it lacks.
Jon Deren (left) and Michael Maurillo
With space tight, parents haul their kids to Fairfield, Norwalk, Stamford — and beyond — for chances to train, or just play sports indoors with friends.
For several years, Deren and Maurillo have tried to create an indoor facility — a “modern Boys & Girls Club” that is a third space, beyond home and school, where kids can be active and have fun.
Finally, they’ve found their spot.
1431 Post Road East is a non-conforming 1.74-acre parcel, with a restaurant (Bar Lupa), greenhouses and consignment shop. Cars back right onto the road; there are ,multiple entrances and exits.
1431 Post Road East today …
Deren and Maurillo hope to convert the lot into a 2-story space with an all-purpose court for basketball, volleyball and pickleball; a turf field for soccer, lacrosse and football (big enough for training, but not full games), and a fitness area with strength and conditioning coaches.
The facility would not be for high-level athletes only, the planners note. Any boy or girl who wants to play, train and improve would be welcome.
The aim is for “camp-like activities,” camp owners Deren and Maurillo say. It is not a place for tournaments with teams, and there are no outdoor activities.
There would be locker rooms, and a lounge where youngsters could socialize, do homework and meet with tutors.
… and aerial views showing the present site (left), and planned facility (right, with building and drop-off outlined in beige).
Though the primary users would be ages 10 to 18, Deren and Maurillo would welcome adults when school is is session. There could be toddler programs too.
Tonight (Monday, July 27, 6 p.m.; Zoom), the Planning & Zoning Commission hears a pre-application for the facility. They’ll provide feedback to the applicants on the plan, including parking, a dedicated lane for drop-off and pickup, and landscaping to buffer residential neighbors. (Click here, then scroll down to 1431 Post Road East, for materials provided with the pre-application.)
That’s not the only pre-application the P&Z will hear tonight.
There’s also a preliminary plan for redevelopment of 34 Imperial Avenue, into 2 residential buildings with 9 units. It’s just north of the Westport Woman’s Club, on the west side of the street.
It was constructed around 1890, as a private home. Since 1970, it’s been an office building, with 6 units. The conversion came when town officials created a transition zone, between downtown retail and residences, with offices for doctors, lawyers and small businesses.
34 Imperial Avenue today …
Its location — close to the Library, Levitt Pavilion and downtown — would appeal to empty nesters looking to downsize, and others seeking in-town housing. (Click here, then scroll down to 34 Imperial Avenue, for materials provided with the pr-application.)
… and an artist’s rendering of the 9-unit proposal.
Generations of Westport families knew Amy Lamb as a creative and caring Green’s Farms Nursery School teacher.
Many others knew her for Color Factory — an after-school and summer camp program — or as an aerobics instructor and Staples High cheerleading coach.
All of that followed her original career, working in book design for Random House and as a freelancer. During 34 years in Westport she also found time to raise 3 sons — Brandon, Trevor and Matt — with her late husband Greg.
Amy Lamb
Amy lives in Florida now. She has 7 grandchildren. But she’s embarked on a new act — one that ties together her loves of art, teaching and family.
For years, Amy thought about writing a children’s book. She had a vision for it — a curious mouse named Cooper — but considered herself an “art person,” not an author.
It took 20 years to turn her idea into reality. “Life got in the way,” she says. “And I was never sure where Cooper was going.”
Eventually Amy drew the entire book, with acrylics. She added the text later.
Cooper is “small, brave and adventurous,” Amy explains. He’s someone “kids can relate to.”
The book is called “Uh Oh Cooper.” “Kids say ‘uh oh’ a lot,” Amy notes. She expects they’ll say “uh oh” as they try to figure out Cooper’s next adventure.
There are several blank pages at the end, for young readers to draw whatever they think Cooper does next. “That’s the teacher in me,” Amy says.
The process was exhilarating. “I feel like Grandma Moses,” she says. “I think, ‘I really did this!'”
Despite her publishing background, Amy realizes the world has changed. Self-publishing is the way to go. She’s done it all — drawing, writing, uploading, producing, marketing — herself.
“I’ve been surrounded by books all my life,” Amy says.
“My grandfather was a book binder. My dad was in the paper business. He’d be proud of me.” (Her father’s cousin was Ben Shahn, so there’s art in her family too.)
Cooper seems to be clicking with young readers. Amy is getting emails, texts — even old-fashioned letters — including ideas of what Cooper will do next.
What will Cooper do next?
“It’s been fun connecting with children again,” the first-time author says. “And it’s fun that they’re thinking about new adventures. Cooper is much more than just a cute little mouse.”
The book has also stirred something in Amy. She wants to paint every day. And it’s helped her connect with many people from her past, including friends from high school, college, and her 3-plus decades in Westport.
“They all adore Cooper,” she says. “And they want more.”
Uh oh, Cooper.
You’re not done yet!
(Every Westporter has a story — and “06880” tells them all. If you enjoy this, or anything else about our hyper-local blog, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
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