Category Archives: Entertainment

Roundup: Osprey, Politics, Entertainment …

Posted on March 27, 2026 | 4 comments

They’re back!

Well, at least one is.

Right on schedule, an osprey has returned to the perch between Fresh Market and Terrain.

Hopefully, its mate will join soon. Another season of fishing, breeding and hanging out in (and over) Westport awaits.

(Hat tip and photo/Dana Kuyper)

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Speaking of seasonal activities: These days, many Westporters are busy with spring cleaning.

Nine Rotary Club members took time out of their own yards, gardens and garages yesterday to spiff up the Sherwood Island Connector commuter parking lot, and nearby areas.

Led by Peter Helt and Rick Benson, they collected 25 bulging bags of trash.

“This is our town. Please keep it clean!” says Benson.

Rotarians to the rescue!

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Ani DiFranco drew a large crowd last night, to the Westport Library.

The musician, folk-rock legend and cultural icon kicked off 4 days of VersoFest ’26 in a conversation with Westport TV journalist Lindsay Czarniak about her new book, “The Spirit of Ani: Reflections on Spirituality, Feminism, Music, and Freedom.”

Tonight’s headliner is another musical legend: Wyclef Jean. Very few tickets remain for his 8 p.m. performance (click here to purchase).

For the full lineup of music, workshops, talks, art exhibits and more, click here. 

Ani DiFranco, at VersoFest. (Photo copyright DinkinESH Fotografix)

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Downtown traffic may be a little tougher than usual tomorrow.

Two events — the weekly 11 a.m., Ruth Steinkraus Bridge anti-Trump protest, and a “No Kings” 12 noon rally on Jesup Green — could cause delays, along with possible road closures.

Traffic moves slowly when downtown is crowded. (Photo/Jim Honeycutt)

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A truck fire on I-95 southbound yesterday evening, just past Exit 17, caused significant delays.

Smoke could be seen as far east as Greens Farms.

(Photo/Michael Diggin)

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MoCA\CT invites all area teenagers to an open “Mic at the Museum Night” (April 30, 6 to 8 p.m.).

Organized by MoCA’s Teen Council, it’s free — and for teens only. Participants can perform in any medium they choose: music (solo or group), comedy, storytelling, rap, dance or whatever. Click here to sign up.

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Speaking of entertainment: Morningside — a local indie-rock band made up of local dads, who just released their debut album of original music — headlines Stage One at FTC next Friday (April 3).

The band — including Westporters Nick Huber, Sean Spillman and Bobby Schlesinger; Westonite Matt Stine, and Ian Walters of Fairfield — opened for John Oates last summer at the Levitt Pavilion. More recently, they played at Mohegan Sun’s Wolf Den Theater.

Canyon — another Westport musician (and mom) — is the opening act at FTC. Click here for tickets, and more information.

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MyTeamTriumph — the great organization that pairs volunteer “angels” with “captain” athletes with disabilities, so that both can compete in running and bike races, and triathlons — hosts a pre-season warm-up short, friendly run and picnic on April 12 (11:30 a.m., Compo Beach).

They invite anyone interested — captain or angel — to check them out.

Upcoming events include the Women’s League of Westport Minute Man Race 5K and 10K (April 26), Boys & Girls Club of Stamford Corporate 5K (May 14), and Bloomin’ Metric Bike Ride (May 17).

Click here to sign up for the April 12 warm-up event. Click here for more information on myTeamTriumph.

MyTeamTriumph, in action.

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A good-sized group of Representative Town Meeting (RTM) members enjoyed their semi-annual lunch this week, at The Clubhouse.

They time this one for the yearly Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce food contest. (This year’s — for the best sandwiches in town — runs through Tuesday, March 31.)

The other lunch takes place during Restaurant Week.

RTM members (plus former moderator Velma Heller, 2nd from right), at The Clubhouse. Owners Tim and Emily Zobl are in back.

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Last year, the Gillespie Center and Hoskins Place — Westport’s men’s and women’s shelters — reopened, after extensive renovations.

This year, they’ve added something else new: an American flag. Peter Jennings installed it Wednesday.

The flag now flies proudly outside Homes with Hope’s Jesup Road building — which also houses a food pantry, and meeting space — in the heart of downtown.

(Photo/Helen McAlinden)

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This winter has been tough on local roads.

The Public Works Department is patching potholes as best they can. The entrance road at Burying Hill Beach has a particularly deep one.

(Photo/Scott Smith)

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Earlier this week the Y’s Women learned about “the power of the Red Cross,” from 2 women who know it well.

Susan Shansky retired from a career in budget management and communications at MIT. She is now a “blood donor ambassador,” having donated 10 gallons (in small increments) to the Red Cross.

Natalie Sustache is an American Red Cross senior recruiter.

The pair described how they bring talented people, to deliver hope and relief every day.

Susan Shansky and Natalie Sustache. (Photo/Vera DeStefano)

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo is one more in our continuing insistence that yes, spring really is just around the corner.

Though tomorrow’s high will only be around 39, temperatures could reach the 70s on Tuesday and Wednesday. Fingers crossed …

(Photo/Matt Murray)

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And finally … Chip Taylor, who wrote songs as diverse as the Troggs’ “Wild Thing” and Merrilee Rush’s “Angel of the Morning,” died Monday in New York. He was 86.

Click here for a full obituary.

(Be an angel! Please click here to make a tax-deductible donation to “06880.” Our hyper-local blog relies on support from readers like you. Thank you!)

 

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Posted in Arts, Beach, Entertainment, Library, Politics, Sports

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Staples Players Rewind: “City Of Angels”

Posted on March 24, 2026 | 1 comment

In the spring of 2004, Staples Players brought “City of Angels” to the stage.

Former media teacher Jim Honeycutt taped the Tony Award-winning musical, with dual story lines — and all of directors David Roth and Kerry Long’s shows.

This week, in our chronological look back at highlights of past productions — called “nutshells” –Spri we bring you back to that show about a Hollywood screenwriter, and his detective creation.

Click here or below to see.

(If you like these nutshells — or any other “06880” feature — please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Entertainment, Looking back, Staples HS

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Roundup: Bolton Runs For AG, Bloodroot Runs Tag Sale …

Posted on March 24, 2026 | 3 comments

A second Westport Republican has announced a run for statewide office.

Planning & Zoning Commission member John Bolton has filed for the attorney general race, Kevin Rennie’s Daily Ructions reports.

He joins Jen Tooker. The former 1st selectwoman is running for comptroller.

Bolton is “unlikely to face any competition for the Republican nomination for the job when it meets in May to select a candidate,” the political news source reports.

William Tong, the current Democratic AG, is seeking a third term. Click here for the full Daily Ructions story.

John Bolton

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Bloodroot is closed. But it’s not forgotten.

And to ensure that the vegan/feminist/iconic Bridgeport restaurant — co-founded by Westporter Selma Miriam — the very popular Bloodroot Giant Tag Sale returns this week.

On Friday and Saturday (March 27-28, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., 85 Ferris Street, Bridgeport), tons of Bloodroot “stuff” will be on sale.

For example: vintage and antique tables, chairs, bookcases, and other furniture; vintage pine farmhouse style bins, cubbies and bookshelves; high quality looms and spinning wheels; patio furniture, outdoor tables and outdoor chairs; stone and concrete benches; vintage and mid-century lamps; farmhouse-style pendant lighting and ceiling lamps.

Plus books and paper ephemera with LGBTQ, feminist and vegetarian themes; original signed art (prints, sculptures, photos and posters); antique and vintage china, glassware and tableware; tools and office supplies; pots, pans, cooking supplies and restaurant equipment; household items, clothing, shoes, fabrics — “pretty much everything under the sun.”

The Bloodroot tag sale crew (from left): Lauren, Noel, Sarah, Stephanie and Marina.

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There are plenty of grandparents — with grandchildren — in Westport.

On Saturday, May 2 (1 to 3 p.m., Westport Weston Family YMCA), they’ll have a chance to play together — without screens.

The pilot program, called Grand Play Day, brings together grandparents and their grandkids (ages 5-12). Using simple tools (question cards, paper-and-pencil table games and other easy activities), they’ll laugh and share stories.

Grand Play Day is built on “Connections Thru Play,” created by Playocracy founder Lynn Campanella in partnership with the National Institute for Play — where Joe Miller, a member of the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston, serves as a volunteer executive.

The event will be facilitated by Campanella and Miller, include academic input from professors of Childhood Development and Aging, and serve as a potential model for other community groups.

To participate in Grand Play Day with one or more grandchildren aged 5–12, register here on the YMCA website.

No screens in sight.

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Calling all local residents!

MoCA\CT is seeking ideas for Ellen Harvey’s upcoming exhibit, “The Disappointed Tourist.”

Is there a place you wish you could revisit — a landmark, neighborhood or gathering spot that has disappeared?

Harvey has asked that question around the world, transforming hundreds of public memories into a haunting series of paintings that reimagine sites erased by time, tides or bulldozers.

From June 25 through August 2, she brings her project to MoCA\CT.

Nominations close April 25. Harvey will select 4 sites to immortalize in paint.

Click here  to submit an idea, or explore existing works and stories from around the world,

Ellen Harvey in front of a portion of “The Disappointed Tourist.”

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Calling all local musicians!

The 3rd annual Route 57 WestFest wants you.

All ages and genres — and solo artists and groups — are welcome. Click here for more information, and to apply.

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Everyone should start the day with a good breakfast.

To help those who can’t, brothers Aaron and Brett Fortunoff — along with the Staples Cereal4All Club — are host a 4th annual cereal drive.

There are 4 ways to help.

The Fortunoffs and friends, at last year’s cereal drive.

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“Primary Trust” — the 2024 Pulitzer Prize-winning play about change, friendship quiet courage and mai tais — comes to the Westport Country Playhouse next month.

Performances are April 14 to May 2. Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Trumpeter/composer/arranger Michael Mossman has apprenticed with Lionel Hampton, Dizzy Gillespie and Art Blakey. He’s performed and recorded with Tito Puente and many other greats.

Pianist Zaccai Curtis is an acclaimed recording artist and producer. The Curtis Brothers Band, which he leads with his brother Luques, was earned a 2025 Grammy Award for Best Latin Jazz Album.

They — and bassist Edward Perez, drummer David Alvarez, percussionist Marlon Sobol and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall — take over VFW Post 399 this Thursday (March 26, 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.), for this week’s “Jazz at the Post.”

Dinner service starts at 7 p.m. Click here for tickets, and more information.

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In today’s “Westport … Naturally” featured photo, these guys in Robin Jaffee Frank’s back yard are giving thanks it’s March, not November.

(Photo/Robin Jaffee Frank)

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And finally … on this date in 1721, Johann Sebastian Bach dedicated what are now called the Brandenburg Concertos to Margrave Christian Ludwig of Brandenburg-Schwedt.

(You may not have time to listen to nearly 2 hours of the Concertos. But hopefully you’ve got 30 seconds to click here, to help support the “06880” blog that brings you great music — and much more!)

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Posted in Arts, Entertainment, Politics, Restaurants, Westport Country Playhouse, YMCA

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Roundup: Coming Soon: VersoFest, “Newsies,” Easter Egg Hunt, Spring …

Posted on March 23, 2026 | 1 comment

If you’ve seen the Westport Library looking extra-cool these recent nights, there’s a reason.

(Graphic by John Nunziato)

The blue lights are reminders that VersoFest ’26 — the 5th annual music/media/ and much more festival — arrives soon.

There are 4 full days of concerts, panels, art shows and the like. Highlights include a concert by Wyclef Jean, and a talk with Ani DiFranco. Click here for full details.

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Speaking of VersoFest: Yesterday, “06880” explored the back story of the Library’s promotional AI jingles.

A deeper dig into how AI is shaping the music industry is on tap this coming Sunday (March 29, 10:30 a.m., Library).

Executives from Suno, LANDR, Incantio and Chord Music Partners will discuss how AI is shaping the music the industry. A special “Coffee with the C-Suite: Creators, Technologists, and Music’s AI Frontier” panel features leaders from across music tech, rights investment, AI creation tools, and licensing platforms, discussing seismic shifts redefining the industry.

Among the speakers: Westporter Sam Hendel, managing partner at Chord Music Partners and Dundee Partners. Music industry veteran Dick Wingate — another local resident — will moderate the session. Click here for more details.

To try it yourself, Suno hosts a hands-on workshop afterward (noon to 4 p.m.). Attendees can experiment with the same tools used to create the AI jingles. Click here to reserve a 30-minute spot.

Sam Hendel

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One of Westport’s biggest and best Easter Egg Hunts is set for this Saturday (March 28, Gilbertie’s Herbs & Garden Center).

The event — sponsored colorfully, as always, by WestportMoms — is actually 2 hunts. Ages 2 to 5 start at 10:30 a.m. Ages 6 and up follow at 11:15.

Along with the egg hunts and pictures with the Easter Bunny, youngsters will enjoy fairy hair, glitter tattoos, face painting, cookie decorating, STEM and sports games, music and more (including 20 “golden eggs” with prizes).

There will also be a food truck, plus donuts from Retreat Sweets.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

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The Mamas and the Papas, Byrds, Doors, Crosby Stills & Nash, Neil Young, James Taylor, Carole King, Joni Mitchell and the Eagles were all at the Westport Country Playhouse last night.

Not in person, unfortunately. But their familiar music got fresh interpretations, in an intriguing and very well-received show.

“Live from Laurel Canyon – Songs and Stories of American Folk Rock” was 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

Great music from half a century ago has endured well.

Including — perhaps especially — Buffalo Springfield’s “For What It’s Worth.”

Laurel Canyon musicians, at the Playhouse. (Photo/Lauri Weiser)

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Extra! Extra!

The curtain rises Friday on “Newsies.” Coleytown Company’s fun-for-all ages musical — inspired by the true story of the 1899 newsboys’ strike in New York City — has been in high gear ever since Westport native Adam Kaplan (a member of the Broadway cast) taught a master class to the young CMS actors.

Show times are 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday (March 27 and 28), 1 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday (March 28 and 29).

Click here for tickets, and more information. The Company’s Instagram is @coleytown_company.

“Newsies” has a great cast — and set. (Photo/Meg Stewart)

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Spring is creeping ever so slowly into Westport.

Clarence Hayes writes: “It’s been a ritual for me to listen for spring peepers for 40 years — ever since I took my 7-year-old kids to hear them at Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, coming up from the city.

“At a swamp there at dusk, it is literally deafening. I take my grandkids there now.

“But we have them in Westport too, in little bits of spring excess water scattered around town.

“This video is from a vernal pond behind my condo next to I-95. You can clearly hear them over the highway noise.”

PS: This week looks to be partly cloudy, partly sunny. The temperature will be in the 40s and 50s — except Thursday, when it could reach the low 60s.

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo proves that everyone — everyone! — is sitting around, waiting for spring.

Library Riverewalk. (Photo/John Maloney)

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And finally … on this date in 1857,  Elisha Otis’ first elevator was installed, at 488 Broadway in New York.

(“06880” is to local news what Aerosmith is to “elevator music.” If you enjoy our hyper-local blog — and the 4 to 6 stories we post a day — please click here to support our work. Thank you!

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Posted in Children, Entertainment, Environment, Library, Westport Country Playhouse

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Hear Here! VersoFest’s Groundbreaking AI Jingles

Posted on March 22, 2026 | 2 comments

In just 5 years, VersoFest has gained a great reputation for its celebration of music, media and creativity.

This year, those 3 elements have reached new, um, records.

Verso Studios — the Library’s media hub — has created a promotional jingle. They’re playing at other Library events, and will be heard at VersoFest too. The 4-day show begins Thursday.

There are 4 versions of the same jingle. Each emulates the styles of major artists in this year’s lineup.

The one inspired by Wyclef Jean has an R&B flavor. The Thing‘s version is inspired by garage rock. Susanna Hoffs‘ is melodic pop rock, while Ani DiFranco’s suggests a folksy vibe.

Wyclef Jean

Lyrics and music were created in Verso Studios by Travis Bell, the studio’s in-house producer. He collaborated with Verso advisory board member Les Dinkin, principal of DinkinEsh Presents, who conceptualized the creative project.

The duo used the studio’s AI-based software to draft and refine a set of lyrics for the festival. Then came music generated through iterative prompts.

Ani DiFranco (Photo/Shervin Lainez)

Bell and Dinkin worked on many preliminary versions, before finalizing the right fit for each artist’s sound.

Click here or below to listen to the jingles.

Listen To The VersoFest’26 Jingles

All jingles were created solely from prompts through AI tools. The artist’s recordings or inputs from their recordings were not utilized in any way.

“We believe this may be the first time that AI music tools have been used to create artist-specific jingles by any performance venue, let alone a public community library,” Bell says.

This is not the first “first” for the Westport Library.

In 2022 “Verso Records: Volume One” became the first vinyl record ever recorded, produced, and released by a public library.

At VersoFest 2025, the Library also set the new world record for loudest library in history.

The third time is one more charm.

(Ani DiFranco is in conversation with Lindsay Czarniak on Thursday, March 26 at 7 p.m. Wyclef Jean is in concert Friday, March 27 at 7:30 p.m. The Thing and Susanna Hoffs appeared earlier. For the full VersoFest lineup, ticket information and more, click here.)

(“06880” is your place for all VersoFest news — and everything else going on in town. If you appreciate our coverage of “Where Westport meets the world,” please click here to support us. Thanks!)

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Posted in Entertainment, Library, technology

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Roundup: Basketball Livestream, Cribari Bridge, Lyman …

Posted on March 21, 2026 | 3 comments

Get ready to rumble!

Tonight is the boys basketball state championship. Staples High School — ranked #1 in Division I — meets #2 West Haven. Tipoff is 8:30 p.m., at Mohegan Sun.

But hey — you don’t have to drive clear across Connecticut.

The contest will be livestreamed. Click here to watch. 

It could be historic. The last time the Wreckers won a state boys basketball crown was 1937!

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In the wake of Thursday’s state Department of Transportation public meeting about the Cribari Bridge, several residents contacted “06880.” They want to know how to urge town officials — particularly 1st Selectman Kevin Christie and the Representative Town Meeting — to get involved.

For example, Robbie Guimond writes: “RTM! It’s time to answer the call. Are you ready?

“After the CTDOT hearing, one thing was clear: Fear about increased truck traffic is widespread across town. While other issues came up, the need to address truck traffic stood out.

“I believe the RTM should begin the process of creating a ‘no through truck’ ordinance immediately.

“This is public shout-out for the appropriate RTM committees to take this on — or form a new committee if needed. It would make sense to include people like Andrew Colabella and Jennifer Johnson, who have consistently raised this issue, along with others who can help move it forward.

“We also know that during reconstruction, a temporary span will allow all legal loads to cross for 3+ years. Even a bridge rehab would bring increased truck traffic back. We should be ready with a plan to act, if and when the trucks show up.

“RTM: It’s time to get to work. Are you ready? Your constituents are.”

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Mark Yurkiw — the Westport artist who has been very involved in relief efforts for his native Ukraine — shares an item about Westport’s sister city Lyman, from the Ukrainian National News Agency. It reports:

“The main and most relevant objective for the enemy is Lyman. Lyman has long been a target because (Russia’s) long-term goal is to reach the northern outskirts of the Sloviansk-Kramatorsk agglomeration.

“To do this, they need to capture Lyman and then advance further toward Raihorodok. From there, they would directly move on to the Sloviansk-Kramatorsk agglomeration, but for years the enemy has failed to achieve this.”

Lyman has been heavily damaged by Russian forces.

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Westport Board of Education “community conversations” are wide-ranging affairs.

Residents are invited to raise any topic related to the schools.

And they do.

The next session is Tuesday (March 31, 12 p.m., Westport Library). Former Representative Town Meeting moderator Velma Heller will facilitate the conversation.

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Connecticut’s secretary of the state has a lot on her plate.

At the Westport Library on Thursday, Stephanie Thomas described some of her many roles. She was the second in a 3-part “Your State — Your Business” series, sponsored by the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce.

Among the topics: scams targeting business owners and individuals, how businesses and residents can get involved civically, and human trafficking. She also answered questions, including about election policy.

The series continues April 2 (11 a.m., Westport Library), with Connecticut Attorney General William Tong, Click here for more information. 

Secretary of the State Stephanie Thomas and Matthew Mandell, Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce director.

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Tonight, live blues comes to VFW Post 399.

The Chicago Dawgs play, starting at 7:30. Bar food (pizza slices and hot dogs) are available, along with early bird bar specials. Click here for tickets. 


Chicago Dawgs

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All soccer players in kindergarten through 6th grade are invited to a fun clinic and fundraiser next weekend (Sunday, March 29, 10:30 a.m. to noon, Wakeman Field). Westport travel coaches and Staples players will run the event.

It’s been organized by Bedford Middle School 8th grader Allyson Post. Donations ($25 per player) support the soccer program at Bridgeport’s Columbus School, for grades K-8.

Allyson started working with the Columbus program last year. It was so meaningful, she has continued her involvement.

To register through Full Court Peace, click here. Click “Donate,” and note “Soccer Clinic” in the notes. Then click here, so organizers can plan for each age group.

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Read to Grow — the great statewide non-profit that provides free books to newborns and children — gave an incorrect link to their May 7 fundraiser (6 p.m., Westport Library). Click here for the correct link to purchase tickets.

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The theme of the National Garden Clubs’ youth poetry contest was “Plant America for the next 100 years.”

Local sponsor the Westport Garden Club planted a seed among local students. Four Westport youngsters earned gold medals for their grade levels.

One — S. DeVito — won the New England regional contest too, and proceeds to the national level.

Congratulations to:

  • Grade 2:  G. Olanoff (Long Lots Elementary School)
  • Grade 4:  D. Deeckan (homeschool)
  • Grade 5:  R.R. Paransky (Kings Highway Elementary School)
  • Grade 6:  S. DeVito (Bedford Middle School, Westport)

A celebration of the poets is set for April 19 (2 p.m., Westport Library). For more information, click here.

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The Weston History & Culture Center opens for the season on March 29 (1 to 4 p.m.).

Visitors can enjoy a new “Weston at Work ”interactive exhibit in the Coley barn,  take a guided tour of the Coley House (circa 1940s), learn about the forgotten village of Valley Forge, and explore the Weston Meteorite. For more information, click here.

Looking at the Lockwood Loom, at the Weston History & Culture Center.

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Is that spring we see, sprouting in Molly Alger’s yard?

We can’t imagine a better “Westport … Naturally” photo for today!

(Photo/Molly Alger)

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And finally … Happy National Teenager Day!

If you’re a teen — or ever were — this one’s for you.

(Hey, teens! And everyone else! If you enjoy “06880” — and appreciate the work that goes into posting 3 to 6 times a day — please click here, to support our work. Thank you all!)

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Posted in Education, Entertainment, Local politics, Politics, Sports, Staples HS

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BMS “Little Mermaid” Cast Shows Big Hearts

Posted on March 21, 2026 | 5 comments

Michelle Vitulich has lived in Westport for 17 years. She and her husband Alan are the parents of 2 daughters in the Westport Public Schools. Michelle writes:

Today is World Down Syndrome Day.

This year’s global theme — “Together Against Loneliness” — is being lived out in the hallways and on the stage of Bedford Middle School.

The students preparing for their production of “The Little Mermaid” did not need a formal memo to understand what inclusion looks like. For them, combating loneliness isn’t a campaign; it’s second nature.

And for a mother watching from the wings, it is a sight that makes the heart overflow.

Caitlin, a 7th grader with Down Syndrome, was cast as a starfish and otter in the show. While her roles may not be leads, the opportunity to be part of something special — to be truly included — means everything to her.

Starfish Caitlin (right), with sea gull (Scarlett Nathan). (Photo/Michelle Vitulich)

The depth of this inclusion became clear during a dress rehearsal for the final act. As the cast gathered for their bows, Caitlin found herself momentarily lost behind the large group of sea creatures. Without a second thought, a fellow student playing a seahorse noticed, reached back to grab Caitlin’s hand, and gently brought her to the very front to take her bow.

Later, when I went to thank the young actor, her response was simple and profound: “Of course. Everyone deserves applause.”

Cast and crew of “The Little Mermaid.” (Photo/Maya Porrino)

Those words carry a weight far beyond a middle school theater production. They reflect a community where students instinctively understand that every person has a vital role to play.

Whether it is Ariel dancing alongside Caitlin to guide her movements, sharing a belly laugh with Scuttle, Mr. Hribko ensuring that everyone finds their spot center stage, or the countless high fives and words of encouragement from fellow cast members, these students are proving that when we stand together, no one has to feel alone.

Please come out and support these incredible students on stage in “The Little Mermaid,” which runs today (Saturday, 7 p.m.) and tomorrow (Sunday, 2 p.m.). Click here for tickets.

PS: As we celebrate World Down Syndrome Day together, don’t forget to rock your socks!

All smiles on stage: Caitlin and paraprofessional Ronnisha Baker (and a great set too!). (Photo/Maya Porrino)

(“06880” covers Westport’s entertainment and education scenes — and of course, the accomplishments of our town’s young people. If you enjoy stories like this, please click here to support us. Thanks!)

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Posted in Education, Entertainment

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Staples Players Rewind: “Oliver!”

Posted on March 17, 2026 | 1 comment

In the fall of 2003, Staples Players brought “Oliver!” to the stage.

Former media teacher Jim Honeycutt taped it — and all of director David Roth’s shows.

This week, in our chronological look back at highlights of past productions, we bring you that memorable “Oliver!” Click here or below to see.

And “consider yourself” lucky to be entertained so well!

(If you like these nutshells — or any other “06880” feature — please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Entertainment, Looking back, Staples HS

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“06880” Podcast: Alex Giannini

Posted on March 17, 2026 | 1 comment

Alex Giannini is a very busy man.

As director of programs and events for the Westport Library, he’s neck-deep in preparations for this year’s Verso Fest.

But last week he walked downstairs, sat on the Forum stage, and gave us a behind-the-scenes look at the 5th annual music/media/and more festival.

Alex described not only what’s happening, but how. Who chooses the musicians and panelists? How is each day’s schedule balanced? Who is the target audience, how are they reached, and what are their reactions?

Alex’s interview offers a very cool look at a very cool event. Click here or below to see.

PS: Want to learn more about VersoFest ’26, with Wyclef Jean, Ani DiFranco and a lot more? Click here!

 

 

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Roundup: Beach Stickers, Basketball, Big Sports Names …

Posted on March 17, 2026 | 2 comments

Summer is here!

Well, at least, beach parking emblems (oldtimers call them “stickers”) are available for purchase — online and in the Parks & Recreation Department office — for Westport and Weston residents starting this Thursday (March 19), at 9 a.m. There is no limit for Westport and Weston residents. Click here for fees.

Beach parking emblem sales for non-residents begin tomorrow (Wednesday, March 18), at 9 a.m. The fee is $545, plus sales tax. There is a limit of 450 for the season — first come, first served.

If you bought emblems or registered for programs in previous seasons, your online account is already set up. Click here to log in. Then select “Memberships,” and follow the prompts.

If you have not bought emblems or registered for programs previously, click here. Then click the “Purchase Now” icon on the right.

Emblems will be mailed in 14-21 days. They are not required until May 1.

If you forget your login or password, do not create another account. Select the proper “forget” button on the login page. For further help, email  recreation@westportct.gov.

Office hours are 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays.

Beach stickers go on sale this week. (Photo/Mark Marcus)

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The Staples High School boys basketball team is one game away from a historic accomplishment.

The Wreckers — ranked #1 in Division I — downed Notre Dame Prep 67-61 last night at Fairfield Warde, in a state tournament semifinal contest that was nowhere near as close as the score seems.

That lifts the Westporters into the state championship against #2 West Haven.

The game — to be played Saturday or Sunday, on a date and time to be determined at Mohegan Sun — will be their first state championship since 2023. Three years ago, they fell short in their quest for the Division II crown.

If the Wreckers win this weekend, it will be their first state title since — are you ready? — 1937.

That’s right. Staples’ last Connecticut championship came when Franklin Roosevelt was in the White House. And 9 years before the founding of the NBA.

Go Wreckers!

There could be another historic moment this weekend too.

The boys could be joined by the Staples girls basketball team.

The Wreckers’ girls state tournament semifinal game tips off at 6 p.m. tonight (Tuesday), at Bethel High School.

The Wreckers — seeded #3 in Division II — take on #10 Bristol Central.

Go Wreckers indeed!

The 2026 Staples girls basketball team.

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Speaking of sports: Sports Business Journal just unveiled the nominees for their 2026 Sports Business Awards Executive of the Year.

Astonishingly, 3 of the 5 are from Westport.

They are NBC Sports president Rick Cordella, ESPN president Jimmy Pitaro, and TKO Group Holdings president and COO Mark Shapiro. (The 2 non-Westport nominees are 23XI Racing co-owner Michael Jordan, and TWG Global CEO Mark Walter.

Cordella — who would be the first NBC Sports leader to win the award since Dick Ebersol in 2009 — oversaw the NBA’s return to NBC, the Super Bowl and the Winter Olympics in Milan Cortina, and negotiated a 3-year deal for MLB to return to the network this season.

Pitaro won the award in 2020. He led the re-launch of the DTC-focused ESPN app, the acquisition of key assets within NFL Media and a renegotiated MLB media deal, and was selected to the Broadcasting + Cable Hall of Fame.

Shapiro presided over TKO (the parent company of UFC, WWE, PBR, On Location and IMG). UFC agreed to a $7.7 billion, 7-year deal with Paramount Skydance, while WWE agreed to a $1.625 billion, 5-year deal with ESPN.

The 19th annual Sports Business Awards ceremony — including 14 other categories — will be presented May 20 at the New York Marriott Marquis Times Square.

Good luck to all 3 local nominees. Looks like there’s a 60% chance that the  Sports Business Executive of the Year will be one of our neighbors.

Will they share an Uber to the event? (Or — more importantly — home?)

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With 74 power outages in Westport (0.58% of customers), and a much more substantial 1,128 in Weston (29%), it’s a good time to remind readers that Office Evolution is a great option.

The co-working space opposite Westport fire headquarters on Post Road East offers free day passes to new customers, and discounts on hourly private office space.

It’s a great way to get work done, charge devices, and enjoy hi-speed Wi-fi.

Call (203-635-8770) or email (WestportCT@OfficeEvolution.com) — if you can!

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Probate Judge Lisa Wexler is running for re-election, in the Westport-Weston district. She says:

“Being your probate judge for the last 13 years has been a great privilege. I have loved being able to help so many people in our community. I remain committed to fulfilling the responsibilities of probate judge with the utmost integrity, transparency and fairness. I hope that I have earned your trust and confidence for another term.

“Most people think that probate courts are only for wills, trusts and estates. But over half of our work involves people with special needs, including the elderly and those suffering from mental illness. As your probate judge, I use the tools available to me to try as best as I can to help those in our community who are the most vulnerable.”

Wexler has opened the court on Tuesday nights for public lectures, writes an email newsletter, appears at the Westport and Weston senior centers, and speaks before gatherings of trusts and estates professionals. She also made probate hearings available for the first time, via CDs.

A graduate of the New York University School of Law and Johns Hopkins University, she is a member of the Weston Kiwanis and Hadassah, and advisory board member to Jane Doe No More, and is a board member of The Jeffrey Modell Foundation.

Judge Lisa Wexler

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Last month, “06880” reported on Westport’s first-ever Mini Moguls Marketplace. The youth business fair — founded and organized by Staples High School junior Aanya Gandhi — drew (very) young vendors in grades 5–8, and plenty of shoppers, to the Westport Library.

Long Lots Elementary School students Leo Rubin and Luke Capolupo made and sold personalized necklaces. Their first sale was to an important customer: superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice.

The event jump-started their business. Since then, they’ve expanded sales at school. Leo then pitched the idea to ASF. The popular Post Road East store now carries their product.

An Instagram post says: “LL Creations’ beaded necklaces are made for players and true sports fans alike. Rep your passion, support young entrepreneurs, and give back — 10% of proceeds go to the Boys & Girls Club.”

 

Luke Capolupo and Leo Rubin at ASF.

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Attention, college juniors and seniors interested in a career in management consulting: A Westport firm is offering a summer internship.

The New England Consulting Group’s program runs from June 1 to August 7. They’re looking for interns from top colleges; any major is appropriate.

It’s on-site in Westport, with a $5,000 stipend.

Contact Tom Sebok, managing partner: ths@necg.net (subject line: Westport Summer Internship at NECG); 917-825-2206.

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You don’t have to be Irish — or even a human being — to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day.

Jolantha — Weston’s favorite pig — is all decked out in green. Sure, and it’s a great day when everyone eats corned beef.

Not ham or bacon.

(Photo/Hans Wilhelm)

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David Berkman has been a major jazz voice for decades. Since his first visit to the Jazz at the Post — a soldout performance a few years ago with Antonio Hart — he has become a favorite at VFW Post 399.

This week, as the featured artist of JazzFC’s March Jazz Madness, he presents his own writing for quintet.

Berkman will be accompanied by saxophonists Billy Drewes and Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall, bassist David Ambrosio and drummer Jay Sawyer.

Shows are Thursday (March 19) at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m. Dinner starts at 7. Click here for tickets, and more information.

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What could be more appropriate for today’s St. Paddy’s Day “Westport … Naturally” photo than this wearing-of-the-green shot?

(Photo/Bob Weingarten)

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And finally … to all who celebrate today (and who doesn’t?):

(And on that note, may we ask for a bit o’ green today? If you’d like to support “06880” — and, ahem, this Danny Boy — please click here. Thanks — and may the luck of the Irish be with you!)

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