As students head off to college, they pack many things: Clothes. Electronics. Favorite items from home.
And: Narcan.
Positive Directions offers a safety kit for students with the medication that quickly reverses the effects of an opioid overdose, plus fentanyl test strips, a lock bag for drugs, info cards and more.
There’s also a 15-20 minute info session on mental health, substance risks and resources at college, including overdose signs and how to administer Narcan.
To celebrate, a proclamation signed by Governor Lamont will be read at 11 a.m. tomorrow (Thursday), at the Westport Farmers’ Market.
It’s all part of the weekly event — with fresh produce, breads, meats, ice cream, pizza, Thai food, dog treats, food trucks, knife sharpening, live music and more — at the Imperial Avenue parking lot. Hours are 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., every Thursday through November.
Westport Local Press just posted several dozen shots, by noted event photographer JC Martin. Click here for those images — and to see if you’re included.
The Campaign School at Yale University is coming to Westport.
The event — just before Election Day (Saturday, October 24, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.) — is a 1-day training program covering how to prepare to run for office, work on a campaign, or effectively lead on an issue in your community.
The curriculum includes speaking techniques, networking skills, and the components necessary to begin a political career, both personally and professionally.
Questions? Email Info@TCSYale.org, or call 203.734.7385.
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The Westport Rotary Club got a backstage look at the Levitt Pavilion yesterday — without leaving Green’s Farms Church.
Andy Fleischman, president of the Levitt board, spoke at the weekly lunch gathering.
A finance attorney with music industry experience, he got involved with the outdoor venue in 2018, to help improve its relationship with the town. He also was interested in the acts being booked, but did not want to interfere in what was already an impressive summer lineup.
He’s helped bring younger popular acts to the open-air theater. A few years ago, he contributed to the effort to book Wilton’s Goose. They recently sold out 2 nights at Madison Square Garden.
Up-and-coming jam band Eggy, which played at the Levitt this summer, also has developed a national profile.
Andy Fleischman at the Rotary Club. (Photo/Dave Matlow)
A few hundred StartUp Westport members ate, drank, socialized — and of course networked — at the group’s summer get-together last night, at Compo Beach.
StartUp Westport is the town’s public/private partnership for entrepreneurs and innovators. It sponsors general and special interest meetings, mentor programs, a pitch contest — and, like last night, an opportunity for creative, like-minded and very interesting people to hang out together, by the water in beautiful weather.
There was a lot going on here last night. Besides the National Night Out on Jesup Green, StartUp Westport’s summer social (above) and the Y’s Men’s regular hot dog event — both at the beach — there was an indoor activity at the Westport Library.
Author Chris Bohjalian spoke with CT Public’s Catherine Shen about his new novel, “The Amateur.” It’s a suspenseful, emotionally charged story about tragedy, privilege, secrets, and the devastating ripple effects of one split-second mistake.
Chris Bohjalian and Catherine Shen. (Photo/Susan Garment)
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We feature many fascinating creatures in our daily “Westport … Naturally” series.
But none are more intriguing than owls. Who knows why we have such a soft spot for them?!
For well over 50 years, the Levitt Pavilion has hosted thousands of concerts and shows. Hundreds of thousands of folks of all ages have enjoyed all sorts of entertainment.
Soon, the outdoor venue will be even more accessible.
Work is proceeding well on a ramp, from the Imperial Avenue parking lot to the Levitt.
The ramp is funded through the town budget via an appropriation. Construction is expected to be completed by mid-September — perhaps earlier.
The new ramp, near the Levitt Pavilion. (Photo/Lauri Weiser)
Public Works director Larry Roberts says, “We built flexibility into the construction schedule to allow the contractor to work around the busy lineup of shows at the Levitt. I am pleased with the progress to date.”
The ramp is just one part of a broader effort to improve accessibility to town-owned facilities — including the Imperial site. Newly configured ADA-compliant parking and a new handicap-accessible bathroom have recently opened there.
For more than 70 consecutive months, VFW Post 399 sponsors a blood drive.
But it’s not enough. For only the second time in its history, the Red Cross has declared a national blood crisis.
All blood types are urgently needed, but the shortage is particularly severe for type O blood. The supply of type O positive blood has fallen below 1 day, and the Red Cross has begun limiting distribution of certain blood products to hospitals.
NOTE: The Westport Library has just scheduled a blood drive for August 13 (10 a.m. to 3 p.m.).
In Connecticut, only about 1/3 of blood donation appointments for the next month are filled. Thousands of open appointments are critical to meeting patient needs.
You can help by:
making an appointment through the Blood Donor app (RedCrossBlood.org), or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
Referring businesses, organizations or individuals interested in hosting a blood drive to the app.
Remember: At any moment, someone we love, a neighbor, or complete stranger could depend on a lifesaving blood transfusion.
Deer are a dime a dozen here. We get several photos a day, for our “Westport … Naturally” feature. Sorry; we can’t use 99% of them.
But an albino deer — that’s worth posting.
Marie Gross spotted this one in her back yard. It was visiting her bird feeders.
(Photo/Marie Gross)
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And finally … in honor of the Long Island Sound dolphin pod (story above):
(From dolphins and albino deer to blood drives and ADA ramps, “06880” reports it all. And we do it 24/7/365. If you enjoy this hyper-local blog, please click here to support our work. Thank you1)
East Town Prophets bring their high-energy rock sound to VFW Post 399 tonight (Saturday, 7:30 p.m.; $10 cover).
Doors open at 6 p.m. Light bar food is available, plus drink specials.
East Town Prophets
Also tonight, at the Levitt Pavilion : Anthem Reggae Band (7:30 p.m.). Tomorrow (Sunday, 7 p.m.) it’s Danny Lipsitz & the Brass Tacks. Both shows are free. Click here for more information.
Last night’s show featured Residual Groove. The local band that played 2 Slice of Saugatuck festivals, many nights at Dunville’s and opened last year for Mahali made the first of what may be many headline performances at the outdoor theater.
Residual Groove (Photo/Matthew Mandell)
And one more: Vinnie Ferrone plays outdoors on Church Lane tonight (6 to 9 p.m.).
Jay Schadler’s “Turning Point” podcast is one of the Westport Library’s most popular series.
The journalist/photographer/artist is a superb interviewer, zeroing in on key moments in a guest’s life and career.
And I’m not just saying that because his interview with me kicks off his 2nd season,
Our chat ranged widely, from writing to soccer to LGBT activism. The through line was “community” — and the turning points that shaped me and my work. Click here to listen.
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Channeling Westport circa 1965, and inspired by hilarious Instagram posts from Rita Gigante daughter of mob boss Vincent “The Chin” Gigante and author of “The Godfathers Daughter”), a group of longtime Westport friends donned housecoats, pink foam rollers and their mother’s pearls.
Dubbing themselves “The Real Housewives of Westport,” they gathered for an afternoon potluck lunch of Ritz cracker chicken casserole, corn soufflé, Jell-O mold, tuna pasta and pineapple upside down cake.
Ellen Bowen hosted the event. As you can see in the photo below, she and Yvonne Claveloux, Stacey Tagen, Marci Gordon, Lilia Temple, Cathy Colgan, Sara Kempner, Lois Backon and Cathy Circle were looking very, um, mid-’60s-Westport-ish.
Yesterday’s Roundup noted that a large sign at the Compo Road/Bridge Street intersection, touting a new sidewalk project, identified Ned Lamont as “govenor.”
We neglected to mention — because, truthfully, we did not notice — 2 other misspellings.
The Department of Transportation — which presumably is responsible for the sign — forgot a “t” in their own name.
They even screwed up the name of their commissioner. It’s “Garrett” — not “Garret” — Eucalitto.
But hey, the DOT had a swift solution yesterday:
To be fair, “06880” makes a fair share of spelling errors.
But we don’t post them on large, taxpayer-funded signs.
PS: Every word in this particular item has been checked and re-checked. At least 12 times.
But we just learned that 5 Staples High School students have been named state winners in the annual PTA Reflections competition. The theme was “I Belong.”
Congratulations to Isabella Mariani (music composition, 1st place), Noah Bruno (film production, 1st place), Jessica DiPrato (visual arts, 1st place), Dylan Marks (photography, 2nd place) and Archie Kobetitsch (literature, 3rd place).
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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo is a first: a clearwing hummingbird moth.
In addition to sending a superb image, Jay Ludy quotes Google: “The hummingbird moth is a fascinating day-flying insect known for hovering in midair, making a buzzing sound, and using a long proboscis to drink nectar from flowers.”
The Staples High School graduate had just started working for the Boston Red Sox, as an operations and equipment intern during spring training.
Max prepared well for that job. A 4-year student manager for the University of Delaware baseball team, and valued member of the athletic department, he’d overcome a substantial speech and language disability. The story celebrated his success.
That was just the start. On Monday, Delaware’s UDaily did their own story on Max. “Opening Doors Through Inclusion” covered his 16 years since graduation.
These days, Max works in golf operations at La Gorce Country Club in Miami Beach, and is a team attendant for the Miami Heat. Over the years he has worked for premier golf clubs, and held operational roles with the New York Mets, Philadelphia Phillies and U.S. Open. Soon, he’ll return to the tennis Open as a court attendant.
He speaks on disability issues at national conferences and industry events. And he volunteers with Special Olympics.
Oh yeah: UD’s former baseball team called Max “the best team manager we ever had.” The program’s Rookie of the Year Award in named in his honor.
Max says, “I am still grateful for my 4 years at Staples that launched me to greater heights. I always catch a Wreckers game or two when I’m back home.”
The Pan-Mass Challenge is a near-200-mile 2-day bike ride, from Worcester to Provincetown.
But despite its Massachusetts roots — and its fundraising efforts for Boston’s Dana-Farber Cancer Institute — the annual event has a strong Westport presence.
This weekend, the Representative Town Meeting (RTM) member participates in his 6th Pan-Mass Challenge.
“The Pan-Mass Challenge is an amazing reminder of what people can accomplish when they decide to do something difficult together,” Drake says. “It also reminds me for weeks afterward that no amount of training makes a bicycle seat comfortable.”
For Drake — who is part of local team Velominati — the ride is about supporting the patients, families, doctors and researchers confronting cancer every day.
Many riders participate in honor or memory of someone affected by cancer. More than 1,100 riders and volunteers this year are cancer survivors or current patients, .
“Nearly all of us have watched cancer affect someone we love,” he says. “The miles can be brutal, but they are nothing compared with what patients and their families endure. Riding, raising awareness and raising funds are simply small ways I can help.”
What we did not know — or we definitely would have mentioned it — is that we’re smack dab in the middle of Shark Week. (For those of you who prefer to be outdoors — cautiously — in the summer, rather than watching TV, that’s an annual Discovery Channel promotion.)
On Monday, “06880” reported on plans for a 2-story indoor sports facility, on the present site of Bar Lupa restaurant, Izzo & Son Country Gardens, and Furniture on Consignment II.
That night, the Planning & Zoning Commission looked favorably on the pre-application presented by the Redniss & Mead land use firm.
Westport native Andrew Bangser looked up the location — 1431 Post Road East — on Google Maps.
A nearby building was labeled “Arnie’s Place.”
(Screenshot courtesy of Andrew Bangser)
Most Westporters know it as “the former site of Balducci’s.” It’s been closed for nearly half a year.
And, as Andrew points out, Arnie’s Place — the once-controversial, now long-lamented video arcade — met its end a decade before Larry Page and Sergey Brin began building a rudimentary search engine in their Stanford University dorm room.
A 2-vehicle accident at noon yesterday, on Post Road East in front of Redi-Cut Carpet, snapped a utility pole and forced the extrication of the occupant of a truck.
Two people were taken to the hospital, with injuries.
Since 2002, the Malloy Lecture in the Arts — supported by the last Westport artist Susan Malloy — has brought creative artists like Salman Rushdie, Roz Chast and Kelli O’Hara to the Westport Library stage.
This year’s guest is Amor Towles. The best-selling author will speak with writer and editor Stephanie Klose about his career, and novels like “A Gentleman in Moscow,” “The Lincoln Highway” and “Table for Two” that have captivated millions of readers around the world. Click here for more information.
Amor Towles
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The serious business of school kicks in sooner than anyone realizes.
A few days before, the Westport Country Playhouse offers a “Silly Dilly Concert,” fun for the whole family.
The Saturday, August 22 show (4 p.m.) features over 20 songs, right out of Alan Katz’s parody books. Click here for tickets; click here or below for a sneak peek.
And finally … Freddy Cannon — the singer of classic pop/rock songs like “Palisades Park, “Tallahassee Lassie” and “Action” — died Friday in California. He was 89, and had been diagnosed with bladder cancer.
(“06880” is where the action is — 24/7/365. If you come here for news, features, photos, random stuff — or anything else — please click this link, to support our work. Oh baby, come on!)
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.
The first agenda item is a potential text change in Saugatuck, related to the proposed development by Spinnaker on Riverside Avenue. Click here for all related materials.
The other items involve Dark Sky compliance, modifying mobile park regulations, and discussing accessory buildings.
The Zoning Regulation Revision Subcommittee discusses Saugatuck today.
There is one agenda item on tomorrow’s Board of Education agenda (Thursday, June 23, 9:30 a.m., Staples High School cafeteria): discussion, and possible action, on “Special Education Program Review: Review RFQ Responses and RFP.”
The meeting will be livestreamed on www.westportct.gov, and Optimum Channel 78.
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It’s a great National Hockey League tradition: Each player on the Stanley Cup-winning team gets to keep it for a day.
Which is how the famed trophy came to Westport yesterday.
Jeff Looby sent this photo, from social media:
A bit of context: Twitter user Phil Pritchard is the guy who shepherds the Stanley Cup from player to player, and town to town. (Much safer than FedEx.)
Shayne Gostisbehere is … well, you can read about him above. His only connections to Connecticut seem to be that he played prep school hockey at South Kent, and the Carolina Hurricanes started out as the Hartford Whalers, before fleeing to Raleigh in 1997.
Jeff thought Shayne might have a summer place in Westport. That can’t be confirmed. But it led to another social media post by Pritchard:
What is Eric Robinson’s connection with Westport?
AI says he is a “native” of our town. But he was raised in Bellmawr, New Jersey, and played at Gloucester Catholic High there. There are no other references to Westport anywhere for him.
So here are our questions:
Does Shayne Gostisbehere actually live here in the summer?
Is Eric Robinson actually a Westport native? And if so …
… why didn’t that get any publicity during the Hurricanes’ Stanley Cup run?
If none of that is true, how did the Stanley Cup wind up here yesterday?
And finally: Which is cooler: Having the Stanley Cup here in 2026, or the World Cup in Weston in 1991?
A memorial service celebrating the life of Scott Bryce — the beloved actor, Staples High School graduate and Weston resident who died July 12 — is set for this Saturday (July 25, 10 a.m., Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport.).
The other day, Sandy Rothenberg emailed “06880.” She said: “The intersection of Bayberry Lane Extension & Easton Road (Route 136) is a major accident waiting to happen.
“At the stop sign on Bayberry Extension, the sight line is very poor. Cars fly around the corner on Easton Road, or turn in 2 other directions at the same time. School buses use this intersection too.
“I have contacted Westport Police and Public Works. They said that since Easton Road is a state road and the bushes are not on public property, they can’t do anything about it.” They suggested writing a letter to the property owner at 300 Bayberry Lane Extension.
Town operations manager Tom Kiely told Sandy that the house was recently sold. New owners will move in next month. Kiely contacted them, and said they were receptive to meeting with town officials.
Rothenberg adds, “The state Department of Transportation needs to attend to the curve on Easton Road!”
Dangerous sightline: Easton Road (right) at Bayberry Lane Extension. Bayberry Lane is at far right. (Photo/Sandy Rothenberg)
Only a few days — and 2 Westport Farmers’ Markets — remain in the Young Shoots photo contest.
For a decade, photographers ages 5 to 18 have captured the energy and beauty of the Thursday market — and shared great images of food, farmers and shopper.
The contest — with prizes in 3 age groups, and an exhibit and reception for all the young entrants — is sponsored by The Artists Collective of Westport and the Drew Friedman Community Arts Center.
Speaking of the outdoors: Flick the leopard gecko, Pearl the chinchilla and Chatty the bald eagle are 3 of the more than 50 animals that call Earthplace home.
Unable to survive in the wild due to permanent injuries, they now serve as ambassadors, connecting the community with nature.
But Earthplace can’t do it alone. Facing rising food, veterinary and enrichment costs, they need to raise $25,000 this month to ensure the animals receive the resources they need!
A generous matching challenge will double every gift, through July 31. Click here to donate.
Westport is filled with experienced professionals — and many other young men and women, just beginning their careers.
A networking mixer, bringing them all together, is set for next Tuesday (July 28, 7 to 8:15 p.m., Compo Beach brick pavilion).
The free event — organized by Westport Professionals Network co-founders Lisa Cukier and Katie Gervasio — is open to post-high school, and current and graduated college students. Plus, of course, anyone interested in offering advice and mentorship.
Roz Chast and Lisa Donnelly had a packed Westport Library crowd laughing loudly Monday night.
That’s appropriate. They spoke following a screening of “Women Laughing,” Donnelly’s documentary about a diverse and remarkable group of New Yorker female cartoonists. Chast and Donnelly are 2 of its most noted members.
From left: Roz Chast and Lisa Donnelly, with former New Yorker editor Anne Hall Elser. (Photo/Susan Garment)
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Lauri Weiser sent this “Westport … Naturally” photo yesterday, with a note: “On icky days like this, these beautiful flowers remind me why I love my garden.”
And finally … in honor of the Stanley Cup coming to Westport (story above):
(You may never drive a Zamboni. But you can always contribute to “06880.” Just click here to help. It’s even better than winning the Stanley Cup! Thank you all …)
The Westport Library hosted its first-ever World Cup watch party yesterday.
Over 150 soccer fans of all ages — nearly all of them rooting for Spain, it seemed — watched “La Roja” beat Argentina in extra time, for their 2nd-ever championship.
Earlier in the afternoon at the Library, several dozen youngsters traded Panini soccer cards. Meanwhile, 4 residents with strong soccer ties — Dan Woog, Chris O’Dell, Paddy Donovan and Joe Pierce — discussed Westport’s history and role in The Beautiful Game.
There were many other watch parties too. Large crowds packed The Clubhouse, Riko’s Pizza and other places.
Westporters like Rob Simmelkjaer — CEO of the New York Road Runners, but also an avid soccer fan — had their own gatherings.
It’s hard to tell from the photo below who Rob favored. The dessert includes both teams — and his jersey is the one worn by Argentina’s Lionel Messi, when he played for Spain’s Barcelona.
Elsewhere in the world: Claudia Sherwood Servidio is a Westport resident. But she has spent the past 25 summers on the Greek island of Lemnos. In both places, she is an avid marine conservationist.
She recently helped bring a group of Lemnos high school students to a research vessel, to explore one of the Eastern Mediterranean’s most important marine ecosystems.
The expedition was part of the Imagine Lemnos Plastic Free Festival, an event she co-founded with scientists, environmental groups and local partners.
A short-term goal is to raise funds to buy thermoses for every student on Lemnos, to sharply reduce one-time plastic use. Click here for a full story.
Claudia Sherwood Servidio is also an accomplished photographer. This is an underwater image. (Photo/Claudia Sherwood Servidio)
An almost sold-out crowd enjoyed Saturday’s opening night performance of “Agatha Christie’s The Murder of Roger Ackroyd” at the Westport Country Playhouse. The production runs through August 1.
Click here for more information, and tickets. They start at $50, with discounts for students, senior citizens, educators, military, first responders, Indigenous people, professional playwrights and groups.
But the raptors seem to be thriving nearer their main food source of fish: at Longshore.
John Maloney snapped this hopeful photo the other day:
(Photo/John Maloney)
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As reported earlier, Thomas Lowrie died peacefully at his Westport home on June 30. He was 3 days shy of his 98th birthday.
The Pittsburgh native was a standout 3-season athlete at Titusville High School. After completing his senior year at the Hill School, he joined the class of 1950 at Princeton University. He and roommates Walker McKinney, Sam Howell and Bill Apgar became lifelong friends.
Tom was a Navy air navigator during the Korean conflict, monitoring the 7th Fleet from over the Pacific Ocean with no parachutes. (He later jumped out of planes at ages 90 and 95.)
Tom Lowrie
He met his wife of 58 years, Jean, while he was stationed in Hawaii. She was a TWA airline hostess.
Tom completed his advanced degree in architecture from Columbia University while working as a draftsman for renowned firms like McKim Mead & White, and Johnson-Burgee. He became a staff architect to the Museum of Modern Art during their 1980s expansion.
Tom was an excellent athlete, playing golf, tennis, squash, badminton, pickleball, and in his last year, ping pong. His love of sports and architecture led him to design the Beck Lodge at Camp Mahackeno, and the conversion of the downtown firehouse to the YMCA’s health center.
His long-service to the Y community was highlighted by his badminton camaraderie with pals Paul Newman and James Naughton.
Tom was the last-living founding member of Westport’s Sunrise Rotary club. He traveled the world promoting projects that supported education and peace, while fighting disease and global inequities.
Tom was also an active member of the Y’s Men.
He was predeceased by his wife Jean in 2018. Tom is survived by his children Anne of Westport and Dave of Hartford, and granddaughter Luna Lowrie of Long Island.
A family memorial service is scheduled for July 31 (11 a.m., Green’s Farms Church), where Tom was an active congregant for nearly 60 years. A public celebration of his life will follow at 11:30 a.m. in the Church’s fellowship hall.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Tom’s name to the Sunrise Rotary Club.
Tom Lowrie, at his 97th birthday celebration. (Photo/Andrew Colabella)
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Longtime Westport resident Richard Atkins died on June 22 in Norwalk, after a long stay at the Notre Dame Health & Rehabilitation Center. He was 92.
The Rutgers University graduate moved to Westport in 1974.
Atkins’ career began as an editor and drama critic at Women’s Wear Daily. He then joined Playboy magazine as its men’s fashion advertising manager. He later became publisher of National Lampoon as its publisher, and president of General Media Services, in Westport.
A fine wine collector, he visited vineyards and wineries in France, Italy and California in search of additions to his cellar. He passed his love of wine and his discriminating palate on to his children and grandchildren.
Atkins survived by Susanne, his wife of 68 years; sons Richard, Tom and James, and grandchildren Micaiah, Rebecca, Heide, and Liam.
Richard Atkins
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Here’s a first for our “Westport … Naturally” series: a European mole cricket.
Jay Ludy spotted it on his driveway yesterday — the first time he’s seen one in his 24 years in Westport.
“Apparently they have established themselves in Fairfield County, and are rarely seen above ground,” Jay says. “This one was at least 2 inches in size.”
The only thing better than watching a World Cup final in person is being part of a watch party, joined by tons of other soccer fans.
Most of us have not shelled out our mortgage for a seat (plus parking!) at MetLife Stadium, for today’s Spain-Argentina clash.
Instead, we can head to the Westport Library. They host a (free!) afternoon of “Where Westport Meets the World Cup”: the final match, and more.
The Library opens at 1 p.m., for Panini card trading.
From 1:30 to 2:30, Westport soccer folks — including Dan Woog, Chris O’Dell, Paddy Donovan, Joe Pierce and Clemson coach Mike Noonan (video) — will tell stories about their experiences with The Beautiful Game.
At 3 p.m., the match will be shown on the Trefz Forum’s giant screen (the pre-game show will begin at 2:30). The audience here will join billions of others around the globe.
Oh, yeah: There’s Riko’s pizza too (courtesy of “06880”).
Wear your jersey. Bring your friends. See you today at the Library!
On Friday, “06880” noted that in April, 1st Selectman Kevin Christie said he’d appoint a Cribari Bridge Advisory Committee.
He responded yesterday to our query about its status: “The Cribari Bridge Advisory Committee has not yet been formed. I am continuing to work on its composition and charge, and will provide an update when those details are finalized.
“There have not been any significant recent developments in conversations between the Town and state Department of Transportation. DOT is aware of Westport’s collective focus on safety in the area of the bridge and beyond.”
Dick Fincher’s family, friends and neighbors remembered the former Tree Board chair and Lillian Wadsworth Arboretum visionary yesterday.
A plaque honoring Fincher — a longtime Westporter who died in 2024, at 86 — was unveiled near the entrance to the 12-acre park, at the corner of Stony Brook Road and Woodside Lane. It contains one of his favorite quotes about trees.
Fincher lived across the street. Representative Town Meeting member Lou Mall, who worked with Fincher to turn the overgrown property into a beautiful area with woods and hiking areas, spoke about Fincher’s contributions to the neighborhood and town.
Mall hailed Dick Stein, several RTM colleagues, the Tree Board, former 1st selectpersons Jim Marpe and Jen Tooker, and tree warden Bruce Lindsay, for all they did to carry out Fincher’s vision.
Lou Mall (far right) speaks at the Dick Fincher plaque dedication.
Mall recalled the history of the Woodside Lane land. Wadsworth donated much of it to Earthplace, along with 12 acres to the town, for a new school. But there was not enough room for that building, so it lay forgotten, unused and unmaintained, until Fincher prodded the town to act.
Fincher’s son Doug and wife Dottie also spoke about Fincher’s legacy. The Lillian Wadsworth Arboretum is open sunrise to sunset. Click here for more information.
Town officials, at the new plaque honoring Dick Fincher: From left: RTM members Jay Keenan and Chris Tait, Parks & Recreation Commission chair David Floyd, RTM members Jimmy Izzo and Lou Mall, former 1st Selectman Jim Marpe, former Earthplace director Tony McDowell, former 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker.
Dottie Fincher, with her sons and grandsons. (All photos/Dan Woog)
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Players from Staples High School’s state championship soccer teams of 1981 and ’82 have remained close.
Many still live in the area. And — more than 4 decades later — they still work out together.
Seen Saturday at TAP Strength in downtown Westport, with (at bottom, in photo below) owner EJ Zebro (a former soccer player himself) were (from left) Mike Brown, Guy Claveloux, Dan Donovan and Todd Coleman.
Speaking of sports: Westport has a new non-operative musculoskeletal care facility.
CT Sports Recovery at 215 Main Street calls itself “the only clinic in Fairfield County offering focused shockwave technology, Unlike traditional radial shockwave systems, focused shockwave delivers energy to precise tissue depths, making it a valuable option for chronic tendon injuries, calcific tendinopathy, plantar fasciitis, joint pain, and other musculoskeletal conditions.”
Founders Dr. Michael Betler and his wife Dr. Anupama Kurra urge clients to “support the body’s natural healing processes through evidence-based, non-invasive therapies before considering more invasive interventions whenever appropriate.”
Their goal is to complement traditional medical care. They serve athletes, active adults, post-operative patients, people with chronic orthopedic conditions, and anyone seeking non-surgical solutions to improve function and reduce pain. Click here for more information.
And while you’re at it, consider a donation to WVEMS. Many residents don’t realize they pay for everything — from ambulances to Band-Aids — themselves.
There are many worthy causes and organizations in Westport. Few are as life-changing — and life-saving — as this.
Today’s “Westport … Naturally” featured photo shows what Ed Simek believes is a yellow crowned night heron. He spotted this handsome bird — which he had not seen before — at Burying Hill Beach.
(Photo/Ed Simek)
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And finally … who will win today’s World Cup final?
We have no idea. That’s why they play the game.
In the meantime:
(And finally … no matter what happens today in New Jersey, you’re always a winner when you check out “06880.” And you’re a true champion if you click here to support our work. Thank you!)
On Sunday, the Westport Library is “where Westport meets the World Cup.”
After 102 matches, there’s one left: European champion Spain vs. South American champ Argentina.
It will be a game for the ages. And all ages — from those watching their first World Cup, to those who remember Pele, Beckenbauer (and Maradona) — are invited to share the excitement on Sunday.
The Library opens at 1 p.m., for Panini card trading.
From 1:30 to 2:30, Westport soccer folks — including Dan Woog, Chris O’Dell, Paddy Donovan, Joe Pierce and Clemson coach Mike Noonan (video) — will tell stories about their experiences with The Beautiful Game.
At 3 p.m., the match will be shown on the Trefz Forum’s giant screen. The audience here will join billions of others around the globe.
Oh, yeah: There’s Riko’s pizza too (courtesy of “06880”).
Wear your jersey. Bring your friends. See you Sunday at the Library — where Westport meets the World Cup.
Speaking of politics: Both the Democratic and Republic Town Committees have issued statements about the decision by the registrars of voters to consolidate polling places — and the quick reversal, to return to traditional Representative Town Meeting (RTM) sites.
The RTC says: The Republican Party commends Registrar of Voters Maria Signore and Deborah Greenberg, her Democratic counterpart, along with their dedicated staff and deputies, for their tireless efforts in ensuring smooth, secure and equitable elections in our town. These public servants consistently go above and beyond — working long hours, managing complex logistics, and adapting to expanded voting options like early in-person voting an no-excuse absentee ballots — to protect every voter’s rights and deliver reliable results. Their professionalism and commitment deserve our deep appreciation and gratitude.
We support the registrars’ proposal to consolidate polling for the August 11 primary to a single, central location at Bedford Middle School. This move was thoughtfully designed to enhance voter experience by offering better security, ample parking and lighting, easier navigation for all districts, shorter lines, and more efficient staffing, particularly important given the lower turnout typical of primaries and the growing preference for early and absentee voting.
While we respect the final decision to maintain the traditional polling locations for this election, we believe the consolidation concept reflects sound planning for future elections. Centralized operations can reduce burdens on poll workers, improve resource allocation, and provide a more consistent, high-quality experience for Westporters.
We remain fully committed to working collaboratively with the Registrars of Votes, town officials and stakeholders to support secure, efficient and accessible elections that reflect the best of our town’s civic spirit. We encourage all registered Republicans, Democrats, Unaffiliated and independent votes to take advantage of the multiple option available, and exercise their fundamental right to vote.
The Democratic Town Committee says:
The officers of the Westport Democratic Town Committee would like to take a moment to express our gratitude and appreciation for our Registrar of Voters, Deborah Greenberg, and the tremendous work she does in collaboration with Westport Town Clerk Jeff Dunkerton and her Republican counterpart, Maria Signiore. Deb works seamlessly with her office and the many members of the public whom she assists and greets daily. She is profoundly respected by Westport’s poll workers, and deeply valued by the DTC Officers and fellow members.
Deb has worked tirelessly through the implementation of new procedures like early voting and no-excuse absentee ballots without a hiccup, and we celebrated her for taking on these changes. Recently, a proposal for a new change was not received well by all members of the public and was subsequently overturned. DTC leadership finds it essential to note that any change proposed by our registrar was done with nothing but the best intentions for our community and respect for democracy.
Serving as a registrar of voters is an incredibly difficult public service role involving a heavy workload that should not be overlooked. Deb — we see you. We see how hard you work for our town and our party. We are blessed to have you as our registrar, and we are proud to have you as a member of the DTC family.
“06880”‘s intrepid osprey watcher writes: “Unfortunately, I think the nest has been abandoned. Since last week, I haven’t seen them.
“Up and down the east coast, osprey are struggling with a shortage of menhaden (bunker fish) due to over-fishing. Parents can’t feed their chicks, and many nests are failing.
“I’m not sure what happened with this nest. It felt a bit off from the beginning. The pair arrived late, and then weren’t seen that often around the nest as they usually are.
“It’s possible it is a different pair altogether. The nest sits quiet at the moment. I’m checking it daily, hoping for some activity.
Speaking of the environment: Smoke from Canadian wildfires continued over Westport yesterday, producing this eerie scene at Compo Beach …
(Photo/Cat Malkin)
… and this equally grotty sunset, over downtown …
(Photo/Miggs Burroughs)
… along with this one, over Longshore:
(Photo/Phil Schaefer)
The haze and acrid smoke are expected to persist today.
The (only) good news: If the smoke thickens, temperatures may not climb as high as expected (mid-80s today). The reason: Smoke could filter out some of the sun’s rays,
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Speaking of the beach: This is the scene at the Old Mill guardhouse:
(Photo/Karen Como)
We’re not sure what’s going on here.
Is this lost footwear, waiting to be claimed?
If so, we understand forgetting both shoes. But only one …?!
Or perhaps this is just a bit of artwork, greeting beach-goers. Who, hopefully, will leave with everyting they brought.
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Another mystery, this one on Turkey Hill Road South:
(Photo/Chris Grimm)
We understand the frustration of residents with speeders, and the urge to plea for safety with a homemade sign.
But why Audrey? Why now?
If you know the back story — or want to guess — click “Comments” below.
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MoCA\CT’s 2026-27 concert series promises an exciting combination: international artists in the contemporary art galleries.
Among the featured performers in the coming year, ranging from jazz and R&B to classical and cross-genre music: Dee Dee Bridgewater, Bill Charlap, Morgan James and Time for Three.
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What is Eric Robinson’s connection with Westport?
