The New York Giants and Gatorade have selected the Staples football team’s first-year coach as High School Coach of the Week.
The Wreckers are now 4-0, after pummeling Darien on the road last Saturday, 31-6. It was Staples’ first victory over the Blue Wave in 13 years.
The honor comes with a $2,000 check from the Giants Foundation and Gatorade for the football program. Jacowleff will also receive a certificate signed by Giants head coach Brian Daboll, and be honored at a dinner following the season, and a 2026 pre-season game.
Staples football head coach Matty Jacowleff.
=============================================
The art featured this fall in the Westport Library aligns with StoryFest — the multimedia homage to storytelling.
The exhibits — on display now through December 16, include:
The exhibit features renowned photographers Philippe Halsman, Alfred Eisenstaedt, Eliot Porter and Lucia Nebel White, and Westport photographers Larry Silver, David Kalman, Spencer Platt, Lynsey Addario and more.
Larry Morse’s “Black Men Reading” (opening reception October 29 at 6 p.m.; conversation between Morse and Westport artist Miggs Burroughs at 7).
The idea for this series began in 2020, inspired by daily subway commutes where Morse observed fellow passengers, including the occasional sight of Black men with books in hand. Those moments transcended timely happenings, and spoke to deep-rooted aspects of identity, dignity, and representation.
“Art of the Album: Modern Blues” showcases a selection of LPs featuring Westport resident and Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Mark Naftalin’s performances on keyboard, including with the Paul Butterfield Blues Band. From Mother Earth’s “Living With the Animals” to Brewer & Shipley’s “Tarkio,” these albums capture the cultural time when vinyl packaging were both a canvas and a keepsake.
Staples High School Class of 1973 graduate Bob Gill died peacefully in February in Honolulu. He was 69.
An Eagle Scout, Bob earned a gymnastics scholarship — and a bachelor arts in education — at Arizona State University.
Bob in the Los Angeles and Honolulu public schools. The North Shore, with its culture and surfing challenge, became his home.
He was also an actor, model and house painter.
Bob is survived by his siblings Jeffrey, Steven (Sally) and Kirsten Bartie (Steve). He was predeceased by his parents Robert and Olivia, and brother Gary.
A memorial will be held this Sunday (October 12, 11:45 a.m., Willowbrook Cemetery).
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Connecticut Humane Society.
Longtime Westporter Jo Ann Arciola died peacefully at her home on Wednesday, surrounded by her family, after a brief illness. She was 78.
The Boston native found her professional home at Resnick Advisories, where she spent more than 20 years. She was noted for her dedication, integrity and kindness.
Jo Ann was an avid reader, traveler and cook. Her family says, “her kitchen was a place of warmth, laughter, and love.”
Jo Ann is survived by her husband of 58 years, Sam Arciola, Jr.; son Sam Arciola III (Kelly); grandsons Sam Arciola IV and Dominic Arciola; brothers-in-law Carmen Arciola of Florida and Jay Westerhold of Virginia; many nieces and nephews, and her dog Romeo. She was predeceased by her brother Edward Austin, sister Eleanor Westerhold, and Joseph Arciola.
A memorial service is set for Thursday (October 16, 11 a.m., Assumption Cemetery, 73 Greens Farms Road).
And finally … in honor of Mark Naftalin, and the album cover exhibit at the Westport Library (story above):
(“06880” is Westport’s hyper-local blog — your source for news, events, photos, and everything else about our town. We rely on reader support. Please click here — and thank you!)
Posted onOctober 9, 2025|Comments Off on Inspiring Innovators: StartUp Westport Honors Mark Shapiro And Sweet P Founders
Innovation is not easy.
It takes creativity, vision, communication, teamwork, hard work, and much more.
Including humility, and the willingness to try — and fail.
StartUp Westport is our town’s public/private collaboration for innovators in a wide array of areas.
Yesterday, the organization presented 2 awards — Innovator of the Year, and Community Impact Innovator — to 3 Westporters who exemplify StartUp Westport’s mission.
And its energy.
A full house at the Westport Library honored Mark Shapiro, and Bill and Andrea Pecoriello.
The large audience was inspired by the trio.
They learned a lot from them too.
As president and COO of TKO Group Holdings, and president and managing partner of WME Group, Shapiro has helped shape some of the most influential names in sports and entertainment.
After a powerful introduction by Jay Williams — the Westporter, a former Duke and NBA star and now a television analyst — Shapiro sat with CNBC journalist Sara Eisen.
Jay Williams introduces Mark Shapiro.
He described his arrival in Westport — a community that had everything his family wanted, plus a professional editing facility halfway between New York and ESPN’s Bristol headquarters — before pivoting to lessons on leadership.
Shapiro has played key roles at ESPN, Six Flags, Dick Clark Productions and now WME, where his portfolio ranges from athletes and entertainers to journalists and brands. He works with everyone from Denzel Washington to the Professional Bull Riders League.
His work is all about being “a participant, not a passenger.”
Mark Shapiro and Sara Eisen, onstage at the Westport Library.
Shapiro talked about the human side of building a corporate culture: nurturing the talents of others, supporting them, placing high demands on them, trusting them, and holding them accountable.
“At the end of the day, everything is about relationships,” Shapiro said. “You don’t just go to people only when you need something.”
Shapiro makes decisions based “half on gut, half on data.” He fails “every single day,” he noted. (Including sometimes not checking in with his wife and family at least once daily, the greatest failing of all, he said.)
Shapiro advised: “Learn from your mistakes. Don’t dwell on them. Have faith that your team take care of it.”
The Pecoriellos — founders of Sweet P Bakery — were cited for “their dedication to social good, and sustainable business practices in the local community.” The company trains and provides jobs for adults with disabilities, teaches transferable skills, and builds independence, confidence and a sense of belonging.
Bill and Andrea Pecoriello, before the ceremony. (All photos/Dan Woog)
Andrea Pecoriello described Sweet P’s growth since its founding in 2019. It has trained and employed 19 people; moved from an 800-square foot bakery into a facility 4 times larger, and now ships its (amazingly delicious) cookies nationwide. (They’re at Yankee Stadium too.)
“We make cookies. But we also solve problems many people don’t even know exist,” she said. There are 19,000 adults with disabilities in Fairfield County — 70% of whom cannot find work.
Sweet P Bakery has 2 bottom lines, Pecoriello concluded: “financial and social. Our innovation addresses how business can serve society.”
Monday’s first selectman candidates’ discussion on sustainability and the environment drew an overflow crowd to Christ & Holy Trinity Church — and a commitment from all 3 to create and adopt a comprehensive Westport Sustainability Plan, within their first year in office.
That’s a milestone long sought by local environmental activists.
Representative Town Meeting member Clarence Hayes was at the event, hosted by Sustainable Westport and Earthplace. He reports:
Over 90 minutes of spirited questioning, moderator Peter Boyd — a lecturer and resident fellow at Yale’s Center for Business and the Environment — pressed candidates Don O’Day, David Rosenwaks and Kevin Christie on their personal engagement with sustainability, their records, and their plans to make Westport a leader in environmental action.
All 3 voiced support for sustainability priorities, including improved walkability, stronger flood resilience, enforcement of the leaf-blower ban, rebuilding the community garden, pursuing Sustainable CT Gold certification, and evaluating solar installations for Staples High School and town parking lots, among others.
While short on detailed road maps, the shared commitment to adopt a formal plan within the first year marked an important first step. None pledged to add dedicated staff immediately, preferring to rely on volunteer expertise and integrate sustainability goals into existing town departments — and to see what progress can be achieved this way first.
When asked how they hoped to be remembered after four years, O’Day said for “a willingness to be first, not just a follower.” Rosenwaks envisioned “a town known for a healthy lifestyle — walking, biking, and clean air and water.” Christie hoped Westport would “become a leader again on the environment, as it once was.”
The conversation continued informally at Emmy Squared, where candidates and residents carried the debate — and Westport’s hopes for a sustainable future — well into the evening.
It says: “I am a proud member of the Hindu community in Westport. Every year my family and I celebrate Diwali, the Festival of Lights, with great joy and reverence. Diwali symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and good over evil, offering a time for reflection, community, and spreading love. As a Hindu, it holds deep cultural and spiritual significance for me and millions of others around the world.
“On October 1, 2025, Diwali was officially recognized as a state holiday in Connecticut. This acknowledgment is a huge step forward in embracing and celebrating the cultural diversity that enriches our state.
“Our community takes pride in our cultural diversity and our commitment to inclusivity. By declaring Diwali a school holiday, Westport can send a strong message of acceptance and celebrate the rich tapestry of communities within the town.
“I urge the Westport Board of Education to recognize Diwali as an official school holiday. Doing so will not only reflect the values of our inclusive community but also respect the cultural practices of Hindu families living in Westport. This change can serve as an inspiration and positive example for other towns and school districts in Connecticut.”
When “06880” last checked in on Dylan Gleicher and Neil Sono, the 2017 and ’18 Staples High School graduates (respectively) had created an app — Prepared 911 — that enabled school employees to seamlessly share information with each other during shootings and other crises. They soon expanded it to focus on 911 centers, police and fire departments, and sheriff’s offices.
With early hire Chris Scherban (Staples ‘17), Prepared quickly became a leader in assistive AI technology for public safety agencies.
Their $16 million Series A funding round was led by Andreessen Horowitz.
Last week, the longtime friends sold Prepared 911 to Axon, a global public safety technology company.
Neil Soni and Dylan Gleicher, in their Yale days.
=================================================
Speaking of Staples students’ achievements: On Saturday, the top 7 members of the school’s boys cross country team competed in the 26th annual Great American XC Festival in Cary, North Carolina.
The competition draws runners from across the country to the fast WakeMed Course..
Staples competed in the varsity blue 5k race. They scored 228 points, good for a team win.
Congratulations to Oliver Samuel (15:57), Harrison Sydor (16:05), Luke Cooper (16:22), Jackson Wood (16:25), Oscar Jones (17:08), Samuel Burmeister (17:16) and Maxwell Benke (17:25).
The 2025 Staples boys cross country team, in North Carolina.
=================================================
Westport is becoming the Naples of America.
First came Massi Co — Massimo Tullio’s new restaurant, with Neapolitan cuisine.
Now Stephen Kempson London — the high-end tailor on Post Road West, just over the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge — is sponsoring a 2-day trunk show celebrating the artistry and heritage of that city’s craftsmanship.
The genesis for the October 17 (1 to 5 p.m.) and 18 (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) event was Kempson’s trip to Naples earlier this year. He was inspired by its devotion to beauty, precision, and passion — qualities found in its cuisine, architecture, and menswear tradition.
Three celebrated artisans will be in Westport
Paolo Scafora: Master shoemaker since 1956, known for hand-stitched footwear.
Gennaro Sannino: The house of Sannino shirts.
Anthony Lonzano (Gabo Napoli): Representing one of Italy’s leading tailoring houses.
Each will showcase signature pieces and take bespoke orders.
Westport Library executive director Bill Harmer addressed the Westport Rotary Club yesterday. His topic was close to his heart: the Common Ground Initiative.
Recent Common Ground speakers have included Ken Feinberg, who ran the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund, and former Senator Roy Blunt of Missouri.
The Common Ground Initiative also includes the Seat at the Table series, where community members discuss intriguing topics.
“Americans regard libraries as one of the last safe spaces in our democracy,” Harmer said.
Bill Harmer, at the Westport Rotary Club (Photo/Dave Matlow)
Early yesterday morning, Westport firefighters responded to a structure fire on Hillspoint Road.
The blaze was discovered by 2 passersby. They notified the home’s occupants, who evacuated before Fire Department units arrived. The fire was contained to the exterior area of origin.
The scene was turned over to the Westport fire marshal’s office for investigation.
=================================================
Staples High School Class of 1971 graduate Lynn Barber Mellor died on September 13 in Lake Wales, Florida. She was 72.
She was born in Chicago to Gordon and Jean A. Mellor. Lynn and her family moved to Westport when she was 7 months old. She attended California College of Arts & Crafts in Oakland, then worked as a graphic artist for marketing Corporation of America in Westport.
An avid scratchboard artist, she retired to Key West in 2006, then to Lake Wales in 2021.
Lynn is survived by her twin sister Gail M. Sibley (Jack), of Poinciana, Florida; brother Mark (Debbie) of Dorset, Vermont; niece Alyssa and nephew Devin. She was predeceased by her parents, her nephew Jes Sibley, and her stepmother, Shirley Mellor.
A private service will be held.
Lynn Mellor
=================================================
Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo is one more full moon image. This was one was taken at Burying Hill Beach.
And finally … in honor of (perhaps) the next Westport Public Schools holiday (story above):
(Where else but “06880” can you read about Diwali, political candidates, a life-saving app — and much more — all at once? Nowhere else! So please click here to support our work. Thanks!)
An in-depth exploration of artificial intelligence — and its implications across law, business, healthcare, education and technology — is set for next Saturday (October 11, Westport Library). The public event is sponsored by Verso University, The Library’s lifelong learning and education initiative.
Scott Shapiro, Yale Law School professor leads off with a discussion of AI’s role in legal reasoning, government ethics, and cybersecurity, alongside Kevin Nguyen, features editor at The Verge.
The second session will examine the ways in which AI is shaping Connecticut’s innovation landscape, higher education, healthcare, workforce and legislation.
The final session concludes with reflections from Kate Crawford, one of AI’s leading scholars of artificial intelligence and its material impacts.
I’m not sure how I missed this, but Melinda Wenner Moyer’s 2021 book might have the best title in the history of publishing: “How To Raise Kids Who Aren’t Assholes.”
On October 20 (7 p.m., Westport Senior Center), Westport Together brings the Scientific American contributing editor to town. Click here to register.
Melinda Wenner Moyer
================================================
The Westport Country Playhouse celebrated 95 years making American theater history last night, with a high-energy, Broadway-studded gala.
The iconic converted barn has not thrown fundraisers in every year of its near century existence. But for however many they’ve had, yesterday’s may have been the best.
The incomparable Nathan Lane and Anne Keefe — longtime Playhouse mainstay — were honored for their contributions. Both gave warm, graceful speeches.
Anne Keefe
Over a dozen stars belted out familiar tunes, spurred to great heights knowing Lane was in the audience, watching.
The traditional auction and paddle raise zipped along, underscoring the respect and love the full house holds for the Westport Country Playhouse.
Artist-educator Burt Chernow launched the Westport Public Art Collections (WestPAC) in 1965, with a vision that every Westport student should experience art every day.
Built through donations from local, national and international artist friends, the WestPAC collections today include over 2,000 artworks displayed throughout Westport public schools, municipal buildings, and outdoor spaces.
As WestPAC celebrates its 60th anniversary, they’re launching a fundraising campaign. A gift of $60 (get it?) or more will help fund the care, framing, conservation and educational use of the Collections/
PS: The next exhibition — “Every Picture Tells A Story: Photographs from the Westport Public Art Collection — is on view at the Westport Library from October 15 through December 15. It opens with a reception and talk by guest curator Arthur Nager on October 15 (6 p.m.).
Among the WESTPAC works: this Saturday Evening Post cover by Westport artist Stevan Dohanos. The models were all Staples High School students.
A big little shop — called Lille Shoppe — opens soon at 375 Post Road West.
Abby Mattern’s new homewares store is an outgrowth of her first location, in Guilford. Both are stocked with items she sources personally in Europe, most of them uncommon here.
They include linens, dishes, glassware, furniture, candles, pottery, artwork, specialty imported food items and more. it’s a mix of antique/vintage items, and new.
The Westport Book Shop’s 5th annual Family Fun & Pumpkin Painting Project is all about treats. There’s not a trick in sight.
Set for next Saturday (October 11, 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Jesup Green), it’s a day of pumpkin painting, crafts, face painting, tattoos, guest critters, Monster Mash, music from the Staples High jazz band, and more. Costumes are encouraged (but not required).
Co-hosts are Earthplace and the Westport Tree Board.
Pumpkin painting and more, at the Westport Book Shop’s annual event. (Photo/Frank Rosen)
George Barrett — the multi-talented (opera singer, teacher/soccer coach/healthcare executive, and singer/songwriter) 1973 Staples High School graduate has just released a single and music video.
“Watch the Moon” — a track from his upcoming album, “Rearrange Things” — is about the loss of a child.
That unimaginable tragedy has touched many people close to Barrett.
He says, “for some, the struggle to keep their spirit as they try to look after the rest of their family, is an ongoing battle. Given the subject, it felt right to keep this song without ornament, stripped down to my voice and piano.”
On November 14, Barrett will be at New York’s Bitter End — the venue where, years ago, he nervously played his first open mic gig.
And on November 16, he and his good friend, Grammy-winning composer/ producer (and ’71 Staples grad) Brian Keane perform at the Westport Library. Details will be announced soon.
Click here or below, to listen to “Watch the Moon.” Click here for “Rearrange Things.”
Today, the “06880” tagline — “Where Westport meets the world” — takes us to Madrid.
Longtime Westporter Luisa Francouer is there. She visited the “100 Years of Leica” photo exhibition — and spotted this image, by 1991 Staples High School graduate Lynsey Addario.
=================================================
Today’s “Westport … Naturally” features marks the first appearance here of “the common garden orange carrot.”
At least, that’s what photographer Mike Hibbard says.
(Photo/Mike Hibbard)
=================================================
And finally … in honor of the upcoming appearance by the author of “How to Raise Kids Who Aren’t Assholes” (story above):
The executive director of the Connecticut Municipal Development Authority will be at the Westport Library on October 16 (noon). He’ll discuss development, community concerns, traffic issues, and creating a more walkable Westport.
If you don’t know the CMDA: you should. The state agency has $60 million in bonding authority. They help communities navigate state bureaucracy. and advocate for and advise on infrastructure improvements.
I have heard Kooris speak. He has planning experience, and coalition-building skills He knows communities like Westport, and he knows his way around Hartford. The CMDA has resources and expertise that could help create a walkable Saugatuck, with thoughtful housing and vibrant commerce.
At the Library, Korris will discuss innovative funding opportunities that could accelerate Saugatuck’s development; success stories from communities that have transformed their transit hubs; practical next steps Westport can take to unlock economic growth and housing opportunities, and opportunities for residents to get involved in shaping the town’s future. He’ll take questions from the audience, too.
Fairfield opted in to the CMDA program last month. Representative Town Meeting approval would be needed for Westport to do the same. RTM members have been invited to the October 16 event.
David Kooris
================================================
Yom Kippur began at sundown last night.
A few hours earlier — as they have for decades — Westporters headed to Gold’s.
The iconic delicatessen is the place to go for everything needed the night before the day-long fast begins.
David Roth and Kerry Long — co-directors of Staples Players — say: “Thank you to the Westport community members who contributed to our Dance-a-thon fundraiser! Players is so lucky to have such a supportive community.
“If you were at Staples last Friday night, you might have heard music blasting from the auditorium courtyard — songs mixed by our own sophomore Players member Jasmita Mani Lorenzato, with lighting and sound by our fabulous crew members Henry Baker, Jordan O’Brien, Alex Cahaly, Lucas Gomez and Noah Schmelkin-Wilson.
“Over 100 students pledged to dance the night away, to raise funds to sustain Players programming. They danced to current pop hits, old classics and (their favorite) show tunes from musicals they have performed together.
“We saw seniors dancing with freshmen just as easily as with their peers, Players of all ages embracing our young middle school cast members, technicians dancing with actors — the whole group coming together to raise money to do what they love most: create theatre.
“With rising costs of supplies across all technical aspects, and an old and technologically archaic auditorium, Players has asked the community for support so that we can continue to put on productions with elevated production values.
“We have deep appreciation for all the community members that have contributed to our cause. If you missed out and would like to make a donation, you can do so do so here. We appreciate any amount you can give!”
(All photos/Kerry Long)
=================================================
The Westport Library has launched its 2025-26 annual appeal. The goal of $335,000 would secure full funding for the Library’s operations, and allow them to continue to provide the vast majority of programming for free or low cost.
The town budget funds approximately 75% of the Library’s operating budget. The remaining 25% is raised through special events like “Booked for the Evening,” and private donations.
This year’s theme is “lifelong learning.” It’s evidenced through the Verso University education initiative; book- and author-focused programming and talks; Verso Studios; children and teen programming, and much more.
The Staples High School art teacher just received the Connecticut Art Education Association’s 2025 Outstanding Art Educator Award, their highest honor. The honor recognizes significant contributions to the field of art education. She will be recognized at the CAEA dinner October 24, in New Britain.
Staples High School principal Stafford Thomas says, “Ms. Eichler’s steadfast dedication to the arts has fostered a vibrant and supportive environment at Staples, where she inspires students to think both creatively and critically while cultivating a love of learning that extends well beyond the classroom.”
Former Westport teacher Claire Fray died peacefully at St. Vincent’s Hospital on Sunday, surrounded by her family. She was 91.
After earning a full scholarship to Dunbarton College, her first job was teaching elementary school on the Marine Corps Base in Quantico, Virginia. A young lawyer working for the Pentagon heard she’d been in “Guys and Dolls,” and asked for help in an upcoming production of it.
By the time she accepted an elementary school teaching job in Scarsdale, New York, they cemented a partnership that lasted through nearly 60 years of marriage.
Claire then taught at Burr Farms Elementary School in Westport, and raised 3 children in Fairfield.
She earned a master’s in education at Fairfield University, volunteered with the Fairfield League of Voters, and spent 15 years as chair of the Fairfield Board of Education. During her tenure, the district consolidated two high schools into one.
Claire also spent 40 years as a real estate agent.
Other causes close to her heart included public access to mental health services and local public libraries, inspiring her to serve as president of both the Southwest Regional Mental Health Board and board of the Fairfield Public Library.
Claire pursued her love of watercolor, after winning second place in the Fairfield Sidewalk Art Show in the 1970’s, until glaucoma prevented the completion of her final painting at age 89. She had her first 1-woman show at 72.
Her second one will be a retrospective of her painting career, at her memorial service.
She was predeceased by her husband John, brothers Barron and William, and sister Judy Santos. She is survived by her sons Scott of Pawtucket, Rhode Island; Chris (Chip) of Fairfield, and Brendon (Amy) of Monroe; grandchildren Connor (Sydney), Devon and Erynn; great-grandsons Theo and James; step-grandchildren Libby (Sam) and Will, and many nieces, nephews and cousins.
Claire’s family thanks all of the caregivers for their loving attention, especially Angella and Edgar, and her dear friend Joyce Flynn.
A memorial service and art show will be held on Monday (October 6, 12 to 3 p.m., Burr Mansion, Fairfield). Visiting hours are Sunday (October 5, 3 to 6 p.m., Spear-Miller Funeral Home, Fairfield).
Yesterday — for the first time in 6 months — dogs were allowed on Compo Beach.
JoJo was one of many who celebrated:
(Photo/Michael Szeto)
Remember: A small fence separates and leash and off-leash sections.
(Photo/John Maloney)
And of course: Clean up after your pooch!
=================================================
Speaking of the beach: Congratulations to Staples High School sailor Madi Brundige (3rd from left), in the photo below.
She, Steve Girling, Antonio Maya-LeFort and Claire Rahner finished at the top of last weekend’s tightly contested Vanguard 15 fleet at the Cedar Point Yacht Club Fall One Design regatta last weekend.
Betsy Sorenson, sailing with Westporter Ted Gillman were close behind in third, with Even Olmstead (Staples’ assistant sailing coach) and Kim MacDonald in hot pursuit.
While the sailing activities at CPYC switch to Laser frostbiting over the winter, the V15 fleet will gather to socialize and strategize ahead of Team Racing and Fleet Racing in 2026. Everyone — especially high school and college sailors — is welcome.
For years Lorenza Arnal has shared her love of Mexico through food — from creating her own brand of salsa macha to selling homemade guacamole in the Westport Farmers’ Market.
Now she offers special journeys celebrating the history, culture and traditions of that country. What started as small culinary tours has blossomed into immersive tours each year.
Her journey to Oaxaca is sold out. But she is running a culinary trip of Mexico City, with meals at the Michelin star restaurants Pujol and Quintonil, guided visits to explore the architecture and art of the city, and a day visit to Puebla.
It runs from November 2 to 8. and a couple spots have become available
Lorenza also designs corporate retreats with personalized itineraries, community culinary experiences, and wellness-focused excursions, designed to help teams recharge and reconnect.
For more information, email lorenza@capitanaadventures.com.
On Monday (October 6, 10 a.m., Town Hall), Westport’s registrars of voters will begin “flash media stick and tabulator testing.” They say: “The public is welcome to observe.”
A 24-year-old Brooklyn man was charged with larceny and conspiracy to commit larceny, following an investigation into a July shoplifting incident of $2,940 worth of merchandise at Lululemon. He was charged with the same 2 counts for a similar incident 6 days later at the same store; this time at least $4,410 in goods was stolen. He was held on a $50,000 bond.
A 27-year-old Stamford man was charged with criminal trespass, disorderly conduct and interfering with an officer, following a complaint of a domestic disturbance.
A 24-year-old Bridgeport man was charged with driving under the influence and failure to have headlamps. The man was stopped for having only one working light the officer smelled burnt marijuana, and noticed the drug and paraphernalia inside the vehicle.
Westport Police also issued these citations, between September 24 and 30:
Speeding in a school zone: 3 citations
Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 3
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 2
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 1
Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
Failure to drive in the proper lane: 1
Improper turn: 1
Failure to obey traffic control signals: 1.
All headlights must work properly.
=============================================
Susan Garment submits today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature photo, and adds an apt description: “Getting all your ducks in a row.
And finally … in honor of Staples Players’ very successful Dance-a-thon (story above):
(Do you wanna dance? Sure! And do you wanna support this hyper-local blog? Of course! So just click on the videos above, then click here to complete the double play. Thank you!)
Things began frustratingly for Mike and Robin Clementi, who came to this area from New Jersey for his job. Realtor Karen Scott of KMS Team at Compass sold them on the schools, beaches, Longshore, restaurants and shopping. But they lost at least 6 houses, in bidding wars.
Finally they found — and bought — one. The location, a cul-de-sac off Compo Road South, was perfect. They could walk downtown, to the Levitt, and the water.
Then things got even better.
Even before they moved in 2 years ago, their new neighbors exchanged phone numbers. It was a young street — several families had arrived just a year or two earlier — and though their children were younger, they made sure the Clementis’ daughters (a rising junior at Staples High, and an incoming 7th grader — had someone to sit with at lunch the first day of school.
There was more. Lauren, the older girl, played varsity golf in New Jersey. The family reached out to Staples coach Patty Kondub. She spent an afternoon with them — and arranged a party for Lauren to meet her new teammates.
Robin Clementi and her family.
The shopping, restaurants and other amenities have been “great — worth all the hype.” But those two stories “sum up what this town means to me,” Robin says. “It was an exceptional, warm welcome we never expected.”
Not everything is perfect. Robin is an interior designer, and she thought she could keep her previous clients. Traffic on I-95 makes that difficult. So she pivoted. Now she’s got new clients — and has found great new designers and builders to work with.
The walk to the beach proved further than expected. But her daughter walks to town quite a bit. After school, she takes the bus to the Library — a spot Robin calls “magic. Kids love going there!”
Another surprise: Birchwood Country Club. Though Longshore is “beautiful and lovely,” tee times are tough to get. Someone suggested the club off Kings Highway South.
“It’s beautifully camouflaged and tucked in,” she says. “We love it.”
Birchwood Country Club: a hidden gem.
The Clementis’ experience is mirrored by other families who have moved here recently. “06880” wondered whether realtors’ hype — and newcomers’ expectations — were matched by reality.
In many cases, they are.
Jen Krichels is from rural Maine. Her husband, Matthew Johnson, grew up in Colorado. She is a writer and editor for architectural publications; he’s in marketing.
They lived for many years in Brooklyn. During the pandemic, they and their 2 children spent 2 years in the Catskills, where they’d bought a fixer-upper.
They loved the community, and had many friends there. But it was spread out. Childcare was limited.
They could not envision moving back to a 2-bedroom apartment. They looked at homes in Westchester County, and elsewhere.
The couple remembered visiting a friend in Westport. The flags on the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge, downtown, the beauty of the coastal beaches, the reputation for cultural life — all impelled them to consider the town.
Neither of them commutes regularly. But proximity to the train — and New York — was important.
KMS agent Mary Ellen Gallagher found them a home in the Old Hill area.
What’s the verdict?
Reality has lived up to expectations “in almost every category,” Jen says. She cites “the amenities for kids and adults, the schools, cultural opportunities, the and access to outdoors” — including Earthplace — among the highlights.
The Krichels family, at Winslow Park. (Photo/Matthew David)
Last summer, she surprised herself by not going away.
“We realized we were on vacation already!” Jen says. They attended concerts at the Levitt, and stayed late at the beach with friends and neighbors.
Traffic and parking are frustrations. She worries about her children walking and riding on local streets. At the same time, she walks with her kids to school. And she is heartened to see groups of youngsters riding bikes.
Her next door neighbor, Jenna Petok, is a director of Bike Westport. They’re kindred spirits, and have forged a strong friendship.
Jen is interested in municipal issues. She calls the Representative Town meeting an “interesting” form of government. “It’s nice to see peers involved in those discussions,” she says.
“Any town that can support growth, foster walkability, and include lower-income people will thrive. Westport can do that.”
Clara and Sebastian Krichels enjoy summer in Westport.
Meanwhile, is there anything Jen and Matthew have not tried?
“Anything after 8 p.m.,” she laughs. “I know people enjoy post-sunset drinsk at the beach. That’s nice. But it’s not our turn yet!”
Julia Dzafic has been here a bit longer. But the marketer and blogger says she and her husband Anel, who owns Countdown Fitness on Sylvan Road South (and who feels welcomed by other businesses), have had “the best 6 years of our lives. It’s even beyond our expectations.”
The family enjoys pizza nights at Compo and Old Mill, and restaurants like The Whelk and Bartaco (“we’re there once a week,” julia says of that family-friendly spot).
Her 8-year-old daughter’s 2 best friends live next door — a joy for any mother.
Julia Dzafic, and her family.
“We never felt we belonged to a community more,” she says. She and her friends — who recently returned from a 40th birthday trip together — share “values, kids and life situations.”
(One negative: “With a 2-year-old, I naively did not expect pressure on kids to do so much, at a young age.” However, she adds,” that may not be town-specific.”)
Fairfield County towns seem to be similar. However, Julia says, each attracts “a different group. Westport attracts a more laid-back type person. It’s got the feel of a beach town. Even the restaurants that aren’t on the water feel like that. There’s something about Compo that fills the whole town.”
Julia Dzafic and her husband Anel. He grew up on a farm in Bosnia. They keep 12 chickens in a large coop on their property. (Dazfic photos/Julia D’Agostino)
Julia speaks for many newcomers, who were enticed by Westport’s sizzle, and now enjoy its steak.
“We’re so happy to be here,” Julia says. “We don’t think we’ll ever leave.
“And we hope when our kids are much older, they’ll come back to visit.”
(“06880” keeps a sharp eye on every facet of Westport — old-timers, newcomers, and everyone in between. If you enjoy our coverage, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
This Saturday’s “Meet Your RTM Candidates” event (October 4, 10 a.m. to noon, Westport Library) is a great chance to, well, meet the men and women competing in your district for a Representative Town Meeting seat.
The RTM is our town’s legislative body. They are the final officials to sign off on budgets, and — at times — controversial issues.
Bring the kids! The event includes coffee, donuts, snacks, and art activities for youngsters. It’s co-sponsored by the League of Women Voters Westport, and “06880.”
But that’s not the only event going on Saturday morning at the Library.
From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., the Westport Volunteer Fair takes place in the Trefz Forum.
Dozens of local nonprofit organizations will have information tables, and members on hand to promote volunteerism.
It’s a fantastic way for adults — and teens — to find out how to put their talents and energy to great use. There is an organization for every interest.
Come for the RTM event. Stay for the Volunteer Fair. See you there!
The scene at last year’s Volunteer Fair. (Photo/Molly Alger)
=================================================
Also at the Library: The next 2 Common Ground Initiatives.
They’re both opportunities for positive, productive conversations on how we move forward as a civil society; encourage respectful, constructive dialogue, and tackle challenging and controversial issues.
This coming Monday (October 6, 7 p.m.), Michael Brownstein, Alex Madva and Daniel Kelly — authors of Somebody Should Do Something— will paint a picture of how social change happens, one choice at a time.
With moderator Sharon Suchotliff, the panel will delve into a novel and scientific approach to create transformative social change — and the surprising ways that each of us can help make a real difference. Click here for more information.
On October 14, “From Division to Unity: Lessons in Bridging Divides” (7 p.m.) features a panel of national experts in business, sports, and the military. They’ll share how they’ve navigated complex divisions, to lead diverse teams toward common goals.
The panel includes:
Bonnie Hammer, Retired vice chair, NBC Universal
Mel Raines, CEO, Indiana Pacers (NBA)
Steve Parrish, retired senior vice president, Altria Group
Tony La Russa, Hall of Fame Major League Baseball manager
General William Welch, US Air Force general (retired)
The conversation will be facilitated by Dr. Allen Hilton, executive director of the House United Movement and consulting theologian at Greens Farms Church. Click here for more information.
Preliminary work has begun for the new Long Lots Elementary School.
The former Long Lots Preserve — developed a few years ago, adjacent to the Community Gardens — will be used as a staging area for construction equipment. When the school is completed, the land will be converted to an athletic field.
A new Japanese restaurant has opened quietly in Westport.
Omakase — in the small plaza next to Dunville’s, on Saugatuck Avenue. The name refers to a series of small dishes of the chef’s choosing.
Jessica Ryan reports in CTBites that 10 sit at an open counter, watching Chef Edwin work. “He slices, dices and molds while offering entertaining and informative explanations about the fish, the flavors and his techniques.”
Want to help shape the future of Westport’s parks?
As part of the Parks Master Plan process, the Parks & Recreation Department hosts a public workshop today (Tuesday, September 30, 6 p.m., Westport Library). All community members are invited. It will be run by the town’s consultants, BL Companies.
The Town’s consultant, BL Companies, will provide residents with the opportunity to engage directly with the consultants, share feedback, and learn more about the planning process.
From 7:30 to 9 a.m. on Wednesday, Westport police officers will be hanging out at the downtown Starbucks.
There are no speeches; there is no agenda. Just a chance to sit and chat about Westport, ask questions, and discuss anything and everything, over coffee.
Green’s Farms Church’s 12th annual Service Sunday was, as always, devoted to hands-on projects with partners in Westport, Norwalk and Bridgeport.
After a send-off service, congregants put their faith into action on projects like landscaping, cemetery restoration, classroom makeovers, music at an assisted living community, and community-resource organization.
Among the efforts:
Bridgeport Rescue Mission: lawn/garden work, and cleaning service trucks.
Residence at Westport: music performance led by the church’s music team.
A Westporter and educator for over 43 years in the Catholic school system, she had a remarkable impact on students and families. She helped countless elementary and middle schoolers grow and learn.
Now she’s earned more kudos.
On Saturday Maureen received the St. Augustine Medal of Honor, on behalf of The Catholic Academy of Stamford. It was awarded for her “dedication, service and commitment to Catholic education.”
As we get ready to turn the page to October, today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature highlights one of the first trees in town to show its fall colors. Ed Simek spotted it, on Treadwell Avenue.
The multinational retailer of beauty and personal care products — famous for letting customers test products before buying — will move into “Elm & Main” (formerly known as Brooks Corner) downtown.
They’ll open at the end of 2027 or early 2028. A mere 2 years from now.
Not the Westport store. This Sephora is on 5th Avenue in New York.
=================================================
It’s (almost) that time of year.
Starting next Wednesday (October 1), dogs are allowed back on Compo Beach.
With a few caveats.
They are prohibited from the pavilion, playground and walkways.
All dogs must be leashed everywhere, except in the off-leash area of south of the pavilion (which includes South Beach).
You are required by law (and common decency) to pick up your dog’s poop.
The dogs-at-the-beach regulations are in effect through March 31. Violators can be fined $77.
And remember: Dogs are not permitted on town athletic fields or playgrounds at any time. They are welcome — leashed — in surrounding areas.
Happy days are here again! (Photo/Dan Johnson)
=================================================
Speaking of dogs: Uh-oh. Looks like we missed National Dogs in Politics Day. It was Tuesday.
The annual event commemorates the September 23, 1952 speech by Richard Nixon. Running for vice president with Dwight Eisenhower, he defended himself in a speech against accusations of campaign finance wrongdoing by mentioning his cocker spaniel, Checkers.
Westport’s “animal muse” Cat Malkin, and her dog Yogi Bear, did not forget the day. They visited a couple of politicians — from both parties — and he released a statement.
Yogi Bear said: “I’m not here for your votes. I’m here to spread love, kindness, and fuzziness wherever I go, especially if there’s a treat involved!
“As we go into the campaign season, let’s make Westport the kindest (and most treat-filled) town in the land! I invite you to join us, dogs, as we come together to unite the country in love, kindness, and the right to bark.”
Yogi Bear with Republican 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker …
… and Democratic 1st selectman candidate Kevin Christie. (Photos/Cat Malkin)
=================================================
A few tickets remain — but probably not for long — for the Westport Country Playhouse’s fundraiser, honoring Nathan Lane, on Saturday, October 4.
Broadway talents who have appeared with the star, including host Danny Burstein, will celebrate his career.
They will also salute productions that have been staged at the Playhouse in the 95 seasons since its founding in 1931.
Anne Keefe, former Playhouse co-artistic director, will be feted too. She’ll receive the 2025 Playhouse Leadership Award.
Lane and Keefe are longtime friends — and friends of the WCP.
The 7 p.m. curtain includes a live auction, and a 9 p.m. after-party in the Lucille Lortel White Barn. The pre-show reception is already sold out.
For tickets and more information, click here or call 203-227-4177.
Nathan Lane
=================================================
Peter Greenberg — America’s premier travel news journalist, an Emmy Award-winning investigative investigative reporter and producer, who has appeared on every major TV network and in every national publication — brought his insights and experience to the Westport Library last night.
The Y’s Men of Westport-Weston hosted the event, which drew a crowd of hundreds. He was joined in conversation by longtime friend and fellow world traveler Allen Swerdlowe, a Y’s Men member.
Peter Greenberg (left) and Allen Swerdlowe, at the Westport Library. (Photo/Susan Garment)
Before the talk Robin Tauck hosted a small dinner for Greenberg, at nearby Massi Co restaurant. A 3rd-generation member of the family whose name is synonymous with global travel, she has known Greenberg for decades, and been on industry panels and at conferences with him around the world.
TAP Strength is all about helping people feel more confident and capable in their bodies. A new program supports an important group: neurodivergent teens and young adults.
The next event in their “Effortless Effort” speaker series is October 14 (6 to 7 p.m., 180 Post Road East). at its Post Road East studio. It’s a conversation between TAP founder Dr. EJ Zebro and Chelsea Elkind and Lauren Rosenblum, founders of Westport-based NeuroMind. They’ve helped TAP design a program that is inclusive, supportive, and grounded in real-world needs.
The 6th annual (and always popular) Artists Collective of Westport trunk show is October 5 (11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Jesup Green lower parking lot by the Westport Library).
More than 30 diverse artists will display their work — in and around their cars. The day includes live music, and food from Gruel Britannia.
Earlier this year, he Westport Community Theater presented “Words from the Front Lines” at Town Hall.
Many Westporters learned about it the show — a multi-media presentation of the correspondences of real people, in real time, affected by the Russian invasion of Ukraine — too late to attend.
The Westport-Weston Probate Court is mourning the death of former chief clerk Shirley DeLuca. She died September 13 at Norwalk Hospital, of natural causes. She was 89.
Probate Court Judge Lisa Wexler says: “Shirley will be remembered by all who knew her as loyal, devoted, bright, hardworking and kind.
“She had unfailing patience for the countless bereaved and vulnerable people who entered Probate Court. Taking a seat by Shirley’s desk, one could pour out one’s heart to Shirley, and she would promptly help solve the problem.
“Generations of local practitioners learned their craft from Shirley, including me. For over 30 years Shirley served our community with love, humility and grace.”
She is survived by her husband Harold and son Glenn. She was predeceased by her son Harold III.
Services are private. Condolences may be sent to Westport- Weston Probate Court, 110 Myrtle Avenue, Westport, CT 06880. All letters will be forwarded to the family.
Shirley DeLuca
=================================================
Today’s “06880” feature photo is one of our coolest ever.
And most colorful.
Clarence Hayes captured this bumblebee, sipping goldenrod nectar.
And finally … Olivia Newton-John was born today, 77 years ago. The highest-selling Australian female artist of all time died in 2022, after battling breast cancer.
Every April, VersoFest brings music of all kinds to the Westport Library.
Every October, StoryFest does the same for storytelling.
Next month, the 8th annual literary festival — one of the biggest in the Northeast, drawing scores of authors and hundreds of readers, writers, and fans in a celebration of the story in all its forms — adds a musical storytelling element.
On October 17 (6:30 p.m.), a special screening of the documentary “Bonnie Blue: James Cotton’s Life in the Blues” will be followed by a concert featuring songs from the film.
Legendary bluesman James Montgomery produced the film. His legendary James Montgomery Blues Band performs the post-film concert.
They’ll be joined by Saturday Night Live “Beehive Queen” Christine Ohlman, saxophonist Crispin Cioe (a Westport resident who has played with the Rolling Stones and J Geils Band), and other special guests.
James Montgomery, Christine Ohlman, Crispin Cioe, Julian Brave Noisecat and Shonda Rhimes are the latest in a long line of high-powered StoryFest participants.
They include R.L. Stine; Roxane Gay, Michael Lewis, Mitch Albom, Nic Stone, Tiffany Jackson, Sheila Nevins and Victoria Kann.
Cotton’s life tracks American history from the post-Depression cotton fields of the Mississippi Delta to Chicago, and on to today’s live music scene in Austin.
In between are tours with Janis Joplin and Paul Butterfield, and sessions with the Stones, Grateful Dead, Led Zeppelin, Santana, Steve Miller, B.B. King and many more.
James Montgomery
“Blues music was really a music of empowerment,” says Montgomery. “Cotton is one of the first guys to say, ‘I’m not going to play just 12 bar blues anymore. I’m going to play soul music.’”
Ohlman adds, “The blues was perhaps America’s first storytelling genre.”
Lead singer, harp player and frontman Montgomery has collaborated with Johnny Winter, Mick Jagger, Bruce Springsteen, Steven Tyler and B.B. King. He has toured with the Allman Brothers , Aerosmith, Bonnie Raitt, J. Geils, Steve Miller and others.
(“06880” is your hyper-local source for all your entertainment and educational needs. If you enjoy our coverage of all this — and more — please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
And residents continue to rashly leave their keys in unlocked cars.
Three vehicles were reported stolen between September 9 and yesterday. That makes 51 incidents since January 1.
Thefts occur in parking lots, and private driveways.
Westport Police say: “Under no circumstances should a vehicle ever be left unattended and running, unlocked with the keys inside it, or with valuables left in plain view.
“Unfortunately, nearly all stolen vehicle and vehicle burglary reports involve an unsecured car with keys immediately accessible.”
This is not the first time “06880” has conveyed this message from the WPD. It’s probably not even the 50th time.
We hope it’s the last. But we won’t hold our breath.
There will be many opportunities this fall to hear — and question — candidates for 1st selectperson.
Some will be general sessions. Others — like the one sponsored by Sustainable Westport and Earthplace — have a narrower focus.
The October 6 event (6:30 p.m., Christ & Holy Trinity Church) centers on the environment. All 3 candidates — Don O’Day, Kevin Christie and David Rosenwaks — will participate.
Topics include clean energy initiatives; waste reduction strategies; climate resiliency planning, and Westport’s long-term sustainability goals.
Following the moderated discussion, attendees can continue the conversation informally at Emmy Squared. Click here to submit questions.
StoryFest — The Westport Library’s annual literary festival — kicks off its 8th year by celebrating Indigenous Peoples’ Day.
It includes a book launch for “We Survived the Night,”a memoir by noted filmmaker Julian Brave NoiseCat.
He will be joined by Ramin Ganeshram, executive director of the Westport Museum for History & Culture, for a keynote conversation on October 13 (7 p.m.).
The event comes the day before the book’s official release.
Tickets are $30, and include a copy of the memoir. (The price is the same for 1 or 2 seats, and 1 book). A signing follows the talk.
StoryFest — the largest literary festival in Connecticut — draws scores of authors and hundreds of readers, writers and fans each year. With an interdisciplinary career that defies creative boundaries, NoiseCat’s work aligns with the mission: a celebration of storytelling in all forms, across all types of media.
NoiseCat’s journalism has appeared in The New York Times, Washington Post and The New Yorker. In 2021 he was named to Time Magazine’s “100 Next List of Emerging Leaders.”
His film “Sugarcane” was nominated for an Academy Award. It follows an investigation into abuse and missing children at the Indian residential school NoiseCat’s family was sent to in British Columbia.
StoryFest runs from October 13 to 20. It opens with NoiseCat’s book launch, and ends with a 10th anniversary celebration of Shonda Rhimes’memoirYear of Yes.
The Board of Finance holds a special Zoom meeting today at 4:30 p.m., with one item on the agenda: the Hook’d on the Sound concession lease, at Compo Beach.
The public notice says the BOF anticipates discussing this in executive session.
This year, Hook’d rebranded itself as Bluestone.
===============================================
Speaking of the shoreline: Work has begun to renovate the tidal gates and pedestrian bridges at Sherwood Mill Pond, leading to Compo Cove.
Equipment is in place at the Compo Beach Soundview parking lot, in the Old Mill lot, and at the garages on the Mill Pond.
The job is expected to be completed next May.
Compared to the Post Road East project, that’s warp speed.
Equipment at the Old Mill garages. (Photo/Tammy Murray)
Jazz at the Post’s September “Piano Madness” continues on Thursday (September 18), with David Hazeltine.
Called “the most recorded contemporary jazz pianist of our time,” he has 35 CDs as a leader, and hundreds more as a sideman.
He’s joined by trombonist Steve Davis, bassist Boots Maleson, drummer Jason Tiemann and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall.
Tickets are $20 for the early show ($15 for veterans and students); $10 for the late show. A buffet dinner, including vegetarian options, is $25. Click here for tickets.
And finally … in honor of the Board of Finance’s upcoming discussion of the Hook’d contract:
(Another day, another Roundup packed with news you can use. It’s one of the many “06880” features we provide, several times a day. If you like even part of what we do, please support our work. Thanks!)
Click here to help support “06880” via credit card or PayPal. Any amount is welcome, appreciated — and tax-deductible! Reader contributions keep this blog going. (Alternate methods: Please send a check to “06880”: PO Box 744, Westport, CT 06881. Or use Venmo: @blog06880. Or Zelle: dwoog@optonline.net. Thanks!)
GET THE “06880” APP
The “06880” app (search for it on the Apple or Android store) is the easiest way to get “06880.” Choose notifications: whenever a new post is published, or once or twice a day. Click here for details.
On October 17 (6:30 p.m.), a special screening of the documentary “Bonnie Blue: James Cotton’s Life in the Blues” will be followed by a concert featuring songs from the film.
