Category Archives: Local business

Roundup: Police Drug Take Back Day, Jay Norris AI Honor, Community Theatre Play …

Posted on April 11, 2026 | 1 comment

Got drugs you no longer need (or want)? Or those that have expired?

On Saturday, April 25 (10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Senior Center) the Westport Police Department takes part in National Prescription Drug Take Back Day.

Residents can bring tablets, capsules, patches and other solid forms of prescription drugs to the Senior Center. Liquid products, such as cough syrup, should remain sealed in their original container.

Do not bring syringes, sharps and illicit drugs. The cap must be tightly sealed to prevent leakage.

Drop-offs are free, and anonymous.

Westport Police also offer a year-round collection bin in the lobby of the headquarters building on Jesup Road. There is a supply of medication disposal bags in the lobby, to dispose of liquid and pill medications in your regular garbage.

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Congratulations to Jay Norris!

The founder and CEO of Westport-based ThoughtPartnr has just been named to MSN’s “Top 10 AI Leaders to Follow” list.

His writeup calls Norris “a serial entrepreneur, author and strategic advisor known for helping leaders scale businesses and influence markets through innovation, technology and high-performance leadership.

“As an AI strategist, he is focused n helping small and medium-sized businesses succeed in the age of artificial intelligence.

Norris chairs the Technology and Innovation Council of the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce.

But he’s well-known locally too.

A co-founder of StartUp Westport, board member of several organizations, and founder of Westport 10, Norris’ ThoughtPartnr firm helped develop our “06880” widget.

Available at the top right of every 06880.org page (and through the far-left bottom at the bottom of our “06880” app), it enables users to do a deep dive into 17 years of our blog’s content. It’s more than a search engine — it’s a way to use AI in a hyper-local way.

Helping small and medium-sized businesses is one of Norris’ passions.

And it’s why MSN celebrates him, as a Top 10 AI leader nationally. Click here for the full writeup.

Jay Norris

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“The Savannah Sipping Society” — Westport Community Theatre’s 4th production of the season — opened last night.

The warm, witty comedy about friendship, second chances and the occasional happy hour continues weekends through April 26.

Co-written by Jamie Wooten (“Designing Women,” “The Golden Girls”), it
stars Dandy Barrett, Heather Delude, Gillian Holt and Ellen Krinick Porto.

Performances are Fridays and Saturdays (7:30 p.m.), and Sundays (2 p.m.)., at the WCT in the lower level of Town Hall. A special Thursday show is set for April 16 (7:30 p.m.).

Click here for tickets, or call 203-227-1983. Questions? Email info@westportcommunitytheatre.com.

From left: Gillian Holt, Heather Delude, Dandy Barrett, Ellen Krinick Porto.

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Double the Gershwin fun!

Identical twins, Juilliard graduates and clarinet and saxophone virtuosos Peter and Will Anderson (and Companions) perform American songbook standards by George Gershwin at Christ & Holy Trinity Episcopal Church.

The concert is April 25 (5 p.m.). Tickets are available online, or at the door.

Anderson brothers, and friend. Can you tell which are the twins?

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Speaking of entertainment: Lachat Town Farm — Weston’s multi-purpose entertainment and educational venue — has announced its 2026 Music in the Meadow lineup.

There’s something for everyone.

The season kicks off June 13 with indie rock standouts Morningside — recently named one of Connecticut’s Top 12 Up‑and‑Coming Bands — with a supporting set from Charlotte Roth.

On July 11 they welcome Quinn Sullivan. The Massachusetts guitar star has shared the stage with Buddy Guy and BB King.

August 15 brings Black Rock indie‑folk favorites The Moonrise Cartel. Brian Dolzani opens, featuring the music of Neil Young.

Stella Blue’s Band closes the season September 19, with Grateful Dead tunes.

Every show features food trucks, and a “barn bar.” Click here for tickets, and more information. 

Music at the Meadow.

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Next Friday (April 17, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.), an emergency preparedness drill will take place at Bedford Middle School.

It’s during April recess, when schools are closed. The public may notice emergency vehicles and personnel — but it is only a drill. It is not open to the public.

This drill, in partnership with regional and state agencies, is part of an effort to test preparedness plans and strengthen collaboration among local and regional partners, in response to a public health emergency scenario.

Participating agencies include the Westport Police Department and Fire Departments, Westport Emergency Medical Services, the Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security, and the state Department of Public Health.

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It never gets old.

Once again, Ken Bernhard, Ted Freedman ad Rick Jaffe are asking Westporters to check their closets, and donate new or slightly worn shoes to Soles4Souls.

Collection boxes are in place at Town Hall and the Senior Center. Donations can be made through the first week of May.

Soles4Souls keeps shoes out of landfills, provides footwear for people in need, and creates micro-business opportunities in places of poverty.

Since 2006, the organization has salvaged over nearly 100 million pairs of shoes. They’ve been distributed in 129 countries, and all 50 states.

Westport does its part. Ken, Ted and Rich have collected over 4,000 pairs of shoes, helping people around the world who lack access to proper footwear.

Ken Bernhard and friend, with the Soles4Souls collection box at Town Hall.

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Bees are back!

And even though it looks like this guy is still wearing a winter coat, today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo is one more sign that spring is on its way.

Some day.

(Photo/Jamie Walsh)

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And finally … in honor of the shoe collection drive, through the organization Soles4Souls (item above):

(Hold on! Don’t leave yet! If you enjoy these daily Roundups — or any other “06880” feature — please click here. Your tax-deductible contribution supports our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Entertainment, Local business, Police, technology

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In A World Of Work Algorithms, Therapist Offers Human Help

Posted on April 11, 2026 | 1 comment

It’s a tough time to be looking for a job.

In addition to tight markets, cutbacks and the elimination of work due to AI, there is the simple act of getting one’s foot in the door.

“The process was impersonal even before ChatGPT,” says David Gofman.

“But now human beings are not actually reading resumes. They’re screened by software.”

More recently, he notes, job-seekers are being invited online for what they think are interviews.

Instead, they talk to a chatbot. The conversation is recorded, processed, then — who knows what happens?

“It’s not transparent at all,” Gofman says. “You don’t know how you did, or what you were evaluated on.”

Gofman has a front row seat to the angst experienced by job-seekers — and many other young people.

David Gofman, at graduation.

A 2009 Staples High graduate and now a psychotherapist, he’s returned to the area and opened a mental health counseling and career coaching practice.

In high school Gofman was involved in WWPT radio, and played on the state champion volleyball team.

He studied media production, and played and coached club volleyball, at Ithaca College, then earned a master’s in sport and performance psychology at the University of Denver.

Gofman spent 5 years at a Westport mental health group, helping young men struggling to navigate life. During COVID he and his wife Danielle moved to Roanoke, Virginia, where he was interim CEO of a community health center.

Last summer they returned to Westport. He established his practice on Sylvan Road South. In addition to life coaching, he specializes in patients with chronic pain.

Danielle is also a therapist; she works virtually.

David and Danielle Gofman, with their children.

Gofman empathizes with his young adult and early professional clients. Some are on the cusp of graduating; others are a few years into the careers, but don’t always like where they are.

They feel both the general anxieties of young people, and uncertainty about the future of work itself.

Meanwhile, the impersonal — and negative, no-reply, non-feedback elements of the application process — saps confidence, and reinforces doubts about what lies ahead.

Gofman tries to help clients align their job search around their personal values and interests.

Despite doomsday predictions, he says, “AI is not taking over a lot of jobs.”

As for algorithms that seem to rule the resume process, Gofman advises, “Control what you can control. Establish a network. Build relationships. Rely on those people.” That’s especially true, he says, when searching locally for work.

“Print out a resume. Knock on doors. You don’t always have to apply online,” he says.

And, he adds, “work on your interpersonal skills. Practice them, so you feel confident.”

David Gofman (Photo/Kristyn Miller)

Though Gofman was in much the same place less than 20 years ago — with plenty of college and career pressure — a lot has changed.

“I was in high school at the threshold of technological change,” he says. “Smartphones and social media were just coming in.” AI was still the stuff of science fiction.

Job applications were read by human beings, not software.

Now, David Gofman is one human being trying to help others navigate a new, and very difficult, world.

(“06880” reports regularly on Staples High School graduates, of all ages. If you enjoy stories like this, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Local business, Staples HS

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Coop’s Canteen: A Grand Slam At Little League Fields

Posted on April 9, 2026 | 3 comments

There’s a new Westport Little League MVP in town.

But he does not swing a bat.

Cooper Shapiro is a 4th grader at Long Lots Elementary School.

He’s also the founder of Coop’s Canteen. The pop-up snack stand is quickly becoming a fan favorite among hungry players, parents and siblings.

What started as a simple question —what happened to the snack stand? —turned into a full-fledged business idea.

With the old concession building sitting idle, Cooper saw an opportunity.

He stepped right up to the plate.

This is not, however, your average kid’s lemonade stand. Cooper brought in a very modern business partner: AI.

He used ChatGPT to work through pricing strategy, build a simple inventory tracker, and design an eye-catching logo.

Cooper Shapiro with his sign …

Of course, there’s a Venmo QR code for easy payment.

Yet the setup is more “Leave it to Beaver” than 21st century: a folding table, a lineup of snacks, and a young entrepreneur ready to serve.

The vibe is equal parts baseball, business and community.

You can usually find Coop’s Canteen on Saturdays at the Town Farm fields — somewhere between Kowalsky and White — or at Coleytown Elementary.

(It depends on where his younger brother Asher is playing.)

… and at his table, with his younger brother Asher.

Parents appreciate the convenience. Kids love the independence.

Cooper, meanwhile, is always thinking about his next restock.

What makes Coop’s Canteen special is more than the snacks. It’s the spirit behind it.

Cooper saw a problem. Then he figured out how to fix it.

He smashed this one out of the park.

(Young Westporters are doing remarkable things — and “06880” is your place to discover them. If you appreciate stories like this, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Children, Local business, Sports, technology

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Roundup: Assistant Attorney, Affordable Art, Career Coach

Posted on April 7, 2026 | 1 comment

When Westport’s new assistant town attorney begins work in June, she won’t need a lesson in local government.

Candice Savin is a familiar face. From 2021-25, she was our 3rd selectwoman. Before that she served on the Board of Education, including 2 years as chair.

She will work with town attorney Ira Bloom and his colleagues at Berchem Moses. She succeeds Eileen Lavigne, who will retire on June 5.

Savin is a graduate of Johns Hopkins University, and earned a law degree at Duke University.

She has been a board member at The Conservative Synagogue and the Westport chapter of Hadassah. Since 2012, she has co-chaired the Westport Library’s “Booked for the Evening” fundraiser.

Candice Savin

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“Affordability” — a hot topic nationally these days — is the theme of this year’s 10th annual Westport Woman’s Club Art Show.

Sixteen local artists — with works curated by Miggs Burroughs — are on display Thursday, April 23 (4 to 7 p.m.), and Saturday and Sunday, April 25-26 (2 to 5 p.m.).

Burroughs says that by featuring smaller, original works across an array of styles and media, the show offers buyers affordable, local pieces.

Artists include Robin Babbin, John Bygott, Bonnie Edelman, Susan Fehlinger, Hernan Garcia, Rachel Hall, Elisa Keogh, Shelley Lowenstein, Paula Morgan, Larry Morse, Jon Puzzuoli, Butch Quick, Jodi Rabinowitz, Cindy Wagner and Tammy Winser.

Guest artist Sean Keating will show work in the drawing room, where small works donated by the participating artists as chance prizes will be on display.

This year’s show honors the memory of Jo Fuchs Luscombe. The former WWC president — who also served as state representative, 3rd selectwoman and Zoning Board of Appeals chair — died last year.

The opening reception (April 23) features Rock & Roll Hall of Fame member Mark Naftalin, playing on the Woman’s Club piano.

Net proceeds benefit local community service organizations, and need-based scholarships.

To see a PDF catalogue (including measurements, media and prices) before the show, email DorothyECurran@aol.com; put “Art Show Catalogue” in the header.

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The “Career Coach” will be in the Westport Library parking lot this Thursday (April 9), for a session on “Computer Basics.”

It returns May 21, covering “Tips for Resume & Cover Letter,” and June 19 (Intro to Excel).

There are 2 sessions ( 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.) each day; both are 2 hours long. Registrants can choose one.

The service is available to people who are exploring career opportunities, actively looking for a job, or seeking additional part-time employment. Click here to reserve a spot.

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Speaking of the Library: Staples Players’ first-ever collaboration with that institution — a staged reading of the whimsical, funny and poignant show “Almost, Maine” — drew a large crowd last night.

And because this was both Players and the Library — neither of whom do things halfway — it ended with a Q-and-A led by playwright John Cariani.

Playwright John Cariani (standing), Staples Players co-director David Roth, and the cast of “Almost, Maine.” (Photo/Susan Garment)

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Uni K Wax is opening its first Connecticut location in Playhouse Square tomorrow (Wednesday) — and “06880” readers can snag a deal.

The studio — with all-natural ingredients and “elevated hygiene practices, including individual wax warmers for every service” — offers 50% off their first wax, to anyone using the code 06880Blog.

Click here or follow on Instagram for information about services, opening offers, and memberships.

Wax treat.

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Jazz vocalist Alma Micic first came to Jazz at the Post as part of her guitarist husband Rale Micic’s ensemble. She rocked it.

This Thursday (April 9, VFW Post 399; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner from 7), she returns — and shares the stage with him.

They’re joined by bassist Peter Slavov and drummer Jason Tiemann. Click here for tickets, and more information.

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The life of Adé Van Duyn — the artist, educator and longtime Westporter who died in October at 98 –will be celebrated this Saturday (April 11, 11 a.m., Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport).

The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Amnesty International.

Adé Van Duyn.

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Tidal flats are ready to burst out with spring colors, in today’s brown-but-not-for-long “Westport … Naturally” photo.

(Photo/Dick Alley)

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And finally … on this date in 1862, the Union Army defeated the Confederates  near Shiloh, Tennessee.

(“06880” is your hyper-local blog. We depend on donations from readers like you. If you enjoy our 24/7/365 coverage of all things Westport, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Library, Local business, Local politics, Staples HS

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Corky Laing’s Cowbells Clang Here Saturday

Posted on April 7, 2026 | 3 comments

They may be the most famous cowbells in history.

Corky Laing’s clanging introduction to “Mississippi Queen” — Mountain’s biggest hit — still resonates, 56 years later.

The band — which included legendary musicians Leslie West and Felix Pappalardi — broke up in 1972. They reunited periodically over the years, for projects and tours.

Corky Laing (2nd from left), and the band.

Laing continued to play percussion. He’s recorded with Ian Hunter (Mott the Hoople), Eric Schenkman (Spin Doctors), Noel Redding (Jimi Hendrix Experience), even Bo Diddley. (In fact, he got his start as a pre-teen, when the famed Ink Spots needed a drummer during a musicians’ strike.)

But he has never forgotten his Mountain days. This Saturday (April 11, 7 p.m.), “Mississippi Queen” — and other hits, including “Long Red” and “Nantucket Sleighride” — will ring out at the VFW.

Gary Shure’s 10$GrandBand offers a tribute to the band.

And Corky Laing himself will sit in, as a guest drummer.

Corky Laing (Photo copyright Joachim Jüttner)

It is far from his first time in Westport.

He lived here for a decade, from 1982 to ’92.

While here he invited Levon Helm, Felix Cavaliere, the Chambers Brothers and fellow Westporter Meat Loaf to play with him at the Levitt Pavilion. He jammed with bands at local clubs and bars.

He hung out often at the Compo Beach home of music executive Terry Coen, and his music-loving wife Gail.

Laing also befriended Harvey Skolnick, owner of the Liquor Locker. During the busy holidays Laing delivered wine for him, to customers like Paul Newman and Diana Ross.

The Liquor Locker. Corky Laing was a famous “employee.”

The other day, Laing recalled his years here with joy. He first came during a snowstorm, when the town was a “winter wonderland.”

He needed a check cashed. Skolnick did it, no questions asked. Laing thought this must be quite a town.

Not long after, he moved to Crescent Road.

This is nothing like Canada, where Laing grew up thinking he’d be a teacher. But playing with the Ink Spots — watching people looking up at “this little Jewish kid behind 4 beautiful Black guys, and smiling” — hooked him on performing.

He began playing loud — including timbales, which are now back in vogue, thanks to Bad Bunny — because he wanted to have a good time.

As for the cowbells to “Mississippi Queen”: that was just the way Laing counted the band in, when Mountain recorded it.

As engineers mixed the music, they decided to leave it — “for now.”

Meanwhile, Jimi Hendrix’s Band of Gypsies were recording next door. Laing had met him through the Montreal music scene, so he invited him to hear the tape.

Hendrix sat behind the board. At the end he just said, “Cool. Love the cowbell.”

The rest is history.

Corky Laing today, Mountain, Jimi Hendrix and an image of the era.

And the history continues Saturday.

The gig came about through Matt Zako, the local music promoter who has a mutual friend of Laing’s.

When Zako explained the venue, Laing was all in.

“Veterans are great guys,” he says. Back in his Mountain days, they worked in a VFW hall on Nantucket.

One of Westport’s best concert venues.

He’s excited to play with Shure, and the 10$Grand Band. “They sound great, and the set list is really good,” Laing says.

He no longer lives in Westport. But life continues to be good.

“Every day, I wake up. And every day, I play the drums,” Laing says.

On Saturday, he’ll do it again, back in his former town.

And with the most famous cowbells in music history.

Tickets are just $20. Click here to purchase.

FUN FACT: In 1969 — shortly after Mountain played at Woodstock — drummer N.D. Smart was replaced by Corky Laing. Three years earlier, Smart had replaced Chip Damiani as drummer for the Remains — the band with Westporters Barry Tashian and Bill Briggs — on their US tour with the Beatles.

(“06880” often covers Westport’s entertainment scene. And the town’s history — plus much, much more. If you like stories like this, please click here to support our work. Rock on!)

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Posted in Entertainment, Local business, Looking back

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Happy 75th Birthday, Lloyd Allen!

Posted on April 6, 2026 | 11 comments

You never know where a conversation with Lloyd Allen will go.

The other day I stopped in at Double L Market, to pick up their trademark box of fruit.

The longtime owner of the beloved Post Road East fruit stand-and-much-more was in an expansive mood. He had a strong case of spring fever — exactly what someone whose life revolves around the seasons should have.

Lloyd Allen, at Double L Market.

Lloyd talked nostalgically of his original farm stand, where Kings Highway North runs into the Post Road.

He told me that Paul Newman loved loved LOVED Double L’s honeydews.

Of course, Lloyd is much more than just a fruit and vegetable vendor. He is pursuing multiple avenues on stage and through the media. The Westport Library has been a great partner throughout, he said.

Lloyd has always felt close to the people of Westport. He thrives on the town’s vitality, energy and charm. To give back, he hopes to build a stage of giant iPhones — the theme of a play he’s written — on the side of Double L Market, so he can workshop scenes. (Michael Calise, his landlord, is okay with it, Lloyd said.)

Then he showed me early signs of spring: fiddlehead ferns, spring garlic
and early onions. (All are from the West Coast, alas.)

Double L bounty, spring 2021.

Today — April 6 — Lloyd turns 75. He is filled with gratitude for Gianna. They love each other’s company; they collaborate, and respect each other greatly.

Then Lloyd backtracked 40 years. He talked about how the seasonality of his early roadside stand gave him time with his kids, in their early years.

He might soon take a few days with Gianna, just the two of them, to get away and ponder next moves.

Lloyd still has a whole lot to get done.

But for now: Happy 75th birthday, Lloyd.

May the road rise to meet you, May the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face. And may the rains fall soft upon your fields.

We all love — and need — all that you offer all of us!

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Posted in Environment, Local business

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Roundup: Easter Joy …

Posted on April 5, 2026 | 2 comments

Gruel Britannia made sure that Easter was joyful, for families shopping at Homes with Hope’s food pantry.

The popular Cross Highway spot donated Cadbury Easter eggs — the best, as anyone who has had them knows — for clients.

“Scott and Karen are so generous,” says Homes with Hope CEO Helen McAlinden, referring to Gruel Britannia’s owners and operators.

“And the kids were so happy!”

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Meanwhile, early today, worshipers gathered at Compo Beach for the annual sunrise service.

The air was chilly. But they were warmed by the promise of the holiday, the fellowship of faith — and a fire.

(Photo/Thomas Samaranayake)

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“Primary Trust” — the next Westport Country Playhouse production, about change, friendship, quiet courage and mai tais — opens April 14.

As always, the Playhouse has planned special several events. They include:

Taste of Tuesday (April 14, 6 p.m.): Season ticket holders enjoy snacks, beverages, and casual pre-show conversation.

PRIDE Night (April 16): A pre-show gathering for the LGBTQ+ community.

Opening Night (April 18): A post-show reception, open to all ticket holders.

Sunday Symposium (April 19, after the 3 p.m. matinee): Panel discussion and Q&A about community, isolation and behavioral health with artistic director Mark Shanahan, Rev. Richard Williams of Pivot Ministries, and a representative of Silver Hill Hospital.

Taste of Tuesday Wine Tasting (April 21): Pre-show sampling of wines from The Grapevine, with snacks.

Together at the Table (April 26, $15): Families and groups enjoy a communal pizza lunch and discussion of the play before the matinee show.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Are you ready for Mothers Day?

The Westport Book Shop is. They’re celebrating with a card, featuring artwork from their talented employees.

Just click here. Choose your donation amount, and who it’s from and to. They’ll do the rest.

Westport Book Shop Mothers Day card.

More news from the Westport Book Shop: Their Short Story Club meets April 22 (6 p.m.).

This month’s selections are by Irish authors:

  • “As Kingfishers Catch Fire” by Colum McCann
  • “Foster” by Claire Keegan
  • “The Piano Teacher’s Pupil” by William Trevor.

To register, call 203-349-5141 or email RSVP@westportbooksaleventures.org.

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Hey, at least yesterday morning was nice.

Claudia Sherwood Servidio snapped this shot for our “Westport … Naturally” feature, on a long walk through Longshore.

(Photo/Claudia Sherwood Servidio)

The week ahead looks up and down. The temperature will drop to 29 on Tuesday night, then rise to 66 by Friday.

Welcome to springtime in New England!

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And finally … happy Easter, to all who celebrate!

(“06880” is your hyper-local blog — weekdays, weekends and  holidays, 24/7/365. If you appreciate our efforts, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Beach, Local business, religion, Westport Country Playhouse

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Roundup: Sustainable Earth Day, Holiday Weekend …

Posted on April 4, 2026 | 5 comments

As Earth Day (April 22) nears, Sustainable Westport asks: “Can you imagine what our planet could look like if we got it right?”

They answer their own question: “Less congestion and cleaner air, with communities that are more interconnected because towns are walkable and bikeable. Shorelines and waterways that are free from discarded plastic and waste. Native trees and plants supporting pollinators and clean water supporting vibrant ecosystems for generations to come.

“It’s a hopeful vision, and one that feels entirely possible when communities come together starting first with small, meaningful changes.

“At the heart of this vision is a simple, powerful truth: We are all guardians of this planet. This stewardship isn’t reserved for scientists or policymakers; it is a responsibility carried by every one of us. Each person in our community holds a vital piece of the puzzle, and the picture of a sustainable Westport is only possible when all of us are present and engaged.

During Earth Month, Sustainable Westport is re-emphasizing their commitment to reducing single-use plastic. They ask residents to watch an important video (click here) — and then participate and lead, by sharing the message, encouraging neighbors, and turning individual efforts into a community movement.

Also upcoming: a screening of “Plastic People: The Hidden Crisis of Microplastics.”

The documentary explores the alarming spread of microplastics throughout our planet — and our bodies.

The event — following a sold-out showing at SXSW — is Thursday (April 9, 6:30 p.m., Greens Farms Academy). A panel discussion follows the screening.

It’s free — but click here to register.

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The Board of Finance’s next “office hours” — open times at which residents can chat with a member about questions or concerns — are Thursday, April 16.

There are 2 sessions — 10 to 11 a.m., and 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. — at the Westport Library’s Room 213.

The events have proved popular, with a broad range of Westporters asking an equally broad range of questions.

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Speaking to 175 Y’s Men of Westport and Weston at Saugatuck Congregational Church on Thursday, Dr. Kenneth Pollack said that the war with Iran has become a grinding war of attrition with no easy exit for the United States.

A former CIA analyst and National Security Council official, Pollack is now vice president for policy at the Middle East Institute. He warned that forced regime change in Tehran is a dangerous gamble, and said Washington has “run out of good options,” leaving only bad choices as it struggles to end the conflict, reopen vital oil shipping lanes, and find a strategy President Trump can use to ease domestic economic pain while pressuring Iran’s hard‑line leadership to back down.

Looking ahead, Pollack said much of the world’s economic fate now hinges on whether the U.S. is willing to do the politically difficult work needed to pry open the Strait of Hormuz and blunt Iran’s regional influence. That could mean inserting limited ground forces to secure shipping lanes and potentially striking at Iranian allies such as Hezbollah, steps he called militarily feasible but politically fraught.

Until then, he warned, shortages of oil, liquefied natural gas and critical materials like fertilizers and helium will deepen, increasing the risk of a global recession and leaving Iran’s hard‑liners in position to keep exploiting their “chokehold” on the world economy.

Y’s Men member Peter Pollack (left) introduces his son, Dr. Kenneth M. Pollack. (Photo/Ted Horowitz)

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Karen Schlansky — an abstract painter working in acrylic, oil, pastel and mixed media — is this month’s guest exhibitor. The local artist is displaying paintings from her recent “Books” series.

A reception is set for April 23 (6 p.m.). All work is available for purchase.

Karen Schlansky, with her work.

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Speaking of art: As the nation’s 250th birthday nears, the Weston Commission for the Arts seeks submissions that explore America’s past, present and future.

The “Weston Celebrates America 250” exhibit (July 3 to 31) will complement July 4th activities like a patriotic tailgating contest, bell ringing ceremony, old- fashioned family sports/field day and picnic, and fireworks.

Artists may submit up to 3 pieces. The deadline is May 31. Click here for details. 

Also planned during the month-long exhibit: art classes for children and adults, and a meet the artists reception July. Click here for details. 

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This Thursday (April 9, 7 p.m.), MoCA\CT celebrates National Poetry Month bt transforming its galleries into a performance space.

Norwalk-based spoken word artist Sahmra Sawyer (Supreme Divinity) will perform original poetry inspired by “Art, Jazz + the Blues” — the museum’s current exhibit — while live jazz plays in the background.

As the performance unfolds, Bridgeport artist Lauren Clayton will create a large-scale painting — translating spoken word and sound into a visual work in real time.

29 Markle CT will provide an “elevated take on soul food.”

Tickets are $30 ($20 seniors and students; $15 members). Click here to purchase, and for more information.

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A wayward son moves home to care for his mother, and discovers chaos he never knew he needed.

That’s the premise behind “Sorry for Laughing.” The new solo play by Evan Zes, about caring for his mother during COVID, is part of the Westport Country Playhouse’s New Works Initiative.  celebrating new works and new playwrights.

The “Barnstormer” event is set for May 11 (7 p.m.; Lucille Lortel White Barn). All tickets are $20; click here to purchase, and for more information.

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Dogs are banned from Compo Beach, until October 1.

But Fido (and Yogi Bear and Bosun, pictured below) are enjoying Sherwood Island State Park.

And they can do so — if leashed — through April 15.

Then they too will have to find somewhere else to romp, until fall.

(Photo/Cat Malkin)

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Westport’s first “pickleball ambassador,” Tom Lowrie, sent this along, with Easter and Passover greetings from himself and his successor, current ambassador Brandon Osterhout.

We don’t know who’s who in the photo, but it doesn’t matter. Enjoy the weekend!

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Speaking of which: We’re not certain why a pig would “ham” it up for Easter, but Jolantha sets a festive holiday tone for all of Weston:

(Photo/Hans Wilhelm)

“06880” joins Jolantha in wishing all who celebrate, a joyful day.

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Speaking of nature’s creatures: We can never get enough osprey photos.

Today’s “Westport … Naturally” close-up comes from Gray’s Creek. Welcome back!

(Photo/Ed Simek)

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And finally … on this date in 1964, The Beatles occupied the top 5 positions on the Billboard Hot 100 pop chart. From #1 to #5, they were:

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Posted in Arts, Beach, Environment, Local business, Local politics, Weston, Westport Country Playhouse

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Friday Flashback #497

Posted on April 3, 2026 | 16 comments

We’ve flashed back a few times before to Arnie’s Place.

The video game arcade horrified some adults, who thought it signaled The End of Westport.

But it was a formative, home-away-from home haven for hundreds of youngsters growing up in the 1980s.

At the center of it all was Arnie Kaye, a larger-than-life (both physically and metaphorically) man who tormented town officials, made sure his arcade (and adjacent ice cream parlor) were safe and clean for all kids, and had a knack for headlines. (Click here for one of several “06880” stories about Arnie’s Place.)

On Monday, someone posted a YouTube video about Arnie’s.

In just 2 1/2 minutes it covers all the key points, about Arnie and his controversies. There are vintage photos and videos of the interior, and of Arnie himself.

But it’s also very odd. Sure, Arnie once chained himself to Town Hall — yet the images shown have nothing to do with our building and cops.

Some of the video scenes of Arnie — while resembling him — don’t quite convey how big he really was.

It’s narrated too by one of those annoying AI voices.

Still, if you’ve got a spare moment, it’s worth clicking here or below. You’ll see a weird look, into a weird time in Westport history.

(Friday Flashback is one of “06880”‘s many regular features. If you enjoy this — or anything else on our website — please consider a tax-deductible contribution. Just click here. Thank you!)

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Posted in Friday Flashback, Local business

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Roundup: Osprey, Cybersecurity, Admin …

Posted on April 3, 2026 | 1 comment

It’s official: Carolyn Doan — Westport’s unofficial osprey spotter — says that the Fresh Market osprey is back.

The actual first raptor of the spring was spotted earlier, by Gray’s Creek. An earlier report of the osprey at the tall perch next to Terrain turned out to be a hawk.

Their mates will no doubt join them soon. We’ll see them building nests, fishing for food, and — hopefully — tending their young.

Carolyn Doan usually has a high-powered lens. This was taken with her iPhone. (Photo/Carolyn Doan)

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“Your State, Your Business” — the program that brings high-ranking officials to the Westport Library to share their work with business owners and residents — continued Thursday.

Connecticut Attorney General William Tong — the third speaker, in the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce series — opened with “Law School 101,” which set the stage for the civil legal and constitutional law discussions that followed.

Key topics included the role of the AG here, and differences with other states; high profile issues like personal data and privacy, and cases Tong has filed on behalf of the state and its citizens.

The “Your State, Your Business” series — sponsored by the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce — wraps up April 13 (11 a.m.). Click here for more information, and to register.

Attorney General William Tong, at the Westport Library. 

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Congratulations to Ignacy Nieweglowski, Sahil Vora, Rohan Sareen, Ezra Schwartz and Kevin Cano!

On Sunday, the Staples High School students captured first place in the Lockheed Martin CyberQuest Competition.

And they snagged gold for the second year in a row.

In the annual capture-the-flag competition, students take on a wide range of challenges designed by professional cybersecurity engineers. They include multi-step intrusion scenarios, steganography, reverse engineering, operating system exploitation, packet analysis, web vulnerabilities and social engineering.

The event was held at Lockheed Martin’s Sikorsky headquarters in Stratford. Facing teams from across the region, the Stapleites worked collaboratively through 3 hours of intense problem-solving.

Following last year’s win, the students grew Staples’ cybersecurity program, and formed a larger team.

In addition to this year’s first-place finish, the B and C teams also placed in the top 5. The B team included Anit Arvind, Tucker Eklund, Srihan Popuri, Maadhav Subramaniam and Jonah Frey, while the C team was Joey Carpenter, Cora Barrett and Nora Ismael-Bakkali.

Up next: the national semifinals. Go Wreckers!

From left: Ignacy Nieweglowski, Sahil Vora, Rohan Sareen, Ezra Schwartz, Kevin Cano.

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Speaking of Staples: Congratulations to the 24 band, orchestra and choir programs who participated in the recent Connecticut Music Educators Association All-State Festival at the Hartford Convention Center.

The 3 days included rehearsals led by guest conductors, culminating in a final performance.

Staples All-State Festival musicians included

Band: Justin Jendrock, Gargi Karve, Dylan Taylor, Christian Green (horn in orchestra)

Choir: Veronica Albee, Josie Caricato, James Donoghue, Beckwith Fipp, Catherine Herbert, Abigail Kim, Josephine Lewertoff, Jasmita Mani Lorenzato, Lyla McEntee, Sophia Macris, Christian Michaels, Denver Razza, Helen Root, Ari Sklar, Samantha Skopp

Orchestra: Kirthana Gowthaman, Isabel Jo, Isabella Mariani, Ayush Rudra, Chloe Wong

Staples’ All-State Festival musicians (missing James Donoghue and Josephine Lewertoff).

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“06880” is Westport’s full-service blog, and the Roundup is where you can find nearly every service: upcoming events, achievements, obituaries.

The other day, we helped a Westport firm find a summer intern.

The New England Consulting Group received inquiries from several outstanding applicants. They extended an offer to a Staples graduate.

Now they’ve got another opening. This is for a part-time, experienced administrative assistant. For details, contact Applicants can contact Susan Owen, CFO: seo@necg.net (put “part-time admin at NECG” in the subject line), or call 203-297-9389.

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The other day, Scott Smith enjoyed an annual visit from a pileated woodpecker.

“It likes to dine off the rotting logs I use to frame my backyard compost heap,” Scott says.

“It’s a beautiful bird — and big!”

It’s also today’s “Westport … Naturally” featured photo.

(Photo/Scott Smith)

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And finally … on this date in 1865, Union forces captured Richmond, Virginia, the capital of the Confederate States of America.

(You can’t raise a Kane back up when he’s in defeat. But you can click here, to support “06880” with a tax-deductible contribution. Bells will ring, and we will thank you!)

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Posted in Environment, Local business, Staples HS, technology, Teenagers

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