Category Archives: Longshore

Roundup: Bagels, Crepes, Ospreys — And Laddie Lawrence …

Posted on July 10, 2026 | 3 comments

The PopUp Bagels story is popping up everywhere.

Most recently, the business — founded right here in Westport during COVID by Adam Goldberg, as a lark — was the subject of a long, reverential story in New York magazine.

Calling PopUp Bagels “a burgeoning nationwide phenomenon,” the piece notes that no other chain

has blasted off with the velocity of PopUp, which now includes more than 40 shops (and counting), from New York to South Florida to Nashville, with franchise agreements signed for 300 more.

This spring, the business sold a stake to investment firm Tiger Global Management — following earlier money from the growth-equity fund Stripes and a roster of celebrity investors that includes the former NFL star J.J. Watt and the actor Paul Rudd — at a valuation of $300 million.

“My number-one goal,” Goldberg (said) recently, “is to get the best bagel possible everywhere in the world, starting with America.”

The story warns though of the dangers ahead, as PopUp bagels grows far beyond its origins.

Goldberg, who ran a flood mitigation business, came up with the idea during the pandemic, when he baked sourdough in the morning and drank wine in the afternoon.

Before long, the magazine says, “he hired a friend’s son and other teenagers to show up and bake at 4 in the morning — high-schoolers in pajamas or still dressed from the night before, drawn by loud music and a party atmosphere.

“The crew would knock out over a thousand bagels on a Saturday, sold from Goldberg’s kitchen window by the dozen with two cream cheeses.”

But what does the future hold? To read the full story, click here. (Hat tip: Hannah Redman)

A PopUp bagel, with schmear. (Photo/Jacob Moscovitch and Vivie Behrens for New York magazine)

Meanwhile, in other PopUp Bagels news: One of its newest locations is Charleston, South Carolina.

Longtime Westport resident Seth Schachter was in the city, and “popped” in for a visit.

Seth Schachter and PopUp Bagels, 800 miles from their homes.

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Speaking of food: Choupette has served its last crêpes.

The Bedford Square restaurant — the third in Connecticut, after New Haven and Darien — closed this week. It opened in October 2024.

Choupette (Photo/Sal Liccione)

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 A concerned reader emailed “06880.” The osprey nest at Fresh Market was empty, he thought.

We contacted Carolyn Doan, Westport’s osprey expert. She headed to the parking lot, and reports:

“There was a lot of activity today! Both raptors were in the nest, relaxing in the sun. A few moments later they were visited by a third osprey, vying for the attention of the female. It was quickly chased away by the male after 2 low flying swoops.

“The couple then engaged in mating attempts, and relaxed some more in the sun. Mother Nature never disappoints.”

In between mating attempts. (Photo/Carolyn Doan)

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A special free tennis festival — with everything from lessons, contests and a book signing — is set for tomorrow at Longshore (Saturday, 12 to 4 p.m.).

The afternoon includes instruction for adults and youngsters; fast-serve and hitting prizes, adult and junior point play (sign up: 203-520-9815), and a raffle.

Former professional player Sophie Amiach — who was a commentator at the recent Roland-Garros French Open — will present her new book “Tennis Smart & Simple: For Players and Coaches of All Levels and Ages.”

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Speaking of sports: The Westport Road Runners Summer Series has been running (ho ho) for 63 years.

For 61 years, it’s been directed by Laddie Lawrence.

That makes him the longest-serving race director in the world.

Don’t take my word for it. Check out this list compiled by Road Race Management.

That accomplishment by Lawrence — who is better known for his more-than-legendary 58-year career as Staples High School’s cross country, indoor and outdoor track coach — was the hook for a story in the Hartford Courant. It was reposted by Yahoo Sports (click here to read).

“I like doing it,” Lawrence — now 80 years old — says, about the road race series that has attracted everyone from a Boston Marathon winner to 88-year-old Westporter Norma Minkowitz, the world record holder in the mile (9:56) in her 85-89-year-old age group.

“I love the sport. I think it’s a good way for me to contribute. I like being around it. For the most part, it keeps me young – although I’m losing that battle.” (Hat tip: Richard Fogel)

Laddie Lawrence in 2019, when the Board of Education voted unanimously to name the Staples track in his honor. (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

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Speaking still of sports: Wednesday’s Roundup gave an incorrect date for the upcoming polo exhibition at the Fairfield County Hunt Club

The correct date is Saturday, July 25. Gates open at 11 a.m.

In addition to matches, there are vendors, food and drinks. For more information, email HuntClubPolo@gmail.com.

Polo comes to Westport.

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The Script in Hand play-reading series is one Westport Country Playhouse’s most popular offerings. Men and women regularly pack the historic theater, for inexpensive but compelling evenings of intriguing works.

Now there’s a junior version.

A staged reading of “Peter Pan” — the timeless tale of imagination, bravery, and the wonder of never growing up — is set for the Lucille Lortel White Barn on Saturday, July 18 (2 p.m.).

The cast include young actors from local middle and high schools: Alice DiMenna, Audrey Cook, Jayden Santos, Bridget Brennan, Cathy O’Toole, Colin Chudd, Gemma Wiener, Jack Fibiger, Jasper Leven, Joey Vazquez, Lua Gaspar, Maël Chevrier and Ryan Duffy.

Running time is approximately 1 hour. Recommended for age 8 and up. For tickets and more information, click here.

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Amy Schneider spotted a small group doing some of research yesterday, at Compo’s South Beach.

She learned they were from the state Department of Energy & Environmental Protection, taking measurements and readings of sport fish and seaweed. They do it 3 times a year, from Greenwich to Stonington.

DEEP biologists, on Compo’s South Beach.

The scientists showed Amy a variety of fish like windowpane flounder, which they scooped up from shore in big nets.

They taught her how to determine the sex of a horseshoe crab (hint: check their legs), and showed her pipefish, hermit crabs and a tiny pufferfish (DEEP’s first on this trip). It was too tiny to photograph, but the biologist let her see it puffer when he reduced the water in his hand.

Amy says, “I had no idea about the variety of marine life we encounter when we dip our toes in the water. I’m grateful they allowed me to ask questions and take photos.”

Windowpane flounder (Photos/Amy Schneider)

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Speaking of water: A main break yesterday on Bermuda Road was more than just an inconvenience (low water pressure; no or discolored water) to neighbors on Saugatuck Shores.

Sheri Gordon reports: “Aquarion said around 6 p.m. that it would take another 6-8 hours to restore service.

“It’s a big deal if you live here, because it’s really the only way in or out. We can in a pinch take Marsh Road, but it’s not supposed to be a through road. It is not paved, and floods regularly.”

Bermuda Road water main break. (Photo/Sheri Gordon)

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Amy Schneider had an interesting chat with state environmental scientists yesterday at Compo Beach. She learned a lot about fish (story above).

The next time DEEP comes to town, perhaps they’ll turn their attention to land — and these guys.

We’ve featured them before in this “Westport … Naturally” series. But we’re really not fans.

(Photo/John Maloney)

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And finally …Bonnie Tyler, the Welsh singer who had a #1 hit with “Total Eclipse of the Heart,” died Wednesday in Portugal. She was 75, and had undergone emergency intestinal surgery. Click here for a full obituary.

(From bagels and crépes, to polo ponies and flounder, “06880” covers all of Westport. And we do it 24/7/365. If you enjoy this hyper-local blog, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Taxes, Fireworks, Farmers Market …

Posted on June 30, 2026 | 13 comments

If it’s (almost) the beginning of July, it’s time for … taxes.

Most Westporters received their new real estate, personal property and motor vehicle taxes, plus any sanitary sewer use and assessment charges, yesterday. They’ll be available online too, beginning tomorrow (Wednesday).

First quarter payments are due July 1. Fortunately, we’ve got until August 3 to pay them, without penalty. Late fees are 1.5% per month.

Payments may be made by credit card, debit card, or direct withdrawal from a checking account on-line at www.westportct.gov. The tax collector’s PO box has been closed, but checks made payable to “Town of Westport” can be mailed to Tax Collector, Room 109, 110 Myrtle Avenue, Westport, CT 06880.

Payment can also be made in person (Town Hall Room 109), 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays.

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Speaking of the beginning of July: Westport’s annual fireworks display is Thursday (July 2).

Just a few tickets remain for the town’s biggest and best bash of the year.

The pyrotechnics begin just after 9 p.m., at Compo Beach. But hours earlier, residents begin partying — eating, playing, strolling, meeting friends and strangers. They keep going all night long.

The event is sponsored by longtime residents Melissa and Doug Bernstein, the Police Athletic League and Parks & Recreation Department.

This year they promise new, never-before-seen fireworks effects, plus an extended, extraordinary finale.

You need a ticket to park at the beach. Thanks to the Bernsteins, every purchase includes a “FlowArt Guided Art Pad” — custom-designed for Westport.

Ticket proceeds benefit Westport PAL, and their programs and scholarships serving thousands of youngsters. The few remaining tickets are available at Police headquarters on Jesup Road (24 hours a day) and the Parks & Recreation office at Longshore, near the first tee (8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.).

Party at Compo! (Photo/Celia Campbell-Mohn)

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Speaking of the fireworks … Seen on social media, and posted without comment:

“Looking for someone to set up a group of beach chairs early in the morning this Thursday July 2nd at Compo. Please DM me if you are interested or have a college kid home for the summer who would be! Thank you.”

Also posted without comment. (Photo/Matty Murray)

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As a heat wave settles in, the Westport Farmers’ Market will open this Thursday an hour earlier than usual (9 a.m.), and close promptly an hour earlier too (1 p.m.). Vendors who can set up by 9 will do so. Some may arrive later.

Shoppers are encouraged to arrive early, in the cooler morning hours.

Stay cool with strawberries!

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The heat wave will send droves of Westporters onto (hopefully cooler) Long Island Sound.

Here’s an important reminder from Michelle Larson. She went boating yesterday, and writes: “We picked up at least a dozen Mylar balloons between Compo and Peck’s Ledge. Most are Father’s Day, Graduation Day and a few red and blue stars.

“Might be a good reminder on tying tight and disposing of properly. Or better yet: Just don’t buy balloons!”

Reagan Larson, age 9, with her bounty of balloons.

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As The Inn at Longshore and La Plage restaurant get set to reopen (soon!), they’re looking to fill positions, of all kinds.

A job fair will be held on-site today and tomorrow (Tuesday and Wednesday), from noon to 6 p.m.

Questions? Email mryan@innatlongshore.com.

Putting the finishing touches on The Inn at Longshore.

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“Bernstein’s Wall” — Westport filmmaker Doug Tirola and producer Susan Bedusa’s documentary about Leonard Bernstein — earned rave reviews at the Tribeca Film Festival, then at its theatrical premieres in New York and Los Angeles.

Now — finally — it will be screened locally.

The one-night-only event is July 9 (7 p.m., SHU Community Theatre, Fairfield).

Extra special highlight: Tirola and Bernstein’s daughter Jamie will take part in a post-show talkback, moderated by longtime film critic (and Westporter) Susan Granger.

“Bernstein’s Wall” traces the composer/conductor’s lifelong struggle to create social change and bring people together through his work.

While towering over the worlds of classical music, Broadway, television and culture, he advocated for progressive political change. He lent his name to numerous causes and groups, at great personal risk.

The film captures the sweeping arc of Bernstein’s life, sharing his private thoughts about America, politics, race, family, media, sex and religion. Click here to purchase tickets. (Hat tips: Fred Cantor and Caroline Owens)

Leonard Bernstein

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Nina Bentley — the very creative, always whimsical Westport artist — is featured all month in a Senior Center art show. The title is “I Do, Or Maybe Not.”

Thirty pieces of art — some including her trademark typewriter — are on display during operating hours (9 a.m. to 4 p.m.).

She’ll give a special artist talk on July 16.

Several pieces from Nina Bentley’s art show.

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The other day, Michael Chait snapped this intriguing view of the downtown Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge:

(Photo/Michael Chait)

No, the town has not put the iconic span up for sponsorship.

That’s just a (very long) truck crossing the bridge.

Although, come to think of it, maybe a corporate sponsor for that other bridge over the Saugatuck River could fund its renovation, without surrendering to the state …

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There is always something special to see at Sherwood Mill Pond.

Judith Katz captured extra-special light the other day, for our “Westport … Naturally” feature:

(Photo/Judith Katz) 

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And finally … David Clayton-Thomas, “a homeless Toronto runaway who learned guitar in prison and went on to become the lead singer of the gritty, blues-inspired band Blood, Sweat & Tears,” died Wednesday in Toronto. He was 84.

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Photo Challenge #597

Posted on June 7, 2026 | 25 comments

Two decorative spheres — one on each side of the entrance road — greet visitors to Longshore (or “Longshore Club Park,” as no one except town officials call it).

One of them was the subject of last week’s Photo Challenge (click here to see).

It was an easy one. Seth Schachter, Diane Silfen, Brian Taylor, Jonathan McClure, Ed Creevy, Lynn Untermeyer Miller, Michael Szeto, John McKinney, Pat Saviano, Matt McGrath, Amy Schneider, Seth Braunstein, Andrew Colabella and Tom Feeley all checked in quickly with the right answer.

FUN FACT: For decades, a pair of small “foo dogs” (also known as “Chinese guardian lions”) sat behind the marble globes. How and why they go there were mysteries, but the few folks who noticed them always wondered.

In 2022 (or perhaps earlier), they disappeared. They’ve never been seen again. Click here for that “06880” story.

There’s no great back story behind today’s Photo Challenge. But if you know where in Westport you’d see this, click “Comments” below.

(Photo/Bruce McFadden)

(Every Sunday, “06880” hosts this Photo Challenge. We challenge you too to support your hyper-local blog. Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

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Pics Of The Day #3329

Posted on May 31, 2026 | Leave a comment

Last night’s full moon, taken from Longshore …

… and a few minutes later … (Photo/Cabry Lueker)

… and this view, over Schlaet’s Point (Photo/Tracy Porosoff)

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The Sandbar: Compo Concession Is Ready!

Posted on May 24, 2026 | 8 comments

After a whirlwind couple of weeks, Nikki Glekas was ready.

Town officials approved the new Compo Beach and Longshore concessionaire in mid-May.

But by yesterday, the owner of Westport-based NG Entertainment already had a name (The Sandbar — a play on both the beach, and the roving golf cart that will sell drinks at the Longshore golf course).

She had a logo (gentle waves). She had food, staff, cash registers and freezers. She’d cleaned the Compo space left vacant a few months ago, when previous concessionaire Hook’d got the hook.

She’d installed new lights, and given the interior a fresh, nautical/ Mediterranean look. The staff had Sandbar logowear.

Nikki Glekas, in front of a new design at The Sandbar.

Nikki was ready for beach customers, on the holiday weekend that ushers in summer.

The weather, though, was not ready.

A steady rain and cold temperatures kept everyone away.

Nikki was undaunted. She will be there, as soon as the sun breaks through.

Nikki Glekas has already installed new lights. (Photo courtesy of Instagram)

It will be a breakthrough for beachgoers, too.

Yesterday, Nikki showed The Sandbar to “06880.”

She described the full, fresh menu: sandwiches, quesadillas, single and double smashburgers, crab burgers, chicken tenders, wraps, lobster rolls, pitas, gyros, salads and tacos.

Plus all the usual sides (and some Greek ones), baskets, fresh grab-and-go selections, soft-serve ice cream, and a full line of Coke products. There are gluten-free options too. (Click here for the full menu.)

Customers can order ahead online, via QR code. (Or click here.)

Nikki will introduce catering, with small and large trays and platters. She expects big business for the fireworks.

Old door, new sign … and a fresh vibe. (Photo/Matt Murray)

A side wall will be filled soon with Westport-themed merchandise.

This is not Nikki’s first rodeo. She scaled up quickly thanks in part to her decade of experience running food services at Chelsea Piers. Chefs will come from those locations.

Applications for other positions have poured in. Many came from Staples students. Nikki is impressed by the “professionalism” of their emails.

Staples sophomore Nicholas Glekas (left) and junior Alex Kovics are ready for customers.

Two experienced bartenders will work at Longshore. (The pavilion there opens next week. The roving golf cart is set for a June 10 delivery.)

“Our goal is to be here a long time,” Nikki says.

Pointing to Compo — wet, cold, but filled with possibilities just a few days away — she adds, “This is supposed to be where everyone comes. We want it to be where everyone hangs out, and has fun.”

Whenever customers come, Nikki — and The Sandbar — will be ready.

(The Instagram is @TheSandbar068880. It already has over 400 followers. She hopes users will offer feedback there. Hours are 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., 7 days a week. During peak times, The Sandbar will open earlier and close later.)

(“06880” covers the waterfront — in every way possible. If you enjoy our reporting on all things Compo, Longshore, Burying Hill and Old Mill-related, please click here to support us. Thank you!)

Beach snacks galore. (All photos/Dan Woog unless otherwise noted)

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Pic Of The Day #3316

Posted on May 18, 2026 | 2 comments

Longshore golf course (Photo/Richard Hyman)

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Roundup: Fine Arts Artists, Levitt Pavilion Musicians, “Shrek” Anniversary …

Posted on May 16, 2026 | Leave a comment

We’re a week away from the 53rd annual Fine Arts Festival.

Across North America, over 150 artists are preparing to come to Westport, and show their work.

Selected from over 320 applications, and representing 12 categories, they come from 23 states and Canada. 27 are from Connecticut — 6 from right here in 06880.

All 2025 award winners return. Click here for a full list. Meanwhile, a record 52 artists make their Fine Arts Festival debut.

New this year: a very cool art activation. Staples High School art students will paint a BMW in the family area (Sigrid Schultz parking lot).

Two new judges join the panel: art enthusiasts Lonnie Quinn (CBS weatherman) and Louise Crowley.

The dates are next Saturday and Sunday (May 23-24, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.). Click here for a full list of artists, and a map. The Fine Arts Festival is sponsored by the Westport Downtown Association.

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One possibility for the enclosed dog run at Winslow Park.

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The Levitt Pavilion announced a torrent of new shows this week — both free and ticketed.

The Revivalists rock on August 11. One of the most uplifting live acts in music today, their current tour includes the Grand Ole Opry, part of the FIFA World Cup, Red Rocks Amphitheatre — and a return to the banks of the Saugatuck. Click here for tickets, and more information. 

Also booked:

May 29: An album release concert by Amani Burnham (first free show of the ’26 season). The 20-year-old Ethiopian-born, Connecticut-based artist has amassed more than 240,000 followers and nearly 30 million views on social media.  Amani and his band will make their Levitt Pavilion debut while celebrating their debut album and set sail as the first free show of the 2026 season! Pretty auspicious!

June 6: The ultimate ’80s tribute and dance party with Rubix Kube. They’ve been joined by and/or been the backup band for the icons they cover note for note: Rick Springfield, Debbie Gibson, Tiffany, Colin Hay, Bonnie Tyler and more.

June 7: Jumaane Smith Jazz Quartet. Lauded by Michael Bublé (with whom he tours). Wynton Marsalis (coming to the Levitt on June 28) was his trumpet teacher at Juilliard.

June 26: Chaparelle. with singer-songwriters Zella Day and Jesse Woods. Their musical tapestry harks back to country stars like George and Tammy. and Gram and Emmylou.

August 9: The Devon Gilfillian Time Will Tell Tour. The Nashville-based soul singer/songwriter blends gritty blues, gospel, R&B and hip-hop.

Click here for more information on the Levitt Pavilion season, and membership. 

The Revivalists

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Hard to believe: This is the 25th anniversary of “Shrek.”

Not hard to believe: The Westport Library is celebrating the milestone.

On Tuesday (May 19, 7 p.m.; $10), co-writer Roger S.H. Schulman takes the audience behind the scenes. He’ll discuss his journey from journalism to Hollywood and the classroom. Click here to register, and for more information.

To learn more about the mechanics of screenwriting, Schulman offers a Verso University workshop on “Writing Compelling Characters.” Click here for details.

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Calling all Sweet P and/or New York Giants fans!

The bakery — founded by Westporters Bill and Andrea Pecoriello, which trains and employs people with disabilities (who make great stuff) — is raising money for the Hype 4 Life Foundation, an autism awareness non-profit.

They’ll send 2 winners (and plus-ones) to the Brian Burns Celebrity Softball Game May 30 in Pomona, New York. The football star and current Giants play Brandon Jacobs and Super Bowl XLII and XLVI champions, and other legends. Over 100 current and former NFL players will be on the field, competing in softball, a home run derby and (why not?) dodgeball.

To enter:

  • Like the Instagram post  @sweetpbakeryct
  • Follow @sweetpbakeryct and @hype4lifefoundation
  • Tag someone you want to bring, and tell us why it would be meaningful.

Every tag is another entry. Entries close Saturday, May 23 at midnight. Winners will be announced May 24th by DM.

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What’s going down at Wakeman Town Farm?

  • “2nd Annual Llamapalooza for Hope” (May 31, 12 p.m.)
  • “How to Have a Healthy, Non-Toxic Home” (June 4, 7 p.m.)
  • “Green Thumbs’ Gathering” (June 13, 12 p.m.).
  • “Adult Early Morning Summer Vinyasa Yoga” (June 27, July 11, August 8, 8:30 a.m.)

For details and registration, click here; then scroll down.

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“A Tailor Near Me” is the intriguing name of the next Westport Country Playhouse Script in Hand selection.

What begins as a routine fitting turns into an unexpected friendship. And a tailor-made suit leads to alterations in two men’s lives.

The June 8 (7 p.m.) performance features 3 stars from “LA Law”: Jimmy Smits, Michael Tucker and Jill Eikenberry. Click here for tickets, and more information.

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For nearly 120 years, the Westport Woman’s Club has supported our community.

From sidewalks and public health (1900s) to grants and scholarships (2000s), they’ve been there for us.

They always welcome new members. This Tuesday (May 19, 5:30 to 7 p.m.), they’re hosting a wine and cheese social.

Whether you’re new to the area or simply looking to expand your circle, you’re invited!

PS: It’s a great chance to check out their building too: 44 Imperial Avenue.

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Uni K Wax has opened its first Connecticut location. The site is Playhouse Square.

They use all-natural ingredients, and every wax is freshly poured into an individualized warmer.

For a limited time, they offer 50% off first wax services.

1st Selectman Kevin Christie (far right) joined Uni K Wax officials in a ribbon-cutting ceremony this week.

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Just in time for Memorial Day: the construction trailer — part of the Soundview parking lot staging area, for the Compo Cove tidal gate renovation project — has been hauled away.

Those parking spaces will be needed soon.

Maybe very soon. Sunday’s high temperature is forecast to be 86.

(Photo/Matt Murray)

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” featured photo shows another ephemeral — but beautiful — sign of spring. This one is from Bayberry Lane.

(Photo/Jonathan Alloy)

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And finally … Soul singer/guitaristClarence Carter died Wednesday in Atlanta. He was 90, and had been diagnosed with prostate cancer.

The New York Times said, “Blind from youth and distinguished by his deep, declamatory baritone and lecherous, full-throated laugh, Mr. Carter combined the sermonic fervor of a backwoods preacher and the bawdy humor of a juke joint.” Click here for a full obituary.

(Sure, it’s the weekend. But “06880” keeps pumping out these Roundups like there’s no tomorrow. If you enjoy our 24/7/365 work, please show your support by clicking here. Thank you!)

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P&Z Okays Concessionaire; Field Lights Conversation To Continue

Posted on May 14, 2026 | 3 comments

The Planning & Zoning Commission does not often debate recreation.

But they do weigh in on issues involving town property. So 2 items of interest to many Westporters — the concession stand operator at Compo Beach and Longshore, and lights on 2 athletic fields — were on their agenda last night.

Nearly 100 people logged on to the virtual meeting. Over the course of 4 hours the P&Z unanimously endorsed Nikki Glekas to run “The Sandbar,” and heard the pros and cons of 4 70-foot poles at the Wakeman and PJ Romano synthetic turf fields.

Glekas — owner of Westport-based NG Entertainment — was enthusiastically recommended by Parks & Recreation director Erik Barbieri.

She said that her beach menu would be both “family friendly” and “a bit upscale,” ranging from smashburgers, chicken tenders and french fries to fresh salads, gyros and souvlaki.

The Compo Beach concession opens soon. (Photo/JD Dworkow)

She would offer catering too — for fireworks parties, for example — and make The Sandbar a “destination.”

With little discussion, the P&Z voted unanimously in favor of Glekas, for Compo, the Longshore pavilion and golf course halfway house.

With Barbieri and Glekas hoping to be operational by Memorial Day weekend, and Board of Finance approval coming 48 hours earlier, the contract now goes to the Board of Selectpersons on May 21 for final approval.

The field lighting proposal drew much more comment, from commissioners and the public.

Citing increased participant numbers, gender equity, the effects on Staples sports and the need to maintain the quality of grass fields by limiting play there, Barbieri, Parks & Rec superintendent Carm Roda and Staples High School athletic director VJ Sarullo called the need for lit fields “urgent.”

Wakeman B, near Bedford Middle School, is currently unlit. PJ Romano, behind Saugatuck Elementary, utilizes temporary lights. The third lit field in town, at Greens Farms Elementary, is used for softball.

Wakeman B field.

The town officials, and Mike Mahoney of Musco Sports Lighting, who has worked with Westport previously, emphasized LED technology, which eliminates the “spillover” of previous generation lights; automatic turnoff, to prevent not-permitted use, and noise restrictions. The lights would comply with Connecticut Dark Sky standards.

Roda promised to pull the permits of any organizations abusing the system.

Dozens of residents emailed public comments before the meeting. But the majority of public speakers — while emphasizing their support for youth sports — questioned certain aspects of the proposal.

Many live near Wakeman Field. the focus of most of the speakers.

Concerns included the effects of lights and noise on neighboring properties; the proposed 9 p.m. and 10 p.m. cutoffs; the effects of night games and practices on youngsters’ bedtimes, and use by adult teams and for-profit organizations.

The tone of the discussion was respectful. Many of the neighbors asked for revisions or “a better solution,” and requested a meeting at the Wakeman site.

The P&Z took no vote. Discussion, including public comment, will continue May 18 (6 p.m., Zoom), and again on June 1.

(“06880” reports regularly on Compo Beach, sports, local politics — and, like today, their intersection. We rely on reader support. Please click here to help us continue our coverage. Thank you!)

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Pic Of The Day #3310

Posted on May 12, 2026 | 1 comment

Welcome to Longshore! (Photo/CC Nigro)

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Roundup: Concession Contract, Nesting Birds, Farmers’ Market

Posted on May 8, 2026 | 1 comment

What is the concession contract at Compo Beach, the Longshore pavilion and Longshore halfway house worth?

$8,333 a month in year one of a 3-year contract; $9,166 per month the second year, and $10,000 the third. That works out to about $100,000, $110,000 and $120,000 a year.

The terms were worked out between the Parks & Recreation Department and NG Entertainment, a Westport-based company owned by Nikki Glekas.

On Wednesday (6 p.m., livestream), the Planning & Zoning Commission discusses the lease. They’re involved because Compo and Longshore are public property.

Glekas’ business could sell alcohol at the halfway house, and from a roaming golf cart.

The contract would begin May 15, and end November 15, 2029 (the last day of that golf season.

Two 2-year extension options could be exercised, at the town’s discretion.

After the P&Z, the contract goes to the Boards of Finance and Selectpersons for final approval.

Click here for a full copy of the lease. 

A mural may not be all that’s new at the beach this year. A local concessionaire may replace Hook’d. The town bought out that company’s lease earlier this year. (Photo/Carm Roda)

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Speaking of which: Compo Beach is for everyone.

Including nesting birds.

In fact, they were here long before we were.

New signs — colorful, informative, and quite clear — warn humans (and their dogs) to give them plenty of space.

We don’t need that little section of the beach. They do.

Stay away, until the signs are gone.

And the birds are ready to fend for themselves.

(Photo/Matt Murray)

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The weather cleared beautifully yesterday — just in time for the opening of the outdoor Westport Farmers’ Market.

The 20th opening, in fact. That’s quite a milestone.

The Imperial Avenue parking lot was packed. And it will be, every Thursday between now and November, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

If you’ve never been: Go! From fresh produce, breads, baked goods, meats and seafood to flowers, dog treats and food trucks for lunch — plus live music, knife sharpening and much more — the Farmers’ Market has something for everyone.

And if you’re a regular — see you there!

(Photos/Susan Garment)

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Also yesterday: the always-inspiring A Better Chance of Westport “Dream Event.”

For a quarter century, the local chapter of the national non-profit has brought academically gifted and highly motivated teenagers of color to town. They live together, attend Staples, are supported by Westport volunteers — and give back at least as much as they get, to the community.

Last night, at the spectacular House Up on the Hill in Norwalk, ABC celebrated 2 graduating seniors, and 1 longtime volunteer.

Souleye Kebe and Vincent Vega are graduating, after 4 years in the program. After loving introductions by their host families, both spoke eloquently and movingly about their time at ABC’s Glendarcy House, at Staples and in Westport.

Souleye — who is a student representative on the Board of Education, president of Student Council, a member of the high school’s award-winning We the People team, and was the “Wrecker Bob” mascot at football games — talked about the impact his July 4th birthday had on his passion for democracy. He will attend Northwestern University.

Vincent — a talented baseball player — described the 4 families that have been central to his life: the one he was born into; his ABC “brothers”; his baseball team, and his 2 host families.

Both scholars received standing ovations for their words, and their contributions to their school and adopted town.

Souleye Kebe and Vincent Vega.

Maggie Gomez — a math teacher, who serves as both the liaison between Staples and A Better Chance, and with her husband Felix is a host parent — received ABC’s Community Award. She too spoke about the importance of the program, to all who are involved.

For more information on ABC — including how to volunteer and donate — click here.

 

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The need for blood is never-ending.

Your next chance to give is Monday (May 11, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., Westport Woman’s Club, 44 Imperial Avenue). The drive is sponsored by the WWC and American Red Cross.

To make an appointment, click here; enter Westport in the “Zip/Sponsor Code” box. Or call 800-REDCROSS.

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Anyone for tennis?

Westport’s Parks & Recreation Department hosts a free Tennis Festival this Saturday (May 9, 12 to 4 p.m., Longshore).

The afternoon includes free adult and junior lessons (12-2 p.m.), a fast serve contest, hitting for prizes, adult and junior point play (2-4 p.m.), food trucks and a raffle.

Questions? Call Dave Kardas: 203-520-9815.

Longshore tennis courts (Photo/Cliona Becker)

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Hacky sack is back!

The 1970s game is being played all over Staples High School’s main courtyard — and outside the cafeteria too.

Not only that: The Wreckers are the game’s FCIAC (league) champs.

At least, this banner says they are:

(Photo/Dee Hychko)

We’re not sure if it’s tongue in cheek, so we may be putting our foot in our mouth.

No matter. Game on!

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Speaking of Staples : The Class of 1966 celebrates their 60th reunion this year. A full weekend of activities is planned, from September 18-20.

I’ve been a guest at their previous bashes. They do reunions as energetically and creatively as they did high school.

If you are in that class, or know someone who was, email Ed Garlick for details: e.garlickiii@att.net.

Staples High School, as the Class of 1966 remembers it.

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Nesting birds aren’t the only creatures who need a wide berth at Compo (story above).

It’s gosling season at the shore.

They take their time waddling across the road, as today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo shows.

But — as with birds — this is their beach too.

(Photo/Matt Murray)

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And finally …Happy V-E Day!

On this date in 1945, Nazi Germany surrendered unconditionally to the Allies, effectively ending World War II in Europe.

Released right around that time, this is widely considered the ultimate homecoming anthem.

(Every day, “06880” takes you on a journey — with many emotions — through Westport’s past and present. If you appreciate this hyper-local blog, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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