Longtime Westport resident Bette Hahner died peacefully on March at her home in Chatham, Massachusetts. She was 84.
The New York City native and her husband Jeff spent 28 enjoyable years here. In 2000, they retired and moved to Cape Cod.
Bette loved entertaining and gardening. In Westport she enjoyed throwing clambakes, corporate picnics and dinners for friends and neighbors.
In Chatham, in addition to many hours in her home gardens, she managed luncheons and events for the Chatham Garden Club, Monomoy Yacht Club, Chatham-Harwich Newcomers Club, CONCH and Friends of the Eldredge Library.
She recruited many member to the Garden Club. People loved working with her.
Bette worked seasonally for 15 years in the Chatham permit/sticker office, and knew nearly everyone in town. She then worked at the Freedom Ferry in Harwich Port, as a friendly face in the ticket office. For many years she also sold buttons at First Night Chatham headquarters.
Bette was a past president of the Chatham Garden Club, a board member of the Friends of the Eldredge Public Library, and active on the First Night Chatham Committee. In 2025 she was named grand marshal of Chatham’s July 4th parade.
She is survived by Jeff, her husband of 64 years, and son Tim of Bloomington, Minnesota. She also leaves her dog Emmie.
The family requests that donations be made in her name to the Chatham Garden Club.
A celebration of life will be held Saturday (April 18, 2 p.m.) at the First Congregational Church of Chatham.
Bette Hahner
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And finally … on this date in 1945, President Franklin D. Roosevelt died of a cerebral hemorrhage in Warm Springs, Georgia. He was 63, and in his 4th term.
Woody Guthrie wrote “Dear Mrs. Roosevelt,” in the style of many tribute letters the public wrote to the first lady after his death. There are 15 verses; at the end of each, Guthrie says, “This world was lucky to see him born.”
Guthrie never recorded the song. But Bob Dylan — an acolyte — found it, and rescued it from obscurity. He and The Band performed it at a Carnegie Hall Guthrie tribute concert in 1968. He has never played it since.
(Spring is here! But before you go outside to romp, please take a few seconds to click here, and support your hyper-local blog. That helps keep “06880” alive, through every season of the year. Thank you!)
Longtime Westport resident and active civic volunteer Joan Nathan died peacefully on April 2. She was 97.
The Trenton, New Jersey native earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Bryn Mawr College, and a master’s in educational psychology from Columbia University. She met her husband Marvin in New York City. They married in 1951, and moved with their 4 children to Westport in 1964.
Her early career years were spent at Sears Roebuck as director of personnel testing. She resumed her vocation in 1970 with Westport’s Youth Adult Council, as director of job and volunteer placement.
Joan nurtured deep connections with friends and family which she nurtured throughout her life. She spent long, happy pre-computer hours on the pool deck at the Westport YMCA during swim meets; grilling hot dogs at the Little League concession stand; cheering from the hill at Staples soccer games and at Water Rats and Staples swim meets — plus hours of driving to every event her kids took part in up and down the East Coast, with her golden retriever Curry (and then Charlie) by her side.
On a 40th anniversary trip to Copenhagen, Marv died of a heart attack. With formidable inner strength and calm, Joan began a new chapter rebuilding her life in Westport.
Joan Nathan
An early member of Y’s Women, she soon became treasurer. She also produced their newsletter, and explored many interests through the group.
Her community at Winslow Park, growing family and friends bolstered her strength. Her dedication to women’s health and reproductive rights — a steadfast commitment to the legacy of her mother, a pioneering obstetrician/gynecologist — carried her through challenging times, and formed the foundation of her new life.
In her work and in parenthood, Joan’s ability to listen in earnest; her deep capacity for care; her emphasis on individual agency, and her genuine curiosity about people and their stories were all constants. She cared first and foremost about the worth and dignity of all.
She will be remembered by her children and grandchildren as someone who leaned into life with an open heart and an inquisitive mind – qualities that led to her lifelong love of the arts, travel, politics, and the New York Times crossword puzzle. Her continuous evolution in thoughts, ideas, perspectives and taste made her a wise confidante across generations.
Joan is survived by her children Ellen, Barbara (Chris), Rob and John (Ruby), and grandchildren Stacey, Tara, Misty, Jonathan, June and Frances.
In accordance with Joan’s wishes, there will be no service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to plannedparenthood.org. or a charity of choice supporting women’s health and reproductive rights.
With over 1,000 votes cast, the winners of the Great Westport Sandwich Contestare …
Best Chicken Sandwich: Garelick & Herbs
Best Steak Sandwich: Nômade
Best Combo Sandwich: A & S Fine Foods
Best Vegetarian Sandwich:Nômade
Best Club Sandwich: The Clubhouse
Best Pressed Sandwich: The Granola Bar
Best Breakfast Sandwich: The Granola Bar
Best Wrap Sandwich: Kabab & Hummus House
Best Fish/Seafood Sandwich: Rizzuto’s
Best NY Deli Sandwich:Gold’s Delicatessen
Honorable mentions go to Calise’s Market and Outpost Pizza in the Best Chicken category.
The contest was organized by the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce, with sponsorship from the law firm Bercham Moses.
The winners (clockwise from top left): The Clubhouse, The Granola Bar, Kabab & Hummus House, A & S Fine Foods, Gold’s Delicatessen, Nômade, Rizzuto’s, Garelick & Herbs.
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Earthplace celebrates 2 milestones soon: the 40th anniversary of Harbor Watch, and the 15th anniversary of “Cocktails & Clams.”
The fundraiser is set for June 6 (5 to 7 p.m.), at Copps Island Oysters, Norwalk.
The location is fitting. Proceeds will help modernize the water quality lab at Harbor Watch, Earthplace’s Long Island Sound program. They’ll also provide hands-on training for student interns, and will support ongoing water monitoring.
Guests will enjoy an unlimited, super-fresh raw bar, hors d’oeuvres, an open bar, plus a live band and silent auction.
The Westport Senior Center kicks it off on May 1 (1 p.m.), with a special event featuring Melissa Bernstein.
The co-founder of Melissa & Doug Toys will chat with “06880” founder Dan Woog about her personal journey through anxiety and depression.
She’ll discuss the tools and insights that helped guide her back into the light, and what she has discovered about finding purpose and meaning along the way.
Melissa is the author of “Lifelines” and “The Heart of Entrepreneurship: Crafting Your Authentic Recipe for Success.” She also curated a collection of stress-relief tools inspired by her own life experiences, available at Lifelines.com.
The event is open to Senior Center members, and anyone 60 or older.
Melissa Bernstein
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Among the agenda items for today’s Board of Selectpersons agenda (Wednesday, 9 a.m., Town Hall auditorium): acceptance of $20,000 from Sustainable Westport, for the purchase and installation of 2 ADA-compliant water filling stations.
They’ll replace the current fountains at Compo Beach and Winslow Park
A plaque on the Winslow Park water filling station will honor the memory of Sherry Jagerson. The longtime environmental activist died in 2024.
Sherry Jagerson
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The Blight Prevention Board meets tomorrow (Thursday, 7 p.m., Zoom).
They’ll continue their discussion of 20 Center Street, and address 3 new properties:
Westport resident Carole Williams died Sunday, surrounded by her family. She was 86.
A longtime customer service manager at Pepperidge Farm, she was known for her dedication and care. After retiring she worked for the town of Westport, at the Fire and Building Departments.
She was an avid traveler, and also enjoyed both playing tennis and shopping.
She is survived by her daughter Kim Thibodeau, grandson Michael Thibodeau, sister Phyllis Denke, brother Samuel (Sandy) Anastasia Jr. .
A Requiem Mass will be held at Assumption Church on Friday (April 10, 10 a.m.). In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude’s or the American Cancer Society.
Carole Williams
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Longtime Westporter Dick Alley sends along today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo: Schlaet’s Point, at low tide in early spring.
And finally … in honor of Earthplace’s “Clams & Cocktails” fundraiser, benefiting Harbor Watch — harborside, at Copps Island Oysters (story above):
(From the environment and entertainment to the Senior Center and beach, if it’s happening in Westport you’ll read about it on “06880.” We rely on readers’ support; please click here to help. Thank you!)
The Shoah Memorial — an inspiring sculpture honoring the bravery of 4 women in the face of Nazi horrors — comes to Fairfield University in July.
The Westport Library offers a companion program. They say:
“In an era of rising division, how do we transform the lessons of the past into a shield for the future? Join us for an exclusive first look at the Shoah Memorial, a landmark project coming to Fairfield that seeks to honor history while actively stemming the tide of hate. Discover how this local initiative aims to make a global impact.”
A special event — postponed from January by snow — is set for this Sunday (April 12, 2 p.m., Trefz Forum
It includes a conversation between Dr. Mindy Hersh and her mother, Judy Hersh, a Holocaust survivor, followed by a panel discussion featuring Shoah Memorial artist Victoria Milstein; Shelly Krieger, the founding educator of the Holocaust Research Center; Holocaust survivor Michell Schell, and Marla Felton of Common Circles.
The Shoah Memorial Fairfield University project began when Paul Burger attended the unveiling of the original “She Wouldn’t Take Off Her Boots” sculpture in Greensboro, North Carolina. Moved by its powerful message, he decided to bring the memorial to his community, to ensure its broader impact.
Fairfield University is already home to the Carl and Dorothy Bennett Center for Judaic Studies, and offers a Judaic Studies program.
Anyone who was at VersoFest — or any other Trefz Forum concert — knows how loud the place gets.
But every once in a while, the volume is turned down.
This Saturday (April 11) is one of those days.
From 1 to 5 p.m., a traditional, tranquil atmosphere will be encouraged library-wide.
Residents can bring their current read, or borrow something new. Find a cozy corner, enjoy some wordless picture books in the Children’s Library, or participate in quiet, all-ages crafting at a build-your-own bookmark station.
The event is part of the Library’s We Read initiative.
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Back to the noisy Library: Supper & Soul returns May 2.
Vanessa Collier — an international touring blues artist — returns also. She played the second Supper & Soul, in in 2018.
The Supper & Soul series, presented by The Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce and Library, returns this spring with Vanessa Collier, an international touring and multi-nominee for Best Blues Artist. Vanessa returns to Westport for an encore Supper & Soul show having played the second one back in 2018.
A $90 ticket to the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce event includes a 3-course dinner at one of 11 downtown restaurants, plus the concert.
Participating restaurants are Arezzo, Blondinit, Capuli, Emmy Squared, Finalmente, Il Pastaficio, Massi Co, Nômade, Spotted Horse, Walrus Alley and Yuzo Sushi.
Concert-only tickets are available for $35.
Dinner is at 6 p.m. The show starts at 8. After the concert, a ticket is good for happy hour pricing on drinks at any participating restaurant.
Yesterday’s Easter sunrise service included 3 pastors.
All are new to town. It was the first sunrise service here for all 3.
Pastor Jinho Choi (United Methodist Church of Westport and Weston), Rev. Sophie Beal (Greens Farms Congregational Church) and Rev. Dr. Steven Savides, (Saugatuck Congregational Church) led worship together.
Rick Benson carefully tended the fire. It was definitely not his first sunrise beach service.
From left: Rev. Sophie Beal, Rev. Dr. Stephen Savides, Pastor Jinho Choi.
Former Westporters Kent and Pegi Bernard died, following an automobile accident last May at their second home in Jackson Hole, Wyoming.
Pegi died on impact. She was 73. Kent fought for 10 months before succumbing to his injuries on March 20. He was 75. They were married for 49 years.
Kent moved with his parents to Westport from New York when he was 9. A few years later he was accepted by Juilliard for opera. But allergies sent him on a different path: to Colgate University, and a career in law.
Pegi’s military family moved often. In Virginia, she pursued her equestrian dreams. She was jumping at near Olympic levels, but suffered an ankle injry.
She graduated from the Morven Park International Equestrian Institute in 1973, while also a student at LeMoyne College in New York.
It was less than 40 miles from (then all-male) Colgate. On a trip to LeMoyne, Kent met Pegi.
Kent graduated magna cum laude from the University of Pennsylvania Law School in 1975. Pegi joined him after she graduated. They were married that August.
In 1980 they, and their young son Adam, moved to Kent’s hometown of Westport.
Kent joined the legal division of Pfizer Inc., and spent his career there. He retired as vice president and assistant general counsel in 2007.
The family was diehard New York Mets fans. Kent and Adam traveled to half the Major League Baseball stadiums.
When Adam began taking martial arts classes, Kent and Pegi joined. They became 3 of the highest ranking black belts in Connecticut.
After Kent retired from Pfizer he joined Fordham University School of Law as an adjunct professor. He spent a decade teaching and mentoring future leaders.
Kent and Pegi supported many charitable organizations. A scholarship at Fairfield College Preparatory School is in the family name, and Pegi was on the advisory board at Jackson Hole Therapeutic Riding.
They are survived by their son Adam, and a Norwegian forest cat named Bragi.
And finally … a toast to our Westport Library, which can be both quiet (item above) and loud (VersoFest): Shhhh … boom!
(It’s the start of another week … and that means plenty of “06880” stories, features, photos and more. If you enjoy this hyper-local blog, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
Rev. Frank Hall — minister emeritus at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport — died Tuesday, with his wife Lory Nurenberg by his side. He was 85.
A celebration of his life will be held at the congregation on Sunday, May 3 (2 p.m.).
In 2013, when Rev. Hall retired, “06880” honored him with the story below.
As a teenager growing up near Boston, Frank Hall thought about being a minister.
Only one thing stopped him: He didn’t believe in certain things. Like the Apostles’ Creed. Or the virgin birth.
“A lot of those ideas had to be metaphors, right?” he says.
But while teaching at Wellesley High School from 1962 to ’69, and being drawn into the anti-war movement, Frank also became a Unitarian Church youth group advisor.
Frank Hall today.
His beard and activism as a draft counselor landed him in some trouble with school administrators. A minister who helped mediate the dispute told Frank, “You should be a minister.”
“I don’t believe in God!” he replied.
That seemed perfect for Unitarians. During 3 years at Boston University School of Theology he also served as assistant minister of a small, socially active congregation. Noam Chomsky was a member.
He was called to Attleboro, where he spent 12 happy years as senior minister. In 1984 the Westport Unitarian Church contacted him. Frank was not interested in leaving, but one Sunday afternoon he drove down, by himself.
He found an open door. A lifelong poetry lover, he stood at the pulpit in the stunning building surrounded by woods, and recited lines from Emerson and Whitman.
“I felt an amazing sense that this is where I should be,” he recalls.
He’s been here ever since.
This Sunday (June 9) Frank Hall delivers his last sermon. He’ll be feted the following Sunday (June 16). Then the 73-year-old retires — though he has no plans to leave Westport.
Frank Hall, in the place he feels he was “meant to be.” (Photo by Erik Trautmann/The Hour)
He looks back on 3 decades of association with “an amazing group of people in this church.” He has felt warmly welcomed — despite what may be a unique admission from a minister.
“I make no apologies for my theology, or lack of it,” Frank says. “I could be who I am here.” His was a ministry of poetry, he says.
“It hasn’t always been easy,” Frank admits. “This is not Kansas anymore. Fairfield County is not New England. It’s New York.” For a lifelong Bay Stater — the 3rd of 9 children, and son of a roofer — that took some getting used to.
But he brought a sense of stability to the church on Lyons Plains Road, he says. He did it by being “spiritual, without the theological baggage that goes along with that. Most clergy don’t like to hear ‘I’m spiritual, but not religious’ — that’s not a good customer — but spirituality can be expressed in many ways. Books and music, for instance.”
Frank says the Westport Unitarian Church’s sanctuary — with its physical connection to the outdoors — is another expression of spirituality.
Westport’s Unitarian Church.
The sanctuary was the site of Westport’s 1st gay and lesbian commitment ceremonies, during Frank’s 1st year here in 1984. He is proud of his role in making the Unitarian Church a welcoming place for the LGBT community.
He is proud too of the congregation’s growth. During his tenure the church introduced a 2nd Sunday service, and hired full-time religious education, music and social justice directors, as well as a paid youth advisor. Nine members of the church have moved from the pews into ministry.
During his ministry, Frank held dozens of 6-week sessions with small groups. They talked about spiritual journeys. Frank’s journeys also took concrete form: He took 29 “coming-of-age groups” (14-year-olds) to Boston, touring important sites in and around the birthplace of Unitarianism.
He cherishes his friendship — and regular meetings — with other clergy. “We’re a real support group for each other,” he notes. “We’re on the liberal spectrum, but they say I’m off the spectrum.”
Frank’s community involvement included the formation of the local A Better Chance house. He is also on the board of Temenos Institute.
Retirement will include spending time with his wife Lory, a hospice worker. He also hopes to publish.
Frank Hall’s home, for 30 years. (Photo/Nancy Burton)
“I’ve written 1,000 sermons, but I’ve never published anything,” Frank says. He’s eager too to revisit the 4 journals he filled during a 5-month sabbatical, 20 years ago. He drove across the country by himself, in a VW Vanagon, enjoying detailed conversations with many people he met. He envisions a book that’s “not just a travelogue, but an inner journey.”
Five years ago, Frank was diagnosed with Parkinson’s. He wanted to work 5 more years. His neurologist said, “No problem.”
“It’s worked out,” Frank says. “I feel blessed by my work. I feel blessed, as Robert Frost wrote, that I could unite my vocation and my avocation.
“It’s been a great run. A great trip. Now I’m ready to start a new chapter.”
With temperatures in the 20s this morning, few people were thinking about the beach.
Except for non-residents hoping to buy one of the 450 beach stickers available to anyone living outside of Westport and Weston.
They went on sale at 9 a.m. today. By 7:15, a small crowd had already formed outside the Parks & Recreation Department office at Longshore.
(Photo/Carm Roda)
Sales to Westport and Weston residents — with no limit — begin tomorrow (Thursday), at 9 a.m. Click here for fees.
If you bought emblems or registered for programs in previous seasons, your online account is already set up. Click here to log in. Then select “Memberships,” and follow the prompts.
If you have not bought emblems or registered for programs previously, click here. Then click the “Purchase Now” icon on the right.
Emblems will be mailed in 14-21 days. They are not required until May 1.
The Board of Finance’s next “office hours” — open times at which residents can chat with a member about questions or concerns — are tomorrow (Thursday).
There are 2 sessions — 10 to 11 a.m., and 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. — at the Westport Library’s Room 213.
Last month’s office hours drew a diverse crowd — including 2 Staples High School students, doing a civics project.
“We had very productive conversations,” says BOF member Allyson Stollenwerck.
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Also tomorrow: Secretary of the State Stephanie Thomas continues the “Your State, Your Business” speaker series.
She’ll speak at the Westport Library (Thursday, 11 a.m.). Thomas will describe her wide-ranging job, followed by a discussion and Q-and-A.
The 3-part series — sponsored by the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce — kicked off with state comptroller Sean Scanlon. It concludes April 2, with Attorney General William Tong.
Secretary of the State Stephanie Thomas
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A reader writes: “I attended Coleytown Elementary School during the 1976 bicentennial year. We buried time capsules there, but I don’t know exactly where (I recall a ceremony by a flagpole in front of the school).
“I’m guessing they’re still buried. I reached out to the school, and am waiting to hear back.
“It would be interesting to see these time capsules opened and shared, if at all feasible.”
So, “06880” has 2 thoughts:
Does anyone remember the Coleytown El time capsules — specifically, where they were buried?
How about any other time capsules in town?
The 250th anniversary of our nation seems like a good time to unearth them.
If you have any ideas, now is the “time” to share them. Please click “Comments” below.
Coleytown Elementary School. Is there a time capsule there?
The Staples High School girls basketball fell 5 points short of the state championship game last night.
The #3-seeded Wreckers fell 67-62 to #10 Bristol Central, at Bethel High.
Staples finishes 23-4. Two of those losses were to Greenwich, including the FCIAC championship.
Staples coach Tommy Sparks told The Ruden Report, “We’re obviously proud of the fight. We were down a few times in the game where it looked like it could have been over, but the girls continued to execute, the girls continued to defend. It was a pleasure just to watch the resilience and the growth from these girls throughout the season. Obviously, it was a special season for us.” Click here for the full Ruden Report story (paywall).
On Monday, the Wrecker boys basketball team advanced to their final. Ranked first in Division I, they’ll seek their first state crown since 1937 this Saturday, 8:30 p.m. at Mohegan Sun, against #2 West Haven.
Staples 2026 girls basketball team.
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MoCA\CT’s celebration of “Art, Jazz + the Blues” — the title of their current exhibition — continues with a “community conversation” March 26 (5:30 p.m.).
Exhibit co-curator Ive Covaci leads a panel of noted musicians, artists, educators and scholars in an exploration of how jazz and blues continue to inspire creativity across art forms — and within our own community.
Panelists include: Brian Torff (bassist, composer and Fairfield University music professor; Dr. Richard Epstein (vice president, Jazz Society of Fairfield County and longtime WPKN host); Kevin Mazzarella (Staples High School band director and trumpeter), and Caitlin von Schmidt (musician, graphic designer, and daughter of artist Eric von Schmidt, whose works are the foundation of the “Art, Jazz + the Blues” exhibition.
Three generations of Westport Pardons — former Fordham University Gaelic Society president Ed, son Chris and grandson Conor — enjoyed yesterday’s parade in New York.
And we’re sure Conor’s teacher will “pardon” him for taking an afternoon off to salute his heritage!
Staples High School Class of 1994 graduate Lisa Bastoni was featured at First Folk Sunday in 2024. She returns October 4.
In the meantime, she’s written “There Are No Kings in America.” Suzanne Sheridan — founder of First Folk Sunday — will perform Lisa’s song at the “No Kings” rally on Jesup Green (March 28). Suzanne Sheridan at the NO KINGS Rally at Jesup Green on Saturday March 28.
PS: Creativity runs in Lisa’s family. She’s the granddaughter of noted Westport artists Walter and Naiad Einsel.
Faherty honors World Down Syndrome Day this Saturday (March 21) with a special Sweet P Bakery pop-up event.
From noon to 2 p.m. at the Main Street store, Sweet P founder Andrea Pecoriello and baker Charlie Biondo will serve some of their favorite goods, for purchase.
The bakery’s mission is to provide training and employment for adults with disabilities.
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Westporters know Frank Murgalo as “Santa Claus” at our annual Holiday Stroll (Shhhh … don’t tell the kids!)
He’s also a Marine Corps veteran, who donates time and energy to many excellent causes.
Now — at 82 — he’s written a memoir.
“My Mid-Life Crisis at 82: A Life of Mischief, Mayhem and Making It Work…” chronicles his wild, adventurous life. He’s been an auditor, fishmonger, actor and stand-up comedian. He writes about stopping Super Bowl XVII, being tackled by the FBI, and outwitting the State Department — all with an inspiring message of resilience, risk and laughter.
On April 7 (2:45 p.m.), Frank gives a book talk at the Senior Center. It’s free, but register for a seat: 203-341-5099.
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On Sunday business owners, building managers and tenants of Riverside Corners Westport gathered at Arezzo Ristorante to honor the life of Alon Panovka.
The longtime building owner and supporter of the arts died recently.
Although Alon lived in Atlanta, he spent significant time in the area. In addition to the property at Post Road West and Riverside Avenue, he owned the former post office building on Post Road East, which he redeveloped.
Known by many tenants for his thoughtful stewardship and quiet generosity, Alon also helped launch The Norwalk Art Space, which offers free art and music education to underserved youth.
Alon Panovka gathering, at Arezzo. (Hat tip and photo/Ken Warren)
Longtime Westport resident Dominick Boccanfuso died Saturday. He was 86.
The New York native moved here with his family in 1949. A proud Merchant Marine officer, Dominick was licensed to pilot vessels up to 100 gross tons. He had a lifelong passion for boating and fishing, and shared that love with family and friends.
An entrepreneur from a young age, Dominick began his career at 18, opening his first gas station with his brothers, Giuseppe Jr. and Crescienzo.
Their drive extended beyond business, ultimately leading them to build one of the fastest race cars in its class. Dominick led this effort, designing and rebuilding the car’s power plant each week to ensure it consistently ran down the track with fresh power — a testament to his ambition and mechanical skill.
In 1970 Dominick and his brothers founded Boccanfuso Bros., which quickly became a staple in the Westport community. It reflected their honesty, fairness, dedication, work ethic and strong family values.
Dominick was deeply committed to giving back. For over a decade, he sponsored Westport boys and girls Little League baseball teams. He served as a volunteer firefighter from the mid-1970s to the mid-1980s, and was a dedicated usher at Assumption Church during holidays. He and his nephew Giuseppe also supported the Swim Across the Sound cancer benefit by escorting participants on their boat.
Beginning in 1982, Dominick spent winters in Hallandale, Florida, with his mother Anna, participating in fundraising efforts at St. Matthew’s Church. He continued this tradition until 2006, following her passing.
He is survived by Giuseppe A. Boccanfuso III, Zhanna Boccanfuso, Giuseppe A. Boccanfuso IV, Victoria I. Boccanfuso, and Valerie I. Boccanfuso; his sister Sophia Freitag; nieces Mary, Anna, Angel, Ann Marie, Jo-Anne, Roselyn, Annie, Pamela Jo, Anna Maria, and their spouses; nephews Giuseppe D. and Crescienzo J., Billy and Joseph Oboy, Vincent and Joseph DiMeglio, and many grandnieces and grandnephews. He was predeceased by his parents, brothers Giuseppe Jr. and Crescienzo, and sisters Carmela B. Oboy and Mary DiMeglio.
Visitation will be held this Friday (March 20, 4-8 p.m. Harding Funeral Home). Funeral services will take place Saturday (March 21, 9 a.m., Assumption Church), followed by interment at Assumption Cemetery on Greens Farms Road.
Janet Francis Filling — a longtime director of the American Red Cross Westport chapter, who went on to hold important positions at the state and national levels — died peacefully at her home on February 12. She was 91.
A New York native who cherished her Flag Day birthday, Janet graduated from Trinity College in Washington, DC.
She began her advertising career during Madison Avenue’s heyday. She married Jim Filling in 1963, and had a son, Greg. The family moved to Westport, which became Janet’s home for nearly 40 years.
Janet Filling
She built a wide circle of friends and professional relationships, through her work in education, publishing and advertising at organizations throughout Fairfield County, and her membership in the Weston Field Club.
Janet found her true calling when she joined the Westport-Weston Chapter of the American Red Cross, eventually serving as its executive director. She combined a deep commitment to community service with a great ability to bring people together through warmth, loyalty and positive energy.
She was a tireless advocate for the Westport-Weston community and took great pride in supporting its residents and institutions.
Janet was a devoted caregiver to Jim during his struggle with Parkinson’s disease, before his death in 1996.
She continued her Red Cross leadership for another decade, becoming involved at the state and national levels and participating in service trips to China and Honduras.
After retiring Janet returned to Manhattan for 7 years, embracing the city’s many offerings and remaining a constant, loving presence in her grandchildren’s early lives.
Janet moved back to Westport in 2013, and into memory care 10 years later. She remained deeply connected to and engaged, attending social, cultural and family events. She made frequent visits to friends in New York, Cape Cod and Italy, and continued to enjoy travel with her family throughout Europe, Central America and the Caribbean.
Despite the challenges of dementia in her final years, Janet maintained a spirit of gratitude and joy.
She is survived by her son Greg (Kristin), grandchildren Jessie and Ryan, sister Charlotte Lent, and niece Diane Lent-Tucker. In addition to her husband, she was predeceased by her sisters Barbara and Muriel Francis.
The undefeated Staples boys basketball team was tested by Ridgefield last night.
But the #1-seeded Wreckers — talented, tough, defensive-minded and driven — pulled away late. Their 62-48 win over #3 Ridgefield at Fairfield University earned them their second straight FCIAC (league) championship.
It cements their spot in the school’s storied sports history. Before last year, Staples’ previous FCIAC title was in 1963.
Sam Clachko — the senior and one of the Wreckers’ best basketball players ever — was named Most Valuable Player. It was a fitting FCIAC finish, after missing last year’s championship with a broken wrist.
Clachko finished with 13 points. Mason Tobias had 14, Austin Heyer 12, Matty Corrigan 11 and Dhilan Lowman 7.
The blue-and-whites — now 23-0 — head to the state tournament. They’ll chase their first title there since 1937.
The Westport Fire Department is filled with heroes.
But 5 are official “Hero to Heroes.”
They’re graduates of “Hero to Hero,” a non-profit that help highly qualified military members transition to first responder careers. It’s a win-win-win — for the servicemembers, their employers, and the entire community.
On March 28 (5:30 p.m., Saugatuck Rowing Club), a special event will raise awareness of “Hero to Hero” — and raise funds for an independent film, which will raise even more funds for the organization.
The “Blue Bunny” film project is led by Rita Marcocci, a Westport resident and award-winning producer.
It’s a moving story of sacrifice and friendship, weaving between Operation Iraqi Freedom, and the present-day bond between a former commander and his soldier.
The Westport Conservation Department, Shellfish Commission and Sustainable Westport are hosting a community conversation about PFAS — the synthetics known as “forever chemicals” — in Connecticut’s coastal waters, and their effect on pollution and climate change.
The free event is March 18 (7 p.m., Westport Library). Marine environmentalist Dick Harris will examine the persistence of PFAS chemicals in aquatic environments, their movement through waterways, and emerging challenges facing coastal communities.
The search is on for a new Westport Transit District co-director.
In the upcoming 4-year term, the Transit District co-director will be expected to:
Maintain safe and dependable daily operations
Strengthen financial management and long-term planning
Pursue state and federal funding opportunities
Enhance community engagement and rider experience
Advance sustainability and environmental initiatives
The Representative Town Meeting (RTM) will conduct a comprehensive process to identify qualified candidates. A background in strategic planning, budgeting and regulatory compliance is highly desirable. Eligible candidates must be registered voters in Westport.
Applications will be accepted through March. The 4-year term will begin in May.
Interested candidates for this volunteer position should email a resume and/or statement of interest, including contact information, to mlevy@westportct.gov. For more information about Westport Transit services, click here.
The Westport Swim Club does a great job preparing youngsters for the Staples High School swim team.
But the Wreckers also sponsor a dive team. To stock that pipeline, the WSC has created a new Westport Dive Club.
It’s the first — and only — springboard diving program in town.
Coach Grace Slama — who also serves as Staples’ boys and girls dive coach — is a former Taiwanese national diver, and NCAA Division I All-America.
No experience is necessary. Diving is a great activity for any child who loves gymnastics, parkour, trampolining, skateboarding, snowboarding — or any other sport!
Meanwhile, Westport Swim Club continues to grow. Over 76 boys and girls are on the roster.
They now call themselves the WSC Whale Sharks. Here’s the great back story:
Staples co-captain Charlotte Roberts began with WSC. At a recent team event, the coaches held a backstroke rock-painting contest.
Charlotte’s whale shark design won. WSC has adopted it as their new identity. It symbolizes a swimmer’s journey from youth program to high school leadership.
Registration for the Westport Swim Club and Westport Dive Club opens March 11, on the Parks & Recreation Department website.
But here’s a screenshot of a harrowing one, sent by Susan Garment.
Huge sheets of ice are falling from a Morningside Drive roof. Just moments earlier, a woman — shown walking gingerly on her driveway — walked underneath that roof.
Saugatuck Congregational Church’s Sunday Afternoon Concert Series continues this weekend (March 8, 3 p.m.). Pianist/composer Dr. Hayk Arsenyan will perform Chopin’s “24 Preludes,” and selections from Rachmaninoff’s “Op. 32 Preludes.”
Westport Police made 2 custodial arrests between February 25 and March 3.
A 50-year-old Pleasantville, New York woman was charged with 2 counts of assault of an elderly person, 2 counts of 2nd degree assault, failure to appear and failure to comply with fingerprinting requirements, following an investigation into a July incident in a Westport home.
Police and Emergency Medical Services found 3 patients experiencing the same symptoms. They were transported to a hospital, and all recovered. A relative was found to be linked to prescription medication, which was present in a communal water container.
The woman was held on a $1.01 million bond.
A 21-year-old Westport man was charged with assault of a pregnant woman, criminal attempt at strangulation, threatening and disorderly conduct, following a domestic argument that turned physical. He was released on a $100,000 bond.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Texting while driving: 12 citations
Traveling unreasonably fast: 6
Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 4
Failure to obey traffic control signals: 4
Speeding: 3
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 3
Unsafe passing: 2
Failure to renew registration: 2
Passing a standing school bus: 1
Failure to remove snow/ice: 1
Distracted driving: 1
Articles obstructing view: 1
Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 1
It’s illegal to drive with an obstructed view — front or rear.
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Longtime Westporter, noted writer and civic volunteer Gloria Stashower died peacefully on Monday, surrounded by her family. She was 96.
She graduated from Case Western Reserve University in 1950, the year she married Mike Stashower, her husband of 72 years.
While raising 3 children she earned a master’s degree in English from Hunter College, pursued various civic endeavors and began work as a freelance writer.
The Stashowers settled in Westport in 1970. Gloria embarked on a career in corporate communications, working for CIT Financial Corporation and IBM.
After retirement she continued to take freelance assignments, and immersed herself in community activities. They ranged from the League of Women Voters and Democratic Town Committee to the boards of the Westport Arts Center, Senior Center, Westport Library and Y’s Women (serving as president of the last 2).
She loved books, theater, movies, politics and travel.
Gloria was predeceased by her husband. She is survived by her children, Susan (Paul), Debby (Michael) and Jon (Allison); grandsons Jordan, Scott and Matthew, and great-granddaughter Greer.
A private graveside service will be held, followed by shiva for family and friends at Gloria’s home on Friday (March 6, 2 to 6 p.m.). In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her name to the Westport Library.
Gloria Stashower
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Lynn Flint offers today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo — and a back story.
(Photo/Lynn Flint)
This swan plopped itself down on Canal Street, in Saugatuck Shores. Lynn blocked the road, until Animal Control arrived.
Lynn’s neighbor Glenn Ferrari got there first. He got out of the car, and said that the swan always sleeps in the road.
Glenn clapped his hands, and said “Get out of here!”
The swan stood up, walked down to the edge of the water, jumped in and swam away.
Animal Control came a few minutes later. They thanked Lynn for helping out.
And said they’d just responded to a similar call near the Library: another swan, not budging, in the middle of the road.
And finally … on this day in 1963, country music stars Patsy Cline, Hawkshaw Hawkins, Cowboy Copas and their pilot were killed in a plane crash in Tennessee.
(Another day, another “06880” Roundup chock full o’ stuff. If you appreciate this feature — or anything else we offer — please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
The Westport Library is closed today (Tuesday), due to potentially icy conditions.All programming is canceled for the day.
Also closed: the Westport Senior Center.
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It’s official: March is Sandwich Month in Westport.
1st Selectman Kevin Christie made the proclamation yesterday, at Old Mill Grocery & Deli. He kicked off the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce’s 9th annual contest — this one focused on (duh) sandwiches.
He was joined by 2nd Selectwoman Amy Wistreich, plus Chamber members, attorneys with sponsor Bercham Moses, and representatives of the owner of the OMG property, the Soundview Empowerment Alliance.
The contest runs throughout March. Over 20 restaurants, delis and markets will compete in 10 categories.
Judging is done by residents, online. Each voter is also entered into a drawing to win a free sandwich, from one of the 10 winners.
The 21 competitors are: A & S Fine Foods, Calise’s, Clubhouse, Dunkin, Emmy Squared, Garelick & Herbs, Gold’s, Kabab & Hummus House, Kawa Ni, Lyfe Café, Match Burger Lobster, Nomade, Old Mill Grocery, Organic Market, Outpost Pizza, Pizza Lyfe, Rizzuto’s Lobster Shack, Romanacci, Saugatuck Provisions, Saugatuck Rive Café, The Granola Bar and Zucca Gastrobar.
The 10 categories are: Best Chicken Sandwich, Best Steak Sandwich, Best Vegetarian Sandwich, Best Combo Sandwich, Best Club, Best NY Deli, Best Pressed Sandwich, Best Breakfast Sandwich, Best Wrap Sandwich, and Best Fish/Seafood Sandwich. Each restaurant, deli or market may enter up to 4 categories, but can only win 2 at most.
From now through March 31, everyone is invited to visit the venues, enjoy the offerings, and vote here.
1st Selectman Kevin Christie enjoys a sandwich at Old Mill Grocery & Deli. He looks forward to chowing down at the competition too.
There are plenty of grandparents — with grandchildren — in Westport.
Soon, they’ll have a chance to play together — without screens — thanks to the Y’s Men of Westport & Weston.
The pilot program, called Grand Play Day, brings together grandparents and their grandkids (ages 5-12). Using simple tools (question cards, paper-and-pencil table games and other easy activities), they’ll laugh and share stories.
Grand Play Day is built on “Connections Thru Play,” created by Playocracy founder Lynn Campanella in partnership with the National Institute for Play — where Y’s Man Joe Miller, serves as a volunteer executive.
The Y’s Men pilot is planned for an afternoon on the weekend of April 24–25, coinciding with Global Intergenerational Week. It will be facilitated by Campanella and Miller, include academic input from professors of Childhood Development and Aging, and serve as a potential model for other community groups.
Dhilan Patel is the Westport Book Shop’s guest exhibitor for the month of March. He’s exhibiting archival prints of his paintings and drawings. All work is available for purchase.
One of the youngest featured artists ever at the Jesup Road store, Dhilan is currently a Staples High School senior. he began painting in 1st grade.
He says that art teaches important qualities. “Painting, for example, has taught me the importance of forward planning and patience (literally waiting for layers to dry).
“Also, when people see your work they see the end result, but not the uncertainty and mistakes along the way, which art also teaches you to deal with. My first true art instructor, Mr. Jenya, always emphasized that not every stroke has to be perfect and not every action has to have the desired outcome. He encouraged me to work with what’s there and move forward. In hindsight he was instilling qualities such as humility, trust in the process, and openness to possibility.”
In addition to oil painting, Dhilan has explored calligraphy and sumi-e (traditional Japanese ink painting). His work been selected for a national anthology published by CelebratingArt.com, and he has won awards at the Ridgewood Art Institute’s Young People’s Exhibit.
Speaking of Staples, and the arts: Congratulations to Demeil Betfarhad, Josie Caricato and Lyla McEntee!
The Staples High School students performed last weekend with the American Choral Directors Association Eastern Region Honor Choirs. Selection for the ensembles is one of the highest honors for choral singers in the region, following a rigorous audition process in 11 states.
The 4-day event in Providence featured an intensive schedule of rehearsals and masterclasses, culminating in performances at legendary venues.
Lauren Pine, Staples’ choral director, attended the conference, and supported the young singers throughout the rehearsal and performance process.
From left: Josie Caricato, Lyla McEntee, Demeil Betfarhad.
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Speaking (still) of Staples: Congratulations to the boys soccer team.
The 2025 class “LL” (extra large schools) state champions were named Team of the Year for the entire state, by the Connecticut Soccer Coaches Association.
The award was announced on Sunday, at the All-State banquet at the Aqua Turf Club. Individual honors were also presented to Josh Whitaker (All-New England), Gabe Duque (All-State) and Dylan Shackelford (Most Valuable Player, state final).
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And even more Staples news: The wrestling team placed 3rd overall — out of 121 teams — at this past weekend’s state open meet.
Four grapplers earned medals. sophomore Julian Rousseau placed 2nd, at 215 pounds, while 3 others finished 5th: junior Gavin Donaldson (120), and seniors Seamus Brannigan (126) and Damian Rousseau (190). Congrats to all!
From left: Gavin Donaldson, Seamus Brannigan, Julian Rousseau, Damian Rousseau.
Westport Pride invites all members of the LGBTQ+ community — and all allies — to the second Happy Hour of 2026.
It’s this Thursday (March 5, 6 p.m., The Boathouse at Saugatuck Rowing Club). The restaurant is providing light bites. Everyone there will provide the vibe.
And more: there’s a “Pride Night” cocktail party this Saturday (March 7, 7 p.m.) at the Westport Country Playhouse, before Isaac Mizrahi’s 8 p.m. show.
LGBTQ+ community members and friends with tickets to the performance are invited to the event, in the Lucille Lortel White Barn Center. Appetizers are catered by Nômade, and there is a limited open bar.
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This Thursday at “Jazz at the Post,” an ensemble of master improvisers performs every track from “The Soothsayer,” the visionary Wayne masterpiece.
Greg Wall, David DeJesus, Andy Gravish, Jen Allen, Boots Maleson and Steve Johns bring decades of experience and deep jazz insight to Shorter’s richly textured writing, honoring the album’s lyrical mysticism, harmonic daring, and rhythmic subtlety while infusing it with their own vibrant interplay.
Longtime Westport resident Lester Becker died passed peacefully at home on February 16. He was 96.
The Brooklyn native met his wife Mary at a resort hotel in the Catskills. They were married for nearly 73 years. In 1963 they moved to Westport, where they raised their Ann and Michael. In the early 2000’s they moved to California for 5 years to be near their grandson Ellis, while he was growing up.
After graduating from Columbia University, Lester worked for Dynamic Films in New York. He then formed his own company, Custom Films. A major client was ABC’s “Wide World of Sports.” Focusing on auto racing, he and his team filmed and edited numerous events, including at aytona, Darlington, Indianapolis and the Monaco Grand Prix.
After airing, he often re-edited the footage for companies like Goodyear Tire.
Lester loved to ski, sail, play tennis, take solo motorcycle trips, and travel the world with Mary. Until the very end of his life, he remained intellectually curious. He was an avid reader, stock market enthusiast, lifelong Democrat, and generous man.
He is survived by his daughter Ann Moore of New York City; son Michael (Christine Dunford) of Los Angeles; grandson Ellis Becker of Madison, Wisconsin, and beloved cat Archie. The family expresses nduring gratitude to his kind and wonderful caregiver, Keneilwe.
A celebration of Lester’s and Mary’s lives will be held at a date to be announced. Donations can be made in Lester’s honor to theWestport Library or the Pet Animal Welfare Society (Paws of Norwalk).
Lester Becker
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A waxing moon, perched atop a tall tree, is a perfect look for today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo feature.
And finally … in honor of Grand Play Day (story above):
(Hey grandma! And grandpa! And grandkids — and everyone else in between: If you enjoy these daily Roundups — or anything else on “06880” — please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
Jenna Herbst died early this morning, after a brief illness from a very aggressive abdominal cancer. She was 50 years old.
Westporters will recognize her smiling face from her life around town. She attended many Staples High School sports games and matches, Staples Players shows and community events, and enjoyed Friday evening dinners at the Little Barn with her companion Laura Blair. Jenna and Laura were a team for over 40 years.
Jenna had Lennox Gestalt Syndrome, a genetic condition. It resulted in a seizure disorder and intellectual disability.
Jenna Herbst
She attended Westport Public Schools. After graduating from Staples in 1996, Jenna attended the day program at Star Inc., and lived in her family home until she was 27.
At that time she moved to her own apartment in the Hidden Brook townhouse complex in Westport, near Stop & Shop. She was supported there for 20 years by wonderful caregivers, who helped her throughout the day.
Jenna attended the Star day program during that period as well.
In 2023 she joined 4 others in the Ryan House group home in Norwalk, administered by Star, where an incredibly caring staff supported her needs.
Jenna had a smile that lit up the room. She had a strong personality and was a great communicator, despite being non-verbal. She had an excellent sense of humor and particularly loved slapstick, often at the expense of her family, friends and caregivers.
Jenna loved music too, and growing up was drawn to the piano at home and school.
Her demeanor, spirit and resilience, along with the support of her parents and caregivers, enabled her to be a pioneer at a time when people with intellectual disabilities were just just beginning to be more integrated into mainstream society.
The main goal for Jenna was to be “on the go.” Her active participation in the community was important to her, and she was a visible, much-appreciated and included presence throughout Westport.
Through the efforts of her family, along with support from the Department of Developmental Services and Star Inc., she lived a full and happy life.
She is survived by her parents, Mickey and Candace Herbst of Westport; brothers David and Jon; sisters-in-law Joy and Jill; nephews Ari, Ben and Henry, and niece Sage, all of Fairfield.
A private graveside service will be held tomorrow (March 2). Shiva will be observed on Tuesday, March 3 (4 to 8 p.m., Birchwood Country Club).
Donations made be made in Jenna’s memory to Star Inc.
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