In the aftermath of the shooting of 11 Jewish Hanukkah celebrants at Bondi Beach in Australia, Chabad of Westport Rabbi Yehuda Kantor and his wife Dina say:
The news out of Sydney has us shocked to the core.
As you may know I was born in Sydney, in the Bondi region. I’m personally familiar with many of those who were injured, and the Chabad rabbi to boot. It’s truly shocking. A very dark day.
Yet whilst it’s a dark day — tonight we usher in a night of light. The Festival of Light.
At times, it’s difficult to reconcile the evil that exists in this world with the inherent good that underpins this world. The heaviness and despondency that accompanies evil acts shatters our sense of security and balance which leaves us reeling.
Ironically, yet not so ironic, the very message of Chanukah is the counterbalance — setting the record straight. Eight days that imparts and empowers the truth of life. Light prevails over darkness. Goodness trounces every element of darkness at the core.
Tonight we will gather to light the menorah. We must do it with even greater strength. We must do so with a sense of purpose and mission. We must recognize that evil has no place and the only way to confront it is with strength, joy and determination.
Effectively, we are the ambassadors of this message to the world, and Chanukah is the headquarters of this message. It’s therefore imperative to stand tall and proud, resolute and fearless with a message to the world — light and goodness will always prevail!!
If you’re available come out, join us tonight as we light a 6-foot ice menorah and celebrate, dance, cry and laugh (5:30 p.m. ice carving will take place; 6 p.m. will be the lighting).
But if you’re up to it, let’s go even one step further: join our car menorah parade (5 p.m. around Westport, with police accompaniment) — telling the message in a proud and loud manner.
Please let us know you’ll be joining — email mendel@chabadofwestport.com, or click here and scroll down.
Together we shall prevail, and we shall prosper!
“Light the World With Hope” (Diane Yormark’s handmade ceramic menorah).
Basso — the tapas-and-more restaurant that moved to Westport from Norwalk in the middle of the pandemic — is closing.
An email sent yesterday from the Jesup Road spot that replaced Matsu Sushi says: “After nearly 19 wonderful years of serving our community, it is with mixed emotions that we announce the closing of Basso on Thursday, December 18.
“This decision was not made lightly; we have truly cherished every moment shared with you, our loyal guests and friends.
“We want to express our deepest gratitude for your unwavering support, kindness, and the many memories we’ve created together. It has been an honor to be part of your lives—celebrating milestones, hosting your special occasions, and sharing countless meals and conversations.
“As we prepare to close this chapter, we warmly invite you to visit us one last time to reminisce and enjoy your favorite dishes. Thank you for being such an essential part of our story. You will always hold a special place in our hearts.”
I’ve long held a special place in my heart for Basso. The food has been delicious and creative; the hospitality is warm and genuine; the vibe has been great for the town.
Thank you, Renato, Ela, and all who made Basso a favorite destination.
Along with tapas, Basso featured pizzas, from its great wood-fired oven (rear).
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One (restaurant) door closes, and another opens: Westport will soon have another fast-casual, create-your-own-bowl-or-salad dining spot.
Naya arrives Wednesday (December 17), in the Gold’s half of Compo Shopping Center.
The offerings are similar to Sweetgreen, Just Salad, and the very similarly named Cava (click here for the menu). Naya, though, positions itself as “Middle Eastern.”
They’ve got more than a dozen locations in New York City and Long Island. This will be Naya’s second restaurant in Connecticut, after Darien — and its northernmost and easternmost site.
Sticking with today’s food theme, there’s news from Pop-Up Bagels.
Like Basso, they popped up in Westport during the pandemic. In just a few years, Adam Goldberg turned his COVID hobby into a full-blown, award-winning business.
Outlets sprouted in Fairfield, Greenwich and Newtown. Then came New York — a bold (and winning) move — followed by Massachusetts, North Carolina, Florida and California.
The latest Pop-up Bagels is in Portland, Maine. Chip Stephens — a 1973 Staples High School graduate and former Planning & Zoning commissioner, now chief enforcement officer for two Maine towns — spotted this on yesterday’s news:
They’re not stopping now. The next Pop-Up Bagels is planned for Wailea-Makena, Hawaii.
Which means they may need to rethink their motto: “Not famous, but known.”
From coast to coast — and beyond — everyone is learning about (and loving) Pop-Up Bagels.
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Also on the move — though this one is up, not out: a house on Danbury Avenue, near Soundview Drive.
(Photo/Matt Murray)
Like many in the oft-flooded neighborhood, it is being raised to become FEMA-compliant.
Which is a lot better than being razed, to become bigger, taller and broader.
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The first snowfall of the season was perfect: overnight, not overpowering, light and lovely.
Westport celebrated National Wreaths Across America Day yesterday.
VFW Post 399 quartermaster Phil Delgado, Post 399 Auxiliary vice commander Patty Kondub, Joan Polayes, and Scout Troops 39 and 139 honored veterans with a tribute at Assumption Church’s Greens Farms Cemetery.
Post 399 members and volunteers lay remembrance wreaths on over 400 graves. Each wreath symbolized the community’s gratitude, respect and commitment to never forget those who served.
Scouts participating in National Wreaths Across America day (from left): Blake Schuler Ashley Charise, Preston DeRosa, Austin Charise, Will Bernard, Will Manes, Sam Pollack and Alec Mraz. Not pictured: Jacob Luna and Ian Curran.
“A Sherlock Carol” — the family-friendly holiday show written and directed by Mark Shanahan, Westport Country Playhouse artistic director, opened last night for its third annual run there. Click here for tickets, and more information.
The cast of “A Sherlock Carol” takes their bows …
… and writer/director Mark Shanahan is thanked by audience members, after the show. (Photos/Dave Matlow)
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Hanukkah begins tonight, at sundown.
Steve Stein welcomed some early visitors yesterday:
More times than not, I’ve had good interactions with Optimum’s customer service.
Yesterday was one of those “not” times.
The (very) short version: I called the “retention” department to ask for a lower rate. I’ve been a customer since 1993 — I was one of the first dozen or so in Westport to sign up for a cable modem — and this is a ritual I now go through every few months.
The first question — after giving the same information twice, to a bot and a human — was “if we get disconnected, what’s the best callback number?”
(I’ve always found it odd that a company that provides phone service worries about disconnected calls, but whatever.)
I provided my cell number. She read it back to me. On we went.
She spent 15 minutes (supposedly) researching the best retention option. I’m sure she was juggling 3 or 4 other calls at the same time.
Then we got disconnected.
I expected a call back.
It never came.
I finally called again. This time, the customer service representative may have asked again for a callback number. I could not tell though, because whatever language he was speaking, it was not English.
Finally — a full 1 hour and 12 minutes after I began — I got a (middling) retention offer. I’m saving about $30 a month, and will have to go through the same dance again next year.
Was it worth it? I bill my writing clients $200 an hour, so 12 months to save $360 is a bit of a savings.
Weighing in the agita factor, though … probably not.
PS: If anyone at Cablevision is reading this and wants to contact me — well, someone there has my number.
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Years ago, the group below would spend weekday mornings teaching, writing lesson plans, meeting with students, and dealing with administrators and parents.
These days, they do none of that.
And every so often, these ROMEOs — Retired Old Men Eating Out, all of whom spend decades in the Westport schools — get together for breakfast at the Monroe Diner.
How many can you name? Answers below the photo.
From left: Jim Wheeler, Al Jolley, Jim Honeycutt, Bruce McFadden, Toby Watson, Steve Rexford, Bob Selverstone, Werner Liepolt, Ed Bludnicki, Pete Van Hagen, Stan Rhodes.
Yesterday’ Roundup story on the Eartha Kitt/”Santa Baby” composer connection left out one key detail: That it happened at WEST, the Post Road East store owned by the singer’s daughter, Kitt Shapiro.
Here it is again. Hopefully it makes more sense this time:
More than 70 years after its release, “Santa Baby” remains one of the most popular Christmas songs of all time.
Eartha Kitt sang it in 1953. She later moved to Weston, where she died of colon cancer on — coincidentally — Christmas Day, in 2008.
Her daughter Kitt Shapiro now owns WEST, a very popular women’s shop, on Post Road East.
An older woman came into the store on Thursday. Her name was Joan Javits — and she co-wrote “Santa Baby,” all those years ago. (She’s 97 years old — though she sure doesn’t look it!)
Kitt Shapiro and Joan Javits, at WEST.
It may not be the Christmas miracle of 2,000 years ago.
But it’s still pretty amazing.
PS: Among the lyrics Eartha Kitt sang were:
Come and trim my Christmas tree
With some decorations bought at Tiffany’s.
I wonder if after leaving WEST, Joan Javits crossed the street and walked a few yards west.
To buy some decorations at — you know the rest.
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Nancy Vener was up early yesterday. She photographed the fiery sunrise over Burritt Cove, for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature:
And finally … to all the customer service agents at Optimum (story above):
(Your favorite restaurant may be closing. Your internet service provider may drop your call. But “06880” will always be here for you — so long as you click here to support our work. Thanks!)
Posted onDecember 1, 2025|Comments Off on Roundup: Holiday Stroll, Winter Concert, Classic Rock …
Several more favorites have joined the “06880”/Westport Downtown Association Holiday Stroll. The 5th annual event is less than a week away: this Saturday (December 6, 4 to 7 p.m.).
Joining the more than 50 merchants and vendors offering giveaways, promotions and more: Joe’s Pizza, SWTHZ, Lululemon and Massi Co. Scroll down for the full list.
The Holiday Stroll also features plenty of family fun: Orphenians caroling, photos with Santa Claus (and a piglet), face painting, and much more. (Plus the Westport Police “Toys for Tots” drive: There’s a collection box for new toys at the corner of Main and Elm Streets).
Here’s the full list of retailers and restaurants:
American Colors by Henry Lehr: 20% off Hampton Wash and American Colors clothing
Bartaco:Hot chocolate table
Bella Bridesmaids: $25 off per dress
Bloom Salon:Holiday treats, and discounted hair tinsel
Bridgewater Chocolate:Raffle for $50 gift card, with purchase
Brooks Brothers: 30% off nearly everything
Candle Caboodle: TBD
Chait Gallery/Photography Studio: 20% off all artwork, portraits in studio; $200 for 1-hour session, includes 8×10 print
Chocolatieree: Blissfully toasted & gooey S’morestick with every purchase (minimum $20)
Clarendon Fine Art: Holiday cheer; live music by Warren Bloom
Cold Fusion: Free wrapped chocolates
Core Burn Pilates:Discounted group class and private sessions (booked on day of Stroll)
Courtgirl:15-30% off storewide
Earthplace: 10% off Winter Solstice Campfire on December 21 (register here on Saturday)
Eleish Van Breems:Raffles; cider in courtyard
Everything But Water: Fit sessions; $25 off $150+ with Beach Club signup
Faherty: Refreshments and cool vibes
Fred: Gift with purchase
Gabriele’s: Buy $500 worth of gift cards; get $100 extra
It’s called “On This Silent Night.” It features Camille Saint-Saëns’ “Christmas Oratorio” and other music of the season, with harp and strings. Plus carols sung with the audience.
But this Friday’s concert (December 5, 7:30 p.m., Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport) also includes Chanukah songs, and works celebrating winter.
Tickets are $25 in advance, $30 at the door (students and children free). Click here to purchase.
Speaking of holiday music: Longtime Westporter Alex Anvari was on the Big Island of Hawaii yesterday.
He enjoyed the Waimea Community Chorus’ “Celebrate in Song” concert.
He especially enjoyed hearing their second number: “Hanukkah,” an original 3-part composition by Suzanne Sherman Propp.
Yes — the same Suzanne Sherman Propp who has spent over 20 years as a beloved music teacher at Greens Farms Elementary School.
And who — while growing up in Westport — sang the “Hallelujah Chorus” as the rousing finale as a choir member at Staples High School’s Candlelight Concerts, back in the 1980s.
Coincidentally, Handel’s “Hallelujah Chorus” was also performed yesterday in Waimea. It too closed out the program.
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For music of a different kind, check out Westporter Gary Shure’s classic rock band Ten$Grand.
They’re playing on December 13 at Odeen’s Restaurant in Norwalk (7 p.m.; $5 cover; reservations recommended 203-438-1741; info@odeens.com).
On January 10, they’ll be at VFW Post 399 (7 p.m.; free, with complimentary hors d’oeuvres and cake; cash bar).
(Happy December! A great month … and as the year ends, the perfect time to make a tax-deductible gift to “06880,” to support our 24/7/365 work. Just click here — and thank you!)
Comments Off on Roundup: Holiday Stroll, Winter Concert, Classic Rock …
Switching celebrations: The United Methodist Church of Westport & Weston’s holiday gift market is especially sweet this year.
The December 6 event (10 a.m. to 3 p.m.) includes a “Cookie Walk.” Members will bake — and sell — their delicious goods. Perfect for additional gifts — or just to munch on as you shop for others.
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Meanwhile, up in Weston Jolantha — everyone’s favorite pig — hopes everyone enjoys their turkeys tomorrow.
But not ham.
(Photo/Hans Wilhelm)
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December 1 is the deadline to order wreaths for Westport veterans.
On December 16 — Wreaths Across America Day — volunteers will decorate the graves of veterans in Assumption Church’s Greens Farms Road cemetery.
December 1 is the deadline to order wreaths for our Westport veterans as part of Wreaths Across America!
The Historic District Commission meets December 9 (7 p.m., Zoom).
Among the agenda items: consideration of opposition of demolition permits for these properties, and requiring the full statutory 180-day delay. All are at least 50 years old.
1st Selectman Kevin Christie responded, “Water is a critical public asset, and maintaining local accountability, transparency, and stability in water management remains a top priority for our community. If the $2.4 billion sale had been approved, PURA would have lost its authority to regulate water rates.
The proposed structure would also have replaced traditional property taxes with payments-in-lieu-of-taxes and granted the Regional Water Authority a controlling majority of seats on the Aquarion Water Authority board of directors.
“Throughout the review process, Westport emphasized the importance of ensuring that any ownership or structural changes to Aquarion would safeguard service reliability, infrastructure investment, rate stability, and long-term watershed protection.”
“We appreciate PURA’s thorough evaluation of the proposed transaction and its commitment to ensuring that decisions about Westport’s water utilities serve the public interest.
“As a result of this favorable ruling, residents and ratepayers can be assured that the Town of Westport will continue to work collaboratively with Aquarion and state regulators to ensure that residents receive high-quality, dependable water service.”
Speaking of water: Longshore Sailing School is one of 12 organizations in the US selected for National Association of State Boating Law Administrators’ honors.
It recognizes “exceptional commitment to promoting paddling safety through education, digital content and responsible on-water practices. Longshore’s outreach encourages safe behaviors such as wearing life jackets, understanding weather conditions, and avoiding high-risk activities on the water.”
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Longtime Westport resident and active community volunteer Richard Seclow died Monday at his Easton home. The former Planning & Zoning Commission member and Westport Library board president was 95.
The Bayonne, New Jersey native graduated from Rutgers University in 1951, where he was part of the Cap & Skull Senior Honor Society. He remained an active alumnus over th eyears.
He worked in the advertising industry as David Ogilvy’s chief of staff, before becoming executive vice president of Carl Ally.
As president of Geer DuBois, he relocated the offices from Madison Avenue to downtown. Many ad agencies followed.
Dick started one of the initial Bonanza Steakhouses in Westport. It later became a national franchise. He retired from advertising in 1986, and opened another Westport restaurant: Time to Eat.
Dick enjoyed fishing, travel, tennis, squash and volunteer work in Westport and nearby communities.
He served on the Westport Planning & Zoning Commission, the Westport Library as president, and the boards of Hall-Brooke Hospital and The Jewish Home (now named Mozaic Senior Services).
He was a member of Y’s Men, taught English as a second language, and became a mentor for immigrants in Bridgeport.
He is survived by Rita, his wife of 71 years, children Theresa (David) and Tom (Ann ), and grandchildren Jonathan (Isabella), Alexandra, Calvin and Julian.
An open house to celebrate Dick’s life is set for Saturday (November 29, 1 to 5 p.m., at their home in Easton). Gifts may be made in his name to Mozaic Services or the Easton EMS.
Dick Seclow
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We’ve posted a number of beautiful autumn leaves photos, in our “Westport … Naturally” series.
And finally … a lovely photo needs an equally evocative song:
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You know all those daffodils that make Westport look so beautiful every spring?
They didn’t just fall from the sky.
They weren’t even planted randomly.
They’re part of a years-long project. Debra Kandrak — the energetic visionary behind it — says: “Once again fall is upon us. Before the weather gets too cold, we need to plant daffodils all around town for our traditional community-wide event called ‘Paint the Town Yellow!’
“I started this years ago to remember loved ones who have passed on, including our fur babies.
“It has been well received over the years. Residents, businesses and local community groups participate, and for that I say thank you. So let’s keep the tradition going and plant more!”
Daffodils have already been planted in many areas, like traffic islands, the Minute Man Monument, Compo Beach, and (of course) Willowbrook Cemetery.
More can be planted just about anywhere. A great place is the edge of your property, by a road,
This is a great time of year. And there’s only a few months until spring.
Daffodils on Riverside Avenue. (Photo/Debra Kandrak)
Speaking of how good Westport looks: The outdoor sculptures just keep coming.
“Queen of Hearts” — the newest addition — will be dedicated on Wednesday (3 p.m.), at the Senior Center.
Artist Carole Eisner will share the inspiration behind her work — one of hundreds of sculptures and paintings showcased in parks, museums and gardens throughout the Northeast.
Suzanne Sheridan will sing a song she wrote specially for the occasion.
The Westport Arts Advisory Committee is — as always — behind the outdoor art project, which is sponsored by the Friends of the Center for Senior Activities.
“Queen of Hearts” by Carole Eisner, at the Senior Center.
Quietly but consistently, the Westport Library’s Common Ground Initiative has been offering programs that enhance positive, respectful and constructive conversations on challenging and/or controversial issues.
Up next this Thursday: a “Community Conversation on Understanding Jewish Identity, Antisemitism, and Allyship” (November 13, 7 to 8:30 p.m.).
Project Shema — a training and support organization — will lead a presentation and Q-and-A that provides historical and modern realities of antisemitism, emphasizing its evolving expression in contemporary culture and politics.
The evening will provide “an accessible but powerful introduction to the historical and modern realities of antisemitism, with an emphasis on its evolving expression in contemporary culture and politics. By creating space for collective reflection and inquiry, the evening aims to foster a shared vocabulary and a common starting point for deeper community dialogue.”
The goal is to promote a better understanding of the effects and impacts of antisemitism, to strengthen allyship for and within the Jewish community, to gain a greater appreciation of different lived experiences, and to increase awareness, promote empathy, and encourage dialogue.
“Allyship” is a key element of the Common Ground event. Everyone is welcome, including Westport residents of all faiths, families, clergy members, and anyone who wants to learn more about antisemitism in an open and welcoming environment.
SNAP benefit reductions during the government shutdown have caused long lines at local food pantries.
Quickly, AWARE (Assisting Women through Action, Resources & Education) high school students took action.
AWARE clubs in Fairfield County — including Staples and Weston — organized a food drive.
They collected kid-friendly snacks, pasta, peanut butter and other pantry staples. Volunteers then gathered for a joint packing event to assemble bags for families served by Homes with Hope.
The Staples High School swim and dive team sophomore made waves last week, breaking a 26-year-old diving record at the CIAC Class “LL” (extra large schools) state championship.
She scored 456.50 points on the 1-meter, 11-dive event, surpassing the previous record of 452.75 set in 1999 by Corey Pagnotta. Her performance earned All-LL State and All-America honors.
Teammates Mikaela Snow and Avery Nissenson also qualified for the LL meet.
Mogelof’s record came under new Staples swim and dive coach Grace Slama. Next up for her: This week’s state open championship.
To learn more about Staples’ girls (fall) and boys (winter) swim and dive teams, email head coach Mike Anderson: swimmike@usa.net.
Congratulations too to Staples cross country runner Sarah Bogdan. The Wreckers’ first runner since 2016 to qualify for the New England Championship, she ran a great race and finished 6th, at Vermont’s Thetford Academy. Click here, then scroll down for a video.
Sarah Bogdan, at the New England Championships. (Photo courtesy of MySportsResults.com)
Speaking still of sports: It’s a big week for 2 Staples teams.
Both field hockey and boys soccer compete in the state tournament semifinals tomorrow.
Coach Ian Tapsall’s field hockey girls — seeded #1 in the state “L” tourney — take on #4 Fairfield Ludlowe Tuesday, 4 p.m. at Brien McMahon High School.
Coach Liam Witham’s soccer boys — #4 in the “LL” competition — meet #9 Hall-West Hartford at Newtown on Tuesday at 7 p.m.
This afternoon at the Fairfield Library (Monday, 4 p.m.), Ukraine Aid International founders and team members offer “Stories of Connection: Connecticut the Donetsk Region, Building Bridges of Hope Together.”
Our state, and the Donetsk oblast in Ukraine, have built powerful partnerships. Behind it is UAI — created by Westporters Brian and Marshall Mayer, backed by many local residents.
Despite the existence of a fence, it can be confusing to know where dogs are allowed on leash, or off leash, at Compo Beach — and where they are not allowed at all.
Fortunately, the Parks & Recreation Department has posted a clear, aerial map showing the 3 different areas:
Unfortunately, it hangs too high for dogs to see it.
But at least they can read the sign.
(Photos/DinkinESH Fotografix)
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Speaking of Compo: A few yards away, this was the scene on a basketball court:
(Photo/Tammy Barry)
Some people must have time on their hands.
Way too much time.
As anyone who has ever tried to move one of those benches knows: They’re heavy!
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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” image shows a Cooper’s hawk, on Diane Lowman’s deck.
She did not have to snap her photo quickly. The bird sat on the railing — posing — for nearly 30 minutes. “What a treat!” Diane says.
And finally … when you saw the name of the sculpture being dedicated at the Senior Center this week (item near the top of this Roundup), you had to know this song was coming:
(Arts, sports, the beach … it’s your usual mix of Westport stories, in the Roundup. If you enjoy this daily feature — and who doesn’t? — please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
The Pulitzer Prize- and MacArthur “genius grant”-winning photojournalist and author — and 1991 Staples High School graduate — joins those illustrious previous winners, as the 2025 recipient of the International Rescue Committee’s Freedom Award.
It is given annually to “individuals and organizations who have made outstanding contributions in support of the global refugee crisis, and saving and improving the lives of the most vulnerable populations around the world.”
On assignment for The New York Times, National Geographic and other publications, Addario has documented conflicts and humanitarian crises across Afghanistan, Iraq, Libya, Lebanon, Darfur, South Sudan, Somalia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Yemen, Syria, and Ukraine.
Her powerful images have brought global attention to the experiences of civilians — especially women and girls — caught in crossfires.
“Love + War,” a documentary on her career, recently premiered at the Toronto Film Festival.
Lynsey Addario captured this dramatic shot, of desperate Libyan refugees in a boat off the coast of Italy. (Photo/Lynsey Addario)
Since its opening a year ago, Big Y has done much to be part of the community.
On Tuesday — Veterans Day — they’ll do more. All military veterans, and current servicemembers, will get get 10% off their order. Plus a free reusable bag.
Just use your Big Y membership, and tell the cashier you’re eligible.
From Arnie’s Place to Akihabara: Westport native Benjamin Boas grew up feeding quarters into arcade machines, then petitioned his school for Japanese classes to read the Japanese comics behind the games.
The Brown University graduate moved to Japan nearly 20 years ago, spent time writing the descriptions for Japanese anime on Netflix, and published a comic about learning Japanese from comics.
He’s back in Fairfield County on November 23 (1:15 p.m., Rowayton Community Center). Boas will keynote the Japan Society of Fairfield County’s annual meeting, telling the full‑circle story that started in a Westport arcade. Click here for more information.
Benjamin Boas’ book.
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To all moms of 6th grade girls: the Westport chapter of the National Charity League is looking for new members.
The NCL fosters mother-daughter relationships through a 6 year program of community service, leadership development and cultural experiences.
NCL Westport includes over 275 women and daughters in grades 7-12, and provides volunteer support to more than 30 local non-profits. Click here for details, or email nclwmembership@gmail.com.
And finally … Al Hirt, the great trumpeter, was born on this date in 1922. He died in 1999, age 76.
(We don’t want to blow our own horn, but “06880” is your hyper-local source for news, features, events, history, photos, and so much more. If you like our work, please click here to support it. Thanks!)
The Westport Fire Department has again partnered with Bridgeport Rescue Mission, for the 3rd annual Share the Warmth Coat Drive.
Fire Chief Nick Marsan says, “A coat may seem simple. But it’s essential for many children and adults in nearby communities.”
Donations of clean new or gently used winter coats, hats, mittens, gloves and snow suits can be donated through November 30 at:
Westport Fire Headquarters
Westport Senior Center
Westport Town Hall
Coleytown Elementary School
Long Lots Elementary School
Kings Highway Elementary School.
Lieutenant Rob Lenois, president of the Westport Uniformed Firefighters Charitable Foundation, notes, “This drive allows us to give back and ease the burdens on local families. Last year, thanks to the generosity of this community, we distributed over 1,400 coats.”
Fire Department coat drive, 2023.
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Speaking of helping out: This Monday (November 10) is Shake Shack’s “Donation Day.”
From 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., mention “Donation Day” at the register, or use the promo code “Donate” on the Shack app, web or checkout kiosk. The restaurant will donate 25% of your total meal purchase to the VFW.
Bring your appetite!
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Got brown water? Low water pressure?
Don’t panic. Aquarion is conducting routine water main flushing today and tomorrow (Thursday and Friday), between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. The affected area includes Imperial Avenue, Bridge Street, and Compo Road South.
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On the agenda for the November 19 Conservation Commission meeting (7 p.m.; Town Hall auditorium; livestreamed on www.westportct.gov and Optimum Channel 79): a public hearing on an application for 1 Glendinning Place (off Weston Road, adjacent to the former Bridgewater headquarters).
The application is to construct 15 housing units in 10 buildings, with onsite septic systems and stormwater management systems. The existing office and surface parking will remain. Click here to view the application materials.
Plans for 1 Glendinning Place.
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Another town meeting: the Blight Prevention Board. The November 13 (5 p.m., Zoom) session will include old business, involving these properties:
6 Clifford Lane
38 Old Hill Road
7 Bedford Drive
20 Center Street
36 Hiawatha Lane.
One new property will be discussed: 15 Gorham Avenue.
Chabad of Westport’s next Candid Conversations Series event is compelling.
Former hostages Maya and Itay Regev, and their father Ilan Regev, will share their story of survival, courage and resilience on November 19 (7:30 p.m.). Attendees will get a firsthand account of their captivity and journey home.
Saugatuck Congregational Church’s free concert series continues this Sunday (November 9, 3 p.m.), with works by Clara Schumann and Johannes Brahms, performed by the Solstice Piano Trio.
The public is invited.
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Deadheads: Listen up!
Saturday’s “Supper & Soul” concert features the Spadtastics.
“Connecticut’s premier tribute act” comes to the Westport Library November 8 (7 p.m.). They’ll play 2 full sets, recreating a show from the 1970s.
The Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce’s Supper & Soul series usually incudes a pre-show dinner, and post-concert drinks.
Due to the length of this event, there is no dinner. But attendees can enjoy a “Dead-inspired” drink before or after the music, at Basso, Massi Co, Spotted Horse or Walrus Alley.
Westport Police made 3 custodial arrests between October 29 and November 4.
A 37-year-old Bronx man was charged with identity theft (21 counts), forgery, illegal possession of a personal identification information access device, criminal attempt to commit larceny, and failure to appear, following an investigation into a September 2024 report of someone attempting to cash a fraudulent check at TD Bank. It was determined that he was involved in additional incidents of bank/check fraud, using personal information of victims. He was held on $130,000 bond.
A 64-year-old Hamden man was charged with criminal trespass and interfering with an officer, after a trespassing complaint. A Stop & Shop manager recognized the man as someone who had been formally warned not to return to the store. During the investigation, he provided officers with an incorrect name and date of birth. A computer check showed him to the subject of an active arrest warrant, and 3 other failure to appear warrants.
A 31-year-old Bridgeport man was charged with violation of probation, and held on $100,000 bond.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Driving while texting: 4 citations
Failure to obey stop sign: 3
Traveling unreasonably fast: 2
Disorderly conduct: 2
Permitting a minor to possess alcohol: 1
Failure to halt alcohol possession by a minor: 1
Distracted driving: 1
Breach of peace: 1
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 1
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 1
Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
Improper use of markers: 1
Violation of license class: 1
Failure to notify DMV of address change: 1
Two adults were charged with alcohol violations involving teenagers.
(The election is over. Westport goes on. And “06880” will continue to cover every part of our ttown, 24/7/365 — just as we have since 2009. If you like our work, please click here to support us. Thanks!)
Last week, Access Health CT – the state’s health insurance marketplace – sent notices that many policyholders will see monthly health insurance premiums rise in January.
Congressman Jim Himes provides links to these resources:
Click here for the Access Health CT website general information page.
Click here to see which plans are available next year.
Click here to see if you qualify for low- or no-cost coverage.
Click here to find an insurance broker who can help.
Click here for more information on changes to federal health insurance policy.
Homes with Hope’s Community Kitchen is open daily for lunch (12 noon) and dinner (5 p.m.). It’s at the Gillespie Center on Jesup Road (behind Barnes & Noble). (Hat tip: Jeff Wieser)
It’s been a busy couple of months for the Westport League of Women Voters.
They’ve worked tirelessly to educate voters, and get them to the polls.
(Just tuning it? Still trying to make up your mind? Not sure where to vote? Click here to learn more.)
But even after the races are decided, the LWV will do more.
On November 12 (9:30 a.m., VFW), they host a coffee and “post-mortem/recap” of the election. Speakers include the registrars of voters.
Two days later (November 14, 2 p.m.), the LWV has reserved a block of tickets to see “Conscience at the Westport Community Theater. It’s the Connecticut premiere of the play about Margaret Chase Smith of Maine, the only Republican senator to oppose colleague Joseph McCarthy. Tickets ($20) are first come, first served. Email Barbra Utting: kubuguzu@gmail.com.
A reader writes: “I shopped at Stop & Shop for 58 years. It’s the best: extraordinary variety, excellent staff, nice customers.
“As I got older, I migrated to home delivery. I was an engineer for 51 years, and until last week the service and quality were at aerospace level. For the last 3 years, I’ve been awed by the precision and speed with which weekly orders were delivered to our doorstep.
“They were packed in a Norwalk facility, and delivered from there. Every driver was cooperative, helpful and well trained. They should be working for SpaceX.
“Two weeks ago, Stop & Shop emailed that they are migrating to a third party delivery service.
“Last night we received the first attempt. It was 3 hours later. Four items were missing out of 24, totaling $28 of the $86 order. They were delivered in soggy, torn paper bags.
“I called the home delivery number this morning at 9, and was 9th in line. I called back at 10, and was 23rd in line.
“I then contacted the Greens Farms manager. He apologized, offered a shopping certificate, and delivery of the missing items today. We’re grateful.
“Their new service may be at the low end of what could be an uncomfortable learning curve. It’s sad to see such a beautiful service vanish. For all our sakes, I wish Stop & Shop the best in fixing the problem.”
The Saugatuck Congregational Church — white, steepled, set far back on a massive lawn, a few steps from downtown — looks straight out of a Hallmark New England movie.
It was in those pews, in 1835, that a group of men hammered out the details that created the town of Westport from parts of Norwalk, Weston and Fairfield.
But it did not happen exactly there.
From its founding in 1822 through August 28, 1950, the 200-ton Saugatuck Church was located diagonally across the street, where the Shell station is now.
That year — in a day-long move so impressive it was documented by Life magazine — the church was rolled across State Street to its present site.
Yesterday — 75 years and 2 months after the move — Saugatuck Church celebrated that momentous occasion. The event included a (much smaller) re-enactment of the move, food trucks, a bounce house, lawn games, a screening of footage from the move, and a few words from Rev. Steven Savides.
Celebrating an anniversary, at the “new” Saugatuck Church location. (Photo/Haris Falk)
From looking back, to looking ahead: The Westport Library Store holiday shop opened yesterday.
And it’s bigger than ever. This year, the Writing Center on the main level has been transformed into the popular marketplace for gifts.
It’s filled with scarves, hates and gloves; jewelry; home
décor like bells, candles and chimes; lanterns and lights; journals, notebooks and notepads; puzzles and games; sketchbooks, coloring books, pens, markers, watercolors — and (of course) more.
All purchases are tax-free. Proceeds support Library services and programs.
The Westport Garden Club has beautified Westport for over 100 years. They do their work quietly. Many people have no idea they even exist.
But the Federated Garden Clubs of Connecticut does.
The other day, at a lunch attended by 320 gardeners from around the state, they earned an Award of Excellence in Flower Achievement, for their “Westport Town Treasures” show.
Singled out were president Nathalie Fonteyne, and show co-chairs Kelle Ruden and Kara McKenna Wong. Citations were presented to Joellen Bradford for the Best Education Division, Ann Lester (Best Design Division), Joanne Heller (Outstanding Staging), and Ellen Greenberg (for design of the commemorative program (with art by Kerstin Rao.)
The club also received The Mary Loncin Flower Show Award. and a check for $100 for the top evaluated Standard Flower Show in Connecticut.
Individual honors (not flower show-related) went to Susan Nettesheim, who redesigned and maintains the club’s website, and serves as official photographer; Dottie Fincher, a member since 1971, for her exceptional contributions to the annual plant sale over many years, and Katje Donovan, for over 20 years of service as treasurer.
The Westport Garden Club is now planning their annual wreath designs for town buildings, preparing for winter in their 7 public gardens, and developing the 2026 Youth Poetry Contest. For more information, including membership, click here.
Westport Garden Club members, at the awards ceremony.
A few years ago, Danya Herman met Dr. Tom Catena. He’s a missionary doctor, doing important humanitarian work in war-torn Sudan.
The other day, Danya hosted Dr. Tom in her Westport home. He was joined by Dr. Jon Fielder, another missionary doctor and co-founder of African Mission Healthcare,
“It was so inspiring to hear Dr. Tom’s story, the hardships he and the Mother of Mercy hospital face, the countless lives he’s saved and impacted, and to get to talk with someone living a true life of purpose,” Danya says.
“He and Dr. Fielder are heroes to my family. They represent how, through their faith and sense of purpose, they live out our Jewish values of pikuach nefesh (preservation of life), and tikkun olam (repairing the world).
Dr. Jon Fielder (left) and Dr. Tom Catena and guests, at the Herman home.
Today’s serene “Westport … Naturally” scene comes from behind the Levitt Pavilion. It’s a vantage point few people know about. It’s sure worth the short walk.
And finally … in honor of Splash Car Wash’s generous Veterans Day offer (story above):
(Another day, another Roundup filled with news and information you can use. If you appreciate this daily feature — or anything else on “06880” — please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
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