Category Archives: Sports

Roundup: Josh Suggs, Russell Greenberg, Gadi Slade, Tom Karrel …

Posted on July 30, 2026 | Leave a comment

The last time we mentioned Josh Suggs, the 2021 Staples High School graduate had just been featured in the Wall Street Journal.

Yesterday, the 23-year-old was seen by an even bigger audience: NBC’s “Today” show.

Brian Cheung interviewed him about Street Talk. That’s the company he formed, after dropping out of Syracuse University. It is “disrupting advertising,” Cheung said.

Josh’s route to social entrepreneurship started in Westport, he told “Today.” As a 14-year-old, he got free haircuts for social media posts.

When a Syracuse friend paid Josh $2,000 for 30 street interviews, a light bulb went off. Today, Street Talk earns 8 figures in revenue by conducting authentic, unscripted street interviews that companies large and small can use as brand ads.

“I bet on myself, and the future fo social media,” Josh said.

Click here for the full — and very engaging — interview.

RERUN: Last fall’s story was not the first to feature Josh Suggs. Click here to read this one, from 2016. It features Josh and his great Bedford Middle School friend, Jamie Mann. A fellow SHS grad, Jamie has also made a name for himself in New York: on Broadway.

Screenshot: Josh Suggs and Brian Cheung.

==================================================

Congratulations to Russell Greenberg and Gadi Slade!

The Chabad of Westport friends recently participated in the Maccabi Games in Israel (aka “the Jewish Olympics”). Over 5,000 athletes attended, including 900 from the US.

Greenberg swam in the Masters division, and captained his team. He captured gold in the 65-69 age group in the 100 meter freestyle, then added silver medals in the 50 free, 50 butterfly and 200 free. He was also part of 3 silver medal relays. Greenberg called the competition “the highlight of my swimming career.”

Slade’s story starts in 1932. A blonde, blue-eyed Jew from Frankfurt traveled to Tel Aviv where, by chance, the 1st Maccabi Games were being held. She met a doctor from Galilee. They exchanged phone numbers and addresses. But she returned to Germany and did not think about him.

Six months later, Hitler came to power. Nine months after that, the German woman and her parents fled to Haifa, where she knew just one person: the doctor from the Maccabi Games. They got together, fell in love,  and were married. Slade is their grandson.

He planned to gain citizenship in Ecuador, make the national basketball team, and play in the Atlanta Olympics — all to get into Harvard Business School.

When that failed, he tried out in 1997 (also unsuccessfully) for the inaugural Maccabi USA field hockey team. Finally, this year he make the Games for masters table tennis. He won a gold medal in the team competition.

94 years after his grandparents met, Gadi marched in the opening ceremony with his son Leo (who also participated in table tennis, for 16 and under).

“The medal was a nice surprise, but for me just being there and wearing the Team USA shirt was my definition of victory,” Slade says.

Gadi Slade (left) and Russell Greenberg, with Maccabi medals.

==================================================

Between email, texts and now AI, we’ve forgotten how to have conversations with actual human beings we don’t know.

Help is near.

Staples High School Class of 2012 graduate Tom Karrel has just published “The Lost Art of Random Conversations: How One Conversation with a Stranger Will Change the Way You Connect with Everyone.”

Drawing on over 10,000 hours of group facilitation experience across nearly 50 countries, Karrel offers practical tools and honest stories to help readers break through phone addiction, overcome social anxiety and loneliness, and create real world connections.

It’s available on Amazon, and by clicking here.

Tom Karrel

==============================================

Kawa Ni’s “Paint + Sip” events are a smash.

The next 2 are planned for August 5 and 19 (6:30 to 8 p.m.).

Artist Lauren Smith leads guests as they create, sip and enjoy lite bites, on the Bridge Square rooftop overlooking the Saugatuck River.

For $56 you get painting supplies, an 8″x10″ canvas, and Kawa Ni fare. Wine, sake and cocktails are available for purchase. Click here to register.

================================================

Lachat Town Farm offers 3 fall children’s programs:

  • Caregiver & Me
  • Pre-school drop-off
  • K-8 after-school.

Click here for details. Questions? Email childrensprograms@lachattownfarm.org.

==============================================

Every Thursday for several years, VFW Post 399 has hosted 2 jazz shows. They kick off at 7:30 and 8:45.

Now, every other Thursday, the Dave Kardas Band plays original jazz, blues and rock, right before (5:30 to 7:15 p.m.). Upcoming dates are tonight (July 31), August 13 and 27, and September 10.

The music is free. There’s happy hour food and drink prices too.

==================================================

Westport Police made 2 custodial arrests between July 22 and 28.

A 50-year-old Fairfield man was charged with evading responsibility, traveling too fast for conditions, failure to drive right and reckless endangerment, following 2 notifications on Sturges Highway from iPhone crash detection. Two calls were made, and the man denied being involved in an accident. However, a witness reported a damaged and disabled Tesla unoccupied in the middle of the road, and a man walking away. An investigation determined that the vehicle left the road twice, striking several large rocks. He was released on a $5,000 bond.

A 68-year-old Westport woman was charged with driving the wrong way on a 1-way street, interfering with an officer and failure to appear, following an investigation into an April incident on Franklin Street. The woman approached an officer driving the wrong way. After being signaled to stop, she rolled up her window and attempted to change direction multiple times. When she stopped she was argumentative with officers. She refused to exit the vehicle, and engaged in a physical struggle. She was released on $3,500 bonds.

Westport Police also issued these citations:

  • Texting while driving: 21 citations
  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 9
  • Failure to obey stop sign: 8
  • Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations 8
  • Failure to renew registration: 4
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 4
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 2
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 2
  • Failure to insure motor vehicle: 2
  • Distracted driving: 2
  • Following too closely: 2
  • Improper use of markers: 2
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 1
  • Speeding: 1
  • School zone violation: 1
  • Disorderly conduct: 1
  • Criminal mischief: 1

===============================================

A crepe myrtle tree makes its first-ever “Westport … Naturally” appearance today. This beauty is on Compo Road South.

(Photo/Topsy Siderowf)

==================================================

And finally … in honor of Tom Karrel, and his book on how to have a conversation (story above):

(Speaking of conversations: Let’s talk! If you appreciate even a small part of this hyper-local blog, please consider clicking here to support our work. We rely on you — our readers — so thank you!)

 

 

Leave a comment

Posted in Arts, Children, Entertainment, Media, Police, Restaurants, Sports

Tagged , , , , , ,

Roundup: Max Orland, Pan-Mass Challenge, Arnie’s Place …

Posted on July 29, 2026 | 3 comments

In 2010 — when “06880” was less than a year old — we published a story on Max Orland.

The Staples High School graduate had just started working for the Boston Red Sox, as an operations and equipment intern during spring training.

Max prepared well for that job. A 4-year student manager for the University of Delaware baseball team, and valued member of the athletic department, he’d overcome a substantial speech and language disability. The story celebrated his success.

That was just the start. On Monday, Delaware’s UDaily did their own story on Max. “Opening Doors Through Inclusion” covered his 16 years since graduation.

These days, Max works in golf operations at La Gorce Country Club in Miami Beach, and is a team attendant for the Miami Heat. Over the years he has worked for premier golf clubs, and held operational roles with the New York Mets, Philadelphia Phillies and U.S. Open. Soon, he’ll return to the tennis Open as a court attendant.

He speaks on disability issues at national conferences and industry events. And he volunteers with Special Olympics.

Oh yeah: UD’s former baseball team called Max “the best team manager we ever had.” The program’s Rookie of the Year Award in named in his honor.

Max says, “I am still grateful for my 4 years at Staples that launched me to greater heights. I always catch a Wreckers game or two when I’m back home.”

Click here for the full UDaily story.

Max Orland

==================================================

The Pan-Mass Challenge is a near-200-mile 2-day bike ride, from Worcester to Provincetown.

But despite its Massachusetts roots — and its fundraising efforts for Boston’s Dana-Farber Cancer Institute — the annual event has a strong Westport presence.

A number of residents have participated in the challenging-yet-satisfying ride. Among them: Adam Drake. (Click here for all previous “06880” stories.)

This weekend, the Representative Town Meeting (RTM) member participates in his 6th Pan-Mass Challenge.

“The Pan-Mass Challenge is an amazing reminder of what people can accomplish when they decide to do something difficult together,” Drake says. “It also reminds me for weeks afterward that no amount of training makes a bicycle seat comfortable.”

For Drake — who is part of local team Velominati — the ride is about supporting the patients, families, doctors and researchers confronting cancer every day.

Many riders participate in honor or memory of someone affected by cancer. More than 1,100 riders and volunteers this year are cancer survivors or current patients, .

“Nearly all of us have watched cancer affect someone we love,” he says. “The miles can be brutal, but they are nothing compared with what patients and their families endure. Riding, raising awareness and raising funds are simply small ways I can help.”

To donate via Adam’s page, click here. 

Adam Drake, at the Pan-Mass Challenge.

================================================

Tomorrow is the last date for boys and girls ages 5-18 to take images for the Young Shoots photo contest.

There are prizes in 3 age groups, and an exhibit and reception for all the young entrants.

The Farmers’ Market takes place at the Imperial Avenue parking lot (Thursday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.)

The contest deadline is July 31, Click here for details, and submission guidelines.

2024 winner: ages 5-9: Koa DeCastro.

==================================================

Yesterday’s Roundup featured a very cool photo of a baby shark, washed up on Burying Hill Beach.

(Photo/Seth Schachter)

What we did not know — or we definitely would have mentioned it — is that we’re smack dab in the middle of Shark Week. (For those of you who prefer to be outdoors — cautiously — in the summer, rather than watching TV, that’s an annual Discovery Channel promotion.)

And how did we find out about Shark Week?

From Scott Sharkey — owner of the national Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids salon company.

Of course.

==================================================

Speaking of nature: The Earthplace “Feed the Animals” campaign has run throughout July.

Their goal is to raise $25,000, to cover the rising costs of care for over 50 “animal friends.”

Many Earthplace resident animals cannot survive in the wild due to permanent injuries. They now serve as “ambassadors.”

Every donation received through Friday (July 31) will be matched Click here to contribute — and have your gift support “double” the animals. 

Please support us!

==================================================

On Monday, “06880” reported on plans for a 2-story indoor sports facility, on the present site of Bar Lupa restaurant, Izzo & Son Country Gardens, and Furniture on Consignment II.

That night, the Planning & Zoning Commission looked favorably on the pre-application presented by the Redniss & Mead land use firm.

Westport native Andrew Bangser looked up the location — 1431 Post Road East — on Google Maps.

A nearby building was labeled “Arnie’s Place.”

(Screenshot courtesy of Andrew Bangser)

Most Westporters know it as “the former site of Balducci’s.” It’s been closed for nearly half a year.

And, as Andrew points out, Arnie’s Place — the once-controversial, now long-lamented video arcade — met its end a decade before Larry Page and Sergey Brin began building a rudimentary search engine in their Stanford University dorm room.

==================================================

A 2-vehicle accident at noon yesterday, on Post Road East in front of Redi-Cut Carpet, snapped a utility pole and forced the extrication of the occupant of a truck.

Two people were taken to the hospital, with injuries.

(Photo/Westport Fire Department)

==================================================

Since 2002, the Malloy Lecture in the Arts — supported by the last Westport artist Susan Malloy — has brought creative artists like Salman Rushdie, Roz Chast and Kelli O’Hara to the Westport Library stage.

This year’s guest is Amor Towles. The best-selling author will speak with writer and editor Stephanie Klose about his career, and novels like “A Gentleman in Moscow,” “The Lincoln Highway” and “Table for Two” that have captivated millions of readers around the world. Click here for more information.

Amor Towles

==============================================

The serious business of school kicks in sooner than anyone realizes.

A few days before, the Westport Country Playhouse offers a “Silly Dilly Concert,” fun for the whole family.

The Saturday, August 22 show (4 p.m.) features over 20 songs, right out of Alan Katz’s parody books. Click here for tickets; click here or below for a sneak peek.

==================================================

Today’s “Westport … Naturally” image shows this magnificent raptor at Longshore the Town Farm tennis courts.

Watching the tennis courts — like a hawk, of course.

(Photo/Michael Chait)

==================================================

And finally … Freddy Cannon — the singer of classic pop/rock songs like “Palisades Park, “Tallahassee Lassie” and “Action” — died Friday in California. He was 89, and had been diagnosed with bladder cancer.

Click here for a full obituary. 

(“06880” is where the action is — 24/7/365. If you come here for news, features, photos, random stuff — or anything else — please click this link, to support our work. Oh baby, come on!)

3 Comments

Posted in Environment, Library, Looking back, Sports, Staples HS

Tagged , , , , , ,

Indoor Sports Space Coming To Town?

Posted on July 27, 2026 | 17 comments

Westport is a kids and sports town.

And few Westporters know kids and sports better than Jon Deren and Michael Maurillo.

Deren and his wife Sara are raising 3 children here. He’s coached PAL football, Little League baseball and youth basketball. As owner of Camp Manitou, the developer of other camps and programs (including for underserved youths), he’s impacted tens of thousands of children and families. He and Sara also co-founded Experience Camps, a national non-profit that provides programs to boys and girls who have lost a parent or caregiver.

Maurillo and his wife Jen raised 2 boys here. He’s coached youth lacrosse, basketball and flag football, and served on the PAL Lacrosse board. As co-owner and director of Academy Camps, he offers quality instruction and leadership skills to hundreds of young athletes — many of them from Westport — each year.

Both men know how much our town provides its youngsters.

And how much it lacks.

Jon Deren (left) and Michael Maurillo

With space tight, parents haul their kids to Fairfield, Norwalk, Stamford — and beyond — for chances to train, or just play sports indoors with friends.

For several years, Deren and Maurillo have tried to create an indoor facility — a “modern Boys & Girls Club” that is a third space, beyond home and school, where kids can be active and have fun.

Finally, they’ve found their spot.

1431 Post Road East is a non-conforming 1.74-acre parcel, with a restaurant (Bar Lupa), greenhouses and consignment shop. Cars back right onto the road; there are ,multiple entrances and exits.

1431 Post Road East today … 

Deren and Maurillo hope to convert the lot into a 2-story space with an all-purpose court for basketball, volleyball and pickleball; a turf field for soccer, lacrosse and football (big enough for training, but not full games), and a fitness area with strength and conditioning coaches.

The facility would not be for high-level athletes only, the planners note. Any boy or girl who wants to play, train and improve would be welcome.

The aim is for “camp-like activities,” camp owners Deren and Maurillo say. It is not a place for tournaments with teams, and there are no outdoor activities.

There would be locker rooms, and a lounge where youngsters could socialize, do homework and meet with tutors.

… and aerial views showing the present site (left), and planned facility (right, with building and drop-off outlined in beige).

Though the primary users would be ages 10 to 18, Deren and Maurillo would welcome adults when school is is session. There could be toddler programs too.

Tonight (Monday, July 27, 6 p.m.; Zoom), the Planning & Zoning Commission hears a pre-application for the facility. They’ll provide feedback to the applicants on the plan, including parking, a dedicated lane for drop-off and pickup, and landscaping to buffer residential neighbors. (Click here, then scroll down to 1431 Post Road East, for materials provided with the pre-application.)

Game on!

==================================================

That’s not the only pre-application the P&Z will hear tonight.

There’s also a preliminary plan for redevelopment of 34 Imperial Avenue, into 2 residential buildings with 9 units. It’s just north of the Westport Woman’s Club, on the west side of the street.

It was constructed around 1890, as a private home. Since 1970, it’s been an office building, with 6 units. The conversion came when town officials created a transition zone, between downtown retail and residences, with offices for doctors, lawyers and small businesses.

34 Imperial Avenue today …

Its location — close to the Library, Levitt Pavilion and downtown — would appeal to empty nesters looking to downsize, and others seeking in-town housing. (Click here, then scroll down to 34 Imperial Avenue, for materials provided with the pr-application.)

… and an artist’s rendering of the 9-unit proposal.

(“06880” regularly covers zoning issues — and every other hot Westport topic. If you appreciate stories like this, please click here to support your hyper-local blog. Thank you!)

17 Comments

Posted in Children, Local business, Local politics, Real estate, Sports, Teenagers

Tagged , , , , ,

Seth Schachter’s Devilish Stanley Cup Story

Posted on July 26, 2026 | 2 comments

Last week’s stories about Shane Gostisbehere’s day with the Stanley Cup, at the Carolina Hurricane and Westport resident’s home here, intrigued hockey fans — and others who don’t know a puck from a duck.

But it was not the only time a local resident had a close encounter with the National Hockey League’s famous hardware.

Note to non-fans: It’s a tradition for players on the championship team to have the trophy for a day, in the off-season.

But even the most ardent fans may not know that athletes are not the only ones who can hang with the Stanley Cup.

And mascots.

Which is why Seth Schachter has very intriguing tales to tell.

Seth Schachter, with the Stanley Cup.

A resident of 16 years, and now a paraprofessional in the Weston schools — after helping raise 2 children as a househusband and working with the Staples High squash program, following early retirement from a ales and marketing career — he seems an unlikely candidate for an NHL hockey mascot.

But you never know who is behind the costume of, say, Mr. Met.

Or the New Jersey Devils’ “devil.”

Growing up on Long Island, Schachter was a goalie — and a New York Islanders fan. He played hockey at SUNY-Binghamton, and had a 2-year side gig as the minor league Binghamton Rangers “Rocky the Raccoon” mascot.

Seth Schachter’s first encounter with the Stanley Cup came as a boy, on a visit to the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto.

In a real-life parallel to the “Simpsons” episode in which Homer Simpson moves up from his job as a baseball mascot for the minor league Springfield Isotopes to the majors (Capital City), Schachter got his chance during his first post-college job, with the Environmental Protection Agency in Philadelphia.

The Devils needed a new mascot. The previous one — a 23-year-old nicknamed Slapshot and dressed as a puck — was fired after accusations he groped 3 female vendors at the rink.

The team re-branded its mascot as a 7-foot devil, dressed in red and wielding a pitchfork. (The team name comes from a mythical creature, said to live in the Pine Barrens since the 1700s.)

After 4 rigorous interviews, and a skating tryout, Schachter was hired.

Seth Schachter, in action. 

And promptly fired.

The 1994 NHL season began with a lockout out. after a year played without a collective bargaining agreement. Over 20 front office employees were laid off, including Schachter. (He’d also signed on as a sales and marketing associate.)

When the lockout ended, he was one of only 3 rehires. Forty-games later — in an abbreviated season — they won their first Stanley Cup crown.

It was a hectic time. During the day, Schachter wore a suit and tie. At night he donned a heavy costume, greeted fans, skated around doing antics, and even drove a 4-wheel ATV on the ice (popping wheelies).

It was exhausting. He could hardly see (out of the mascot’s mouth). But he was in his early 20s. He had his own dressing room. He was given a championship ring.

Seth Schachter’s championship ring.

And that summer, he had the Stanley Cup. 

The Devils swept Detroit in 4 games. The mascot flew there in a private jet. He was photographed near the Meadowlands, snagging an octopus with his pitchfork. (It’s a Red Wing tradition for fans to throw one on the ice. Don’t ask.)

One day, Schachter was asked to take the Stanley Cup to his parents’ apartment in New York City. It had an early morning appointment the next day, and officials feared it would be delayed by New Jersey traffic.

“I could have had a big party,” Schachter says. Instead, he invited 3 college friends to see the trophy.

They drank and ate popcorn from it. That night, Schachter brought it to bed with him.

Good night, Stanley Cup!

He became one of the Devils’ go-to employees, ferrying the Stanley Cup from place to place. After one night event, the gates to the arena and offices were locked.

Schachter took it back to his apartment. His landlords — though ardent New York Rangers fans — were impressed.

Another time, with his future wife and mother-in-law at Woodbury Commons in New York, Schachter took a photo with the trophy in the parking lot. He put it back in his vehicle.

Then they went shopping.

“I was such an idiot,” Schachter says now. “What if someone saw us taking the picture, and then broke into my car?”

Seth Schachter, his girlfriend (now wife), and the Stanley Cup in the back of the car.

Ah, to be young and a National Hockey League mascot.

But that was not Schachter’s career goal.

At an All-Star game in Boston, he met other mascots. Some were in their 50s.

He realized that was not for him. After 2 years with the Devils — they did not retain the Stanley Cup in 1995-96 — Schachter got a big-boy job, with an Atlanta engineering firm. He hung up his skates.

Over the years, his mascot years faded into the past. He seldom thought about them.

Until the other day, when an “06880” story about another Westporter, and another Stanley Cup, jogged his memory.

Suddenly, he was back drinking and eating popcorn out of the world’s most famous hockey trophy.

And sleeping next to it.

(Every Westporter has a story. And “06880” tells them all. If you enjoy this hyper-local blog, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

2 Comments

Posted in Sports

Tagged , ,

Roundup: Young Shoots Photo Contest, Clubhouse Social, Natural Disasters …

Posted on July 24, 2026 | 1 comment

Every Thursday, the Westport Farmers’ Market is packed.

But yesterday’s superb weather helped draw one of the biggest crowds ever, to the Imperial Avenue parking lot.

A couple of thousand shoppers enjoyed all the usual attractions: fresh produce, meats, fish, breads and baked goods, herbs, mushrooms, empanadas, Thai food pizzas, ice cream, dog treats, knife sharpening, live music, kids’ activities, and more.

As always, there were people of all ages. Including kids with cameras.

They were taking images for the Young Shoots photo contest.

For a decade, photographers ages 5 to 18 have captured the energy and beauty of the Thursday market — and shared great images of food, farmers and shoppers.

There are prizes in 3 age groups, and an exhibit and reception for all the young entrants.

The deadline is July 31 — so there is one more week to take photos. Click here for details, and submission guidelines.

Farmers’ Market volunteers remind youngsters that the Young Shoots photo contest deadline is July 31. (Photo/Dan Woog)

==================================================

This weekend’s weather will be the best of the summer.

After your fun Sunday morning and afternoon, keep the vibe going.

The Clubhouse — the great event space on the Post Road, near Stop & Shop — is hosting a “Sunday Sunset Social,” on their versatile rooftop.

It’s 5 to 8 p.m. A $30 ticket includes one beer, wine or soft drink, and food. It’s a casual way to wind down the weekend with friends (or make new ones).

The Clubhouse rooftop

=================================================

Westport has been relatively free of tropical storm damage recently. But storms Elsa, Fred, Henri and Ida in 2021, and severe flooding in August 2024 — not to mention Tuesday’s torrential downpour — remind us we’re never out of harm’s way.

For 2 decades, area communities have adopted “natural hazard mitigation plans,” with updates every 5 years. The Western Connecticut Council of Governments is again performing resilience planning to reduce losses of property and life due to floods, severe wind events, winter storms, wildfires, droughts, extreme heat events and earthquakes.

Residents can help. Click here to take a quick 5-question survey. 


==================================================

Thank you for helping build a safer, more resilient Westport.

The Westport Swim Club is a low-key, but very effective introduction to swimming for 1st through 8th graders. Their values are “fun, friends and fundamentals.”

Many youngsters go on to swim for Staples High School teams.

Tryouts — also low-pressure — will be held next week (July 27-30), from 4:45 to 5:30 p.m. at the Staples pool. Another sessions is set for August 26 (5:30 to 6 p.m.). The fall season begins September 18.

There are 4 registrations each year: fall, winter, spring and summer. There are 4 practices a week (not mandatory). Flexibility is key, for young swimmers and their families.

Click here to sign up for tryouts, Questions? Email ktfdolphin@gmail.com.

Fun with the Westport Swim Club.

================================================

I’m used to being the writer (and podcaster), about all things 06880.

The other day, the tables turned.

I was the interviewee, on a podcast — in 06883.

Jaclyn Jeffrey — the woman behind the great Weston Today website — wrangled me for an “On Point” session.

She calls it “a thoughtful, heartfelt conversation about storytelling, belonging, and why the strongest communities are built one story at a time.”

Jaclyn is a superb interviewer. She helped me articulate a lot of ideas about Westport (and Weston) — and about the work that I do — I hadn’t really thought of before.

Click here for the Weston Today story about the podcast, and a link to it.

Podcast screenshot: Dan Woog and Jaclyn Jeffrey.

==================================================

Speaking of “06880”: To celebrate their move to a new, larger space, Indigo Wellness is offering our readers $20 off any service, through August 31.

Just mention “06880” when booking an appointment or checking out. (New clients only!)

The women-led group at 212 Post Road West offers acupuncture, massage therapy, functional medicine, holistic skincare, pelvic floor physical therapy, nutrition counseling and other wellness services.

The welcome area, at Indigo Wellness.

==================================================

Westport native Adam Bernard’s new book,” One Hit Wondering: The Stories of 40 One Hit Wonders + Other Tales From The Crates,” was published on Tuesday.

It explores not only those flash-in-the-pan songs, but the stories behind the artists’ lives. There is more to each than just one tune.

Bernard knows them all. He’s been writing about music for over 25 years. The focus, the author says, is more on the “wondering” than on the “one hit.”

Chumbuwamba, A’me Lorain. The artist who sued both Janet Jackson and Beyoncé — successfully. They’re all part of the book.

Click here to purchase, and for more information.

==================================================

Longtime Westport resident Lucy Sallick is part of the Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum’s decennial exhibit, “I Am What is Around Me.” The show includes 40 artists living and working in Connecticut. It runs through January 10.

Click here for full details.

The Aldrich Contemporary show.

=================================================

Longtime Staples High School Spanish teacher Jannette Atkins Louth died on July 15. She was 101.

The Massachusetts native served as an air raid warden during World War II. She graduated as a Spanish major from Middlebury College in 1947, then earned a master’s degree there. She took graduate courses at Trinity College, Georgetown Summer School in Mexico, and the University of Bridgeport.

She began teaching at Staples on Riverside Avenue in 1947, and retired from the North Avenue campus 35 years later. Each year, she invited her 5 classes to dinner at her home.

She served on the Connecticut Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages. She was active in the United Methodist Church of Westport & Weston, including as a lay reader, board member, choir member, fundraiser and secretary of the building committee.

Atkins was an excellent seamstress too. She sewed wedding dresses for her 3 nieces.

After retiring, she moved to West Harwich, Massachusetts, in the house where her grandmother raised her children after her husband was lost at sea.

In 1992  Atkins married William Louth, a friend of many years. They traveled often, and were active in the Brewster Baptist Church.

She was an active Middlebury alumna, including as secretary of her class. In 2022 she attended her 75th reunion.

Atkins was predeceased by her husband, sister Emily, and brothers Donald and Harold. She is survived by her sister-in-law and great friend Peg Atkins of Middleborough, Massachusetts; stepsons Bradley Louth (Nancy) of Harrington, New Hampshire and Thomas (Jessie) of Naugatuck; 6 step-grandchildren; 5 step-greatgranchildren, and many nieces, nephews and their children and grandchildren.

A memorial service is set for September 12 (11:30 a.m., Brewster Baptist Church. Contributions in her name may be made to Brewster Baptist Church, 1848 Main Street, Brewster, MA 02631, Lower Cape Outreach (19 Brewster Cross Road, Orleans, MA 02653), or a charity of choice.

 Jeanette Atkins Louth

===============================================

The jetties at Compo are not “natural.”

And this “Lamb Chop” (as Pam Kesselman calls it) is even more “man-made” (though probably by a woman).

Still, they’re outdoors. And they look nice enough to be featured as today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo.

Hey, it’s our blog. We make the rules!

(Photo/Pam Kesselman)

==================================================

And finally … speaking of one-hit wonders (story above): There are so many to choose from.

We’ll go with this one, straight from Adam Bernard’s book:

(“06880” is hardly a one-hit wonder. We’ve been around since 2009 — and have never missed a day. If you appreciate any part of this hyper-local blog, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

1 Comment

Posted in Arts, Entertainment, Environment, Local business, Obituaries, Sports, Staples HS, Weather

Tagged , , , , ,

Roundup: Stanley Cup Sequel, Ballot Security, WTF Farm Stand …

Posted on July 23, 2026 | 2 comments

Yesterday’s Roundup included a photo of the Stanley Cup. In Westport.

Traditionally, each member of the winning National Hockey League team gets it for a day. But, we asked, what was the connection between  the Carolina Hurricanes’ Shayne Gostisbehere and Westport?

There was, we noted, a rumor that he lives here.

Turns out: It’s true.

Gina Gostibehere — presumably his wife — posted on our Instagram: “We live here in Westport!!”

We look forward to learning more — like, how (and why) a Stanley Cup champ ends up here. And how he flies (or skates) completely under the radar.

In the meantime: here’s a link to Gina’s Instagram. Looks like she’s got her own great business.

Welcome to Westport, Shayne and Gina.

Unless you’ve been here for a decade, and we never knew.

==================================================

With ballot security in the national spotlight, CT Mirror shined a light on Westport.

A story yesterday in the Pulitzer Prize-winning independent online site examined the many steps and procedures Westport’s Democratic and Republican registrars of voters take to ensure security and accuracy, from before the election, to the voting process and afterward.

Click here for the full story.

From left: Yesterday, Democratic deputy registrar of voters Sharon Fiarman, Democratic registrar of voters Deborah Greenberg and Republican deputy registrar of voters Francesca Signore tested a tabulator machine at Town Hall. (Photo/Eddy Martinez for Connecticut Public)

==================================================

It’s one of the best-kept secrets in town. (Of course, IYKYK).

The Wakeman Town Farm farm stand is open every Saturday (9 a.m. to 1 p.m.). Farm-fresh produce — plus coffee, flowers, local products, even animal visits and more — make it a family-friendly event.

o

==================================================

When Tuesday’s intense but quick storm passed, Rachel Precious assessed the damge.

The rowboat she’d owned for 30 years disappeared from its spot on Evergreen Avenue.

Rachel searched all along Deadman Brook and its banks into town that day, but found nothing.

Finally, yesterday — 24 hours later — a neighbor found it. It had flipped over and was wedged between rocks downstream, underwater and covered up.

That’s one rowboat that did not go “gently down the stream.”

Rachel Precious’ rowboat, downstream …

and in calmer times.

=================================================

Nefaire — the facial and aesthetic service spot next to Il Pastaficio at 141 Post Road — is gone.

Its replacement sounds somewhat similar.

Skincare business Osphere’s website says it “brings together 2 things that rarely share a roof: the safety and accountability of medicine directed by our medical director, and the sensibility of Japanese and East-Asian beauty culture — where less is more, details matter, and the goal is harmony rather than exaggeration. A clinic where the price is on the menu before you book, and subtle is the standard.”

This is the 4th Osphere studio. Others are in Stamford, Greenwich and Florham Park, New Jersey. For more information, click here. 

(Photo/Sal Liccione)

=================================================

Next up for First Folk Sunday: a tribute concert to Cheryl Wheeler.

Singer Suzanne Sheridan, keyboardist Bob Cooper and percussionist Howard Kesten offers an homage on August 2 (Saugatuck Rowing Club; 12:30 p.m.). Click here for tickets, and more information. 

Clockwise from upper left: Cheryl Wheeler, Suzanne Sheridan, Howard Kesten, Bob Cooper.

================================================

Writing stand-up comedy is no laughing matter.

Well, actually — as hard as it is — it is all about the laughs.

And from August 3-6 (3:30 to 5:30 p.m.), the Westport Country Playhouse offers a “Stand Up & Learn” comedy writing workshop, for ages 12 through 16.

The payoff: a performance for family and friends, at 5 p.m. August 6.

The program engages students in creative writing, communication, critical thinking, and team and confidence building.

The fee is $295. Scholarships are available.

“Stand Up & Learn” founder and director Kevin Flynn is an award-winning actor, writer, producer, host, and comedian. After a professional soccer career, he transitioned to stand-up comedy and won the Boston Comedy Riot.

Click here for more information. Questions? Email  mmeath@westportplayhouse.org.

Kevin Flynn

================================================

Westport Police made 3 custodial arrests between July 15 and 21.

A 28-year-old Stamford man was charged with assault, strangulation and disorderly conduct, following an investigation into a 2025 domestic incident. Medical treatment was sought, after the man allegedly placed his hands around the victim’s neck. He was held on a $50,000 bond.

A 22-year-old New Haven man was charged with larceny and conspiracy to commit larceny, following an investigation into a 2025 shoplifting incident at Ulta Beauty. He was held on a $5,000 bond.

Westport Police also issued these citations:

  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 7 citations
  • Failure to obey state traffic commission regulations: 6
  • Failure to renew registration: 4
  • Distracted driving: 3
  • Speeding: 2
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 2
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 2
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 2
  • Operating a motor vehicle while under suspension 1
  • Texting while driving: 1
  • Failure to comply with handicap parking regulations: 1
  • Failure to drive in the proper lane: 1
  • Failure to display plates: 1

Handicap parking regulations must be followed.

===============================================

Among the many effects of Tuesday’s storm (besides Rachel Precious’ missing rowboat): the mulch that Mark Mathias had spread nearby.

Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo shows what happens when Mother Nature meets a modern garden.

(Photo/Mark Mathias)

==================================================

And finally … in honor of Rachel Precious’ lost-and-found rowboat:

(Come on down to my blog, baby. And then click here, to support our 24/7/365 work. Ahoy!)

2 Comments

Posted in Entertainment, Environment, Local business, Police, Politics, Sports, Weather, Westport Country Playhouse

Tagged , , , ,

Roundup: Beaches Close, Stanley Cup Comes Here, La Plage Opens …

Posted on July 22, 2026 | 3 comments

Yesterday’s heavy rainfall — more than 3.5 inches — has closed Westport beaches, for 24 hours from when the rain ended. 

Yesterday’s heavy rain pours off a Stony Point roof. (Photo/Rick Jaffe)

Fox 5 New York posted a video of downtown flooding on their Instagram. Click here to see. 

Screenshot from Fox 5 New York.

For Mark Mathias’ video of flooding on Myrtle Avenue near Post Road East, click here or below:

==================================================

The Planning & Zoning Commission’s Zoning Revision Subcommittee meets today (July 22, 12 noon; Zoom).

The first agenda item is a potential text change in Saugatuck, related to the proposed development by Spinnaker on Riverside Avenue. Click here for all related materials.

The other items involve Dark Sky compliance, modifying mobile park regulations, and discussing accessory buildings.

The Zoning Regulation Revision Subcommittee discusses Saugatuck today.

==================================================

There is one agenda item on tomorrow’s Board of Education agenda (Thursday, June 23, 9:30 a.m., Staples High School cafeteria): discussion, and possible action, on “Special Education Program Review: Review RFQ Responses and RFP.”

The meeting will be livestreamed on www.westportct.gov, and Optimum Channel 78.

================================================

It’s a great National Hockey League tradition: Each player on the Stanley Cup-winning team gets to keep it for a day.

Which is how the famed trophy came to Westport yesterday.

Jeff Looby sent this photo, from social media:

A bit of context: Twitter user Phil Pritchard is the guy who shepherds the Stanley Cup from player to player, and town to town. (Much safer than FedEx.)

Shayne Gostisbehere is … well, you can read about him above. His only connections to Connecticut seem to be that he played prep school hockey at South Kent, and the Carolina Hurricanes started out as the Hartford Whalers, before fleeing to Raleigh in 1997.

Jeff thought Shayne might have a summer place in Westport. That can’t be confirmed. But it led to another social media post by Pritchard:

What is Eric Robinson’s connection with Westport?

AI says he is a “native” of our town. But he was raised in Bellmawr, New Jersey, and played at Gloucester Catholic High there. There are no other references to Westport anywhere for him.

So here are our questions:

  • Does Shayne Gostisbehere actually live here in the summer?
  • Is Eric Robinson actually a Westport native? And if so …
  • … why didn’t that get any publicity during the Hurricanes’ Stanley Cup run?
  • If none of that is true, how did the Stanley Cup wind up here yesterday?

And finally: Which is cooler: Having the Stanley Cup here in 2026, or the World Cup in Weston in 1991?

==================================================

La Plage has been closed for a while, as part of the Inn at Longshore renovation.

But — just in time for mid-summer — the popular waterside restaurant is back open today (Wednesday).

For the first week or so, they’ll serve dinner only (5 to 10 p.m.), with reservations required (click here).

The patio bar will be open every day too, from 4 to 10 p.m. for drinks.

Lunch, brunch and full service at the patio bar will roll out in the coming weeks.

Meanwhile, the Inn is slated to open the second week of August. Rooms are available for booking (click here). More details coming soon.

==================================================

A memorial service celebrating the life of Scott Bryce — the beloved actor, Staples High School graduate and Weston resident who died July 12 — is set for this Saturday (July 25, 10 a.m., Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport.).

The event will be livestreamed; click here.

Scott Bryce

==================================================

The other day, Sandy Rothenberg emailed “06880.” She said: “The intersection of Bayberry Lane Extension & Easton Road (Route 136) is a major accident waiting to happen.

“At the stop sign on Bayberry Extension, the sight line is very poor. Cars fly around the corner on Easton Road, or turn in 2 other directions at the same time. School buses use this intersection too.

“I have contacted Westport Police and Public Works. They said that since Easton Road is a state road and the bushes are not on public property, they can’t do anything about it.” They suggested writing a letter to the property owner at 300 Bayberry Lane Extension.

Town operations manager Tom Kiely told Sandy that the house was recently sold. New owners will move in next month. Kiely contacted them, and said they were receptive to meeting with town officials.

Rothenberg adds, “The state Department of Transportation needs to attend to the curve on Easton Road!”

Dangerous sightline: Easton Road (right) at Bayberry Lane Extension. Bayberry Lane is at far right. (Photo/Sandy Rothenberg)

==================================================

Only a few days — and 2 Westport Farmers’ Markets — remain in the Young Shoots photo contest.

For a decade, photographers ages 5 to 18 have captured the energy and beauty of the Thursday market — and shared great images of food, farmers and shopper.

The contest — with prizes in 3 age groups, and an exhibit and reception for all the young entrants — is sponsored by The Artists Collective of Westport and the Drew Friedman Community Arts Center.

The deadline is July 31. Click here for details, and submission guidelines.

Lila Boyd’s winning photo, in the 10-14-year-old age group.

==================================================

Speaking of the outdoors: Flick the leopard gecko, Pearl the chinchilla and Chatty the bald eagle are 3 of the more than 50 animals that call Earthplace home.

Unable to survive in the wild due to permanent injuries, they now serve as ambassadors, connecting the community with nature.

But Earthplace can’t do it alone. Facing rising food, veterinary and enrichment costs, they need to raise $25,000 this month to ensure the animals receive the resources they need!

A generous matching challenge will double every gift, through July 31. Click here to donate.

How can you not support this guy?

==================================================

Westport is filled with experienced professionals — and many other young men and women, just beginning their careers.

A networking mixer, bringing them all together, is set for next Tuesday (July 28, 7 to 8:15 p.m., Compo Beach brick pavilion).

The free event — organized by Westport Professionals Network co-founders Lisa Cukier and Katie Gervasio — is open to post-high school, and current and graduated college students. Plus, of course, anyone interested in offering advice and mentorship.

==================================================

Roz Chast and Lisa Donnelly had a packed Westport Library crowd laughing loudly Monday night.

That’s appropriate. They spoke following a screening of “Women Laughing,” Donnelly’s documentary about a diverse and remarkable group of New Yorker female cartoonists. Chast and Donnelly are 2 of its most noted members.

From left: Roz Chast and Lisa Donnelly, with former New Yorker editor Anne Hall Elser. (Photo/Susan Garment)

=================================================

Lauri Weiser sent this “Westport … Naturally” photo yesterday, with a note: “On icky days like this, these beautiful flowers remind me why I love my garden.”

(Photo/Lauri Weiser)

==================================================

And finally … in honor of the Stanley Cup coming to Westport (story above):

(You may never drive a Zamboni. But you can always contribute to “06880.” Just click here to help. It’s even better than winning the Stanley Cup! Thank you all …)

3 Comments

Posted in Beach, Library, Restaurants, Saugatuck, Sports, Weather

Tagged , , , , , , ,

Roundup: Field Lights, Playhouse Play, MoCA Art, VFW Jazz …

Posted on July 21, 2026 | 3 comments

Once again, the Planning & Zoning Commission discussed lights for 2 athletic fields last night.

Once again, they sought more information before voting.

Neighbors near Wakeman Field reiterated concerns about noise, light “spillage” from the poles and landscaping.

A proposal by the Parks & Recreation Department for lights at another site — PJ Romano Field behind Saugatuck Elementary School, which has had temporary lights for several years — has drawn far fewer comments.

Parks & Rec officials, led by director Erik Barbieri and superintendent Carm Roda, were asked for further review of the design from Musco Lighting; more details on landscaping, sound mitigation, and oversight by their department of both field usage and noise.

The P&Z will continue its discussion on August 17.

Lights are proposed for the turf field (center left, next to softball diamond) at Wakeman. (Drone photo/David Pogue)

================================================

This year’s “06880” blog party is just 2 days away.

The date is Thursday, July 23 (6 p.m). The site is Compo Beach — the alcohol-is-okay South Beach, by the trees (the opposite end from the cannons).

Bring your own food, beverages (no glass bottles!), beach chairs and blankets.

Our blog party is a true community gathering – a chance to meet and mingle with the diverse “06880” community (both online and real). It’s fun, un-fancy, and free!

We extend a special welcome to all our new “06880” readers. And those who have never come to our bash. See you Thursday!

A small part of the large crowd. (Photo/Dennis Jackson)

==================================================

The Westport Country Playhouse production of “The Murder of Roger Ackroyd” is based on one of Agatha Christie’s most famous mysteries.

So it’s no surprise that the Playhouse has placed copies of it in various “Little Free Libraries” in Westport and surrounding towns.

If you know a free library, look for the  book. Then peek inside. You may find a voucher for 2 complimentary tickets to the stage adaptation of the classic whodunit.

(Here’s a clue: For a map to find free libraries, click here.)

Of course there’s another, less mysterious way to see the show: click here for tickets. It runs through August 1. 

Little Free Library.

===============================================

Mourning comes Thursday to MoCA\CT.

And yes, that’s spelled correctly.

“Architectural Elegy: A Mourning Ritual for Lost Spaces” is set for Thursday (July 23, 6 p.m.).

The immersive performance art piece — part of Ellen Harvey’s exhibition “The Disappointed Tourist,” in MoCA’s current exhibition exploring lost places — explores the question: “If you could visit one place that no longer exists, where would you go?”

The “meditative gathering” invites participants to remember the places that shaped them through drawing, writing, conversation, and a simple collective ritual.

Led by artist Dannielle Tegeder, guests will create “temporary memorials that acknowledge both personal memory and shared history.” Some attendees may share their story; others may participate quietly. The evening is designed for everyone to reflect and connect.

All materials are provided. Participants are invited to wear black or mourning attire (not required).

The event is sponsored by the CORA Foundation. Click here for tickets, and more information.

Artists Ellen Harvey and Dannielle Tegeder, in front of Harvey’s MoCA exhibition.

==================================================

Speaking (as we were earlier) of the Playhouse: “Cheese Fries & Chili Dips” — the autobiographical play written and performed by former professional golfer and Weston resident Chris Fuller — returns  to the Lucille Lortel White Barn theater there August 7-8.

Now a 2-person production directed by Mark Graham, it follows one man’s pursuit of a PGA Tour career, while navigating bipolar disorder. Fuller is joined by Broadway actor Beau Allen, portraying the golfer’s “inner voice.”

“Cheese Fries & Chili Dips” explores mental illness, resilience, family, and unexpected paths that lead to hope and healing.

A wine and cheese reception precedes the shows, at 6 p.m. A talkback after the August 7 performance features Dr. Tobias Wasser, chair of psychiatry and beheavioral health for Hartford HealthCare’s Fairfield Region. Click here for tickets, and more information.

===============================================

Svetlana and the Delancey Five — the New York -based jazz and swing band led by vocalist and bandleader Svetlana Shmulyian, who sold out shows at the Blue Note and Joe’s Pub –headline this Thursday’s “Jazz at the Post” (July 23, 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner from 6:45; VFW Post 399).

Click here for tickets, and more information.

==================================================

Melissa Osborne offers today’s “Westport … Naturally” featured photo of 4 monarch larvae (caterpillars) eating a milkweed leaf.

(Photo/Melissa Osborne)

“You can see the silhouette of the 4th in the lower left – it’s on the underside of the leaf,” she writes. “They are probably 3 days old.”

Melissa adds: “This isn’t completely ‘natural,’ because I’m raising them in captivity. Last year I noticed that the few tiny larvae I found on my plants never made it to the pupa (chrysalis) or adult stages; they were likely eaten by other bugs in the first days of life.  I brought these indoors to hopefully give them a better start.”

==================================================

And finally … did you know that July is National Ice Cream Month?

Not that we ever need an excuse to eat ice cream, but still …

(There are few things better than ice cream — except, maybe, the feeling you get when you support “06880.” Just click here. Thanks for the treat!)

3 Comments

Posted in Arts, Entertainment, Local politics, Sports, Westport Country Playhouse

Tagged , , , , , , ,

Roundup: Spain, Greece, England …

Posted on July 20, 2026 | 8 comments

The Westport Library hosted its first-ever World Cup watch party yesterday.

Over 150 soccer fans of all ages — nearly all of them rooting for Spain, it seemed — watched “La Roja” beat Argentina in extra time, for their 2nd-ever championship.

Westport Library watch party. (Photo/Isabelle Sareen)

Earlier in the afternoon at the Library, several dozen youngsters traded Panini soccer cards. Meanwhile, 4 residents with strong soccer ties — Dan Woog, Chris O’Dell, Paddy Donovan and Joe Pierce — discussed Westport’s history and role in The Beautiful Game.

There were many other watch parties too. Large crowds packed The Clubhouse, Riko’s Pizza and other places.

Westporters like Rob Simmelkjaer — CEO of the New York Road Runners, but also an avid soccer fan — had their own gatherings.

It’s hard to tell from the photo below who Rob favored. The dessert includes both teams — and his jersey is the one worn by Argentina’s Lionel Messi, when he played for Spain’s Barcelona.

(Photo/Jonathan Alloy)

==================================================

Elsewhere in the world: Claudia Sherwood Servidio is a Westport resident. But she has spent the past 25 summers on the Greek island of Lemnos. In both places, she is an avid marine conservationist.

She recently helped bring a group of Lemnos high school students to a research vessel, to explore one of the Eastern Mediterranean’s most important marine ecosystems.

The expedition was part of the Imagine Lemnos Plastic Free Festival, an event she co-founded with scientists, environmental groups and local partners.

A short-term goal is to raise funds to buy thermoses for every student on Lemnos, to sharply reduce one-time plastic use. Click here for a full story.

Claudia Sherwood Servidio is also an accomplished photographer. This is an underwater image. (Photo/Claudia Sherwood Servidio)

==================================================

An almost sold-out crowd enjoyed Saturday’s opening night performance of “Agatha Christie’s The Murder of Roger Ackroyd” at the Westport Country Playhouse. The production runs through August 1.

Click here for more information, and tickets. They start at $50, with discounts for students, senior citizens, educators, military, first responders, Indigenous people, professional playwrights and groups.

Opening night bows. (Photo/Dave Matlow)

==================================================

The Fresh Market osprey nest appears abandoned.

But the raptors seem to be thriving nearer their main food source of fish: at Longshore.

John Maloney snapped this hopeful photo the other day:

(Photo/John Maloney)

=================================================

As reported earlier, Thomas Lowrie died peacefully at his Westport home on June 30. He was 3 days shy of his 98th birthday.

The Pittsburgh native was a standout 3-season athlete at Titusville High School. After completing his senior year at the Hill School, he joined the class of 1950 at Princeton University. He and roommates Walker McKinney, Sam Howell and Bill Apgar became lifelong friends.

Tom was a Navy air navigator during the Korean conflict, monitoring the 7th Fleet from over the Pacific Ocean with no parachutes. (He later jumped out of planes at ages 90 and 95.)

Tom Lowrie

He met his wife of 58 years, Jean, while he was stationed in Hawaii. She was a TWA airline hostess.

Tom completed his advanced degree in architecture from Columbia University while working as a draftsman for renowned firms like McKim Mead & White, and Johnson-Burgee. He became a staff architect to the Museum of Modern Art during their 1980s expansion.

Tom was an excellent athlete, playing golf, tennis, squash, badminton, pickleball, and in his last year, ping pong. His love of sports and architecture led him to design the Beck Lodge at Camp Mahackeno, and the conversion of the downtown firehouse to the YMCA’s health center.

His long-service to the Y community was highlighted by his badminton camaraderie with pals Paul Newman and James Naughton.

Tom was the last-living founding member of Westport’s Sunrise Rotary club. He traveled the world promoting projects that supported education and peace, while fighting disease and global inequities.

Tom was also an active member of the Y’s Men.

He was predeceased by his wife Jean in 2018. Tom is survived by his children Anne of Westport and Dave of Hartford, and granddaughter Luna Lowrie of Long Island.

A family memorial service is scheduled for July 31 (11 a.m., Green’s Farms Church), where Tom was an active congregant for nearly 60 years. A public celebration of his life will follow at 11:30 a.m. in the Church’s fellowship hall.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Tom’s name to the Sunrise Rotary Club.

Tom Lowrie, at his 97th birthday celebration. (Photo/Andrew Colabella)

===============================================

Longtime Westport resident Richard Atkins died on June 22 in Norwalk, after a long stay at the Notre Dame Health & Rehabilitation Center. He was 92.

The Rutgers University graduate moved to Westport in 1974.

Atkins’ career began as an editor and drama critic at Women’s Wear Daily. He then joined Playboy magazine as its men’s fashion advertising manager. He later became publisher of National Lampoon as its publisher, and president of General Media Services, in Westport.

A fine wine collector, he visited vineyards and wineries in France, Italy and California in search of additions to his  cellar. He passed his love of wine and his discriminating palate on to his children and grandchildren.

Atkins survived by Susanne, his wife of 68 years; sons Richard, Tom and James, and grandchildren Micaiah, Rebecca, Heide, and Liam.

Richard Atkins

=================================================

Here’s a first for our “Westport … Naturally” series: a European mole cricket.

Jay Ludy spotted it on his driveway yesterday — the first time he’s seen one in his 24 years in Westport.

“Apparently they have established themselves in Fairfield County, and are rarely seen above ground,” Jay says. “This one was at least 2 inches in size.”

(Photo/Jay Ludy)

=================================================

And finally … ¡Felicidades España!

(Spain are worthy champions. You can be a winner too! Just click here, to support “06880”: Where Westport meets the world. Thank you!)

8 Comments

Posted in Environment, Library, Obituaries, Sports, Westport Country Playhouse

Tagged , , , ,

Roundup: World Cup, Cribari Bridge, Dick Fincher,

Posted on July 19, 2026 | 3 comments

The only thing better than watching a World Cup final in person is being part of a watch party, joined by tons of other soccer fans.

Most of us have not shelled out our mortgage for a seat (plus parking!) at MetLife Stadium, for today’s Spain-Argentina clash.

Instead, we can head to the Westport Library. They host a (free!) afternoon of “Where Westport Meets the World Cup”: the final match, and more.

The Library opens at 1 p.m., for Panini card trading.

From 1:30 to 2:30, Westport soccer folks — including Dan Woog, Chris O’Dell, Paddy Donovan, Joe Pierce and Clemson coach Mike Noonan (video) — will tell stories about their experiences with The Beautiful Game.

At 3 p.m., the match will be shown on the Trefz Forum’s giant screen (the pre-game show will begin at 2:30). The audience here will join billions of others around the globe.

Oh, yeah: There’s Riko’s pizza too (courtesy of “06880”).

Wear your jersey. Bring your friends. See you today at the Library!

(Graphic courtesy of Isabelle Sareen)

==================================================

On Friday, “06880” noted that in April, 1st Selectman Kevin Christie said he’d appoint a Cribari Bridge Advisory Committee.

He responded yesterday to our query about its status: “The Cribari Bridge Advisory Committee has not yet been formed. I am continuing to work on its composition and charge, and will provide an update when those details are finalized.

“There have not been any significant recent developments in conversations between the Town and state Department of Transportation. DOT is aware of Westport’s collective focus on safety in the area of the bridge and beyond.”

Cribari Bridge (Photo/Ferdinand Jahnel)

==================================================

Dick Fincher’s family, friends and neighbors remembered the former Tree Board chair and Lillian Wadsworth Arboretum visionary yesterday.

A plaque honoring Fincher — a longtime Westporter who died in 2024, at 86 — was unveiled near the entrance to the 12-acre park, at the corner of Stony Brook Road and Woodside Lane. It contains one of his favorite quotes about trees.

Fincher lived across the street. Representative Town Meeting member Lou Mall, who worked with Fincher to turn the overgrown property into a beautiful area with woods and hiking areas, spoke about Fincher’s contributions to the neighborhood and town.

Mall hailed Dick Stein, several RTM colleagues, the Tree Board, former 1st selectpersons Jim Marpe and Jen Tooker, and tree warden Bruce Lindsay, for all they did to carry out Fincher’s vision.

Lou Mall (far right) speaks at the Dick Fincher plaque dedication.

Mall recalled the history of the Woodside Lane land. Wadsworth donated much of it to Earthplace, along with 12 acres to the town, for a new school. But there was not enough room for that building, so it lay forgotten, unused and unmaintained, until Fincher prodded the town to act.

Fincher’s son Doug and wife Dottie also spoke about Fincher’s legacy. The Lillian Wadsworth Arboretum is open sunrise to sunset. Click here for more information.

Town officials, at the new plaque honoring Dick Fincher: From left: RTM members Jay Keenan and Chris Tait, Parks & Recreation Commission chair David Floyd, RTM members Jimmy Izzo and Lou Mall, former 1st Selectman Jim Marpe, former Earthplace director Tony McDowell, former 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker.

Dottie Fincher, with her sons and grandsons. (All photos/Dan Woog)

=================================================

Players from Staples High School’s state championship soccer teams of 1981 and ’82 have remained close.

Many still live in the area. And — more than 4 decades later — they still work out together.

Seen Saturday at TAP Strength in downtown Westport, with (at bottom, in photo below) owner EJ Zebro (a former soccer player himself) were (from left) Mike Brown, Guy Claveloux, Dan Donovan and Todd Coleman.

They look like they could still play. And win.

==================================================

Speaking of sports: Westport has a new non-operative musculoskeletal care facility.

CT Sports Recovery at 215 Main Street calls itself “the only clinic in Fairfield County offering focused shockwave technology, Unlike traditional radial shockwave systems, focused shockwave delivers energy to precise tissue depths, making it a valuable option for chronic tendon injuries, calcific tendinopathy, plantar fasciitis, joint pain, and other musculoskeletal conditions.”

Founders Dr. Michael Betler and his wife Dr. Anupama Kurra urge clients to “support the body’s natural healing processes through evidence-based, non-invasive therapies before considering more invasive interventions whenever appropriate.”

Their goal is to complement traditional medical care. They serve athletes, active adults, post-operative patients, people with chronic orthopedic conditions, and anyone seeking non-surgical solutions to improve function and reduce pain. Click here for more information.

======================================================

The #1 cause of a preventable death after an injury is … bleeding.

A free Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Service “Stop the Bleed” class can help save lives.

It’s August 10 (7 to 8:45 p.m., EMS headquarters, 50 Jesup Road). Click here for more information, and to register.

The next class after that is September 24 (same time and site). Click here to register.

And while you’re at it, consider a donation to WVEMS. Many residents don’t realize they pay for everything — from ambulances to Band-Aids — themselves.

There are many worthy causes and organizations in Westport. Few are as life-changing — and life-saving — as this.

==================================================

Today’s “Westport … Naturally” featured photo shows what Ed Simek believes is a yellow crowned night heron. He spotted this handsome bird — which he had not seen before — at Burying Hill Beach.

(Photo/Ed Simek)

=================================================

And finally … who will win today’s World Cup final?

We have no idea. That’s why they play the game.

In the meantime:

(And finally … no matter what happens today in New Jersey, you’re always a winner when you check out “06880.” And you’re a true champion if you click here to support our work. Thank you!)

3 Comments

Posted in Environment, Library, Local business, Sports

Tagged , , , ,