In high school Gofman was involved in WWPT radio, and played on the state champion volleyball team.
He studied media production, and played and coached club volleyball, at Ithaca College, then earned a master’s in sport and performance psychology at the University of Denver.
Gofman spent 5 years at a Westport mental health group, helping young men struggling to navigate life. During COVID he and his wife Danielle moved to Roanoke, Virginia, where he was interim CEO of a community health center.
Last summer they returned to Westport. He established his practice on Sylvan Road South. In addition to life coaching, he specializes in patients with chronic pain.
Danielle is also a therapist; she works virtually.
David and Danielle Gofman, with their children.
Gofman empathizes with his young adult and early professional clients. Some are on the cusp of graduating; others are a few years into the careers, but don’t always like where they are.
They feel both the general anxieties of young people, and uncertainty about the future of work itself.
Meanwhile, the impersonal — and negative, no-reply, non-feedback elements of the application process — saps confidence, and reinforces doubts about what lies ahead.
Gofman tries to help clients align their job search around their personal values and interests.
Despite doomsday predictions, he says, “AI is not taking over a lot of jobs.”
As for algorithms that seem to rule the resume process, Gofman advises, “Control what you can control. Establish a network. Build relationships. Rely on those people.” That’s especially true, he says, when searching locally for work.
“Print out a resume. Knock on doors. You don’t always have to apply online,” he says.
And, he adds, “work on your interpersonal skills. Practice them, so you feel confident.”
David Gofman (Photo/Kristyn Miller)
Though Gofman was in much the same place less than 20 years ago — with plenty of college and career pressure — a lot has changed.
“I was in high school at the threshold of technological change,” he says. “Smartphones and social media were just coming in.” AI was still the stuff of science fiction.
Job applications were read by human beings, not software.
Now, David Gofman is one human being trying to help others navigate a new, and very difficult, world.
(“06880” reports regularly on Staples High School graduates, of all ages. If you enjoy stories like this, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
One of Westport’s favorite nights is back, and celebrating a milestone.
With a twist.
The 20th annual Taste of Westport returns Wednesday, June 3. As they’ve done for 20 years, the area’s top restaurants and mixologists will host an evening of great food, drinks and community — all for a wonderful cause.
The fundraiser benefits CLASP Homes. All proceeds help provide group homes and 24/7/365 services for adults with autism and developmental disabilities.
The twist: With the Inn at Longshore — its longtime home — undergoing renovations, the event moves to the Fairfield County Hunt Club.
It’s an intimate setting, with the same — but always fresh — superb food, signature cocktails and fine wines.
The Sherwood Island pavilion — one of the most popular meeting spots at Connecticut’s first state park — will be closed all year.
Maybe longer.
Alert “06880” reader Allan Siegert noticed the pavilion was closed effective January 16 “until further notice.” The Y’s Men of Westport & Weston, of which he is a member, uses it for their annual meeting, and other gatherings.
Park supervisor Cailtin Munson told him: “Unfortunately at this time, we really don’t have any information to share with you. The pavilion is closed until further notice while we undergo assessments for repairs, and we do not anticipate it to reopen for the remainder of 2026.
“While we are hopeful to have it reopened for the 2027 recreation, no information is available to provide an update for a re-opening date, so a timeline does not exist at this moment which is why it is listed as closed until further notice.
“As the Park Supervisor for Sherwood Island, I have the most up to date information regarding the pavilion, however, I still encourage you to also utilize the deep.stateparks@ct.gov email for questions you may have, as some inquiries may get routed to an alternate contact depending on the nature of your questions.
“Sherwood Island does have a smaller picnic shelter near the east beach bath house that is now reservable between May 1sr and September 30th through Reserve America, which may be an option for your gatherings.”
Congratulations to the Staples High School robotics team!
Competing recently their first aerial drone competition, the club placed first overall.
They also took 2nd place in both the Autonomous Flight and Teamwork categories.
The results qualify them for the Northeast Dragonfly regional competition in West Virginia.
They look forward to continuing to improve their skills in piloting, programming and teamwork as we prepare for higher-level competitions.
Of course, there are expenses like equipment and travel. The robotics team’s goal is $2,000. They’ve set up a GoFundMe page, and encourage residents to help support their efforts. Click here to contribute, and for more information.
On Tuesday, MoCA\CT opened their doors wide, hosting a special “speakeasy” night for Club203.
Members of Westport’s social group for adults with disabilities enjoyed casino games, jazz led by talented Staples High School musicians, tasty bites by Calise’s Deli, and art with MoCA (making dice and playing cards).
The current “Art, Jazz + the Blues” exhibit lent a special flavor to the night.
Club203 thanks all who made the evening great — especially, during this Volunteer Appreciation Month, the many volunteers who do so much!
Club 203’s speakeasy night, at MoCA\CT. (Photo/Stacie Curran)
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Comcast continues to wire Westport.
The cable, internet, phone and wireless provider plans to connect nearly 12,000 homes and businesses to their Xfinity network, which currently serves more than 64 million customers.
Westporter Tony Kiniry — executive director of Bridgeport-based nonprofit Recovery Community Development — described his organization’s work and impact at Tuesday’s Westport Rotary Club meeting.
The non-profit buys and renovates abandoned homes, then provides housing for up to 12 people recovering from drug and alcohol addiction in each.
RCD runs 3 houses in the Bridgeport area. A fourth is planned for Norwalk.
Residents pay a low monthly rent, and stay as long as necessary.
Tony Kiniry, at Tuesday’s Rotary Club meeting. (Hat tip and photo/ Dave Matlow)
Westport Police made 3 custodial arrests between April 1 and 7.
A 29-year-old Mount Vernon, New York man was charged with reckless driving, engaging police in pursuit, reckless endangerment and illegal window tinting. In January an officer was alerted by a license plate reader that there was an active warrant for a passing vehicle’s owner. The vehicle exited a Saugatuck train station parking lot, then engaged in a pursuit on Riverside Avenue that included driving through a work zone, off the shoulder, jumping a curb and sidewalk, then over a retaining wall into a private parking lot. The pursuit was discontinued, but after the suspect was incarcerated in Westchester County, New York, he was extradited to Connecticut. He was held on a $35,000 bond.
A 20-year-old Fairfield woman was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol/drugs (under 21 years of age) and evading responsibility, following a motor vehicle accident in the parking lot of 100 Post Road East. She allegedly struck a fence, support structure and sign, then rove away and nearly struck another car, before parking extremely close to an adjacent car. She was released on a $1,000 bond.
A 27-year-old Brooklyn woman was charged with larceny, identity theft, criminal investigation, forgery, and conspiracy to commit those crimes, after a complaint that a check had been intercepted and altered. She was held on a $50,000 bond.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Texting while driving: 34 citations (part of a statewide crackdown this month)
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 7
Distracted driving: 6
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 5
Speeding in a school zone: 3
Traveling unreasonably fast: 3
Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 3
Speeding: 2
Following too closely: 2
Failure to renew registration: 2
Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 2
Improper use of markers: 2
Evading responsibility: 1
Failure to obey stop sign: 1
Failure to register a commercial vehicle: 1
Failure to cancel registration within 10 days: 1
Westport Police issued 34 citations for texting while driving.
Sure, it’s April 9. But some folks here woke up to frost today.
The birds, though, are singing as they always do this time of year. And if the weather is good enough for them — as it is for this blue jay, in today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo — it’s good enough for us.
Dave Goldshore — the Staples High School boys basketball coach who in 4 years won 2 FCIAC (league) championships, and took the Wreckers to the state finals twice, most recently last month — is stepping down.
Goldshore — whose team this winter filled the gym, galvanized the town and inspired a generation of younger players — sent this message to the Staples basketball community an hour ago:
“After deep reflection, I have made the difficult decision to step away as head boys basketball coach at Staples.
“This was not an easy decision. Over the past 9 years — 5 as an assistant and 4 as head coach — this has meant far more to me than a position or title. It has been a purpose, an identity, a privilege, and something I have poured my heart into every day.
“I have always believed this role deserves full energy, and full presence and I am confident that the program will be left in very capable hands.
“I am deeply grateful for the trust you placed in me, for the support you gave this program, and for the opportunity to coach you or your sons. It has been an honor to be part of this journey.”
Coach Dave Goldshore, at last month’s state championship at Mohegan Sun.
Athletic director VJ Sarullo added: “This afternoon, Coach Goldshore held a meeting with our student-athletes to share that he has resigned from his position as head coach of our boys basketball program.
“We thank Coach Goldshore for his incredible leadership and commitment, and we wish him all the best in his future endeavors.
“I would like to express my sincere appreciation to Coach Goldshore for his dedication to our student-athletes and the Staples High School community.
“Under his leadership, the program achieved an overall record of 85-19, highlighted by 4 consecutive FCIAC Finals appearances, back to back FCIAC championships, and 2 appearances in the CIAC Finals.
“While the on-court accomplishments are significant, the relationships that Coach Goldshore built and the positive culture that he fostered within the program are even more meaningful.
“At Staples High School, we believe the most important quality in our coaches is that they are outstanding individuals who genuinely care about our student-athletes. Coach Goldshore exemplified this standard each and every day and his impact on our program will be lasting.
“I congratulate Coach Goldshore on all that he has accomplished and thank him for the impact that he has made on our student-athletes. He will always be a Wrecker!”
Darin Brunstad grew up in Westport, and graduated from Staples High School in 1985. He and his husband David are raising 4 children in upstate Connecticut. Darin writes:
Whitely, Lipson, Weigle: Westport music teachers who saved me.
I think of them often these days, as my own young kids wend their ways through public school music education: choir, sax, clarinet and trumpet.
I started out labeled “gifted” — an early program which sent us to help classmates learn skills we had already mastered.
I liked helping. But by 3rd grade my life settled into the reality of a bad check- writing, alcoholic, unemployed stepfather; a clinically depressed grandmother caretaker, and a mother who was gone 12 hours a day beating her head bloody against the glass ceiling on Madison Avenue.
I changed elementary schools 6 times (including Kings Highway, Saugatuck, Coleytown and Burr Farms). Each was a progression of barely tolerable experiences, save the last one, which was more “Lord of the Flies” than anything else.
Burr Farms was one of Darin Brunstad’s several elementary schools. (Computer image by Steve Katz)
I was chubby, dirty and unkempt. I combed my hair and saw fleas stuck between the teeth. I was afraid of bathrooms because of The Terrible Thing that happened in one. So much shame and fear to keep locked away.
I also had more concussions than a child is supposed to have. (Shoutout to the Assumption kids — that was me who starred the windshield when my Grandma hit your school bus head on).
This probably fried my brain a bit. But I think most of my academic apocalypse had to do with being the new kid too many times.
Mrs. Whitely was the music teacher at my last elementary school. She had long gray hair she wore up, and glasses on a chain. I don’t think I ever saw her smile.
She was mocked and derided by students, yet somehow managed to expose us to such amazing things: outdoor winter concerts, fiery depictions of “Night on Bald Mountain,” barbershop quartets. She pulled off an excellent performance of “Solomon Grundy,” with the composer in attendance.
My first time on stage singing in her choir, watching her hands guide us along with such intensity, changed me.
The rest of the world disappeared. There was only that moment of creation — something I didn’t quite understand yet, but enjoyed immensely.
I was a boy soprano who could sing higher than any girl. Taunts of “faggot,” plus recess bullying, made me quit. I withdrew further, and spent recess volunteering in the cafeteria.
Three years of a music desert followed, as things got worse both at home and school. Even my main tormentor started feeling sorry for me, knitting his brows and saying, “Are you depressed? You seem depressed!”
By Long Lots Junior High I was too skinny, and desperately tried to make my increasingly tall and lanky body fold into itself to remain completely unnoticed.
But into a cramped basement music room with arena seating, all the way in the dark back corner of our school, came Alice Lipson. She was petite, and had hair all the way down to her waist.
Alice Lipson (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)
She tried diligently to teach us heathens about music theory, using Mozart’s “Symphony #40 in G Minor” to illustrate codas, themes and whatnot. There were even handouts. None of that made much sense to me, but the music — the music — grabbed at me.
Mrs. Lipson corralled a gaggle of reluctant 9th graders, and built an immense choir with an ambitious repertoire.
We were rowdy and disobedient, but somehow she coaxed amazing sound out of us. Some teachers in the audience at our concert actually cried. This thing we were doing not only centered me in my chaotic world, but it could affect others too?
By 10th grade at Staples I was fiercely hiding in the closet, and numbing myself regularly with alcohol. I skipped school, lied a lot, and barely passed anything.
Darin Brunstad, sophomore year.
But high school brought George Weigle — an exacting and immensely gifted choir director.
We sang double choir magnificats, spirituals, and put on huge holiday productions. We sang in Latin, Hebrew, German. The professionalism he required of us made us capable musicians, and better people.
Dr. Weigle was nearing the end of his career. He had little patience for nonsense, and famously less for “mediocrity.”
Dr. George Weigle (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)
But you’d be wrong to mistake his constant look of intensity and focus as a scowl, even as he looked down at us over his glasses.
In December of sophomore year I came to school late, after a young man I knew took his life. I had spent the previous night trying my best to comfort his mother, and had helped clean up the mess so she wouldn’t have to see it when she returned from the hospital.
I wandered into his choir room and just stood there, still in shock. George Weigle quietly dismissed the 108-voice group and led me into his office. I think he talked to me for an hour.
1984-85 Orphenians.
More than anyone, George Weigle taught me the beauty of that intense moment of silence, after the conductor makes eye contact and right before he raises his baton.
Discipline, focus, intention. Then the sharp intake of breath as he raises it up.
What happens after is always a blur to me. After hours of rehearsals I get lost in the music, barely remembering anything before the final sweeping cutoff motion.
Lost in a beautiful way, though. I just go somewhere else. Somewhere happy.
Darin Brunstad’s senior portrait …
What would I have had if I hadn’t been given this gift of music by these teachers? What would have become of me? Yet my love of music endures, and is integral to my mental health. I can’t imagine life without it.
My husband and I adopted our kids from foster care later in life. l’ve witnessed how music smooths the rough places for them, but those will be their own stories to tell someday.
,,, and today, with a flower he found on the sidewalk.
So to all the beloved music teachers: If you see a kid who is struggling, music may be the answer. Maybe there’s a kid who acts out because they can’t read music and is embarrassed. That was me.
Don’t give up on them. Everything you do is important. It can even be life-saving. Every beginning squeak, scratchy string or flat note can lead to something profound and permanent.
Thank you Mrs. Whitely, Mrs. Lipson, and Dr. Weigle.
George Weigle conducts the 1984 Candlelight concert production number. Darin Brunstad is in the center; he played the father in “Yes Virginia, There is a Santa Claus.”
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Spring of 2007 brought Staples Players’ production of “The Mystery of Edwin Drood.”
The Tony Award-winning musical by Rupert Holmes — based on Charles Dickens’ unfinished novel — is notable for its interactive, “solve-it-yourself” format.
Notable too was that Holmes himself came to the high school, and met with the cast and crew during rehearsals.
Click here or below for highlights of that show. Thanks, as always, to Jim Honeycutt. As Staples media teacher, he filmed the production.
Now, in retirement, he’s producing these weekly nutshells.
Several “Drood” actors went on to careers in entertainment, including:
Hannah Dubne (Ms. Rosa Bud): “Hamlet,” “The Big Gay Italian Wedding”)
Zoe Apoian (Helena Landless)
Britt Hennemuth (Reverand Chrisparkle): Senior vice president of production development and special projects, Universal Pictures
Drew Angus (Horace): recording artist
Brittany Uomoleale (now Baron): “Glow,” “Final Fantasy VII Remake.”
ENCORE!To promote the show, Players filmed a series of videos.
This one features Mia Gentile, who played Princess Puffer. She went on to a Broadway career, including “Kinky Boots.”
Here’s another, with Tyler Paul (who went on to make his mark in children’s theater), and the late Joe Ziegahn, Players’ longtime and much-loved technical director.
When Westport’s new assistant town attorney begins work in June, she won’t need a lesson in local government.
Candice Savin is a familiar face. From 2021-25, she was our 3rd selectwoman. Before that she served on the Board of Education, including 2 years as chair.
Savin is a graduate of Johns Hopkins University, and earned a law degree at Duke University.
She has been a board member at The Conservative Synagogue and the Westport chapter of Hadassah. Since 2012, she has co-chaired the Westport Library’s “Booked for the Evening” fundraiser.
“Affordability” — a hot topic nationally these days — is the theme of this year’s 10th annual Westport Woman’s Club Art Show.
Sixteen local artists — with works curated by Miggs Burroughs — are on display Thursday, April 23 (4 to 7 p.m.), and Saturday and Sunday, April 25-26 (2 to 5 p.m.).
Burroughs says that by featuring smaller, original works across an array of styles and media, the show offers buyers affordable, local pieces.
Artists include Robin Babbin, John Bygott, Bonnie Edelman, Susan Fehlinger, Hernan Garcia, Rachel Hall, Elisa Keogh, Shelley Lowenstein, Paula Morgan, Larry Morse, Jon Puzzuoli, Butch Quick, Jodi Rabinowitz, Cindy Wagner and Tammy Winser.
Guest artist Sean Keating will show work in the drawing room, where small works donated by the participating artists as chance prizes will be on display.
This year’s show honors the memory of Jo Fuchs Luscombe. The former WWC president — who also served as state representative, 3rd selectwoman and Zoning Board of Appeals chair — died last year.
The opening reception (April 23) features Rock & Roll Hall of Fame member Mark Naftalin, playing on the Woman’s Club piano.
Net proceeds benefit local community service organizations, and need-based scholarships.
To see a PDF catalogue (including measurements, media and prices) before the show, email DorothyECurran@aol.com; put “Art Show Catalogue” in the header.
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The “Career Coach” will be in the Westport Library parking lot this Thursday (April 9), for a session on “Computer Basics.”
It returns May 21, covering “Tips for Resume & Cover Letter,” and June 19 (Intro to Excel).
There are 2 sessions ( 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.) each day; both are 2 hours long. Registrants can choose one.
The service is available to people who are exploring career opportunities, actively looking for a job, or seeking additional part-time employment. Click here to reserve a spot.
Speaking of the Library: Staples Players’ first-ever collaboration with that institution — a staged reading of the whimsical, funny and poignant show “Almost, Maine” — drew a large crowd last night.
And because this was both Players and the Library — neither of whom do things halfway — it ended with a Q-and-A led by playwright John Cariani.
Playwright John Cariani (standing), Staples Players co-director David Roth, and the cast of “Almost, Maine.” (Photo/Susan Garment)
Uni K Wax is opening its first Connecticut location in Playhouse Square tomorrow (Wednesday) — and “06880” readers can snag a deal.
The studio — with all-natural ingredients and “elevated hygiene practices, including individual wax warmers for every service” — offers 50% off their first wax, to anyone using the code 06880Blog.
Click here or follow on Instagram for information about services, opening offers, and memberships.
Wax treat.
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Jazz vocalist Alma Micic first came to Jazz at the Post as part of her guitarist husband Rale Micic’s ensemble. She rocked it.
This Thursday (April 9, VFW Post 399; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner from 7), she returns — and shares the stage with him.
The life of Adé Van Duyn — the artist, educator and longtime Westporter who died in October at 98 –will be celebrated this Saturday (April 11, 11 a.m., Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport).
The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Amnesty International.
Adé Van Duyn.
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Tidal flats are ready to burst out with spring colors, in today’s brown-but-not-for-long “Westport … Naturally” photo.
And finally … on this date in 1862, the Union Army defeated the Confederates near Shiloh, Tennessee.
(“06880” is your hyper-local blog. We depend on donations from readers like you. If you enjoy our 24/7/365 coverage of all things Westport, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
It’s official: Carolyn Doan — Westport’s unofficial osprey spotter — says that the Fresh Market osprey is back.
The actual first raptor of the spring was spotted earlier, by Gray’s Creek. An earlier report of the osprey at the tall perch next to Terrain turned out to be a hawk.
Their mates will no doubt join them soon. We’ll see them building nests, fishing for food, and — hopefully — tending their young.
Carolyn Doan usually has a high-powered lens. This was taken with her iPhone. (Photo/Carolyn Doan)
“Your State, Your Business” — the program that brings high-ranking officials to the Westport Library to share their work with business owners and residents — continued Thursday.
Connecticut Attorney General William Tong — the third speaker, in the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce series — opened with “Law School 101,” which set the stage for the civil legal and constitutional law discussions that followed.
Key topics included the role of the AG here, and differences with other states; high profile issues like personal data and privacy, and cases Tong has filed on behalf of the state and its citizens.
Attorney General William Tong, at the Westport Library.
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Congratulations to Ignacy Nieweglowski, Sahil Vora, Rohan Sareen, Ezra Schwartz and Kevin Cano!
On Sunday, the Staples High School students captured first place in the Lockheed Martin CyberQuest Competition.
And they snagged gold for the second year in a row.
In the annual capture-the-flag competition, students take on a wide range of challenges designed by professional cybersecurity engineers. They include multi-step intrusion scenarios, steganography, reverse engineering, operating system exploitation, packet analysis, web vulnerabilities and social engineering.
The event was held at Lockheed Martin’s Sikorsky headquarters in Stratford. Facing teams from across the region, the Stapleites worked collaboratively through 3 hours of intense problem-solving.
Following last year’s win, the students grew Staples’ cybersecurity program, and formed a larger team.
In addition to this year’s first-place finish, the B and C teams also placed in the top 5. The B team included Anit Arvind, Tucker Eklund, Srihan Popuri, Maadhav Subramaniam and Jonah Frey, while the C team was Joey Carpenter, Cora Barrett and Nora Ismael-Bakkali.
Up next: the national semifinals. Go Wreckers!
From left: Ignacy Nieweglowski, Sahil Vora, Rohan Sareen, Ezra Schwartz, Kevin Cano.
Speaking of Staples: Congratulations to the 24 band, orchestra and choir programs who participated in the recent Connecticut Music Educators Association All-State Festival at the Hartford Convention Center.
The 3 days included rehearsals led by guest conductors, culminating in a final performance.
Staples All-State Festival musicians included
Band: Justin Jendrock, Gargi Karve, Dylan Taylor, Christian Green (horn in orchestra)
Choir: Veronica Albee, Josie Caricato, James Donoghue, Beckwith Fipp, Catherine Herbert, Abigail Kim, Josephine Lewertoff, Jasmita Mani Lorenzato, Lyla McEntee, Sophia Macris, Christian Michaels, Denver Razza, Helen Root, Ari Sklar, Samantha Skopp
Orchestra: Kirthana Gowthaman, Isabel Jo, Isabella Mariani, Ayush Rudra, Chloe Wong
Staples’ All-State Festival musicians (missing James Donoghue and Josephine Lewertoff).
“06880” is Westport’s full-service blog, and the Roundup is where you can find nearly every service: upcoming events, achievements, obituaries.
The other day, we helped a Westport firm find a summer intern.
The New England Consulting Group received inquiries from several outstanding applicants. They extended an offer to a Staples graduate.
Now they’ve got another opening. This is for a part-time, experienced administrative assistant. For details, contact Applicants can contact Susan Owen, CFO: seo@necg.net (put “part-time admin at NECG” in the subject line), or call 203-297-9389.
The Longshore golf course and driving range open for the season this Friday (April 3).
That’s good news. Even better: There’s a new reservation system, new carts, enhancements to communication, and continued course improvements.
The ForeUp reservation service will provide a more user-friendly interface for booking and managing tee times.
Booking begins tomorrow (Thursday, 6:30 a.m.). Tee time booking windows remain 5 days in advance, starting at 6:30 a.m.
Golfers should check their email for a message from ForeUp, with details on setting up an online booking account. That includes a credit card, as no-show fees will be enforced.
Also new: electric lithium-ion Club Car carts. They’re equipped with GPS technology, allowing golfers to have distances available on the course.
A new phone system will be introduced too, to cut down on the general information phone calls going into the pro shop. The website remains the most easily accessible place for info on pricing, tee times, instruction and more.
Westport residents wishing to purchase or renew a golf handpass can do it online or at the Parks & Recreation office in Longshore (weekdays, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.).
Almost open! (Dave Dellinger)
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The Westport Police Department has joined a statewide distracted driving enforcement campaign, and public awareness initiative.
Both run all month, as part of National Distracted Driving Awareness Month.
Law enforcement agencies across Connecticut will ramp up distracted driving enforcement efforts. The focus is on identifying and citing drivers who text, use electronic handheld devices, or otherwise divert their attention from the road.
In 2023 alone, 5,202 crashes involving distracted driving resulted in 12 fatalities and 78 serious injuries.
Tips to avoid distracted driving:
• Pull over safely if you need to text or make a call.
• Ask a passenger to manage navigation or messages.
• Avoid checking social media while driving.
• Limit interaction with in-vehicle technology. Program
navigation or music before starting your trip.
• Use your phone’s “Do Not Disturb While Driving” feature, or
silence notifications to reduce the temptation to check your device.
Yesterday, Westport Police Officer Bernie Kelley assisted Westport Animal Control Officer Peter Reid in the rescue of a baby great horned owl at Longshore.
The bird was transported to Wildlife in Crisis for treatment of a small wound. If re-nesting proves feasible, it will be attempted. Residents interested in contributing towards the owlet’s care — or that of many other locally rescued and abandoned wildlife can click here.
Officer Bernie Kelley with owlet.
Last Thursday, Westport Police Officer Daniel Lovallo responded to a roaming dog near I-95. The rottweiler was transported to Westport Animal Control, and received Westport Animal Shelter Advocates-funded care the next day.
She has been named Dottie, and is loved by the Westport Animal Control officers and WASA volunteers. No microchip was located and no owner has claimed her, so she is available for adoption. If interested, call WASA (203-557-0361), or email wasa1@optonline.net.
WASA will help with veterinary care. Residents interested in donating to that cause can click here.
The Jazz Society of Fairfield County presents the wildly popular “Jazz at the Post” series. Every Thursday night, they bring musicians — some internationally famous — to VFW Post 399, for 2 great shows. The price is low; the talent level very, very high.
But Jazz FC does much more. Among their projects: outreach and scholarships.
To fund those endeavors, they’re sponsoring a “Jazz Cruise by the Saugatuck” (April 23, 6 to 10 p.m.). NOTE: It’s at the VFW, not actually on the river.
Congratulations to Harry McLaughlin and Eva Slossberg!
The Staples High School seniors were honored Monday, at the Connecticut Association of Schools’ 31st annual High School Arts Banquet.
Harry McLaughlin (visual arts) and Eva (music and theater) were selected by Staples faculty members for their outstanding achievement, dedication, and impact within their disciplines.
The evening included a keynote address about how the arts shape identity, give voice to personal expression and create lasting impact, and a performance by Rubyfruit, a University of Connecticut a cappella group that promotes women’s empowerment through music.
Congratulations too to Staples seniors Justin Halky, Ford Epstein, Patricio Garcia and Kai Schwartz.
The students in Stacey Delmhorst’s Financial Decision Making course placed 2nd at the Tuesday’s state finals of the National Personal Finance Challenge.
In the nationwide competition, student teams analyze case studies and respond to complex financial scenarios involving budgeting, saving, investing and managing risk.
From left: Ford Epstein, Patricio Garcia, Kai Schwartz, Justin Halky.
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Scott Brodie has lived in New York for decades.
But the 1970 Staples graduate grew up here. He visited his parents regularly; his mother Esther died less than a year ago, at 98.
So Scott was intrigued to read in yesterday’s Roundup that one of the homes the Historic District Commission will discuss on April 9, for a demolition permit, is 48 Burr Farms Road — a few houses down from the one his parents built in the 1950s.
He writes: “The house is one of about a dozen cookie-cutter split levels built by Norman Shapiro, who first developed the northern half of the road in the early 1950s.
“Over the years these have been either heavily modified, or torn down to make room for much larger houses. Indeed, #48 has been for many years pretty much the only one of these original houses in essentially its original state:
48 Burr Farms Road
“Only the few folks with long memories and a historically-trained eye can ‘see’ the bones of the original splits in the other, heavily-modified buildings. For example, here is #43:
43 Burr Farms Road
“The dormers, porch and front-facing gable are all add-ons. The original garage with flat ‘sun deck’ survives, but was made into living space, with a new garage added at far left.
” expect the Commission will find little or no historical value in #48 — perhaps the last of its kind. Thus, the end of an era.”
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Nearly 100 Westport Rotary Club members and guests gathered Tuesday, to honor Win Allen.
The longtime, 93-year-old Westporter was celebrated for his service to, and leadership of, the organization. Marty Helman, a Rotary International trustee, came from Maine for the event.
The ceremony included a performance by Diego Carniero, a Rotary International Peace Ambassador, and acclaimed Ecuadorean cellist.
Win Allen (2nd from left) with (from left) Marty Helman, Rotary International trustee; Rick Benson of Westport and Billy Roberts of Massachusetts, past district governors.
Westport Police made 5 custodial arrests between March 27 and 31.
A 29-year-old Manchester man as charged with larceny, burglary and criminal mischief, and conspiracy to commit those crimes, following an investigation into a September burglary at Westport Auto Repair. Two doors were pried open by suspects, who tried to steal the ATM but ultimately took 2 cash registers. They contained $1,000 in cash; damages were $4,800. He was held on a $50,000 bond.
A 28-year-old Bronx man was charged with larceny, after a complaint from Mike’s Factory Direct. After an online order for $33,136 worth of massage chairs was picked up by a man driving a U-Haul truck in November, the credit card company complained of fraud. The man was released on a $50,000 bond.
A 32-year-old Hamden man was charged with larceny, after 17 sets of tire and rim sets, worth over $30,000, were stolen in January from Maserati of Westport. He was released on a $50,000 bond.
A 54-year-old Middlebury man was charged with operation of a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol/drugs, and failure to drive in the proper lane, after his vehicle struck one that was parked and unoccupied on River Lane. He was released on a $100 bond.
A 69-year-old Norwalk man was charged with disorderly conduct, after an early morning argument between 2 friends in a home about the quality of food being served turned physical. He was held on a $5,000 bond.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Traveling unreasonably fast: 12 citations
Texting while driving: 8
Failure to renew registration: 8
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 2
Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 2
Tinted window glass violation: 2
Passing a standing school bus: 1
Speeding in a school zone: 1
Reckless driving: 1
Speeding: 1
Distracted driving: 1
Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
Yogi Bear stars in today’s “Westport .. Naturally” photo.
His friend Cat Malkin said yesterday: “When I broke the news that we couldn’t walk on the beach today he replied, “Is this some kind of April Fool’s joke?’”
And finally … on this date in 1968, “2001: A Space Odyssey” premiered at the Uptown Theater in Washington.
(“06880” has been your window on Westport almost since 2001. We launched in 2009. Whether you’ve enjoyed us all along, or just found us yesterday: thanks. And please click here to support us!)
Our look back at Staples Players’ past shows continues today, with the fall 2005 production of “Children of Eden.”
David Roth and Kerry Long directed the 1991 musical. Based on the Book of Genesis, it tells the stories of Adam and Eve, Cain and Abel, and Noah and the flood.
Longtime media teacher Jim Honeycutt created these “nutshells,” part of “06880”‘s continuing coverage of Players, yesterday and today.
He notes that some of actors in this show went on to bigger things.
Mia Gentile (Eve) starred on Broadway in “Kinky Boots.” She also made it onto “Good Morning America,” with hilarious Stanley Steemer ads.
Jacob Heimer (Adam) starred on Broadway in “Beautiful.” Adam Kaplan (Japheth) went on to star on Broadway too, in “A Bronx Tale.”
Drew Angus (Ham) is now a successful recording artist.
Yesterday’s announcement of the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce’s “Your State, Your Business” event with Governor Ned Lamont (April 13, 11 a.m., Westport Library) did not include the registration link.
Saturday’s “Hero to Hero” event drew a large, passionate crowd to the Saugatuck Rowing Club.
“Hero” is a non-profit that help highly qualified military members transition to first responder careers. It’s a win-win-win — for the servicemembers, their employers, and the entire community.
Locally, 5 Westport Fire Department members are graduates of the program.
This weekend’s event raised awareness of “Hero to Hero” — and raised funds for an independent film, which will raise even more funds for the organization.
The “Blue Bunny” film project is led by Rita Marcocci, a Westport resident and award-winning producer. She says:
“Our community came together in a powerful way — united by purpose, storytelling, and a shared commitment to those who have served our country.
“The fundraiser was a reminder of what’s possible when community, creativity and compassion align. From heartfelt remarks by veterans to the overwhelming generosity in the room, and the passion behind Senator Blumenthal’s speech, the evening reflected the very mission we stand behind: supporting our veterans as they transition from active duty into meaningful roles as first responders, while using storytelling to shine a light on the realities of veteran mental health.
“For those who couldn’t attend, but believe in supporting our veterans and the mission of Hero To Hero as well as independent filmmaking that will hire veterans for on screen and behind the scenes roles, we invite you to donate. Great auction items are still available too. Click here to help.
Westport Fire Chief Nick Marsan (far right) and Deputy Chief Matt Cohen (far left) with (from left): Clayton Janssen (Navy), Cody Ruschmeyer (Army), Liam Chrzanowski (Marines) and Zach Oullette (Marines). Not pictured: Kyle Sanzo (Marines.)
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Everyone who has heard the Bedford Middle School Jazz Band knows they’re special.
Now music educators all over the state know too.
The group performed as a “showcase ensemble” for the Connecticut Music Educators Association All-State conference, at the Connecticut Convention Center.
Gregg Winters’ 25 student musicians’ set included “Front Burner,” “Take the ‘A’ Train,” “The Girl from Ipanema” and “On Broadway,” a mix of swing, Latin and contemporary styles. All students also performed improvised solos.
Bedford Middle School Jazz Band.
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This may be a first, in Staples’ long sports history:
For 3 consecutive years, a Manchester sibling served as captain of the Staples High School ski team.
And … all 3 received the Coaches’ Award at the end of their senior year, for their contributions to the program.
Congratulations, Logan (2024), Max (2025) and Ella (2026)!
PS: Their father, Jeff Manchester, earned plenty of awards too, as a Staples wrestler back in the day.
Three Manchesters: From left: Logan (now a sophomore at Bentley College), Ella (headed to the University of Colorado) and Max (Bentley freshman).
Speaking of teenagers: The Westport Senior Center is looking for high school students to volunteer in their Tech Hub on Thursdays (3 to 4:30 p.m.).
It’s a flexible opportunity. Weekly emails are sent to check availability.
This is a great chance for tech-savvy youngsters to show what they know — and give back to their community. Most probably have experience already, helping their grandparents (and parents).
For more information or to sign up, email Diana Andrews: dandrews@westportct.gov.
Tech help, at the Senior Center.
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The stairs from the Westport Library’s main entrance to the Riverwalk below have been in disrepair for a while.
The Riverwalk — stretching from the Taylor parking lot all the way behind the Levitt Pavilion, ending at Deadman Brook — is one of Westport’s hidden jewels.
Soon, we’ll have one more way to access it — again.
Melissa Newman — a longtime Westporter, and Jazz at the Post favorite — kicks off the series’ first-ever Voices of Spring festival, this Thursday (VFW Post 399; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner from 7).
And finally … on this date in 1930, the Motion Picture Production Code began. It imposed strict guidelines on sex, crime, religion and violence in film, until it was replaced in 1968 with 4 ratings: G(eneral), M(ature), R(estricted to under 16, unless accompanied by an adult) and X (no one under 16 admitted).
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My first time on stage singing in her choir, watching her hands guide us along with such intensity, changed me.
