Roundup: Staples Players & Sports, Cribari Lights, Restaurant News …

Posted on November 14, 2025 | 4 comments

Staples Players’ big, bold, brassy — and spectacular — 10-show run of “Les Misérables” opened last night.

A cast of over 70 — costumed to the hilt, singing lustily on a revolving set, backed by a superb pit of nearly 30 musicians — awed the audience, with every aspect of the production.

If you’ve never seen a Players show: Go now!

Even if you’re an aficionado, you’ll be blown away by this one.

A few tickets are still available, for this weekend and next (including evenings and matinees). Click here for dates, times, and purchase and more information.

NOTE: The link above is the only place to buy tickets. Two people arrived last night, with tickets bought on StubHub. Let’s hope the person who was so sleazy as to try to profit off a high school drama program ends up like some of the revolutionaries at the start of Act 2.

A small portion of the large “Les Mis” cast. (Photo/Kerry Long)

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From the stage to the playing fields, there’s a lot going on with Staples this weekend.

Tomorrow, the field hockey team shoots for its third straight state championship. For the third year in a row, the opponent is archrival Darien.

Saturday’s 15 title match is set for 2:30 p.m. at Wethersfield High School.

On Sunday, the boys soccer team vies for their 13th state championship. They too face a Fairfield County opponent, with a long rivalry: Greenwich.

Kickoff is 3:30 p.m., at Hartford’s Trinity Health Stadium.

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A beloved tradition — holiday lights on the Cribari Bridge — nearly ended last year.

A quarter century of sponsorship by Al’s Angels ended. At the last minute, Westport’s Police Athletic League rallied businesses and individuals to buy new lights, install them, and once again make the Saugatuck span sparkle.

PAL took the lead again this year. They’re even getting a jump on the season.

A holiday lighting ceremony is set for this Sunday (6:30 p.m.). Everyone is invited.

The Whelk will serve hot chocolate, topped with a marshmallow whipped cream rim from Momu.

Attendees are encouraged to bring an unwrapped toy, for the Westport Police Department collection drive.

Let there be (Cribari) lights!

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For nearly 50 years, Bloodroot has served delicious vegan food — spiced with healthy amounts of feminist ideology, and a side helping of social justice-type books — in a funky, you’ve-got-to-know-it-to-get-there spot on Bridgeport’s Black Rock Harbor.

Co-founder and longtime Westporter Selma Miriam died in February, 2 weeks short of 90.

Bloodroot lived on. It was even the focus of a documentary.

Bloodroot is tucked away, off a residential street in Black Rock.

But nothing lasts forever. Bloodroot will close on December 21, after what co-owner Noel Furie calls “48 amazing and wonderful years in business. This decision, though sad, is also necessary given many factors in our lives at this time.

“We’ve chosen December 21 because it is the day of the Winter Solstice (which means sun standing still), and heralds the beginning of the return of the light. The days start to get longer and it is a time for hope and celebration.

“We hope you will continue to visit us during our usual business hours in the remaining weeks that we are open.”

Within hours, nearly 200 devastated, devoted and grateful diners posted thoughts and memories on Bloodroot’s Facebook page.

The restaurant/community center earned a special place in American women’s history. And none of it would have been possible without the passion, creativity, love and great energy of Westport’s own Selma Miriam. (Hat tip: Chris Grimm)

Selma Miriam, at Bloodroot in 2017.

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Speaking of restaurants: The Blondinit has earned raves — and a passionate following — since opening 20 months ago.

Now the Israeli spot on Church Lane has introduced a new winter menu.

Dishes include shawarma-spiced potato wedges topped with garlic sauce; wild caught Chilean sea bass with mushrooms, cannellini beans and spinach with a roasted red pepper sauce; erguez sausage with peppers; roasted eggplant and peppers spread with challah toast points; Shabbat schnitzel sandwich with eggplant and matbucha on challah bread, and baklava brûlée.

The other night, I enjoyed a tasting menu. I love the cuisine to begin with, but the flavors, freshness, variety and creativity — and the joy with which it is all prepared and served — brought the meal to another level.

That’s not just me talking. It was a Monday — normally the slowest day of the week, in a traditionally slow time before the holidays.

But the restaurant was packed.

Meanwhile, The Blondinit just announced its Hanukkah menu. Email catering@theblondinit.com or call (203) 557-3277 for details.

Dinner at The Blondinit.

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Sustainable Westport’s co-directors, Johanna Martell and Gately Ross, were recently featured on “The Joe Gardener Podcast.” The national platform explores sustainability through the lens of gardening.

The pair described how they left established careers to lead the local non-profit. They discussed the ripple effects of local action, how to foster change at the community level, and why personal voices and examples matter.

Host Joe Lamp’l praised their ability to connect with people where they are, making sustainability accessible rather than intimidating.

Click here to listen, and to read Lamp’ls account of his visit to Westport.

Johanna Martell, Gately Ross and Joe Lamp’l tape their podcast at Westport Library’s Verso Studios.

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Looking for one more way to help fight hunger?

The Westport Country Playhouse is collected food and toiletry items, for Homes with Hope.

Pasta, pasta sauce, cereal, oatmeal, peanut butter and jelly, canned goods (tuna, soup, vegetables, beans, fruit), toothpaste and shampoo may be left in a box in the lobby.

You can drop them off during the day, or before a show.

(Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

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Club203’s November event was a great “Bingo Bash” at the Senior Center.

Doug Brill called the games, for members of Westport’s social group for adults with disabilities.

Dedicated volunteers helped everyone be a winner. Trefz Corporation and Gold’s Deli were sponsors. MoCA\CT collaborated, as always. And once again, Westport’s Human Services Department provided important support.

Bingo!

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It didn’t rain yesterday.

But a beautiful rainbow appeared over Westport.

Adam Drake captured this image, over Winslow Park:

(Photo/Adam Drake)

It was also visible at — of all places — the rainbow crosswalk on Jesup Road:

(Photo/Svea Vocke)

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It’s a place every Westporters knows well, and loves dearly.

But we don’t always get to see it in mid-November.

June Rose Whittaker offers today’s “Westport … Naturally” image: timeless, yet timely, Compo Beach.

(Photo/June Rose Whittaker)

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And finally … in honor of Bloodroot, and its 48-year legacy:

(If it’s happening in Westport — or there’s a Westporter involved — you’ll read about it on “06880.” And if you appreciate what you read, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Mike Hayes: “Mission Driven” To Help Others

Posted on November 14, 2025 | 1 comment

As a freshman at Holy Cross, Mike Hayes attended a memorial service for John Connors. The Navy SEAL had been killed in Panama, after graduating the prior spring.

Hayes did not know Connors. But the event changed his life.

Hayes earned a spot in the very elite SEALs program. He spent 3 years in Iraq, then became a White House Fellow. On the National Security Council, he worked directly with Presidents Bush and Obama.

Mike Hayes (center), with his men on a mission.

After 20 years in the military — where he was held at gunpoint, jumped out of a building rigged to explode, and helped amputate a teammate’s leg — Hayes retired. He joined private industry, working as chief of staff to Ray Dalio, and COO, at Bridgewater Associates.

Hayes now serves as managing director at Insight Partners, a global software investor and venture capital firm.

Thirty years after his life was altered by a man he never met, Hayes spoke at a black-tie event, raising funds to build a statue honoring Connors in his home town.

Connors’ mother was there. Hayes thanked her, for raising a son who influenced Hayes’ life so profoundly.

That ideal — making an impact on someone you do not know — resonates deeply with Hayes. It’s the heart of his second book, “Mission Driven: The Path to a Life of Purpose.”

A practical guide for finding purpose and meaning in life, it focuses on self-discovery, and helps readers translate their purpose into actionable steps.

The target audience includes young adults, recent graduates, professionals seeking a new direction — anyone, really, who is going through a transition point in life — or will, one day.

Soon after publication in September, “Mission Driven” debuted at number 4 on USA Today’s list of all best-sellerss in the country. 

Hayes never thought he’d be an author. But after the success of his first book — “Never Enough: A Navy Seal Commander on Living a Life of Excellence, Agility, and Meaning,” offering lessons from both the battlefield and boardroom — Hayes realized there was more to say.

He’d provided a blueprint for readers. But now he wanted to offer practical tools, to go beyond living a life of meaning. The next step was making an impact on others — including strangers.

 “Mission Driven” has made its own impact. The author has heard from people who made important personal and professional decisions after reading it.

And someone texted him: “Mike, you’ve saved another life. Mine.”

Mike Hayes

Hayes certainly walks the talk. As he did with his first book, he is donating all profits to the 1162 Foundation, supporting Gold Star families. Through it, Hayes has paid off the mortgages of 12 women whose husbands were killed in action.

Hayes emphasizes, though, that the military is not the only way to impact people you’ll never meet. When people thank him for his service, he counters, “Everyone serves, in whatever way we can.”

His book, he says, helps everyone find their way to serve. For someone, it might be “taking particles out of the ocean.” For others, Teach for America, volunteering at their place of worship, or stopping in at a retirement home to spend time listening to residents’ stories.

All of us, he says, can “take action to make our great nation even better.”

Hayes’ grandfather was in the Navy at Pearl Harbor, on the day that will live in infamy. He told Hayes, “Whenever you’re having a hard day, find someone having a harder day.”

Hayes also lives by these words: “Helping others helps us more.”

Serving others is not easy, he acknowledges. The busyness of daily life can intrude on our ability to reach out, and act.

But “Mission Driven”‘s mission — and Hayes’ personal mission — is to reach people he does not know, and provide the tools so that they, in turn, can help others they may never meet.

(For more information and purchase information on “Mission Driven,” click here. Hat tip: Marshall Kiev)

Jamie Dimon rarely provides book blurbs. But he knows Mike Hayes. He put the author’s previous book on JPMorgan Chase’s summer reading list.

 

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Pic Of The Day #3130

Posted on November 13, 2025 | Comments Off on Pic Of The Day #3130

Roost with a view — Hillspoint Road, looking out over Sherwood Mill Pond (Photo/Danny White)

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Roundup: Hook’d, Inauguration, Housing …

Posted on November 13, 2025 | 11 comments

Everyone loves Compo Beach and Longshore.

Very few people love — or even like — Hook’d (aka “Bluestone”), the concessionaire at Compo Beach and Longshore.

So tomorrow’s Board of Finance special meeting agenda (Friday, November 14, 10 a.m., Zoom) caught our eye.

The session begins with an executive session “to discuss the lease by the Town to Hooked On The Sound LLC regarding the food service operations at Compo Beach Pavilion, Longshore Pavilion and the Halfway House at Longshore Club Park.

That’s followed by a public session: “Discussion and potential vote to approve a Lease Termination Agreement between the Town and Hooked On The Sound LLC regarding the food service operations at Compo Beach Pavilion, Longshore Pavilion and the Halfway House at Longshore Club Park.”

Will Hook’d get the hook? Will they be let off the hook?

Stay tuned — via Zoom.

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A US president has 2 1/2 months after the election before taking the oath of office.

A Westport first selectman has 13 days.

The swearing in ceremony for the Board of Selectpersons — and all other elected town boards, commissions and the Representative Town Meeting (RTM) — is this Monday (November 17, 7:30 p.m., Town Hall).

The public is invited, to see democracy in action.

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HB 5002 — a controversial bill that would have eliminated much local control over affordable housing — was vetoed by Governor Lamont in June.

But yesterday, the state House of Representatives voted 90-56 in favor of a replacement bill.

According to CT Mirror, it “requires towns to create housing growth programs, changes minimum off-street parking requirements, expands fair rent commissions and incentivizes towns to take steps to allow more housing, among other measures.

House Bill 8002 is “a compromise with local leaders and Gov. Ned Lamont.” Click here for the full CT Mirror story.

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Sure, you could travel above the Arctic Circle to see the Northern Lights.

Or you could step outside your Westport home.

They’ve been visible lately, due to a powerful geomagnetic storm resulting from recent solar activity. Favorable conditions should continue through Friday.

This was the scene Tuesday night, outside RB Benson’s Compo Hill home:

(Photo/RB Benson)

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Despite more hazards than ever, drivers are thrilled that work has resumed on the Post Road project, between the Volvo dealership and Sakura.

It’s been stalled since the Nixon administration.

The new spasm of activity includes not just milling, paving and lights.

A new bus shelter is also being built, at the corner of Rayfield Road just before Cava and Westport Hardware.

Another is going up across the street, in front of Fresh Market.

That’s great news for the employees of area businesses who — since before the Nixon administration — have had to wait, unprotected, in all kinds of weather.

Looks like the shelters will be used well — and soon.

(Photo/Dan Woog)

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The curtain rises tonight (Thursday) on Staples Players’ record 10-performance run of “Les Misérables.”

As they always do, they’re tying their shows in with a good cause.

This year, it’s Homes with Hope’s food pantry. The drama troupe will be collecting non-perishable items (peanut butter and jelly, pasta and sauce, cereal, oatmeal, pancake mix, coffee, tea, condiments, spices, soup, tuna, canned veggies and fruit and chicken and beans, baking items, cooking oil, hamburger helper, toiletries and personal care items) before each show.

It’s their way of making life less miserable, for neighbors in need.

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Westporters are very familiar with National Hall.

Now, millions of Lucia Gulbransen’s social media followers know it too.

The Westport-based stylist and influencer recently teamed up with local photographer and realtor Michael Chait. He shot fall fashions, using the 19th-century former town meeting hall/bank/newspaper office/furniture store/ boutique hotel and soon-to-be AIG office building as a backdrop.]

Lucia’s “wearing vs. styling” reel reached 3.5 million views.

Lucia Gulbransen (Photo/Michael Chait)

Lucia and Michael are continuing to take photos around Westport, capturing the beauty all around us.

Lucia can be found on Instagram @luciagulbransen, and at her website. Michael is @michaelchait_realtor, and his website.

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Westporters are also very familiar with Mar Jennings.

We know him for his or his hit show “Life on Mar’s: The Home Makeover Show”; his bestselling book series, and his award-winning real estate team.

But he’s also an Ice Skating Institute World Recreational Championship gold medalist.

And he’s bringing his talents to the Westport PAL rink at Longshore.

The Parks & Recreation Department has just named Jennings head coach and program director of the Learn to Skate program.

Westport Parks & Recreation is proud to announce that Mar Jennings—America’s Top Lifestyle Expert, Emmy®-nominated television host, bestselling author, and World Championship gold medalist—has been named Head Coach and Program Director of our 2025-2026 Learn to Skate program.

Parks & Rec recreation superintendent Carm Roda says, “His appointment marks a new chapter for the program, which follows the US Figure Skating Basic Skills curriculum, and serves skaters of all ages and abilities.

“His passion for skating, his commitment to youth development, and his deep ties to Westport make him the ideal leader for this program.”

The 10-week Learn to Skate program, for ages 3 and up, offers structured instruction, merit badge evaluations, and a supportive environment for growth. All students — whether skating for fun or aspiring to compete — are welcome.

For more information, click here. 

Mar Jennings, having fun on the ice.

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The next Veterans Benefits Luncheon is today (Thursday, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.), VFW Post 399).

It’s open to all veterans as part of an ongoing effort to check in on all veterans’ welfare, and connect them with the benefits and support they earned.

Representatives will answer questions, and provide information on services and assistance available to veterans.

RSVPs are encouraged (but not required). Email vfw399ct@gmail.com, and include the number of attendees, or call (203) 227-6796.

PS: If you’re not a veteran, but know one: Please pass the word!

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The Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport shows off members and friends’ artistic talents this weekend.

And everyone is invited.

The “UU Art & You” exhibit and sale begins with a reception tomorrow (Friday, 6 p.m.). Weekend hours are Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sunday, noon to 3 p.m.

Some items are for sale. Others are shared, “in the spirit of community and a love of creating beauty.”

Andrew Graham’s “Torment” is one of many works on display.

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Westport Police made 1 custodial arrest between November 5 and 11.

A 27-year-old Waterbury man was charged with reckless driving and engaging police in pursuit, after an investigation into a May 31 incident.

A Westport officer spotted a vehicle traveling southbound on Wilton Road near Newtown Turnpike, whose operator was wanted for charges by Stamford Police and other agencies. The driver disregarded a signal to stop, driving recklessly while continuing south on the Merritt Parkway. In Norwalk, the vehicle was involved in an accident, and was taken into custody. Last Friday, appearing in court in Hartford on an unrelated matter, he was taken into custody relative to the outstanding warrant for his arrest here. He was released on $50,000 bond.

Westport Police also issued these citations:

  • Traveling unreasonably fast (8 citations)
  • Speeding in a school zone: 3
  • Driving while texting: 2
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 2
  • Failure to obey state traffic commission regulations: 2
  • Disorderly conduct: 1
  • Speeding: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 1
  • Operating a unregistered motor vehicle: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 1
  • Failure to renew registration: 1
  • Failure to insure a motor vehicle: 1
  • Failure to drive in the proper lane: 1
  • Failure to drive right: 1.

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There’s nothing like eye contact for an intimate conversation.

These 2 friends — or more?! — were deeply engrossed the other day, in the Saugatuck River.

Dayle Brownstein did not want to interrupt, but took this stealthy photo for our “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Dayle Brownstein)

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And finally … to celebrate tonight’s opening of Staples Players’ “Les Mis” (item above):

(There is so much going on in Westport these days — well, there always is. In addition to reading all about it on “06880,” please take 12 seconds to click here and support our work. Thank you!)

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Bruno Guiduli Sports Green

Posted on November 13, 2025 | 4 comments

Bruno Guiduli has 2 passions: soccer and sustainability.

They seem like separate worlds. But the 2022 Staples High School graduate has managed to meld them together.

In the process, he could be at the cutting edge of helping change the way the entire sports industry looks at the world.

Okay, that’s a bit lofty. But the Macalaster College senior has a knack for doing important things, in a big way.

As an 11th grader in 2021, Bruno raised $3,000 in one day for a national program for players with intellectual, physical or emotional challenges.

Bruno Guiduli, with young players at the fundraiser he organized.

At college in Minnesota — where he is majoring in international studies and French, and minoring in geography — he founded, and is president and coach of the club soccer team.

During a semester abroad in France he interned with an organization combating racism — and worked with the famed Paris St. Germain club to limit racism in their stadium by analyzing fan behavior.

Among Bruno Guiduli’s many accomplishments: He was an All-American runner for the Staples track team. He’s third from left, with (from left) Samir Mott, David Sedrak and Jalen St. Fort. (Photos/Barry Guiduli)

Most importantly – for this story at least — Bruno founded Macalester’s Green Athletics Club.

It’s one of the first college clubs in the country to combine environmental sustainability and athletics. They design initiatives, promote environmental awareness in sports, and bring the athletic and sustainability departments closer together.

Macalaster is “very progressive,” Bruno says. But there was a big gap between its sports programs, and the way the rest of the school operated.

For example, concession stands used plenty of non-recyclable materials. Bruno helped get the athletic director, facilities manager and head of the sustainability department together. For the first time they talked about how each operated, and looked at weak points in their systems.

The Green Athletics Club has advocated for the use of environmentally sustainable sports uniforms, and examined stadium management (to limit the use of lights, protect the grass, limit water runoff, and use compostable materials).

Bruno Guiduli, wearing — appropriately — a green jersey.

Bruno hopes to recruit one representative from every varsity and club sport as “green ambassadors.” So far, men’s and women’s rugby, golf, swimming and frisbee are on board.

Last fall, Macalaster hosted the Upper Midwest Sustainability Conference. Bruno has networked with like-minded activists at other schools, and sports organizations in the region.

Bruno’s club is part of the Minnesota Sustainability Sports & Events Coalition, which works with major Twin Cities facilities.

Club members have met with representatives from Minnesota United, the Vikings, Twins and Timberwolves to learn how they implement sustainability initiatives into their operations, and ways to improve them.

Bruno Guiduli urges Macalaster to recycle.

Bruno has learned that while the University of Minnesota is very green — their stadium is the first college one to be LEED-certified — the University of Wisconsin athletic department follows its own (not very sustainable) guidelines, apart from the rest of the school.

“Sports have a huge platform,” Bruno notes. “This is a great way to spread the message about sustainability. People want to get involved in the environment. This is a great opportunity to do it.”

“And athletes are role models. If kids see athletes doing a cleanup, they might want to do it too.”

Bruno graduates this spring. He’s figuring out what comes next. After his semester in France last year, he did environmental work in Portugal.

“I might like to do that with a soccer team there,” he says.

Bruno Guiduli can find sports connections all over the planet.

He just wants to make sure there is still a planet, in the future, for every sports team.

 

 

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Pics Of The Day #3129

Posted on November 12, 2025 | 2 comments

One view of sunset over the Saugatuck River’s west bank …

… and another … (Photos/Dayle Brownstein)

… and earlier, not far away, the Bankside condos on Wilton Road … (Photo/John Maloney)

… and another view, further south (Photo/JD Dworkow)

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Homes With Hope: In Tough Times, Town Came Through

Posted on November 12, 2025 | Comments Off on Homes With Hope: In Tough Times, Town Came Through

It’s been a tumultuous time, for people who rely on SNAP benefits to eat.

But when things looked bleak, Westporters responded to their neighbors.

Homes with Hope — the non-profit focused on ending homelessness and hunger in Fairfield County — says:

In the midst of uncertainty, our community once again proved what makes Westport so special.

Over the past 2 weeks, as many families faced the difficult reality of a government shutdown and a pause in SNAP benefits, your support helped us keep our shelves full and our neighbors nourished.

We’re happy to share some good news: SNAP benefits have been reloaded, providing much-needed relief for many of the individuals and families we serve. But even during the most challenging moments, you showed up in every way imaginable.

Beyond the basics, Homes with Hope personnel offer fresh foods like fruit, and much more. 

From the incredible team of volunteers at the Gillespie Center Food Pantry, to everyone who donated, your kindness has been the driving force behind our response.

Thank you to everyone who made monetary donations, purchased from our Amazon Wish List, and delivered groceries and supplies directly to our pantry.

We’re deeply grateful to those who organized food drives across town, including Westport & Sunrise Rotary Clubs, Coleytown Middle School, Saugatuck Elementary School, Tend Dental, Staples Players and the Westport Country Playhouse.

Westport Rotary and Sunrise Rotary Clubs organized a successful food drive, at Stop & Shop.

Thanks to you, we were able to meet an unprecedented level of need last week.

In just one week, there was a 70% surge in good pantry demand.

Over 700 bags of groceries were collected, during food drives. In addition, the Westport community donated over $20,000. And more than 500 Amazon wish list boxes were bought, and delivered.

Westporters ordered hundreds of boxes, through Amazon’s wish list.

1,100 adults and children benefited from pantry services, in just 4 days.

It’s been a challenging month, but your generosity turned it into a story of hope and resilience. Every can, every dollar, every delivery made a difference.

From all of us at Homes with Hope — thank you for helping us ensure that no one in our community goes hungry. 💙

PS: If you’d like to continue supporting our work, click here to learn more about how to donate, volunteer, or otherwise help Homes with Hope.

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Unsung Heroes #408

Posted on November 12, 2025 | Comments Off on Unsung Heroes #408

Alert — and grateful — “06880” reader Lis Hisgen writes:

As a volunteer for the Homes for Hope food pantry, the other day I was carrying a heavy box of groceries across a parking lot.

I tripped on torn-up asphalt, and dropped my keys into a grate.

Not knowing what else to do, I called my Public Works colleague. It was after regular hours, but that didn’t stop Eric Lee from driving back to work to get a magnet.

Another guy, Ben Lee — they’re father and son —  also drove back to Westport to help in case they had to remove the grate. Luckily the magnet did the trick, and my keys were rescued!

I’m lucky to have such kind and helpful co-workers.

Eric and Ben Lee: Public Works heroes.

(“06880” is proud to honor Unsung Heroes — and tell many other tales of town too. Please click here to support your hyper-local blog.) 

 

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Roundup: Staples Soccer & Field Hockey, Veterans Day, Minute Man Monument …

Posted on November 12, 2025 | 3 comments

Two Staples High School teams are headed to the state finals.

The boys soccer team was dominating, but scoreless, until 3 second-half goals — the first 2 just 41 seconds apart — lifted the #4-seeded Wreckers to a 3-0 win over #9 Hall-West Hartford, at Newtown High.

Noah Rossoni, Brendan Allen and Adrian Rodriguez tallied for the Wreckers, with assists from Gabe Duque and Josh Whitaker.

That sets up an intriguing championship rematch with Greenwich. The Cardinals — ranked 2nd in the state “LL” (extra large schools) division — handed Staples one of their only 2 defeats in their 21-2-0 season so far, coming from behind to win 4-3. The Westporters got revenge in the FCIAC final, by a 3-2 count.

Staples goes for its 13th state title, but first since 2009, this weekend at Hartford’s Trinity Health Stadium. The day and time will be announced today.

The Staples High School boys soccer team. (Photo/John Walker)

The field hockey team, meanwhile, shoots for its 3rd consecutive class “L” (large schools) state championship — and it will be their 3rd straight title match against Darien.

The top-seeded Wreckers edged #4 Fairfield Ludlowe in a shootout yesterday, at Brien McMahon High.

The teams were deadlocked 1-1 after 2 overtimes. Each side made 1 of their first 5 shootout attempts. Leah Larit got the game-winner for Staples, in sudden death.

The Wreckers and Blue Wave face off Saturday, at Wethersfield High School. Game time will be announced today.

The Staples High School field hockey team.

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“06880” reported yesterday on the powerful Veterans Day address given by Staples High School senior Gunnar Eklund.

Here is a shot of two grateful veterans, at the Town Hall ceremony:

Duane Cohen and Pete D’Amico.

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Speaking of patriotism: Our Minute Man is often decorated in garb of the season: a Santa cap, Easter bunny ears, etc.

Yesterday, there was a different decoration:

(Photo/Matt Murray)

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While the Westport Fire Department’s annual Share the Warmth Coat Drive continues through November 30, they just learned that Bridgeport Rescue Mission is in urgent need of food for their Thanksgiving Food Drive.

Our firefighters have stepped up once again. And they’re asking our community to join them in helping fulfill their mission.

Non-perishable food items can be dropped at fire headquarters (515 Post Road East) and Town Hall through November 19. Monetary donations can be made to the Westport Firefighters Charitable Foundation. 100% of all those funds will be used to purchase turkeys.

In addition, firefighters are looking for new coats for the A Better Chance of Westport house: 3 men’s medium, 3 men’s large. For more information, call 203-451-2695.

One of the best shopping events of the year — for yourself or others — returns next month.

The Westport Library Big Fall Book Sale takes place December 5-8.

There are thousands of “gently used” books in over 50 categories, plus vintage children’s and antiquarian titles, audiobooks, CDs, vinyl, DVDs, ephemera and framed artworks. Admission is free (except for those purchasing an early access ticket, for 8:45 a.m. to noon, December 5).

A link to our Featured Specials list is available on the Book Sale’s website, at  www.westportbooksaleventures.org/our-events.  This list will be updated periodically during the weeks leading up to the sale.

Click here, then scroll down for hours, and information about specials and featured items.

Volunteers are always needed. Click here, or email volunteers@westportbooksales.org.

Something for everyone at the Westport Library book sale.

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The “06880”/Westport Downtown Association Holiday Stroll is still 3 1/2 weeks away.

But 2 dozen merchants and vendors have already signed up for giveaways, promotions and more.

The 5th annual event (December 6, 4 to 7 p.m., Main Street and beyond) features all kinds of family fun, from Orphenians caroling to Santa Claus, face painting and much more.

Nômade returns with their much-loved s’mores. Savvy + Grace will again be North Pole center, for kids’ letters to Santa (all get answered!).

Toy Post offers small gifts for children. Adults will enjoy holiday cheer at Clarendon Fine Art and Lux Bond & Green; 20% off at Kerri Rosenthal; $50 off $150 or ore at Southern Tide, and $25 off per dress at Bella Bridesmaids.

There are many more promotions to come. Businesses interested in participating in the Holiday Stroll can email Huong Belpedio: operations@westportdowntownassociation.com.

The Staples Orphenians: always a Holiday Stroll hit.

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Speaking of the holidays: Ashley Skatoff was a Westport Farmers’ Market board member. But she wanted to do even more, to help farmers and vendors.

An idea that simmered for a long time has finally launched. Modern Farm Kitchen delivers weekly from the WFM, direct to homes.

The menu includes dairy and cheese, basics, meats, seafood, veggies and fruits, breads, baked goods and more.

A soft launch this summer went well. Now, Skatoff has created a holiday list. Categories range from  pantry, healing and prevention, home spa and pets to cozy luxury, “H-artists” and gift bundles. She can guide customers to liquor, too.

She calls them “truly luxurious goods — grown, crafted, created and hyper-local to Westport. I feel like we can live as if were are in Italy, with amazing products right here in our very special town.” She takes the “hunting and gathering” out of it, offering items directly to residents.

She does not add a fee on top of the farmers, vendors and artists. “These are all super small businesses trying so hard to get their products to us,” Skatoff says.  MFK charges only $35 for finding, shopping across vendors, organizing into 1 order, and delivering to the door.

Skatoff stresses, “This is not an online store. To order, you have to pick up the phone and talk to me.” She will make sure customers get what they want, and “create a connection for them to follow up if they want to.”

The tag line is: “Give LOVE.  Not stuff.” She says here gifts are “perfect for teachers, neighbors, friends, gift exchanges, relatives. They are also beautiful to send and give a little Westport to faraway friends.

Click here for Modern Farm Kitchen.

Modern Farm Kitchen home page.

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There are 100 billion trillion stars in the observable universe.

But only a limited number of Westport Astronomical Society 2026 calendars. They feature spectacular images (including a few of those stars from WAS photographers), along with daily astronomical data.

The calendars can be shipped, or picked up in person. Click here for details, and ordering information. 

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Your Halloween skeletons and spider webs have barely been stashed away. You haven’t begun planning your Thanksgiving meal.

Yet one homeowner on Compo Road South has found time to hang Christmas decorations.

And not just 1 wreath. There are 9 (including the one on the stone wall).

(Ed Simek)

They are probably the first in Westport. Maybe the nation.

The warning shot has been fired. Get going, slackers!

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Project Sunshine delivers “the healing power of play” to children with medical needs.

While volunteers must be 18 to visit children in hospitals, high school clubs contribute through fundraising and packing “activity kits,” designed by child life specialists for children with medical challenges.

The first high school club started at Staples. There are now 24 Project Sunshine clubs, in 8 states. They’ve packed hundreds of activity kits, raised funds for resources, and helped spread awareness about the organization.

High school students nationwide are encouraged to start their own Project Sunshine clubs. If you know someone interested in launching a Project Sunshine club, click here.

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It only lasted a couple of minutes.

But the first “snow” — not really a “snowfall” of the season yesterday is the subject of today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

We’ve got 2 views.

Here’s one, from Tupelo Road:

(Photo/Carla Rea)

And Jerry Kuyper captured this scene, on Rayfield Road:

(Photo/Jerry Kuyper)

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And finally … in honor of the Westport Astronomical Society’s 2026 calendar (story above):

(“06880” is where Westport meets the world … and the universe. If you feel connected to others through our hyper-local app, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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3 Keys To Christie’s Win

Posted on November 12, 2025 | 30 comments

Early candidate selection. Voter contact and communication. Data.

Those are the basics of winning elections.

And, according to Democratic Town Committee chair Michelle Mechanic, they were the keys to Kevin Christie and Amy Wistreich’s decisive win in last week’s Board of Selectpersons race.

Democrats hold a 2-to-1 advantage over Republicans, in local registrations. (Unaffiliated voters are second — nearly as many as Democrats.)

But although Dems controlled all other town boards, they had lost 3 consecutive selectperson contests — dating back to 2013 — before this year.

One key was to start the nominating process early. Past DTCs had waited until the official July nominating convention — “the 11th hour,” Mechanic says.

This year’s “pre-endorsement meeting,” in late winter — including a round of interviews — identified Board of Education candidate Christie for the top spot.

He promised to campaign “day and night.” And he identified Wistreich — a Planning & Zoning Commission member — as his running mate. The nominating committee then met her, vetted her, and endorsed her to the full DTC.

There was no “grand strategy,” Mechanic notes. More important is “picking good people, and allowing them to be themselves.”

Kevin Christie and Amy Wistreich, at a candidates’ debate. (Photo/Dan Woog)

Communication is another important element. The Democrats spent about 60% of their funds on email newsletters and blasts, high-quality mailers, digital media and robo-texting.

Another element of communication: old-fashioned knocking on “tons of doors.”

The rest went to professional services, like campaign managers.

(As for yard signs: “They don’t win races,” Mechanic says. They are, however, good for name recognition of new candidates. And when placed on private property; they serve as “personal endorsements.”)

The Democratic Town Committee also used its proprietary data base well, Mechanic says. That includes information on who is likely to vote for their candidates; who needs a push to get to the polls — and, during early voting and Election Day itself, who has not yet cast a ballot.

By Election Day, Mechanic was ready for one of 2 outcomes: “either really close, or a blowout.”

In the end, it was close to the latter. Christie and Wistreich earned 52.84% of the vote, in a 3-way race.

Kevin Christie (center, rear), speaking to supporters at Little Barn on election night. (Photo/Catherine Campagnino)

“The rules of politics worked,” Mechanic says. “People found Kevin and Amy authentic and qualified.”

The Board of Education race was trickier. The DTC endorsed 2 candidates; 2 other Democrats gathered 400 signatures, and also appeared on the Democratic Party line.

One of the 2 endorsed candidates dropped out. But because, by Town Charter, one party can have just a bare majority on the BOE, only 2 of the 3 Democrats could be seated.

Abby Tolan

Mechanic consulted with state Democratic Party officials. They said the DTC had some discretion, but their first duty was to ensure the election of the endorsed candidate, incumbent Abby Tolan.

She won. Petitioning candidates Stephen Shackelford and Jodi Harris were close — within 300 votes. Both swamped the leading Republican, incumbent Dorie Hordon, by over 2,500 votes. But only Shackelford — who received 11 more votes than Harris — will be seated.

“Stephen and Jodi ran a great race,” Mechanic acknowledges. She had “a lovely exchange” with Shackelford after results were announced, she says.

The Planning & Zoning Commission race was more straightforward. Three Democrats — incumbent Michael Cammeyer, alternate Bre Injeski, and Craig Schiavone — won handily.

“They worked very hard. They’re very committed to serving the community,” Mechanic says.

Besides Schiavone — with a cross-endorsement from the Coalition for Westport — the top vote-getters in the overall election were a pair of familiar faces: Democrats Elaine Whitney for the Board of Finance, and Sheri Gordon for the Zoning Board of Appeals.

What do last week’s resounding results mean for Westport’s Democratic Party?

“I am thrilled for 4 amazing years of great service with Democratic values,” party chair Mechanic says. “Kevin and Amy are Democrats with a capital D.”

“Every selectman’s cycle, people talk about the DTC like it’s a private club. It’s not.

“I also invite newer and younger residents to attend our meetings and make their voices heard. We are committed to representing every voice, but we need those voices in our processes.

“That said, I believe our elected candidates will serve everyone, in every facet of town life.”

(“06880” covers local politics, in all its forms. If you appreciate our coverage — and anything else we do — please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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