Tag Archives: Board of Education

Roundup: Jose Feliciano, Working From Home, Growing Tomatoes …

Posted on August 16, 2025 | 6 comments

Singing and bantering in English and Spanish (and a little Italian), José Feliciano enterained a full and adoring crowd last night, at the Westport Country Playhouse.

The historic theater was the venue for the legendary, Grammy Lifetime Achievement-winning artist. It was a benefit for the Church of the Assumption, which next year celebrates its 150th anniversary. (That’s almost as old as the 94-year-old Playhouse and 80-year old Feliciano combined.)

The guitarist was accompanied by his sons Mikey (bass) and Jonnie (drums), and a band that — along with Feliciano — played a wide range of songs, in genres including Latin, rock, blues, Motown, Dylan and jazz (plus a smooth Sam Cooke tune).

José Feliciano (right), Hawkins French (left), and 3 other musicians in the 11-member band. (Photo/Dan Woog)

The 2-hour show ended with 2 of Feliciano’s best-sellers: “Light My Fire” and (of course) “Feliz Navidad.”

He’s sung that tune at Assumption’s Christmas Mass for over 3 decades. He and his wife Susan — who took a deserved bow — have been longtime parishioners and supporters of the Riverside Avenue church.

José Feliciano and his wife Susan. (Photo copyright DinkinESH Fotografix)

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If you think more people in Westport are working from home after COVID: You’re right.

According to data released by the CT Data Collaborative and AdvanceCT, and reported by CT Mirror, 36% of residents here work from home. That’s up from 15% in 2019.

Weston saw a similar increase: 39%, also up from 15%.

Meanwhile, 59 businesses opened iin Westport between 2021 and 2024. The number fwas just 30, between 2016-19.

Click here for many more statistics, available by town. (Hat tip: Peter Gold)

GG & Joe opened during the pandemic. They’ve been crushing it ever since.

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Jimmy Fallon knows tomatoes.

But Sal Gilbertie knows a lot more about them.

I’m not sure of the back story behind all this. Here though is a Gilbertie’s video starring a “celebrity tomato”:

It was followed by a Facebook video, from patriarch Sal Gilbertie (click here to see).

Both are delicious to see. (Hat tip: Mary McGee)

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The Board of Education begins meeting again on Thursday (August 21, 7 p.m., Staples High School cafeteria), following its summer break.

The first order of business will be the introduction of its new junior student representative on the BOE: Anwara Olasewere.

Click here for the full agenda.


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Looking for a great activity for your son or daughter?

Look no further than Scouting.

Westport Troops 39 (boys) and 139 (girls) welcome new potential members and their families in grades 5-12 for homemade pizza making and a bonfire (September 11, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., Compo Beach).

Current members and adult leaders will answer questions, and share their excitement about plans for 2025-26 They include:

  • Ziplining
  • Downhill mountain biking
  • Camping
  • Whitewater rafting
  • Climbing
  • A trip to Fort Adams in Newport, Rhode Island
  • Leadership and service opportunities
  • And more.

Questions? Email Troop39Westport@gmail.com.

Troops 39 and 139.

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George C. White — the driving force behind the famed Eugene O’Neill Theater Center in Waterford, who died August 6 at 89 — was not a Westporter.

But he nurtured and influenced many residents.

Werner Liepolt was playwright-in-residence at the O’Neill theater — twice.

Liepolt says that Westporter Arthur Kopit was also a resident playwright. Max Wilk was a dramaturg there for several summer sessions.

And Michael Douglas — who lived with his mother on Whitney Street, in a house that Kopit later rented — was a frequent actor on the Eugene O’Neill Theater stage.

Eugene O’Neill Theater Center

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This crepe myrtle catches Topsy Siderowf’s eye, very time she passes it on Compo Road South.

She sends it along as today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature photo, adding, “They are more often seen in the south. But this specimen is thriving in Zone 7.”

(Photo/Topsy Siderowf)

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And finally … Bobby Whitlock — a keyboardist and singer-songwriter who helped found Derek and the Dominos, and played with stars like Eric Clapton and George Harrison — died Sunday in Texas. He was 77, and had been diagnosed with cancer.

Click here for a full obituary.

(As we gear up for the start of school, add this to your checklist: Please click here to support “06880.” We’ll keep providing all the news you need — with your help. Thank you all!)

6 Comments

Posted in Arts, Education, Local business, religion, Westport Country Playhouse

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Unsung Heroes #394

Posted on August 6, 2025 | 7 comments

It’s been quite a year, politically.

Forget Washington and Hartford.

Here in Westport we’ve endured long and heated debates, on a series of topics.

Really long. And very heated.

The outcomes have not pleased everyone. They never will.

But decisions have been made. And they’ve been made by people we elected to make them.

The Planning & Zoning Commission spent hundreds of hours on one topic — the Hamlet — this year alone. There were many other agenda items too. (Photo/Andrew Colabella)

They’re not random men and women. They’re fellow Westporters.

Our neighbors.

They sit through long — really long — meetings. They spend time before, reading reports. They spend time after, listening to residents.

You and I may not like their decisions. But they’re the ones who have stepped up, volunteered, and been elected or appointed to do the job.

Some are running again. Some have stepped down.

Some newcomers are on the November ballot. Some are petitioning to join them.

All deserve our thanks. They are doing the thankless, tedious and trying work of government.

We can watch the meetings, or not. It’s our choice.

They’re the ones sitting there, in person or on Zoom.

And some of those meetings are really long.

(PS: Interested in running for the Representative Town Meeting? You need just 25 signatures from voters in your district. The deadline is September 9. Contact Town Clerk Jeffrey Dunkerton: 203-341-1105; jdunkerton@westportct.gov.)

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

7 Comments

Posted in Local politics, Unsung Heroes

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Staples Soccer Coaches: Next Step In The Saga

Posted on August 5, 2025 | 19 comments

In May, the Board of Education rejected an appeal by Staples High School boys soccer head coach Russell Oost-Lievense of superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice’s decision to not renew his contract.

Freshman coach Chris O’Dell was also not renewed by Scarice. His appeal hearing is set for September 12.

Westport’s loss is Fairfield’s gain.

The pair have joined the coaching staff at Fairfield Warde High School, and been embraced by the Mustang community.

Despite the ordeal, both coaches retain their love for the Staples soccer program. Both are graduates of the school, and former captains.

In heartfelt letters to players and parents, Oost-Lievense and O’Dell describe their long connection to Wrecker soccer; thank their supporters, and note that Staples and Warde will collaborate in the future — including a fundraiser for pediatric cancer research, when the teams meet on September 27.

Click here, to read the letters from the 2 coaches.

Russell Oost-Lievense, in front of the Staples High School boys soccer trophy case. (Photo/Dan Woog)

Chris O’Dell (Photo/Richard McColl)

 

 

19 Comments

Posted in Local politics, Sports, Staples HS

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Roundup: Superintendent’s Contract, Mandy Patinkin’s Show, Soundview’s Stroll …

Posted on July 24, 2025 | 9 comments

Superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice is getting a raise — and another year on his contract.

The Board of Education voted yesterday to give the town’s highest paid official a 4% increase, from his current $321,661 salary. Another year was also added to his 3-year rolling contract.

The vote was 5-2 in favor. BOE members Robert Harrington and Dorie Hordon voted against the increase. Harrington cited both finances and Scarice’s performance, in areas like renewals of coaches’ contracts, while Hordon focused solely on a raise that is above the national inflation rate.

Superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice.

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In 2023, Mandy Patinkin sold out the Westport Country Playhouse.

His November 21 show is sure to do the same.

The Tony- and Emmy-winning star (“The Princess Pride,” “Yentl,” “Dick Tracy”) returns to the Westport stage in “Jukebox.” The show features classic musical numbers, hand-picked by Patinkin and presented in his own special style.

Tickets are $175 and $150. They go on sale tomorrow (Friday, 1 p.m.). Click here to purchase, and for more information.

Mandy Patinkin

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As “06880” and the Compo Beach Improvement Assocation put the final touches on this Sunday’s Soundview Summer Stroll (July 27, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.), we’re looking for a few teenagers (or parents!) to help run games and fun for little kids, in 1-2 hour shifts.

It’s already organized. We just need helping hands! If interested, please email at kristinemott@gmail.com.

Meanwhile, get ready to enjoy live music, eat, play, stroll, Rollerblade, and otherwise enjoy the Compo Beach exit road — closed to all traffic — on Sunday.

See you there!

Among the activities at last year’s Soundview Summer Stroll: chalking the street. (Photo/Benji Porosoff)

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Immigrant justice is the topic of a panel discussion July 31 (6:30 p.m., Westport Library).

The event — sponsored by the Unitarian Universalist Congegation of Westport — features Professor Cristina Jiménez, author of “Dreaming of Home: How We Turn Fear Into Pride, Power and Real Change.”

She is also an award-winning community organizer, former executive director of the nationwide immigrant youth organization United We Dream, and the recipient of a MacArthur “genius grant.”

Members of Make the Road CT will share stories, and discuss how to support efforts that push back against anti-immigrant policies. Click here for more information.

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Westport Police made 2 custodial arrests between July 16 and 22.

A 30-year-old Queens man was charged with burglary, larceny and criminal mischief, plus conspiracy to commit those crimes, following an investigation into a 2023 burglary of a Westport home. The stolen items — including jewelry and designer handbags — were worth more than $50,000. The suspect ws held in a New York correctional facility, and extradited here. He was unable to post a $30,000 bond.

A 56-year-old Norwalk man was charged with disorderly conduct, following a domestic disturbance in a school parking lot.

Westport Police also issued these citations:

  • Traveling unreasonbly fast: 6 citations
  • Failure to drive in the proper lane: 4
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 3
  • Driving while texting: 2
  • Distracted driving: 2
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 2
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 2
  • Larceny: 1
  • Speeding: 1
  • Passing in a no-passing zone: 1
  • Following too closely: 1
  • Failure to grant right of way: 1
  • Failure to obey stop sign: 1
  • Failure to obey state traffic commission regulations: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
  • Improper use of markers: 1

Stay in your lane! Don’t pass unless it’s allowed!

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Longtime Westport resisdent Dr. Charles Huebner died in his sleep on December 29. He was 89 years old.

He was interred with full military honors at the Assumption Cemetery in Greens Farms last month.

Charlie was an active member of St. Luke Church — chairing the Finance and Parish Council for many years — along with the Patterson Club and Minuteman Yacht Club.

He was born in Hungary, and spent his early years in Budapest. Impacted by excesses of national socialism during World War II and the imminent Russian invasion, the family fled to Austria, before settling in Detroit.

Charlie earned a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering (first in his class) from the University of Detroit. He was commissioned as an Air Force officer, then earned a master’s in aero/astronautics engineering from Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

He completed his military service at Wright Patterson Air Force Base, then joined NASA’s Apollo space program as a project engineer, while also earning a doctorate from American University.

In 1968 Charlie and his family moved to Westport, when he transitioned to the corporate world. He held senior executive positions with General Electric, AMF and US Industries.

In 1990, after the fall of the Iron Curtain, Charlie led the Hungarian American Enterprise Fund, established by Congress to help open Hungary to private investments.

He moved to Budapest, where he spearheaded efforts to reform the country’s economic structure. Charlie was elected president of the American Chamber of Commerce there, and was a leading member of the Hungarian-American business community.

Charlie was a devout Catholic, and a Knight of Magisterial Grace in the Order of Malta. He was chosen by the Order to serve as a deputy ambassador to Hungary, a position that carried full diplomatic status.

Charlie met and married Suzan Lawlor in college. They raised 4 children in Westport: Chuck (Lucy), Christine Rohan (Paul), Diane Dillon (Peter) and Andrea Kalkstein (Bart). They survive him, along with 11 grandchildren.

After Suzan’s death in 1984, Charlie married Zsuzsa Korab and had a fifth child, Alexandra Doane (Bobby).  He was predeceased by his brother.

Services were held earlier this year. In lieu of flowers, please consider a gift to the Jesuits.

Charlie Huebner

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Our “Westport … Naturally” features has gotten a ton of egret submissions lately.

Here — from the Saugatuck River, by the Westport Library Riverwalk – is- one of the best:

(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

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And finally … there are so many Mandy Patinkin songs we could choose (story above).

Here are 3:

(“06880” is your hyper-local source, for Westport news, events, history, photo, and much more. If you enjoy our work, please make a tax-deductible contribution by clicking here. Thank you!)

9 Comments

Posted in Beach, Education, Entertainment, Library, Local politics, Obituaries, Politics, religion, Westport Country Playhouse

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Shackelford, Harris Plan Board Of Ed Primary Challenge

Posted on July 16, 2025 | 5 comments

The Democratic and Republican Town Committees nominated candidates last night for the Board of Selectmen, and a variety of other boards and commissions. (Click here for that story.)

They’ll all be on the ballot on November 4.

Well — maybe not all.

The 2 Democratic candidates for Board of Education — incumbent member Abby Tolan and Representative Town Meeting deputy moderator Lauren Karpf — may face a primary challenge.

Former RTM member Steve Shackelford and outgoing Staples High School PTA co-president Jodi Harris plan to run against the endorsed slate. They’ll pick up petitions at Town Hall today.

If they receive enough signatures — 5% of registered Democrats (approximately 500 names) — the Democratic primary would be September 9.

Steve Shackelford and Jodi Harris.

Harris and Shackelford are “proud registered Democrats. We think our party has historically served the town well on the Board of Education,” they told “06880.”

“More recently though, the BOE as a whole — including the Democratic majority — has lost its way in its prmary tasks of exercising true oversight over the Westport Public Schools administration, and being responsive to our community and its concerns. We believe we are the best people for that job.”

They add, “In talking through the many issues and conflicts facing the BOE this past year, we realized we see eye to eye on the type of role the Board should play, and the ways in which the BOE as currently constituted has fallen short.

“We believe the best way to make the BOE, and the administration, more accountable to the people of Westport is to run, and win, together.

“That way, we can ensure this push for meaningful and cnstructive oversight, accountbility and transparency is not just a one-person show, but a movement with real inquiry, discussion and momentum.”

The pair noted their complementary skill sets: Harris’ long involvement with Westport public schools at all levels, and Shackelford’s understanding of “good governance, acountability and proper risk management.”

Harris moved to Westport in 2008. Her daughters have gone through the Westport schools. She has volunteered from preschool through Staples, including as a member of the Bedford and Coleytown Middle Schools combined PTA, when those schools were merged.

She has spent her career in children’s book publishing, including most recently as editorial director at HarperCollins. She authored and ghost-wrote over 40 children’s books.

Shackelford has lived in Westport since 2016. His 4 children have gone through, or are still in, the district’s schools.

Inspired to serve in local government during the mold closure of CMS, he served 2 terms on the RTM.

A lawyer at Susman Godfrey, Shackelford was co-lead counsel for Dominion Voting System’s defamation case related to the 2020 presidential election. His team’s work led to Fox News’ historic $787.5 million settlement with Dominion.

He pledged to “make good use of legal advice when needed, without effectively delegating major decisions to outside lawyers.”

“Our kids get only one shot at their education,” the running mates say. They believe the Board of Ed can do more in terms of charting broad strategy, exercising rigorous oversight over the administration, ensuring transparency and accountability, and providing guidance to minimize conflict.

“Recent events also underscore a critical need to safeguard all Westport Public School employees,” they say.

“We believe immediate, decisive acction is necessary to implement clear policies and procedures that protect our students and staff. The current Board’s inaction on these serious, yet solvable, issues is unacceptable.”

(Click here for information on the Democratic Town Committee. Click here for information on the Republican Town Committee. For information on the primary campaign, email harris.shackelford@gmail.com)

5 Comments

Posted in Education, Local politics, Staples HS

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Staples Soccer Coach Sues Board Of Education

Posted on July 7, 2025 | 23 comments

For months, Westporters have wondered about the incidents that led to the non-renewal of Staples High School boys soccer head coach Russell Oost-Lievense, by superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice.

A few details emerged during the coach’s appeal hearing in May, before the Board of Education.

But many other details were not made public. Scarice and/or the mediator for the Board objected to 7 witnesses, and dozens of emails and other evidence. The mediator also objected to every attempt by Oost-Lievense’s attorney to introduce information that, she said, would prove that the non-renewal was “arbitrary and capricious.”

Much of that information is contained in a lawsuit brought by Oost-Lievense, against the Board of Education. It was filed in Stamford Superior Court.

Russell Oost-Lievense

Oost-Lievense levels several charges against the BOE, including violation of his rights during the appeal.

His complaint details a 2022 incident, in which the coach addressed bullying by freshman and junior varsity players.

It also describes in detail an incident before the 2024 season, during a team-building retreat; Oost-Lievense’s handling of it; a complaint filed nearly 2 months later about it; and the post-season banquet that resulted in a charge of “insubordination” against the coach.

Oost-Lievense’s suit also includes information about false allegations made against him at a public BOE meeting; the roles of the Board’s “mediator” and their regular attorney, who at the appeal hearing represented the superintendent, Staples principal and athletic director; exclusion of evidence and witnesses; conduct of the BOE during the hearing; alleged conflicts of interest by 2 members, and more.

Oost-Lievense is seeking damages for loss of income, reputational harm, emotional distress, punitive damages — and a reversal of the non-renewal decision, or a fair appeal process.

Click here to read the full complaint, as filed in Superior Court.

Members of the Westport Board of Education, and (4th from left) the board’s mediator, at Russell Oost-Lievense’s May 12 appeal hearing.

23 Comments

Posted in Education, Local politics, Staples HS

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Freshman Soccer Coach: Scarice Taped Our Confidential Conversation

Posted on June 20, 2025 | 29 comments

For several months, Chris O’Dell tried to get a response to the non-renewal of his contract as Staples High School boys freshman soccer coach, by superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice.

O’Dell was ready for a Board of Education hearing on 4 dates, in March, April and June. Each time, the board balked.

Finally, 3 weeks ago, Scarice agreed to meet. Unknown to O’Dell, the superintendent recorded their conversation.

Chris O’Dell

The freshman coach raised that issue this morning, in the public comment portion of the BOE meeting.

“I won’t be bullied, embarrassed or blackmailed to not call out this abhorrent behavior,” O’Dell told the board.

After O’Dell’s 2 minutes were up, Scarice responded. He told the BOE that while the meeting was supposed to be confidential, he felt the need to tape it due to numerous “false statements” circulating about the case.

“Even if he felt he had to record what he said, he should have let me know,” O’Dell told “06880” after the board meeting. “What he did was completely unethical.”

The Board has offered one new date for O’Dell’s non-renewal hearing: July 23.

The coach told the board that it conflicts with a family vacation.

29 Comments

Posted in Education, Local politics, Sports, Staples HS

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Roundup: Soccer Coach’s Filing, Hartford Wrap-Up, Juneteenth Tour …

Posted on June 16, 2025 | 9 comments

Russell Oost-Lievense’s fight continues.

In the wake of last month’s Board of Education hearing to appeal the non-renewal of his contract as Staples High School boys soccer head coach, the 2008 graduate filed a complaint with the state Freedom of Information Commission.

Oost-Lievense said that he intends to challenge the hearing, and the Board’s decision not to renew his contract, in court.

However, he says, he is handicapped in litigation because “the Board unlawfully deliberated my nonrenewal in executive session.” He had repeatedly requested the hearing be held entirely in open session.

Stating that the public and he were deprived of the ability to evaluate and challenge the Board’s decision, he asks that the meeting be declared “null and void.”

Russell Oost-Lievense

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Westport’s delegation in Hartford — State Senator Ceci Maher, and State Representatives Jonathan Steinberg and Dominique Johnson — meet constituents tonight (Monday, June 16, 6 p.m.) in the Library’s Komansky Room (behind the stage).

It’s called an “End of Session Town Hall.” The public is invited, to learn about the legislative year that just ended.

From left: Senator Ceci Maher, Representatives Jonathan Steinberg and Dominique Johnson.

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The Westport Museum for History & Culture celebrates Juneteenth (Thursday).

At 10 a.m., they’ll offer a guided walking tour through downtown. It’s based on the Museum’s previous exhibit on African Americans in Westport

Museum staff will share stories of soldiers, sailors, activisits, artists and other citizens who helped build this town, while pointing out historic sites and buildings.

Tickets are $10 for Museum members, $15 for non-members. Click here to reserve a spot, and for more information. (Hat tip: Harold Bailey)

A plaque on Elm Street commemorates 22 1/2 Main Street, home to a thriving Black community. In 1950 it burned to the ground, in a suspicious fire.

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Meanwhile, the Levitt Pavilion’s first Comedy Night of 2025 is tomorrow (Tuesday, June 17, 7 p.m.).

The free show is billed as a special “Pride Edition.” Click here for (free) tickets, and more information.

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And … after a brief Yankee Doodle Fair-induced detour to the Levitt pavilion parking lot, the Westport Farmers’ Market returns to its Imperial Avenue home this Thursday (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.).

It was a different venue last week, but the scenes were familiar to its many fans. For example:

Fresh strawberries, and …

… these regulars. They’re there every Thursday from a nearby office, always smiling and looking dapper. (Photos/Lori Cochran-Dougall)

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Congratulations to Adam Friedman!

The Westporter won the 123rd annual Connecticut Amateur golf championship.

The (very large) trophy was nice. Even better: Friedman earns an exemption into this year’s US Amateur event. It’s set for San Francisco’s Olympic Club, in August.

Friedman attended Staples as a freshman, then earned a scholarship to Gary Gilchrist Golf Academy in Florida. He attended Montverde Academy, and graduated in 2016 with high honors. Adam then played at Florida Atlantic University. His home course now is Great River Golf Club in Milford.

Adam Friedman

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Jeffrey Cohen captured this guy yesterday.

No worries … he did it with his camera only.

But it sure is a cute “Westport … Naturally” capture, right?

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And finally … in honor of Jeffrey Cohen’s photo (above):

(Another week, another Roundup … and another request: If you enjoy this — or any other “06880” feature — please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

9 Comments

Posted in Environment, Politics, Sports, Staples HS

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Roundup: Education, Politics, Gelato …

Posted on June 7, 2025 | 11 comments

An attendee at Thursday’s Board of Education meeting, which heard comments from 3 Staples High School soccer players about the non-renewal of the contract of coach Russell Oost-Lievense, writes (and asks for anonymity, out of concern for retribution): “You’re right about how well the boys spoke, and how respectful they were.

“But do you know who was not respectful? Superintendent Scarice.

“This photo (below) is how he responded as the boys spoke … scrolling his iPad.

“It turns out Tom’s correct … there is a device problem at Staples High School. But it’s the adults who are addicted.”

Superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice (far left), as Staples High School incoming boys soccer captain Dylan Shackelford addressed the Board of Education.

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The first 5 items on the agenda for next Wednesday’s Board of Selectwomen meeting (June 11, 9 a.m., Town Hall auditorium) are fairly straightforward.

The final item may cause a bit more discussion. It’s a “request for recommendations for proposed traffic modifications submitted to the Board of Selectwomen acting in its capacity as the Local Traffic Authority,” submitted by the developers of The Hamlet at Saugatuck.

The next day (June 12, 7:30 p.m., Town Hall auditorium) the Representative Town Meeting has 2 other big items.

One is a request from the Long Lots School Building Committee to approve $101,920,000 for construction of the new elementary school.

The other is to approve an application by the town — approved already by the Conservation Commission and Flood & Erosion Control Board — to construct that school, along with “parking lot, athletic fields, playgrounds, and associated site and utility work.”

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“06880” is overseen by a dedicated board of directors.

Because we are strong supporters of Staples High School’s award-winning news magazine and website — and we want to encourage the next generation of journalists — one of the board’s 7 seats is reserved for an Inklings staff member.

Rising senior Will Enquist will fill that seat in the coming school year.

As a managing editor, he oversees one of the 2 staffs responsible for producing the school’s monthly newsmagazine. He also writes on subjects including sports, politics and international affairs.

Beyond journalism, Will has a strong passion for social studies. He was a member of Staples’ 2025 “We the People” team that placed 8th nationally. He interned for State Senator Ceci Maher’s 2024 reelection campaign, and earned recognition at the 2024 Connecticut History Day competition for a collaborative research project on the Yalta Conference.

Will is also involved with the Westport Youth Commission. In his free time he enjoys reading historical nonfiction, weightlifting and watching Mets baseball.

Welcome aboard, Will!

Will Enquist

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There is one less gelato store in Westport.

La Fenice — which opened a little less than 4 years ago — has closed its doors.

Fortunately, Cold Fusion is still serving just a short ways away, across Main Street.

(Hat tip and photo/Sal Liccione)

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The Westport Country Playhouse keeps adding to its already great summer schedule.

They just announced 3 new shows:

Script in Hand Jr.: “Charlotte’s Web” (June 29, 4 p.m.). This staged reading in the Barn — a timeless tale of friendship, loyalty and the power of words — is tailored to kids and families. Middle and high school students will bring the barnyard to life through their voices and imagination. Tickets $20; click here to purchase, and for more information.

“Broadway Scores at the Playhouse: From Broadway to Hollywood, a Concert Celebration of the Great Musicals of Stage and Screen” (July 24, 25, 26 at 8 p.m.; July 26 at 3 p.m.).Songs — and stories behind the musicals that made the leap from the stage to movies. Among them: “Singin’ in the Rain,” “West Side Story, “The King and I,”” Chicago,” “The Color Purple,” Wicked and more. Click here for tickets, and more information.

“Ana Gasteyer” (August 8, 8 p.m.). The “Saturday Night Live” veteran brings her wit and vocals to the Playhouse stage. She’ll perform jazz standards, Broadway classics and more. Click here for tickets, and more information.

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The annual Special Olympics Torch Run passed through Westport yesterday.

Liz Kaner was at Whole Foods, when she saw the “beautiful and moving” relay. With a police escort, they’re on their way to New Haven.

(Photo/Liz Kaner)

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo shows 2 “birds” flying low over Long Island Sound yesterday.

Click “Comments” if you can identify both by name.

(Photo/Tammy Barry)

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And finally … happy 85th birthday to Tom Jones!

(What’s new? Well, maybe not new, but another day, another reminder that “06880” relies on support from readers like you. Please click here to support our work.Thank you!)

11 Comments

Posted in Children, Local business, Local politics, Staples HS, Westport Country Playhouse

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Roundup: Board of Education, Bluestone, Little Beet …

Posted on June 6, 2025 | 10 comments

Last night’s Board of Education meeting began with a toast to retiring teachers and other professionals. Administrators and Board members praised nearly 2 dozen men and women, for their decades of service.

Then came comments about a coach who will not return.

With several teammates standing in support, 3 Staples High School boys soccer players spoke passionately, powerfully and clearly — yet respectfully — about their confusion, anger and disappointment in the way the BOE, superintendent of schools and administrators handled the non-renewal of coach Russell Oost-Lievense’s contract.

Incoming captains Drew Hill and Dylan Shackelford, plus fellow junior Zach Gillman, called for their coach’s reinstatement.

They described sitting in last month’s 14-hour hearing, yet not having ever been interviewed as witnesses. They were surprised at the silence of BOE members — some of whom never asked one question during the long day — as well as with the application of the “arbitrary and capricious” threshold upon which the decision was supposed to be made.

The players also noted that they were speaking for “any coach or teacher” who could be targeted next by administrators.

Board member Robert Harrington then proposed an agenda item to reopen the case, based on witnesses who were not allowed, evidence withheld, and the “impartiality” of the BOE’s mediator at the hearing.

Like the students who spoke, Harrington pleaded for the superintendent and administrators to sit down with Oost-Lievense and try to find a resuloution.

There was no second for his motion.

Harrington’s second agenda request — to allow discussion of a “privileged” letter from the BOE’s attorney — also failed, without a second.

From left: Dylan Shackelford, Drew Hill, Zach Gillman. (Photos/Dan Woog)

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Hook’d is gone.

Sort of.

The much-maligned concessionaire still has the Compo Beach and Longshore contracts (for one more year).

But they seem to have rebranded themselves as Bluestone

Their graphics (and offerings) look much the same as before. But if you’ve tried the new brand at either location, please click “Comments” to leave a review.

Bluestone at Compo Beach … (Photo/DinkinESH Fotografix)

… and Longshore. (Photo/Brandon Malin)

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The Longshore parking lot overflowed last night, with 2 of Westport’s most popular events.

CLASP Homes‘ annual “Taste of Westport” event highlighted many of the area’s most popular restaurants (and assorted other food purveyors).

It was a huge fundraiser for the non-profit that has done such good work, for so long, providing care, support and inspiration to men and women with autism and developmental disabilities.

Among those providing (much more than) a taste of Westport, to hundreds of hungry attendees: Anan, Artisan, Bar Bushido, Barcelona, Black Bear Wines & Spirits, The Blondinit, Boathouse, The Bridge at Saugatuck, Bridgewater, Chopin Vodka, Código 1530, Don Memo, Eder Bros., Freixenet Monetto, Grumpy Dumpling Co., Gabriele’s, Gruel Brittania, La Plage, Little pub, Magic Pie Co., Nômade, Moët & Chandon, Nordic Fish, Oggi Gelato, Blue Bistro, Rizzuto’s, Romanacci Pizza Bar, Saugatuck Oyster Company, Schloss Johannisberg, Tarantino, The Whelk, Woodford Reserve and Zucca Gastrobar.

Robin Tauck and Miggs Burroughs take in the scene …

… which included plenty of serving stations, and a few hundred folks enjoying them.

Meanwhile, a few steps away on the La Plage patio, another couple of hundred folks socialized, networked and noshed at Startup Westport‘s monthly get-together.

In just 2 years, the public/private partnership for tech and entrepreneurship has established itself as a force for creativity, innovation and economic activity.

Plus, everyone involved knows how to have fun.

Dan Bikel, Tucker Peters and Jay Norris share startup tips …

… and the networking continues. (All photos/Dan Woog)

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Club203 — Westport’s social group for adults with disabilities — closes out another very successful year, with a big beach jam.

The June 10 event (6:30 to 8 p.m., Compo Beach Ned Dimes Marina) includes the Super Duper Weenie Truck, art by MoCA, and “music and movement” led by Susan Wright from Digital Zen Studios.

Click here to learn more about the beach bash, and Club203. 

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VFW Post 399 reaches out to veterans in many ways.

Next up: a Veterans Benefits Luncheon on June 12 (11 a.m. to 1 p.m.).

It’s free, and 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!

All veterans are invited to the VFW’s free June 12 luncheon.

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Congratulations to Adam Udell!

The senior lacrosse player set a school record for career points on Wednesday, when Staples High dismantled Norwich Free Academy 23-0 in the state LL tournament round of 16.

Udell — a University of Michigan commit — now has 230 points (goals and assists). That’s one more than the previous record holder, Michael Reale, who graduated in 2016.

Udell — who also holds the school records for goals and assists in a season — has a chance to add to that total tomorrow. The #3 Wreckers host #6 Greenwich (1 p.m., Paul Lane Field) in the state quarterfinals. The Cardinals beat Staples earlier in the year.

Adam Udell

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Seen yesterday at the Westport Farmers’ Market: free seeds and seedlings …

… and fresh strawberries:

The Farmers’ Market is open every Thursday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Imperial Avenue parking lot.

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The Westport Rotary Club’s annual Community Service and Public Protection Awards lunch on Tuesday featured awards to 11 local activists and volunteers, plus Public Protection awards to Westport Police, Westport EMS, and Westport Fire Department personnel.

Honorees included Harold Bailey, Jr. and Bernicestine McLeod Bailey of TEAM Westport, Compo Playground Committee co-chairs Bridget Flynn and Samantha Owades, and site manager R.B. Benson.

First responders honored by the Westport Rotary Club …

… along with (from left) Harold and Bernicestine McLeod Bailey, with Rotary Club officials Eileen Lavigne Flug and Jim Marpe …

… and Samantha Owades, Rotary’s Alex Cohen, Bridget Flynn RB Benson. (Photos/Adriana Bleloch-DeLucia)

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Fran Mande turns 103 years old tomorrow!

A brief illness kept the longtime Westport resident from her usual visits to the Senior Center and Compo Beach. But she’s doing better, and hopes to return soon.

Fran still lives off Clinton Avenue — her home for the past 70 years.

And she’s got email (which certainly did not exist when she moved in, during the Eisenhower administration). “06880” readers can wish Fran a happy 103rd birthday at franmande@gmail.com.

Happy birthday, Fran Mande!

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Little Beet — the “vegetarian-friendly” restaurant a few doors up from Fresh Market — closed on April 24.

Perhaps the reason we’ve just heard about it is related to the reason they’re no longer here.

Eight locations in New York and Westchester, and 2 others in New Jersey and Washington, remain open.

(Hat tip and photo/John Karrel)

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Sorelle Gallery welcomes Beth Munro, and her abstract paintings, as its next “On View” show.

An opening reception next Friday (June 13, 4 to 6 p.m.) includes a meet-and-greet, wine and light refreshments. More details are available here.

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo highlights a mushroom patch on Hillandale Road.

And something that blends in, but doesn’t quite belong there.

(Photo/Bob Weingarten)

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And finally … in honor of those mushrooms (above):

(Feed your head! And also, “06880.” Please click here to support your hyper-local blog. Thank you!)

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