If you spend any time at Compo Beach, you know how great the maintenance staff is.
All day long — and into the night — they empty trash, move benches, and do whatever else is needed to keep the place clean. They are hard-working, polite, and eager to please.
Most faces change over time. But one is constant. Scott Smith writes:
I visit the beach to swim or walk most every day during summer (all year-round, really). For as long as I can recall, I’ve noticed the remarkable work of a Parks & Rec staffer making the rounds to empty the garbage/recycling receptables up and down the roadways and sidewalks.
Michael Johnson is. hands down, the most hard-working employee of any organization, company or place I’ve seen. Driving his golf cart utility vehicle from bin to bin, he’s the reason Compo’s notorious seagulls (basically racoons with wings) haven’t completely taken over the beach.
I’m in awe of his energy.
Today I happened to park alongside a garbage cans he was pulling up to. I asked to take his picture.
He took a moment to oblige. He said he has worked at Compo for 18 years, and was on duty until the end of the season.
Michael Johnson (Photo/Scott Smith)
He’s a cheery guy. But soon he was on his way. Duty calls.
If Michael isn’t an Unsung Hero of 06880, I don’t know who is.
He is! Thanks, Scott, for recognizing Michael Johnson. As all of us who go to Compo do — our Unsung Hero of the Week.
(Do you know an Unsung Hero? Email 06880blog@gmail.com. “06880” is proud to honor them — and tell many other tales of town too. Please click here to help us do that, by supporting this hyper-local blog.)
We’ve mentioned before how rocky Compo Beach was — for nearly all its existence.
Not until a major public works project in the late 1950s/early ’60s did Compo become the sandy “beach” we know and love today.
But how rocky was it?
Check out this (undated) photo. And wear your flip flops.
Or army boots.
(Photo courtesy of Karen Verelley)
(Friday Flashback is one of “06880”‘s many regular features. If you enjoy this — or anything else on our website — please consider a tax-deductible contribution. Just click here. Thank you!)
As families prepare for the school year, Westport’s Department of Human Services sees an increased need for assistance from local families.
And an urgent need for community donations to ensure that every child begins the school year with the supplies and resources they need to succeed.
Human Services seeks donations of new school supplies, backpacks, Walmart gift cards, and monetary contributions to support local children and families.
Needed items include new notebooks, folders, binders, pencils, pens, crayons, colored pencils, markers, glue sticks, scissors, highlighters, calculators and other classroom supplies.
Gift cards may be dropped off at Human Services in Town Hall.
Monetary donations may be made by check payable to Westport Human Services (110 Myrtle Avenue, Westport, CT 06880). or online (select “Family to Family Programs—Seasonal Program”).
Human Services also seeks financial support for its Afterschool Program, for children in kindergarten through 5th grade. It is a safe, supportive environment where children receive homework assistance, participate in enriching activities, build friendships, and develop important social and emotional skills.
Elaine Daignault, Human Services director, says, “Our residents have always demonstrated extraordinary compassion and generosity. Every backpack, gift card, school supply and financial contribution helps ease the burden on families and gives children the tools they need for a successful school year.”
(Both the Back-to-School and Afterschool Programs are 100% funded by community donations and contributions. To donate or learn more click here, call 203-341-1050, or email humansrv@westportct.gov
Every student needs a backpack.
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Speaking of children: The Westport Public Schools and Westport Weston Family YMCA are coordinating before- and after-school care for children in grades K-5.
The program offers STEM exploration, art, outdoor play, social-emotional learning, homework help and more. Flexible scheduling (2 to 5 days per week) is available.
Students in the Westport and Weston school districts are eligible for the after-school program (3 to 6 p.m.). The 7:30 to 9 a.m. before-school sessions are for Westport only. Transportation to and from schools is included.
MoCA\CT re-opens today. The new exhibit — “Michael Borders: Connecticut Industry” — is a large-scale mural. Its 8 panels represent each of the state’s counties.
The impressive work joins Rick Shaefer’s “Colossi.” Both shows — part of the exhibition “Looking for History,” are on view through November 15. For more information, click here.
The best views of yesterday’s solar eclipse were in northern Europe.
But Franco Fellah made the most of it, at the Westport Astronomical Society’s Bayberry Lane observatory.
He sends this image, at the maximum point — approximately 35%, at 1:54 p.m. He notes, “These views of the sun are in what is called ‘white Light,’ visible to the human eye.”
(Photo/Franco Fellah)
Meanwhile — because “06880” is “Where Westport meets the world” — there was indeed a reader who traveled to Spain, in part for the eclipse.
Chris Grimm was near Burgos yesterday. He sends this image:
Craig Melvin and and Lindsay Dzarniak’s support of the Colorectal Cancer Alliance is strong and deep.
It continues next month. The Westport TV personalities are again hosting the Bottoms Up Invitational: a concert at Fairfield Theatre Company (Sunday, September 13, 5 p.m.) and celebrity golf tournament (Monday, September 14, Shorehaven Golf Club, Norwalk).
Melvin — co-host of “The Today Show,” sits on the Alliance’s board of directors. His brother died of colon cancer at 43 years old.
We’re not sure why folks leave food out like this:
(Photo/Laurie Weiser)
It’s hard enough keeping the birds away when there are people nearby.
When you leave it out in the open — well, FAFO.
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As obnoxious as gulls are, they’re not as gross and destructive as spotted lanternflies. (Though to be fair, the insects do not swoop down and take ice cream out of your hand.)
Another lanternfly infestation has begun. We’re not sure what this contraption — “spotted” outside the Westport Library — is.
Westport Police made 7 custodial arrests between July 29 and August 7.
A 28-year-old Westport man was charged with 5 counts of risk of injury to a child, interfering with an officer, disorderly conduct, 7 counts of violation of a protective order, assault, strangulation and unlawful restraint, after officers responded to a disturbance at a local residence. He had his hands around a victim’s throat, and refused officers’ command to disengage. He then physically resisted attempts to handcuff him. Five juveniles were present. All, and the victim, were protected parties by court order. He was unable to post a $150,000 bond.
A 36-year-old Hampton, New Hampshire man was charged with disorderly conduct, 6 counts of violation of a criminal protective order, and 7 counts of failure to appear, following an investigation into a June incident at the Delamar Hotel. A guest complained to staff about a loud argument in an adjacent room that turned physical. He left prior to officers’ arrival. Computer checks showed the victim had 6 court orders of protection. He was unable to post a $225,000 bond.
A 32-year-old Yonkers man was charged with larceny, conspiracy to commit larceny and risk of injury to a child, following an investigation into a theft of $3,157 worth of items from Ulta Beauty by someone accompanied by a young juvenile and an infant in a stroller. He was unable to post a $60,000 bond.
A 29-year-old North Bergen, New Jersey man was charged with larceny and identify theft, following an investigation into a May complaint that a personal check for $,608.34 had been intercepted, endorsed and cashed by an unknown party. He was identified, turned himself in, and released on a $5,000 bond.
A 31-year-old Woodbridge man was charged with larceny, and conspiracy to commit larceny, following an investigation into a February shoplifting incident of more than $297 worth of Ensure packages at Walgreens. He was unable to post a $10,000 bond.
A 40-year-old Westport man was charged with disorderly conduct and risk of injury to a child, following a physical disturbance at which a juvenile was present. He was released on a $1,500 bond.
A 62-year-old Norwalk man was charged with disorderly conduct, following a verbal argument. He was released on a $1,500 bond.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Texting while driving: 20 citations
Failure to renew registration: 10
Failure to obey stop sign: 6
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 5
Failure to drive in the proper lane: 4
Distracted driving: 3
Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 3
Failure to obey traffic control signals: 3
Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 2
Reckless driving: 1
Failure to grant half the highway: 1
Failure to grant right of way: 1
Unsafe backing: 1
Unsafe movement of a stopped vehicle: 1
Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 1
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 1
Failure to insure a motor vehicle: 1
Improper use of markers: 1
This may be the site of the most shoplifting incidents in Westport. Perpetrators are often caught.
Staples High School Class of 2007 graduate, track athlete and former lifeguard Emily Langham Delangue died peacefully in her sleep on August 6.
She attended Washington University in St. Louis, first studying at the Sam Fox School of Design & Visual Arts before moving to the Olin Business School where she earned a BS in Business Administration in 2011. She was a member of Pi Beta Phi sorority, serving as rush chair her senior year.
After graduation, Emily began a career in advertising, at Discovery Communications and several agencies.
She married Clément Delangue in 2018, in Dourdan, France. They divorced amicably in 2023.
Emily moved to San Diego that year. She enrolled in a master’s program in clinical psychology at Pepperdine University, with plans to graduate this December.
She became a therapy trainee at Steppingstone of San Diego, a non-profit.
Emily was deeply involved in the 12-step program, where she found a meaningful and important community. She had nearly two years of sobriety when she passed away, an accomplishment of which she was very proud.
Her family says, “She was a remarkably talented and accomplished person with a rare ability to immerse herself in whatever captured her fancy. She played classical piano, painted vivid still-lifes and self portraits, created extraordinary works of food art, read tarot cards, and crafted whimsical floral displays. She also had a distinctive flair for fashion.
Emily pursued her too short life fully, embracing countless adventures. Those who knew and loved her often called her a wildflower — free-spirited, unconventional and beautifully her own.”
She is survived by her parents, Dana and Jim Langham; her brothers Wes (fiancée Emma Peters), and Jeremy (Madi Fogarty); grandmother Emilia; uncles Donald, Daniel (Chris Vatis), Douglas, David (Katie),Max (Sue) and Sam (Lauren); aunt Luann Jacobs (Matthew); many cousins, and her cat Eddie.
A celebration of Emily’s life will be held September 5 (11 a.m., Nordike Funeral Home, Carlyle Illinois). The service will be livestreamed.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Steppingstone of San Diego.
Emily Langham Delangue
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American oystercatchers are enjoying Burying Hill Beach.
Seth Schachter sends along today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo, and this info.
“I believe these birds lay their eggs directly on the shore, typically above high tide line. They make a shallow dent in the sand or shell beds. They don’t build a nest out of twigs or grass. Or maybe these guys are just looking for food.
:These are protected birds as well as being designated ‘species of high conservation concern’ by the US Shorebird Conservation Plan. They’re beautiful to see, regardless.”
And finally … on this date in 1918, Opha May Johnson became the first woman to enlist in the US Marine Corps. She was 30 years old, and signed on as a reservist.
At the end of World War I the Marines (and all services) began to disenroll women from active service. They were allowed to join permanently as regular, active duty members beginning in 1948.
Beginning in 2016, military combat jobs became open to female Marines, permitting service in frontline infantry and combat roles.
For several years, Compo Beach lifeguards have enjoyed — and entertained beachgoers by playing — spikeball, during breaks.
This year, Parks & Recreation Department officials ended the practice, due to safety and other concerns.
The guards hope to have the game back. A petition on Change.org says:
My fellow lifeguards and I at Compo Beach are passionate about our roles, ensuring the safety and well-being of all beachgoers. However, just like any other team, we thrive and perform at our best when we are engaged and physically active. Spikeball is integral to our job; it’s not merely a game, but a tool for team building, collaboration, and healthy competition in our dynamic working environment.
In today’s digital age, where technology dominates our lives, encouraging outdoor activities is more crucial than ever. Spikeball provides us with the necessary physical activity to not only stay alert and fit but to also foster a sense of camaraderie and teamwork. It helps keep us moving and invigorated, ensuring that we are always ready and present to perform our duties effectively, rather than being distracted by our phones or other devices.
Implementing spikeball as part of our leisure time during breaks is a simple yet impactful initiative. Not only does it promote physical health and engagement, but it also reinforces the crucial aspects of teamwork and communication essential in our roles as lifeguards.
It’s time to enrich the working environment at Compo Beach by paving the way for activities that support both physical health and mental well-being. Let’s make spikeball a staple at our beach, enhancing our ability to protect and serve the community with vigor and joy.
Please sign this petition to allow spikeball for Compo Beach lifeguards and promote a healthy, active, and collaborative working atmosphere.
Speaking of the beach: We’ve posted 2 sets of photos of yesterday’s Soundview Stroll already (click here, and also here).
But the 3,000 happy visitors yesterday were not the only folks enjoying the spectacular weather, at one of our town’s crown jewels.
All the usual activities — swimming, playing on and lying in the sand, barbecuing, basketball, biking, playground-going, and so much more — was happening too.
It was both a special Sunday — and just another wonderful weekend day in Westport.
Just another day at the beach. (Photo/Awesnap.com)
Also at the VFW: The next Veterans Benefits Luncheon (Thursday, July 30, 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!
VFW benefits luncheon.
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Lachat Farms’ next monthly Farmers’ Market is Friday (July 31, 4 to 8 p.m.).
New vendors among the 21 include Lovely Chocolate, Robin Ann Jewelry, Stitchtrove and Tafika Arts. They join food trucks, tents, music — and Tony Pizza.
There’s’ also a collection of new and gently used children’s books. For more information, click here.
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Save the date — September 27 — for the 39th annual Bigelow Tea Community Challenge.
Sponsored by the Fairfield company founded by Westporters, the event benefits local charities including Neighborhood Studios of Fairfield County, Connecticut Food Bank, Caroline House, Bridgeport Rescue Mission, Norma Pfriem Breast Center, Pivot Ministries and more.
It includes at 5K run, fitness walk and kids’ fun run, plus music, food, touch-a-truck, a t-shirt and race bag, and more.
The event is at Wakeman Boys & Girls Club in Southport. For more information, click here.
Dylan Robbin is the newest member of the “06880” board of directors.
One seat on the 7-person board is reserved for a member of Inklings, Staples High School’s newspaper and website.
A rising junior, Dylan has immersed himself in many aspects of school life. Passionate about sports and journalism, he is a member of the varsity football team, director of sports media of Inklings News, and a coordinator on the WWPT-FM leadership team.
Outside of school, Dylan enjoys golfing, working out and watching movies. His favorite film is “The Departed.”
Meanwhile, back on land around the corner, there was this classic scene:
(Photo/Nathan Greenbaum)
Sure, the cars and homes are fancy. But it doesn’t get more Anytown USA than this.
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We don’t yet know who’ll be playing in Sunday’s World Cup final.
But we do know where you can see what’s sure to be a great match: the Westport Library.
And that’s not all. There’s a full, family-friendly soccer afternoon.
At 1:30, Westport soccer personalities including former Staples High School coaches Dan Woog and Chris O’Dell, national champion Paddy Donovan and soccer filmmaker Joe Pierce will tell stories about their lives in the Beautiful Game.
From 1 to 3 p.m., fans can exchange Panini brand stickers.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or only recently caught World Cup fever, this is a chance to spend an afternoon with soccer people — and watch what is sure to be a memorable match surrounded by many others.
And you can’t beat the admission price. It’s free!
(“Westport Meets the World Cup” is supported by the Westport Soccer Association, Mickey Kydes Soccer Enterprises and “06880.”)
(Graphic courtesy of Isabelle Sareen)
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The Val Ramos Flamenco Ensemble danced across the Levitt Pavilion stage last night.
The free show was one of dozens this year, at the open-air theater on the Saugatuck River.
This week’s schedule:
Tuesday, July 14: Connecticut Ballet (7:30 p.m., free)
Wednesday, July 15: Elena Moon Park: Children’s Series (7 p.m., free)
Thursday, July 16: Amani Burnham, blues/rock (7:30 p.m., free)
Friday, July 17: Dogs in a Pile, psychedelic/jazz/funk rock (6 p.m., paid tickets)
Saturday, July 18: Hollywood Nights: The Bob Seger Experience (7 p.m., paid tickets)
On Saturday, Eggy returned to the Levitt, for 2 high-energy sets. (Photo/Dick Wingate)
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Westport’s celebration of America’s 250th anniversary continued this weekend. The Westport Library hosted “A Small Standard Patriotic Flower Show.” Floral designs, horticulture and education tables — all with a red, white and blue theme — were presented by the Westport Garden Club.
From left: Joni Andrews, Kara McKenna-Wong, Kelle Ruden, Joanne Heller, Nathalie Fonteyne, Andi Turner, Anne Lester.
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Noted Westport artist Nina Bentley is participating in the current New York Historical’s “Weitzman Shoe Museum” exhibit. It includes a number of pieces from the collection of Stuart Weitzman,
Outgoing State Senator Ceci Maher is the featured guest on July 23 for “This Is Your Life”. The series — a collaboration between the Westport Center for Senior Activities and The Legacy Project USA — is a chance to learn about the lives of friends and neighbors among us, both well known and quiet.
Prior to her 2 terms as state senator, Maher served in both the public and corporate worlds. She also raised 3 children. Her daughter Katherine is CEO and president of National Public Radio.
Rozanne Gates, owner of The Legacy Project USA, is the moderator of “This Is Your Life.” The series at the Senior Center has included Mark Yurkiw, Rabbi Greg Wall, Harold Bailey, Bill Harmer, Miggs Burroughs and Carleigh Welsh.
To attend “This Is Your Life, Senator Ceci Maher,” call 203-341-5099
Longtime Westporter, noted publisher, former Westport Library president and Brown University trustee Joel Davis died peacefully on Saturday, after a short illness. He was 92.
The Chicago native was president of his Highland Park High School Class of 1952. His college years at Brown University made a major impact on his life.
Joel became the youngest trustee of the Brown Corporation at age 34. He served from 1968-73. He was head class agent for the Class of 1956 for 35 years.
Joel kept in touch with dozens of classmates, and knew the names of their partners, children and other important life details. At a classmate’s wedding he met Carol Barnett, his wife of 67 years. They moved to Westport in 1965.
After college Joel and his father Bernie founded Davis Publications. He was president and publisher for 40 years. At its peak they published 60 special interest magazines including Ellery Queen’s Mystery, Isaac Asimov’s Science Fiction, Income Opportunities, Sylvia Porter’s Personal Finance, Alfred Hitchcock’s Mystery Magazine, and Analog.
Architectural Designs was launched, with his wife Carol as editor. One of Joel’s three sons, Jonathan, was brought in 20 years later to learn the business and eventually take it over. Jon evolved AD into an e-commerce leading business, selling home plans to builders and individuals.
Joel was proud that last year his grandson, Jared Davis, became the third generation CEO of AD.
Joel’s father co-founded Ziff-Davis Publishing Company in 1928, which meant that Joel and his family have had a key role in publishing for 98 years.
Joel served on the board of the Westport Library for many years, including 2 terms as the president. He was also served a 25-year board member of the Magazine Publishers of America.
Additionally, he was a director for Mutual of New York on 3 different funds. Joel served on the Merritt Parkway Conservancy board, and was a Young Presidents Organization Fairchester Chapter chair.
Joel is survived by his wife Carol; sister Carol Davis Teten; sons Chuck (Jan), Andy (Kate) and Jon (Evelyn); grandchildren Jared (Emily), Jenna (Connor Grealy) and Jack, and two great-grandchildren. One more is on the way.
Joel’s family will host a celebration of his life this fall.
Joel Davis, at his 84th birthday.
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Many “Westport … Naturally” photos are striking, inspiring, or for many other reasons make us think, “Wow! We live in a beautiful and special place!”
This one doesn’t.
Still, it’s part of the daily rhythm of life by the shore.
(Photo copyright DinkinESH Fotografix)
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And finally … in honor of Nina Bentley’s artwork, at New York Historical (item above):
(Another week — and more chances for “06880” to give you all the news, features, photos and more that you love. If you enjoy this hyper-local blog, please click here to support our work. Thanks!)
But that impact isn’t just happening at home; it’s transforming public spaces too.
Thanks to resident contributions, UnPlastic Westport has funded, secured town approval for, and installed 2 new water bottle filling stations. They’re at the Compo Beach basketball courts, and Winslow Park.
Water bottle filling station at Compo Beach …
We’re positioned to knock thousands of single-use plastic bottles out of our parks and beaches this summer.
But the game isn’t over. This month is Plastic-Free July.The global movement inspires millions to take simple steps to reduce plastic waste. Sustainable Westport is handing the playbook over to residents to score the next big win.
To fund the next wave of infrastructure, they’re launching a town-wide competition to decide where Westport’s next water bottle filling station should go.
Every dollar donated counts as one vote (or point scored) for your favorite location. If you chip in $1, that’s one vote. $5 = 5 votes, helping stack the deck for your favorite park, beach or sports field.
Whichever Westport location puts the most points on the board by the end of the month wins the championship, and the next water bottle filling station.*
Under “Additional info”, select your desired location from the list: Town Farms Ball Complex, Old Mill Beach, PJ Romano Field, or Wakeman Park
PS: Where does our town need a hydration upgrade? Is it athletic fields, a spot downtown, or closer to the beach? Click “Comments” below to rally your neighbors.
*All locations are subject to approval by the Planning & Zoning Commission, Parks & Recreation Commission and Department of Public Works, as applicable. The cost and feasibility of each location vary.
Click here to help support “06880” via credit card or PayPal. Any amount is welcome, appreciated — and tax-deductible! Reader contributions keep this blog going. (Alternate methods: Please send a check to “06880”: PO Box 744, Westport, CT 06881. Or use Venmo: @blog06880. Or Zelle: dwoog@optonline.net. Thanks!)
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