A forecast of rain forced the cancellation of today’s Memorial Day parade.
But nothing could stop Westport’s ceremony, honoring America’s fallen servicemembers.
It went on as scheduled, inside Town Hall rather than across Myrtle Avenue at Veterans Green.
Grand marshal Herb Podel (center) with, from left, Governor Ned Lamont, 1st Selectman Kevin Christie and Congressman Jim Himes. Standing in back are 2nd Selectwoman Amy Wistreich and 3rd Selectman Don O’Day.
A capacity crowd heard a retired general, political leaders. and grand marshal World War II veteran Herb Podel offer moving stories of sacrifice, and stirring reminders of the role democracy plays in American life.
Podel — a Seabee aviation and electronics specialist in the Pacific Theater who went on to found a successful business, and has spent over 6 decades involved in Westport’s civic life — delivered his address in a strong voice.
He tied President Lincoln’s Gettysburg address and the “be the change you want to see in the world” quote attributed to Mahatma Gandhi, to today’s world.
“We all have a role to play, in the spirit of our forefathers,” the grand marshal said.
He urged the audience — which gave him standing ovations before and after he spoke — to “vote! Stand for freedom!”
Other speakers also wove together together and today.
Governor Lamont quoted Thomas Jefferson, Thomas Paine and Lincoln. Congressman Jim Himes honored the sacrifices of patriots battling the British who landed at Compo Beach, and the 1.4 million Americans killed in all wars since.
First Selectman Kevin Christie said, “History is not distant.” He slowly recited the names of more than a dozen Westport veterans, all of whom died in the past year.
Master of ceremonies Brigadier General (retired) Brien Horan drew heartfelt applause at the end of the hour.
Remarking on America’s special history, he noted that servicemembers “swear an oath to the Constitution — not to any political party.”
Brigadier General (ret.) Brian Horan, master of ceremonies.
The ceremony also included presentation of the colors by an honor guard; the national anthem sung by the Greens Farms Elementary School Chorus; a Westport Police Department firing detail; the pledge of allegiance led by Cub Scout Pack 39 and Scout Troops 39 and 139; “Logan’s Order” played by the Staples High School band; “Taps” by Staples buglers Abigail Kane and Jessica Willis, and an invocation and benediction from Rev. Sophie Beal of Green’s Farms Church.
Grand marshal Herb Podel, with his speech.
Patty Kondub and Phil Delgado. She is with VFW Post 399 Auxiliary; he is the Post’s quartermaster.
Scouts lead the Pledge of Allegiance. A veteran in the honor guard (front) joins in.
The honor guard enters.
Kevin Mazzarella conducts the Staples band.
Staples band, and a small part of the capacity crowd. (Photo/Ted Horowitz)
Congressman Jim Himes leaves soon for Ukraine. “Godspeed,” said Governor Lamont. (All photos/Dan Woog unless otherwise noted)
Memorial Day began with a ceremony at Fire Department headquarters. Chief Nick Marsan (left) and Deputy Chief Matthew Cohen spoke. (Photo/Carl Wistreich)
Longtime Westporter Bill O’Brien sent this note to family and friends. He asked “06880” to share it with the entire community. Bill says:
As we get ready to celebrate this holiday with cookouts, cold beer and fun activities. it’s important for all Americans to pause at least a bit to reckon with what Memorial Day is really all about.
The origins of special services to honor those who die in war is based in antiquity. Athenian leader Pericles offered a tribute 2,400 years ago to the fallen heroes of the Peloponnesian War that could be applied today to the 1.4 million Americans who have died in the nation’s wars: “Not only are they commemorated by columns and inscriptions, but there dwells also an unwritten memorial of them, graven not on stone but in the hearts of men.”
To ensure the sacrifices of America’s lost are never forgotten, in 2000 the Congress passed and the president signed into law “The National Moment of Remembrance Act.”
Part of this act is to encourage all Americans to pause wherever they are at 3 pm local time on Memorial Day for a minute of silence. to remember and honor those who have died in service to the nation.
I think you’ll agree it’s the least we all can do to honor the fallen and help remind us of what the true meaning is behind the words “MEMORIAL Day.”
Bill’s wife Jacque O’Brien adds this, with 2 photos:
I came across these photos, taken 22 years ago when Bill and I visited our daughter Shannon and her family in Washington. We went the newly opened World War II Memorial.
Our grandson Garrett was just 4 years old. He decided to stop, trace the word, then rest on the monument. I remember thinking how special that moment was.
Every time I see these photos, I still get choked up.
But they do provide a snapshot of a certain part of our educational system.
Yesterday, the New York Times published a sobering data-driven story.
Almost everywhere in the US, students are performing worse than their peers were 10 years ago, in both reading and math scores.
The declines are seen in both wealthy and impoverished districts. They cross racial and geographic lines. And — importantly — they began before the pandemic.
The Times included a tool to check thousands of school district, in all the states in the survey. It includes comparisons with similar districts, and each state as a whole.
The (pretty) good news: Westport fell only 0.6 grade levels in reading, and there was no change in math.
That’s better than the Connecticut average, and much better than the nation as a whole.
Speaking of schools: As the Board of Education explores a review of the special education program, they’re hosting a “community conversation.”
The meeting (Wednesday, May 20, 7 p.m., Staples High School library) is a chance for residents to provide feedback on the special education program review.
Jack Klinge is one of Westport’s greatest volunteers.
For decades he has served — quietly, faithfully, always with a twinkle of humor and an enormous heart. He’s the longest-serving member on the Representative Town Meeting (29 years!), a longtime Little League coach, a beloved substitute teacher, a deliverer of meals, and a trusted mentor.
Jack also helped found the Friends of the Senior Center.
Tomorrow (Friday, May 15, 3 p.m.), the Senior Center honors Jack.
Anyone and everyone he’s touched — friends, former colleagues, former students and athletes, mentees formal and informal — is invited to the celebration.
Once again, Westport proved it’s a community with “soul.”
The town-wide shoe collection to benefit Soles4Souls — a non-profit that provides footwear for people in need, and creates micro-business opportunities in under-resourced areas — filled 28 boxes. Each holds 20 pairs.
That means 500 pairs of shoes are on their way, to people who need them far more than we do.
From left: Soles4Souls organizers Ted Freedman, Ken Bernhard, Rick Jaffe and friend, with boxes of donations.
MoCA\CT’s wide-ranging exhibition — “Art, Jazz + the Blues” — ends June 7.
But it’s going out with a bang.
On Saturday, June 6 (7 p.m.), Endea Owens & The Cookout star in a night of soul-stirring jazz.
Owens — a Juilliard graduate and member of the “Late Show with Stephen Colbert” house band — has earned Grammy, Emmy, and Peabody Award recognition. She has been heard on “Judas and the Black Messiah,” H.E.R.’s Super Bowl LV performance, and Jon Batiste’s album “We Are.”
Owens is also a dedicated philanthropist. Her “Community Cookout” initiative has provided thousands of meals and free concerts to underserved neighborhoods. Click here for tickets, and more information.
In addition to representing this area in Congress, he’s the ranking member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence.
But he always has time for his constituents.
On Monday, Himes spent nearly an hour answering questions from Y’s Women. He spoke energetically and candidly about the war with Iran, the US going it alone in the world, voting rights and redistricting in Southern states, immigration, and the defense of democratic institutions.
Congressman Jim Himes, at the Y’s Women meeting. (Photo/Vera DeStefano)
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“We help the least, the last and the left out.”
That was Bridgeport Rescue Mission CEO Rhonda Neal’s message to the Westport Rotary Club on Tuesday. The Mission provides food and clothing, addiction recovery services, safe housing, healthcare and more.
Neal’s appearance followed the Rotarians’ distribution of $319,000 to a number of area non-profit organizations, including hers. Funds come several events, particularly LobsterFest.
Rhonda Neal, at the Rotary Club. (Hat tip and photo/Dave Matlow)
Rooted in the traditional Japanese style of fireside grilling, robata involves cooking over open flame to create deeper smokiness, texture and layered flavor, while allowing high-quality ingredients to remain the focus.
Highlights at chef Brian Lewis’ acclaimed Wilton Road restaurant include salmon and Asian pear with miso mustard, hanger steak with black garlic aioli, teriyaki chicken with white miso aioli, and Japanese eggplant and mushroom with umeboshi.
Robata at OKO.
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Westport Police made 1 custodial arrest between May 6 and 12.
A 34-year-old Manchester woman was charged with risk of injury to a child, after she was alleged to have provided a juvenile with a THC-infused cannabis gummy at St. Vincent’s Behavioral Health. She was released on a $10,000 bond.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Failure to obey stop sign: 16 citations
Failure to renew registration: 8
Texting while driving: 5
Distracted driving: 4
Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 4
Traveling unreasonably fast: 3
Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 3
Creating a public disturbance: 2
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension 1
Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 1
School zone violation, 2nd offense: 1
School zone violation: 1
Distracted driving, 2nd offense: 1
Traveling too fast for conditions: 1
Failure to drive in the proper lane: 1
Failure to use turn signal: 1
Too many drivers don’t use turn signals. One got nabbed this week.
And finally … reacting to the item above, concerning national standardized test scores:
(We are very proud of our Westport schools — and students. We’re proud too to be their — and your — hyper-local blog. If you’re proud, or just like us, please click here to support our work. Thanks!)
But this one — by longtime Westporter and internationally known artist Larry Silver — showing yesterday’s rainbow over kids playing at the Compo Beach playground is too good to pass up.
(Photo/Larry Silver)
Today may not be great beach weather: partly cloudy.
But the temperature will be in the mid-80s.
We’ll take it.
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The town of Westport website is very functional. There’s tons of information on departments, commissions, permits, beaches, affordable housing, etc., etc., etc.
It’s where you go to access livestreams of meetings, get voter information, find emails and phone numbers of town officials, etc., etc., etc.
The website has been tweaked over the years. There have been incremental improvements.
But things are not always where you’d think they’d be. There are inconsistencies. It can be clunky. And no one has ever called it “pretty.”
That may change.
Officials are seeking “proposals for Municipal Website Redesign.”
Bids are open through 11 a.m. April 2026, in the Finance Office at Town Hall.
Speaking of government: Congressman Jim Himes will speak — and take questions — this Saturday (April 18, 8:30 a.m.), at Weston’s Norfield Congregational Church.
The event is sponsored by the Weston Kiwanis Club.
Congressman Jim Himes
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On Saturday, “06880” announced the 7th edition of Soles4Souls.
The project — organized by Ken Bernhard, Ted Freedman and Rick Jaffe — encourages Westporters to check their closets, and donate new or slightly worn shoes. The non-profit keeps shoes out of landfills, provides footwear for people in need, and creates micro-business opportunities in places of poverty.
Collection boxes are in place at Town Hall and the Senior Center.
Westport definitely has a soul.
In just 3 days beginning Monday, over 150 pairs have been collected.
That’s outstanding generosity.
And it’s just the start.
The collection boxes will be at Town Hall and the Senior Center through the first week in May.
That’s plenty of time for many more residents to help many more souls, with soles.
Donations at the Senior Center. From left: director Wendy Petty, Meghan Tapley, Nicole Rolnick ,,,
The Westport Country Playhouse has announced 2 new shows for kids, and the May Script in Hand play reading.
“Pinkalicious” (June 7, 1 and 4 p.m.) is perfect for kindergartners through 2nd graders.
“Mutts Gone Nuts” (June 21, 4 p.m.) features 6 amazingly talented canines. The cast includes a Guinness World Record holder, an “America’s Got Talent” favorite, and other dogs that dance, prance, flip, and skip.
The Script in Hand reading (May 4, 7 p.m.) is “One Slight Hitch” by Lewis Black — yes, that Lewis Black.
He’s written “a farce that feels both wildly entertaining and all too familiar to anyone who’s ever navigated family, love, or the chaos of a wedding day.”
Click here for details, tickets, and more information on other Westport Country Playhouse offerings.
Pinkalicious
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The Revolutionary War returns!
On May 16 (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), the 5th Connecticut Regiment will stage an encampment, at the Weston History & Culture Center.
The day — part of Weston’s America 250 celebration — includes soldier drills, a kids’ musket march, blacksmithing, weaving, wool spinning, woodworking, cooking demonstrations and fashions.
As fighting in Ukraine rages, 2 events will focus on that long-running war. Donations for relief efforts through Ridgefield Responds will be gladly accepted.
“Words From the Front” (Sunday, April 19, 2:30 p.m., Easton Library) is a staged reading of a play by Nancy Herman an Lynda Sorensen. It uses the actual voices of Americans, Ukrainians and Russians, in correspondence.
The following Sunday, also in Easton (April 26, 4 to 6 p.m., Masonic Lodge, 200 Center Street), “A Taste of Ukraine” — organized by Westport artist Mark Yurkiw — includes pierogi, desserts, and an art sale.
Yurkiw — who has collected medical supplies for Ukraine — will give an overview of the crisis, and discuss his own and other aid efforts. There is a suggested donation of $30, with seating limited to 50 people.
Cybersecurity fraud was the talk of the Westport Rotary Club on Tuesday.
Fortunately, it hadn’t happened — at least, not to the club itself.
But a pair of financial crimes specialists — Westport Police Department Sergeant James Baker and Detective 1st Class Marc Heinmiller — shared their expertise.
Baker said the most common types of crypto-crimes include financial account takeovers), investment scams, ransomware, dark markets (human and narcotics trafficking), and money laundering.
Heinmiller cited “bad actors,” including Russian ransomware groups, North Korean hackers, drug cartels and global scam organizations.
Detective Marc Heinmiller. (Hat tip and photo/Dave Matlow)
Westport Police made 2 custodial arrests between April 8 and 14.
A 55-year-old Westport man was charged with electronic stalking of a domestic partner. In September a victim found an electronic tracking device in the trunk of their car. An investigation identified the suspect, who denied intentionally placing it there. He was released on a $50,000 bond.
A 38-year-old Waterbury woman was charged with assault, following an investigation into a 2023 incident at St. Vincent’s Behavioral Health Services. The victim said there was no provocation, but the assault included repeated strikes to the head using both fists and knees, and continued after the victim became unconscious. She was unable to post a $75,000 bond.
As the monthlong state crackdown on texting while driving continued, Westport Police issued these citations:
Texting while driving: 47 citations
Distracted driving: 11
Traveling unreasonably fast: 10
Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 6
This week’s very warm and wonderful weather has brought great crowds to Compo. (They’d be greater still if most of the town was not far away, for the schools’ spring break.)
But, as this gull proves in today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature, the beach still belongs to him and his fine feathered friends.
They can fly all over the place. They can swoop down and take your food.
And they can sit and hang out wherever they please.
(Photo/Lauri Weiser)
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And finally … in honor of the Westport Country Playhouse’s upcoming production of “Pinkalicious”:
(“06880” relies on reader support. Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. We’ll be in the pink!)
A couple of hundred protestors massed and chanted on the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge this morning.
It’s been a Saturday ritual for months. Today’s crowd was larger than usual. As always, passing drivers honked often, in solidarity.
(Photo/Claudia Sherwood Servidio)
An hour later, 1,500 people gathered at Jesup Green. Westport was one of more than 3,000 communities nationwide, participating in the third “No Kings” rally. Previous protests were held in June and October.
As before, the Westport Police and Fire Departments, and Emergency Medical Services, ensured safety and order. They received a rousing hand.
A small part of the large crowd.
Music ranged from Bob Marley’s “Stand Up For Your Rights” to “America the Beautiful.”
Speakers included Governor Ned Lamont, Senator Richard Blumenthal and Congressman Jim Himes.
Secretary of the State Stephanie Thomas noted, “Every right — human, civil, women’s, LGBTQ, disability — came about because of people just like us. It is not partisan to believe in the rule of law, in the Constitution, in ‘we the people.'”
She then led the crowd in the Pledge of Allegiance, emphasizing, “with liberty and justice for all.”
1st Selectman Kevin Christie was at a funeral, but sent a message that “our democracy matters.”
(Photo/Pippa Bell Ader)
102-year-old Virginia Auster was an avid rally-goer. A longtime Westporter, she now lives in Norwalk.
Senator Richard Blumenthal said, “This is what America and democracy look like.”
Inklings paper editor Nate Gerber interviews Representative Jim Himes. In his speech, the congressman said, “The realm of the mad king is as insidious as ever. He has his courtiers, his sycophants, his lickspittles. But we are the stewards of the ideals that made this country great.” (All photos Dan Woog unless otherwise noted)
Governor Ned Lamont (Photo/Pippa Bell Ader)
(Photo/Ted Horowitz)
First responders are ready. (Photo/Jonathan Alloy)
(Photo/Pippa Bell Ader)
Meanwhile, back on the bridge … (Photo/Susan Garment)
On Wednesday, Westport’s non-profit that works to end homelessness and food insecurity in Fairfield County welcomed the congressman to the Gillespie Center.
Homes with Hope staff, board members, community partners and local leaders thanked Himes for his continued advocacy in Washington, on behalf of our most vulnerable neighbors.
Himes met with HwH board chair Becky Martin, emeritus chair John Walsh, and board member Amanda Castellano, along with selectpersons Kevin Christie and Amy Wistreich.
During the visit, a veteran now residing at the Gillespie Center thanked Himes for helping him obtain medical benefits. Another resident said that the congressman had helped her too.
Congressman Jim Himes (2nd from right), with 1st Selectman Kevin Christie (far left) and Homes with Hope staff members and friends.
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“Urinetown” opened last night, to a raucous reception.
Staples Players’ spring production of the Tony Award-winning satiric musical is a worthy successor to the fall’s “Les Misérables” (with a few winks and nods to that popular show).
The cast has a great time conveying the dystopian-with-a-song message. Young kids enjoy the potty humor; older ones, and adults, understand the deeper theme.
Westport’s next Hazardous Waste Day is Saturday, April 11 (9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Greens Farms railroad station).
The free program enables residents of Westport, Norwalk, New Canaan, Darien, Stamford and Greenwich to safely dispose of household hazardous wastes.
Residents of those towns may bring these types of hazardous waste: gasoline, kerosene, spray paint, paint strippers, paint thinners, solvents, paints, stains, turpentine, varnishes, wood preservatives, degreasers, fertilizers, fungicides, herbicides, insecticides, pesticides, bleach, charcoal lighter, cleaning chemicals, drain cleaners, mercury thermometers, moth balls, pet flea shampoos, photo chemicals, rug shampoos, spot removers, art supplies and paints.
Make sure items are clearly labeled.
Never mix chemicals!
Keep products in their original labeled containers.
Place leaky containers in clear plastic bags.
Tighten lids of all containers, and pack items in sturdy cardboard boxes lined with paper.
Put boxes in the trunk or in back of the vehicle, away from passengers.
Leave pets and children home when bringing hazardous materials for collection.
Westport residents may recycle antifreeze, motor oil, batteries of any type, light bulbs and electronics at the transfer station on the Sherwood Island Connector, weekdays from 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.; Saturdays from 7 a.m. to noon.
The following items are NOT acceptable: ammunition, flares, commercial hazardous waste.
Questions? Call Westport’s Public Works Department: 203-341-1793.
Program manager Gretchen Hoffman shows how small changes can make a big difference.
She leads a tour of her own kitchen, describing reusable product bags, a variety of storage containers, cutting boards and stainless steel cooking utensils.
A “maple syrup boil and demonstration” (March 28, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Wakeman Town Farm) offers a chance to talk to WTF farmers about tapping and producing maple syrup, and to check out the Farm’s homestead-sized evaporator.
It’s also a great time to ask the farmers any general gardening questions.
Speaking still of the environment: The 2023 film “Common Ground” unveiled a dark web of money, power and politics behind our food system. But it also profiled farmers who use alternative “regenerative” models of agriculture that could balance the climate, save our health, and stabilize America’s economy.
Connecticut farmers feature prominently in the documentary.
The Westport Farmers’ Market is sponsoring a free showing this Sunday (March 15, 4:30 p.m., The Warehouse @ Fairfield Theatre Company). Click here to reserve a spot.
The Longshore golf course reservation system will transition from Chelsea to a new tee time reservation platform — ForeUp — ext week.
To ensure a smooth changeover, all handpass holders must log into their Chelsea account and confirm that their contact information is current before the system transfer.
The new reservation system requires each handpass holder to have a unique email address associated with their account. If multiple accounts share the same email address, or if account information is not updated prior to the transfer, delays or issues booking tee times at the start of the season may result.
Fore! (Photo/Susan Garment)
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Will this be Westport’s biggest tag sale ever?
On May 2, the Nolan Team at Compass is sponsoring a town-wide tag sale. Residents can participate by hosting a sale at their own home.
It’s a great way to get plenty of publicity. The Nolan Team handles all promotion (including a sign for your lawn or driveway). Your address will be included on a map, and all publicity.
Shoppers can plan their own route, and visit multiple sales all day.
To participate, and for more information, click here.
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The Westport Library is a town gem. The only 5-star library in the state offers an astonishing array of events, programs, services — even a state-of-the-art recording studio.
But it doesn’t just happen. A board of trustees provides guidance and oversight.
As upcoming vacancies loom, they’re looking for qualified, eager candidates.
Responsibilities include governance and fiduciary duties, strategic oversight, collaboration with leadership, financial stewardship and support, and more.
Candidates must be Westport residents. Fundraising experience and strong community connections are key. Skills in strategic planning, finance, law, nonprofit operations or areas supporting innovation and digital strategy are valued but not required.
Trustee appointments are for 4 years, this year beginning July 1. Interested candidates should email a resume and letter of interest to spresutto@westportlibrary.org by March 20.
Last weekend, she became the first Staples female wrestler ever to place in the state open tournament.
Amelia placed 6th, at 138 pounds. Great work, Amelia.
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Despite the dismal end to the week, the earlier part gave us hope that spring is lurking nearby — somewhere.
Amy Schneider spotted these snowdrops along the Library Riverwalk.
(Photo/Amy Schneider)
May there be many more to follow.
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And finally … Today is the second straight month with a Friday the 13th.
That’s pretty rare. In fact, it can only happen in a non-leap year, when the first one is February. Enjoy!
(Despite the unlucky day, we are lucky to have you as an “06880” reader. And it will truly be our lucky day if you click here, to support our work. Thank you!)
A decade and a half after it was first proposed, a 2-story office building will be built at 715 Post Road East.
That means the towering log pile on the 1/3-acre site — across Roseville Road from McDonald’s — will finally be gone. The target date for removal is 3 months. The building is expected to open, for medical and other uses, in a year.
The Planning & Zoning Commission approved the office plan — finally — on Monday. The vote was 6-1, with Michael Calise dissenting.
Westport-based national journalists Alisyn Camerota and Dave Briggs have done some great interviews on their “Sanity” podcast. They’ve asked tough questions of figures like Senator Richard Blumenthal and (former Westporter) James Comey.
Their most recent interview may be their deepest and most insightful yet.
Our Congressman — Jim Himes — is the ranking Democrat on the House Intelligence Committee. He’s one of the few people on Capitol Hill (or anywhere) to have seen the full video of the US military’s twin strikes on suspected Venezuelan drug dealers’ boats.
For half an hour, Himes spoke about the video (“it made me nauseous”), Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, the 53% of Americans who approve of killing suspected drug dealers, along with other subjects like his colleague, Marjorie Taylor Greene.
Click here or below for the full, fascinating interview.
The Residence at Westport invites Westport residents — and everyone else – to today’s Holiday Pop-Up Shop (Wednesday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., 1141 Post Road East).
Local artisans will sell handmade works, including jewelry, pottery and gifts.
The Residence at Westport
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Army and Navy may no longer be at the top of the college football heap.
But there’s still plenty of interest, when the military academies meet.
They kick off for the 126th time this Saturday (3 p.m.). And what better place to watch than VFW Post 399?
There’s a party there (465 Riverside Avenue), beginning at 2 p.m.
Everyone is invited. But if you’re a veteran (or active duty): Wear something that lets everyone know which team is yours.
Roni Goldberg — the new executive director of A Better Chance of Westport — spoke to the Westport Rotary Club on Tuesday.
Since 2002, the organization has provided outstanding and academically-gifted young men of color a home, and other support services, while they attend Staples High School.
The community has gotten behind the local chapter of the national ABC program — and the dozens of teenage scholars have given back plenty to our town.
Roni Goldberg, ABC executive director, at the Westport Rotary Club. (Hat tip and photo/Dave Matlow)
Westport Police made 2 custodial arrests between December 3 and 9.
A 69-year-old Bridgeport man was charged with criminal mischief and intimidation based on bigotry, after an investigation into vandalism at the former Westport National Bank building. A large symbol, described as a Star of David combined with a swastika, was drawn in blue paint. Identical symbols were painted on other structures in the area. He was unable to post a $75,000 bond.
A 30-year-old Westport woman was charged with risk of injury to a minor, after signs of injury were observed by school staff on a juvenile student. She was released on a $50,000 bond.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Texting while driving: 5 citations
Traveling unreasonably fast: 4
Failure to renew registration: 3
Speeding in a school zone: 2
Distracted driving: 2
Assault: 1
Breach of peace: 1
Speeding in a school zone (2nd offense): 1
Speeding: 1
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 1
Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 1
Failure to obey stop sign: 1
Improper turns: 1
Failure to obey state traffic control signals: 1
Failure to obey state traffic commission regulations: 1
And finally … on this date in 1913, the Mona Lisa was recovered in Florence, Italy. Leonardo da Vinci’s famed painting had been stolen more than 2 yeares earlier, from the Louvre.
(“06880” is where Westport meets the world — from Jim Himes to the Mona Lisa. If you enjoy these daily Roundups — or any other feature of our blog — please click here to support our work. Thanks!)
Westport’s “No Kings” rally today was loud. It was wide-ranging.
And it was very well attended.
Over 500 people gathered on Jesup Green for speeches and songs.
(Photo/Jerry Kuyper)
Susan Terry started the protest — one of nearly 3,000 nationally, all in opposition to President Trump and his policies — with a stirring rendition of “America.”
Congressman Jim Himes offered a powerful vision for the day. “We are here because we love America,” he said.
(Photo/Jerry Kuyper)
“The song we just heard talks about ‘brotherhood.’ We are all here — Democrats, Republicans and independents — in support of that great American dream of brotherhood.”
“Peaceful actions, consistent with American values, matter,” he continued. “Things may get worse before they get better. But we all have a role to play.”
Congressman Jim Himes
Other speakers included State Senator Ceci Maher, and State Representatives Jonathan Steinberg, Dominique Johnson and Matthew Blumenthal.
Dan Bikel — a Westporter, and son of folksinger Theodore Bikel — led a singalong to “We Shall Overcome.”
Another rally, a few yards away, was even larger.
Around 2,000 people lined the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge, from Taylor Place to Post Road West, holding placards and chanting slogans. It was at least as large as a similar “No Kings” event in June.
(Photo/Jim Honeycutt)
The crowd was buoyed by near-constant supportive honking, from vehicles driving slowly past on the Post Road.
There was an especially loud response by the operator of a long flatbed tow truck. On both sides of the bridge, the crowd roared its thanks.
Meanwhile in the river, 2 counter-protesters made their feelings known.
(Photo/Pam Docters)
But they were vastly outnumbered. Out-shouted. Out-flagged.
And out-signed.
(Photo/Jerry Kuyper)
(Photo/Jerry Kuyper)
The view from a passing car. (Photo/Dayle Brownstein)
(Photo/Catherine Campagnino)
(Photo/Richard Fogel)
Rally co-organizer Darcy Hicks, and husband Josh Koskoff.
The topic of yesterday’s Y’s Men panel, before a packed Westport Library crowd, was “how the media covered the first 100 days of the Trump administration.”
But panelists roamed freely, with most talking more generally about the role of the media in today’s polarized world.
Congressman Jim Himes noted that the founding fathers believed the press must be independent of the president. However, he said, “I don’t think any media outlet can or should be impartial. It’s up to as news consumers to learn and understand bias. If we can’t do that, then democracy is in danger.” He said he was “harsher on citizenry than the media.”
Former Fox News and CNN journalist (and Westport resident) Alisyn Camerota said, “We’re taught in journalism school to be conscious of our biases, and to check them at the door.”
She added, “It’s hard and perilous to be a journalist right now. We’re in the middle of an earthquake. Institutions are shaking and collapsing around us. We’re in the middle of the 1st Amendment doorway. When the shaking stops, will still have ’60 Minutes’ or CNN?”
The good news, she said, is that as journalists “scatter” from traditional media outlets, they wind up at “thousands” of places like Substack and podcasts. There, there are “no overlords.”
Veteran News12 anchor Rebecca Surran discussed the difficulty of maintaining “down-the-middle” coverage, particularly as economic woes hit outlets like hers, and news sources like the AP are banned from the White House.
She warned that although there are “thousands of ways to get news today, don’t stay in an echo chamber. Consume news you don’t feel comfortable with, too.”
Former 1st Selectman Jim Marpe noted that despite the demise of papers like the Westport News and Minuteman, Westport is not a “news desert” like many locations. He cited coverage by “06880,” and reporting by Westport Journal.
Fairfield University assistant professor of politics Aaron Weinstein called the ability to undersand a poll “one of the most imporant skills” a citizen can have.
From left: Aaron Weinstein, Jim Marpe, Rebecca Surran, Alisyn Camerota, Jim Himes, John Brandt. (Photo/Dan Woog)
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HB 5002 — the omnibus housing bill that could bring big changes to municipalities across the state — has been passed by the Connecticut House of Representatives and Senate. It now awaits Governor Lamont’s signature.
This morning, Westport 1st Selectman — in her capacity as a gubernatorial candidate – said:
“If signed into law by Governor Lamont, House Bill 5002: An Act Concerning Housing and the Needs of Homeless Persons, will be the biggest assault on local zoning control in Connecticut in over 30 years.
“Framed as a measure to help our homeless population, instead it represents a fundamental change in how communities make decisions, plan for the future, and serve the needs of all residents.
“The negative consequences will be felt for decades to come as it undermines local town operational management and zoning, and the voices of residents in decision-making.
“A one-size-fits-all approach does not work. HB 5002 will fundamentally transform local zoning across our beautiful state, radically changing the face of our unique towns and cities without any planning, infrastructure investment or regard for our natural resources. It’s time for housing policy that respects our residents and business owners, our environment, and the autonomy of our municipalities.
“Advancing affordable housing and ending homelessness are goals that I not only believe in, but have taken action on. As Westport’s 1st Selectwoman, I have helped champion a common-sense, collaborative approach to create diverse housing. This includes pursuing text amendments to convert Town-owned buildings to affordable housing, and deed-restricting Town-owned property to serve as congregate housing (the first in the State to do so).
“Westport received the Community Champion Award by the CT Coalition to End Homelessness as a result of our innovative efforts. This is the work towns can do with community support, local decision-making and visionary leadership. HB 5002 strips planning and zoning control from our towns and gives it to the state and to developers. That’s wrong for Connecticut. That’s wrong for our residents and our business owners. We can do better.”
The kids-first nonprofit is running 2 grade-level track and fitness clinics, from June 23 through July 17, at the Staples High School track.
They combine athletic training with specialized event instruction.
The session for grades 3-7 (9 to 10:30 a.m.) focus on specific events. The one for grades 7-8 (10:30 to noon) includes strength, movement and flexibility. More details and registration is available here.
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To honor Pride Month, Temple Israel invites the entire LGBTQ+ communities — and allies — to a “joyful and inclusive Pride Shabbat.”
The June 13 (6:30 p.m.) service includes music from the temple’s artist in residence, Elana Arian. It will be followed by a festive oneg (social gathering), and more music by Arian, with Cantors Julia Cadrain and Becky Mann.
A celebration of the life of Carol Randel — the longtime Westport, noted professor and beloved civic volunteer, who died last week — is set for 4 p.m. on June 29. The public is invited.
The setting is appropriate: the Saugatuck Rowing Club. That’s where Carol discovered herself as an athlete, found joy on the water and camaraderie with teammates. She won plenty of medals there too.
Carol Randel
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Humans prefer to fish alone.
These guys — not so much.
Mark Laclair spotted today’s “Westport … Naturally” scene on Harbor Road.
The Sunday 2 p.m. event — co-sponsored by the Y’s Men and Library — features Congressman Jim Himes, former 1st Selectman Jim Marpe, national news anchor and blogger Alisyn Camerota, local news anchor and feature reporter Rebecca Surran, and Fairfield University assistant professor of politics Aaron Weinstein. John Brandt will moderate.
Clockwise, from upper left: Jim Marpe, Jim Himes, Alisyn Camerota, Aaron Weinstein, Rebecca Surran.
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In just a few months since opening, The Clubhouse has become Westport’s go-to party event space.
On Wednesday, Staples High School soon-to-be graduates will take over the rooftop — usually reserved for 21 and older — for the first-ever send-off party there (or anywhere else in town).
The Clubhouse’s senior interns have planned the event (June 4, 7 to 9 p.m.). It includes light bites, a Staples-inspired (non-alcoholic) drink, music, cornhole and more.
Soon-to-be graduates are invited to wear their college logo gear. Tickets ($25) are available here. For financial assistance, email connect@theclubhousewestport.com.
Clubhouse interns and party planners (from left) Gavin Gravelle, Stella St. Andre and Jasmine Schiffman check out the space.
Speaking of seniors: On Thursday, Staples honored its high honors graduates.
The 20 students in the top 4% of the Class of 2025 were guests at a special dinner in the auditorium lobby. Each nominated one particularly influential teacher or staff member (of many), who spoke on their behalf.
Congratulations to Aidan Stubbs, William Borowsky, Andrew Rebello. Annam Anjolaoluwa Adachukwu Olasewere, Sam Rossoni, Jackson Tracey, Cole Siegner, Perrin Root, Mack Haymond, Will Boberski, Carolina Proctor, Alexis Krenzer, Mia Bomback, Matthew Guadarrama, Abe Lobsenz, Alessandra Gavriloiu, Megan Sargent, Kendra Cheng, Shreyas Gorre and Suhani Aggarwal!
Among the High Honors dinner attendees (from left): Will Boberski, Mack Haymond, Perrin Root, Jackson Tracey, Sam Rossoni, Aidan Stubbs, Andrew Rebello, Abe Lobsenz.
Speaking of Staples: The Board of Education hearing for Chris O’Dell — the Staples boys soccer freshman coach who is appealing the non-renewal of his contract — has been postponed.
Originally set for Monday (June 2), a new date has not yet been set. A transcript from the May 12 hearing, of head coach Russell Oost-Lievense’s appeal — necessary for O’Dell’s case — is not yet available.
Board of Education member Robert Harrington told “06880” that he is “concerned this is slipping into the summer.”
He also requested that 2 items be added to the June 5 BOE agenda. One is a discussion item to re-open the hearing on Oost-Lievense’s non-renewal.
“We were not peritted to hear from all the potential witnesses. Eight were opposed by the school administration. We were also not allowed to see all the emails that are potentially relevant to the case,” Harrington says.
The BOE member also asks the board to waive attorney privilege on a letter sent to him by administration lawyer Thomas Mooney, which he calls “a clear warning about my recent actions and comments.”
Congratulations to the 98 graduates in the Greens Farms Academy Class of 2025!
They were honored yesterday, in a moving ceremony.
The valedictorian was Westport resident Serra Nalbantoglu. The keynote speaker was Tony- and Grammy Award-winning actress/singer — and GFA paent – Renée Elise Goldsberry.
Greens Farms Academy head of school Bob Whelan processes toward the ceremony, with Renée Elise Goldsberry.
Ruth Cavayero got a great — and well-deserved — sendoff yesterday.
The retiring Town Hall employee was honored for 32+ years of service by town clerk Jeff Dunkerton, director of human resources Candice Holley, and current and past staff, elected officials, and family members.
She has served under 6 first selectpersons, most recently as deputy town clerk. In 2022 she was recognized for going “Above & Beyond” for her contributions to the Connecticut Town Clerks Association’s website committee, and redesigning the Westport town clerk’s website.
Dunkerton said, “the Westport town clerk’s office has long been a state leader in embracing new technology, and Ruth has played a major role in that legacy.
“She has been our go-to liaison between vendors and staff, always stepping up when technical issues arise.
“Always willing to learn new software to better serve the residents of Westport. Ruth has seen the office evolve from typewriters to computers, from manual ink stamps to digital stamps. What I value most is her constant drive to improve our daily work through smart, practical use of technology.
“Ruth’s career has not just been long — it’s been meaningful. Her legacy is woven into every land record book in our vault for the last 32 years.”
Ruth Cavayero (center), with Jeff Dunkerton and Candice Holley. (Hat tip and photo/Andrew Colabella)
The Westport Library Medical Series returns to the Westport Library on Tuesday (June 3, 7 p.m.). Oncologist Dr. Lisa Phuong and surgeon Dr. Jeanne Capasse will discuss recent progress in the diagnostics and therapeutics of breast cancer, and answer audience questions.
Longtime Westport internist Dr. Robert Altbaum moderates the session. The series is presented by Andrew Wilk.
Dr. Jeanne Capasse (top) and Dr. Lisa Phuong bottom).
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June brings 2 very intriguing Earthplace events.
The BioBlitz (June 8, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.) is a community effort to record as many species within a designated location and time period as possible.
You do not need to be an expert to volunteer. Specialists will lead guided walks through different habitats throughout the day.
The 3rd annual Moth Ball, meanwhile, promises more than just a cute name.
The welcome to summer event (June 21, 8 to 11 p.m.) celebrates nature at night. Attendees will detect bat calls, prowl for owls, and use lightsheeting to observe moths.
New this year: The film “Nocturnes” in the museum theater.
Every year, AWARE’s annual fundraiser brings together women who do wonderful work, their friends, and several great organizations.
The acronym stands for Assisting Women through Action, Resources and Education. Each year, members choose one worthy local nonprofit. They raise money — but do much more too.
All year long, they offer hands-on involvement. They dive deep into the organization’s work, get their hands dirty with volunteer work, and form deep friendships with leaders and participants.
This year’s beneficiary is Bridgeport’s Center for Family Justice. They do crucial work helping people who have experienced physical and mental abuse.
AWARE’s partnership this year included budgeting, yoga, nutrition and makeovers workshops for their clients, and events for their kids too.
It culminated with Thursday night’s “Justice in Bloom” fundraiser. In attendance were CFJ representatives, and those from other groups AWARE has partnered with in the past, like Female Soldiers, Forgotten Heroes and Her Time.
Members of AWARE, and representatives of groups they’ve helped, last night. (Photo/Dan Woog)
And finally … Loretta Swit died yesterday in Manhattan. She was 87.
The actress was best known — and won 2 Emmys — as Maj. Margaret “Hot Lips” Houlihan on “M*A*S*H,” which ran from 1972 to 1983.
I met her 2 years ago, at the unveiling of a Literary Landmark plaque honoring Westport Country Playhouse founder Lawrence Langner. I was surprised that she was surprised I recognized her name, but pleased that I thanked her for the many years I enjoyed that remarkable show. A full obituary is available here.
Jesup Green — for decades, a gathering place in times of both crisis and celebration — was the site last night of an interfaith vigil.
Over 200 people honored Sarah Milgrim and Yaron Lischinsky. The young peace advocates were killed last week, while attending a Jewish American Heritage Month event at the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington.
The vigil was personal and communal. It was a time for mourning, reflection, and expressions of commitment to justice and solidarity.
The vigil begins.
The vigil drew clergy of various faiths, elected officials, and neighbors of all backgrounds.
Among the speakers was Rabbi Jeremy Wiederhorn of The Community Synagogue. He also chairs the Westport/Weston Interfaith Clergy Association.
“Tonight’s gathering was powerful because it brought together clergy, elected officials, and the broader community to stand together against antisemitism,” he said. “As a rabbi serving a congregation during this difficult time, this show of unity and support brought me strength and pride to live in a town like Westport.”
Clergy from across Fairfield County called for unity and resistance to hate. Reverend Carl McCluster of the Baptist Church in Bridgeport noted, “An attack against anyone is an attack against everyone. I am a neighbor who will not be silenced.”
Rabbi Michael Friedman of Temple Israel.
Congressman Jim Himes — who knew Sarah Milgrim, and called her a “shining light” — offered a reminder of the work ahead, and how change can always be made.
“Your faith is shaken by the unknowable question of how someone can be taken just like that,” he said.
“We will teach our children to never take the lives of others, especially based on religion. It is our schools and our religious institutions that must propagate against violence.”
The event also included remarks by Rabbis Michael Friedman and Yehuda Kantor of Westport; Rev. Heather Sinclair of the United Methodist Church of Westport and Weston, and Rev. Carl McCluster from Bridgeport, who was recently in Israel.
Rev. Heather Sinclair of the United Methodist Church of Westport and Weston.
Senator Richard Blumenthal spoke, as did 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker. She assured the Jewish community that Westport is a safe place for all.
Senator Richard Blumenthal. In the front row behind him are (from left): Rev. Carl McCluster of Bridgeport’s Baptist Church, Congressman Jim Himes, Rev. Heather Sinclair and 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker.
Marking the 600th day that hostages have remained in captivity following the October 7 Hamas attack, the gathering resonated with grief, but also resilience.
Joe Weisz, a senior official with the US Department of Homeland Security overseeing community engagement in Fairfield County, emphasized the urgency of “denouncing hatred toward Jews” and “advocating for internal dialogue and understanding.” He reminded the gathering that Sarah had dedicated her life to “peace-building and religious understanding.”
Rabbi Jason Greenberg of Norwalk’s Temple Shalom in Norwalk led the gathering in singing “We Will Rise.” Rabbi Evan Schultz of Congregation B’nai Israel in Bridgeport, shared the commandment: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”
Erika Brunwasser, a longtime Westport resident, and the founder of the online community Jewish Westport, called the event “deeply important to me. I was horrified when I heard about the murder of these two beautiful souls — peacemakers and activists — who were shot and killed simply for attending a Jewish Heritage Month event.”
The gathering on Jesup Green. (All photos/Dan Woog)
She emphasized the importance of public response and community strength.
“It is crucial to stand together in solidarity against terrorism, to gather with friends and neighbors in the Westport Jewish community and with those incredible allies who support us.
“I will always do all that I can to raise awareness — not only to honor my grandfather, who survived the Holocaust, but also the memory of my other family members who weren’t lucky enough to survive.”
Another Jewish resident said, “It was important for me to attend the vigil to honor the lives lost and be a strong part of a community that speaks out against hatred, violence, and antisemitism.
“Despite gathering on behalf of a deeply painful and troubling event, the collective experience was heartwarming. The songs sung and the prayers said were deeply touching and provided an opportunity for healing.”
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