Tag Archives: Homes With Hope

Roundup: Jim Himes, Urinetown, Hazardous Waste …

Posted on March 13, 2026 | 3 comments

Jim Himes is a longtime friend of Homes with Hope.

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.

The show runs this weekend only: tonight (Friday, 7:30 p.m.); tomorrow (Saturday, 2 and 7:30 p.m.) and Sunday (2 p.m.). Click here for tickets, and more information.

Grayson Jandora (center) as Officer Lockstock, with the ensemble of “Urinetown.”

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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.

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Last week, Sustainable Westport offered some tips on how to “UnPlastic” your kitchen.

Today they follow up with a how-to video.

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.

Click here to view on Instagram, or below for the YouTube version.

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Westport is not Vermont.

But we can try.

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.

The event is free, but registration is required. Click here to reserve a spot.

Maple syrup tapping, at Wakeman Town Farm.

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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.

 

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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.

To update your information, click here.

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.

Trustees needed!

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Congratulations to Amelia Guimond!

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!)

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Posted in Environment, Library, Longshore, Staples HS

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2 Jens Organize Clients — And Organizations

Posted on February 16, 2026 | 7 comments

We last checked in with Jenny Bentley and Jennifer Dewis more than a year ago.

The women share more than first names. They moved to Westport on the same day in 2008. They met while dropping off their 3rd graders at Greens Farms Elementary School. 

Both were good at helping friends’ parents downsize their homes. Inevitably, they joined forces. Their business — 2Jens Organizing — thrives. Empty nesters themselves, they fill a great niche: taking the stress out of moving from a large house to a smaller one.

Now they’ve taken on volunteer work, at Homes with Hope’s food pantry and A Better Chance of Westport’s Glendarcy House.

The Jens lend their expertise by helping organize the food — no easy task, with constant donations and an ever-growing line of residents seeking produce, meats, household products and more.

The 2 Jens (center and right), in the well-organized Homes with Hope food pantry.

The ABC home — where students from underserved communities live, eat and study, while attending Staples — also benefits from the women’s talents. Last summer, they helped make a home away from home for the teenagers.

High schoolers and food-insecure people offer a break from other clients.

Those include older residents. The 2 Jens have developed  an expertise helping seniors downsize.

When they began, the women did not realize there was such a need for that service.

But as they worked with seniors who are downsizing or moving into assisted living, they discovered how daunting and emotionally loaded the task is.

Packing and organizing boxes can be physically — and emotionally — difficult.

Because health issues often trigger a downsize, some clients are physically not up to the task.

Often too family members are not available, because of time or distance constraints.

Well-meaning adult children who are around cannot always help, either. They can even hurt the process. They’re too close to the situation.

But the organizers work closely with family — remotely, if necessary — and are sensitive to the emotional roller coaster of going through the contents of a home with a lifetime of memorabilia.

Jenny Bentley (left) and Jennifer Dewis. 

Their goal is to make what can be a fraught and overwhelming process as smooth as possible.

The 2 Jens help sort through a home’s contents, providing objectives eyes. And years of experience helping folks make plans, then carrying them out. (The plans, not the clients.)

They work together to decide what to keep, sell or donate. They bring small items to Goodwill, and call auction houses.

They organize the movers, including unpacking and setting up the new home — even hanging art on the walls.

“A lot of this is intuitive. We’re very good listeners,” Jenny says. “We consult. We advise. But we’re very respectful of people’s wishes.”

A new room.

The women know it can be hard to part with memorabilia. Gently, they help sort through it. if there are 75 pieces of artwork from elementary school, perhaps 10 are enough to keep?

Much of that memorabilia is all over the place: refrigerators, mantels, basements, attics. The Jens are geniuses at sorting it, putting it in bins, and labeling it.

Moving can be a fraught experience. Clients invite Jenny and Jennifer into their personal space. But they don’t want to feel criticized or judged.

“Whatever works for them is fine,” Jenny says. She leaves out the second part: Even if we don’t like it ourselves.

What they do is largely “problem-solving,” she adds. “We have independent eyes, we come up with a game plan, we communicate it with them, and then we work on the timing of everything.”

Once a client has moved into a new home, the Jens are there. They organize, say, a kitchen. They bring their expertise, but stop often to ask: Does this work for you?

Garage, before and after the 2 Jens went to work. 

They also continue to work with clients needing more typical help. This time of year — when it’s cold outside, and the excitement of the holidays has worn off — is a good time to purge closets or tackle messy rooms, they say.

The women’s expertise comes from their own lives. Both have moved often. They’ve set up their own homes, and helped their 6 children (combined) move into new bedrooms, dorm rooms and apartments.

The women charge by the hour. Clients can stop the clock any time, and not feel locked into a contract.

However, Jenny notes, “jobs tend to get bigger as we go. Once we get started, people realize they need more things done.”

De-cluttering is never easy. There’s a lot of stuff in those closets, basements and attics.

The 2 Jens help make sense — and well-organized, clearly labeled bins — of it.

Just ask Homes with Hope, and A Better Chance of Westport.

(“06880” often highlights small Westport businesses. If you enjoy stories like these, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Local business, Real estate

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Unsung Hero #421

Posted on February 11, 2026 | 13 comments

Homes with Hope president and CEO Helen McAlinden, and board chair Becky Martin, nominate this week’s Unsung Hero. They write:

This honor perfectly reflects Katharine Murray’s extraordinary contributions to Homes with Hope, and the broader Westport community.

Katharine recently earned a well-deserved promotion to chief of staff. This newly updated title and role formally recognizes the leadership, strategic insight and operational excellence she has long brought to our organization.

Katharine Murray (center), with Homes with Hope president and CEO Helen McAlinden (left), and vice president and chief operating officer Paris Looney. (Photo/Dave Matlow)

As chief of staff Katharine plays a pivotal role in  overseeing key departments, including Development, Marketing, Grant Writing, Community Relations, and the Food Pantry.

She works in close partnership with the leadership team, as well as the entire staff she collaborates with daily. She builds trust, fosters collaboration, and supports teams across the organization.

Katharine joined Homes with Hope as a marketing and development professional in 2022, but her role quickly evolved as her willingness to step in wherever needed became impossible to overlook. Over the years she quietly and effectively took on responsibilities spanning Marketing, Development, Grants, Operations, Events, Agency Data Management, and Pantry Program Oversight.

Her promotion to chief of staff is a formal acknowledgment of the role she has long fulfilled with grace, intelligence, and tireless dedication.

With Katharine’s steadfast partnership and leadership, Homes with Hope has grown into an agency that serves more than 3,000 individuals annually.

Katharine’s impact is evident across every corner of the organization. She assumed full coordination of recent renovations to the Gillespie Center and Susie’s House. She helped source furniture and décor to ensure residents would experience not just shelter, but a beautiful, welcoming and dignified place to call home. Her thoughtful, creative and cost-effective design choices are apparent when entering either facility.

Katharine Murray (far left), with volunteers and Westport Police officers at the Homes with Hope food pantry, following a donation drive.

Her leadership is especially visible at the Gillespie Center Pantry. Last year the pantry recorded 9,150 visits, served 1,199 registered households, and supported more than 3,000 individuals.

Despite increased demand, the environment feels less like a pantry and more like a thoughtfully curated community market providing choice, quality, and dignity.”

Katharine leads by example. She drives the van, picks up food, carries supplies, stocks shelves, checks inventory, places orders, and steps in wherever help is needed. Bilingual. she regularly supports Spanish-speaking pantry participants.

Behind the scenes, she quietly delivers groceries to elderly or ill neighbors.

Katharine has significantly elevated Homes with Hope’s fundraising and community presence, helping lead events like Gather Round the Table and Stand Up Comedy Night.

Katharine Murray, at a Rotary Club/Police Department food drive.

Katharine is a familiar presence at food drives led by Sunrise Rotary, Westport Rotary Club, the Westport Police Department, and countless community organizations, faith groups and schools. Her warmth, approachability, and genuine care for others embody the spirit of Homes with Hope.

Katharine arrives early and stays late. She is present, accessible, and deeply committed to both the mission and the people who carry it forward.

We wish Katharine continued success as she partners with Helen, Paris, Jacque, Katie and the entire Homes with Hope team to move the agency forward—stronger, more resilient, and more impactful than ever.

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

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Roundup: Affordable Housing, Lynsey Addario, Social Justice Sing-along …

Posted on February 10, 2026 | 1 comment

HB 8002 is law. What does it mean for affordable housing in Westport?

Homes with Hope’s Affordable Housing Advisory Council took a deep dive into that topic yesterday, at Christ & Holy Trinity Church’s Branson Hall.

The legislation — signed last year by Governor Lamont — expands fair rent commissions, eliminates most off-street parking requirements for developments of less than 12 units, and requires towns to create housing growth plans,

State Senator Ceci Maher and Representatives Dominique Johnson and Jonathan Steinberg provided insights into policy and practical implications for municipalities and housing advocates alike.

Other participants included 1st Selectman Kevin Christie, Planning & Zoning Commissioner Craig Schiavone, Planning & Zoning director Michelle Perillie, Human Services director Elaine Daignault, and Board of Education members Lee Goldstein and Abby Tolan.

Also in attendance: Amanda Sayegh of the Westport Housing Authority, Ralph Yearwood and Kate Weber from the Affordable Housing Committee, and Homes with Hope’s emeritus board chair John Walsh and board chair Becky Martin.

The Advisory Council plans a follow-up session to support Westport, as it approaches deadlines, and works to expand affordable housing.

Listening and learning, at yesterday’s Homes with Hope affordable housing event.

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New York Times readers are familiar with Lynsey Addario’s photos of wars, famines and other humanitarian crises in troubled places like the Middle East and Africa.

The 1991 Staples high School graduate has earned a Pulitzer Prize and MacArthur Fellowship for her work.

She turns her camera less frequently on the US.

But when she does, the results are equally compelling.

Addario’s latest photos accompany Nicholas Kristof’s long story on how 3 states that traditionally lag in education ratings — Alabama, Louisiana and Mississippi — have found success in elementary schools, raising reading scores and reversing chronic absenteeism. (It’s a multi-pronged approach, emphasizing human support and minimizing technology.)

Click here for the story, and Addario’s photos of American students, working hard to succeed. (Hat tip: Jonathan Berg)

Learning to read. (Photo/Lynsey Addario for the New York Times)

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Speaking of elementary schools (but closer to home): The Long Lots Building Committee meets tonight (Tuesday, February 10, 6 p.m., Town Hall room 201).

The agenda includes a project update, public comment, and a work session to review interior finishes and details.

Tonight’s discussion focuses on what’s inside the new school.

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The Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport has long been at the forefront of social justice issues.

This Saturday (February 14, 4 p.m.), they invited “all who need and want to be together to share songs of spirit and freedom during this trying time in our nation’s history” to a sing-along.

The “guides” are singer/songwriter Bethany Yarrow (daughter of Peter Yarrow, Peter, Paul & Mary), and musicians Francine Wheeler and Gordon Titcomb.

UU Westport says: “Many members have been inspired by the resistance singing coming out of Minneapolis. We open our sanctuary to offer the same opportunity to share our collective strength and commitment together.

“Many people are searching for ways to channel their feelings, and build connections and hope through music and song. This community gathering shares the collective message of sadness and vulnerability, and, importantly, of solidarity, strength, courage, resistance, and purpose.”

All ages and faith traditions are welcome. No music experience is necessary. For more information, click here.

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Everyone needs a blowout. (Well, my hair would not qualify. But you get the idea.)

Here’s a blowout bonanza: now through February 28, Bianca Bazante — The Artist Loft’s owner and creative director Bianca Bazante offers $100 off her signature Brazilian Blowouts.

Bianca — whose mother operated a salon in Westport — learned her trade in New York. In 2020, after giving birth to twin boys Jagger and Bryceson, she moved back and opened The Artist Loft.

Bianca is also the author of “The Curly Hair Crew,” which teaches children to embrace curls with no boundaries.

For more information, and to book appointments, click here. For her Instagram page, click here.

Bianca Bazante

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Pianist David Morgan headlines Thursday’s Jazz at the Post (February 12, VFW; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner at 7).

An area resident, he has performed and recorded with Wynton Marsalis and Wes Anderson, and written music for CBS Sports, Discovery, A&E, MTV,  and TV shows.

He’ll be joined by Yuriy Galkin, Eric Halvorson, Andy Gravish and Greg “the Jazz Rabbi” Wall. Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Readers have sent in plenty of photos of frozen beaches, for our “Westport … Naturally” feature.

Here’s one from often-overlooked Canal Beach. Sprite Island is in the distance.

(Photo/Lynn Flint)

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And finally … in honor of the Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport’s upcoming sing-along, may we suggest:

(Every day since 2009, “06880” has offered all the news that Westport needs. Well, a lot of it anyway. If you appreciate this hyper-local blog, please click here to support our work. Thanks!)

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Posted in Education, Local business, Local politics, Politics, religion

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Westport By Drone: Alex O’Brien’s Young Business

Posted on February 9, 2026 | 8 comments

Every day, I get at least a dozen photos.

Beach sunsets. Dogs. Entitled parkers — they keep coming.

Many are good. Some are similar. All are appreciated.

I’m a sucker for drone shots. They offer a perspective on Westport we seldom see. They enable us to look at our town in fresh, unique ways.

The other day, I got this one. It shows a frozen Saugatuck River, near the Levitt Pavilion:

It came from Alex O’Brien. He said he loves taking aerial photos around town, and recently started his own company: Westportdronephotography.com.

I didn’t recognize the name. I asked for more images, and offered to chat by Zoom.

That’s when I learned that Alex is 13 years old — and not even a full-time Westporter.

Alex O’Brien, with his drone.

His parents moved here from New York during COVID. He went to Saugatuck Elementary School. They moved back, but return to their Westport home on weekends.

Alex is an 8th grader at St. Ignatius Loyola School. In addition to drone photography, he loves engineering and using his 3D printer. He’s part of the National Children’s Chorus. They’ll perform this spring at Carnegie Hall.

Last year, they toured Australia. Alex sang at the Sydney Opera House. He told me that off-handedly, as if every middle schooler does that at some point.

Alex began drone photography after getting a DJI Mini 4 Pro for his birthday. He realized people might want to buy his shots, so he got a domain and set up his business.

Alex O’Brien flies his drone over the Saugatuck River.

It’s Westport-only right now. Manhattan has restrictive bans on recreational uses.

So Alex has gone to town, in our town.

He loves shooting Compo Beach, the river, and many other interesting places.

Compo Beach

Drone photography has helped Alex learn about Westport. It’s also helped him see the beauty all around.

Sunsets and beach scenes “could be like vacation spots,” he says. “But they’re here.”

Summertime ritual: a Levitt Pavilion concert.

Marketing is mostly word of mouth, through family and friends. Requests come in on his website.

On it, he says: “My passion lies in capturing breathtaking aerial images of the local landscape. I take pride in being a 13-year-old Westport local, bringing a fresh perspective to the art of drone photography. My goal is to share the beauty of our area through the unique and beautiful photos captured by drone, both with locals and those further afield.”

Downtown Westport.

But — just as Alex buried the Sydney Opera House story — there’s one other aspect of his business to report.

He’s donating 10% of all profits to Homes with Hope‘s food pantry.

Alex — who has celiac disease — cannot eat gluten.

In 5th grade, during a Saugatuck Elementary walkathon, he learned about the HwH pantry. Every month since, he and his mother bring a gluten-free donation.

They also gave a gluten-free Thanksgiving dinner to a local family.

The great note he received — and the smiles he sees at the food pantry — help him realize the importance of giving back.

Cribari Bridge.

Alex looks forward to hearing from “06880” readers about new places to photograph.

It would be great too to get a few jobs, to keep his drone busy.

And the Homes with Hope pantry well stocked.

Ned Dimes Marina

Looking toward Old Mill Beach.

Saugatuck River (Saugatuck Elementary School at lower right)

Frozen river (All drone photos/Alex O’Brien)

(Every day, “06880” offers fresh perspectives on Westport. If you enjoy learning about our town — from new and ever-changing angles — please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Beach, technology, Teenagers

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Roundup: C-c-c-cold Birds, Crossword Puzzle Contest, Cortina Olympics

Posted on February 8, 2026 | 2 comments

It’s time for the “F” word.

Yep, this weather is freezing.

And it’s gone on for a loooong time.

Lou Weinberg sends along this great photo …

(Photo/Lou Weinberg)

… and reminds us: “Birds, like all living things, need water. In these frigid temperatures, drinkable water is hard to come by.

“Agriculture-grade rubber pans do the job. They’re easy to find online.”

Tracy Porosoff spotted bird tracks in the snow, and adds: “Please remind people to sprinkle some bird seed, or fill their bird feeders.”

Today’s forecast is for a high of 16, though slightly less windy than yesterday. The low tonight will be 7 — still quite cold, but better than last night.

A bit of relief is in sight. Temperatures will climb to the 30s tomorrow and Tuesday. On Wednesday we’ll be roasting, at 42 degrees.

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Speaking of the bone-chilling cold: It could have derailed Homes with Hope‘s annual “Soup-er Bowl” food drive.

The event — held every year the day before the Big Game — is sponsored by the Westport Police Department, and the Westport Rotary and Sunrise Rotary clubs. It’s an important event, timed during a traditionally down time for donations, to replenish the non-profit’s food pantry.

It would have been tough to have volunteers stand outside in single-digit temperatures. And to ask donors to linger outdoors too.

Stop & Shop’s manager quickly stepped up. He moved the group indoors, providing space in prime territory near the entrance.

Inside Stop & Shop …

We don’t know who will be tonight’s Super Bowl MVP.

But for yesterday’s Soup-er Bowl food drive, it’s Stop & Shop. And the winning team is the 2 Rotary Clubs, Police Department, and all who contributed goods and funds to Homes with Hope.

… and at the Homes with Hope food pantry.

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One more weather report: At 9 p.m. last night, Eversource reported 52 Westport customers without power.

There were another 182 in Weston.

The majority in both towns were in the Coleytown area, where wires came down (see photo below).

The good news: At 7 a.m. today, there were no outages reported in either town.

Well done, Eversource!

Wires were down yesterday on Easton Road, between Coleytown and  Berkeley Roads. (Photo courtesy of Westport Fire Department)

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Yesterday’s 27th annual Westport Library Crossword Puzzle Contest sold out almost instantly.

Despite bitter cold — or maybe because of cabin fever — 200 cruciverbalists filled the Trefz Forum yesterday.

They spent the afternoon solving 3 New York Times puzzles, and competing in a word game hosted by the Times’ longtime and revered puzzle editor, Will Shortz.

The finals pitted 3 Westport contest veterans. In an unusual twist, the winner took the longest to complete a very difficult “Thursday” crossword.

Jan O’Sullivan zipped through it in a still-gob-smacking 9 minutes — 3 minutes slower than Claire Rimkus and Glen Ryan.

23 seconds into the final round. From left: Jen O’Sullivan, Claire Rimkus and Glen Ryan. Times puzzle editor Will Shortz is far right.

But those 2 spelled “Sacagawea” with a “j,” not a “g.” That’s acceptable — but not in a puzzle with a crossing word (“girth,” not “jirth”).

Slow — relatively — and steady won that race.

Kenneth Mukamal, with a certificate as one of 2 dozen competitors to complete all 3 puzzles correctly. He did not qualify for the final round — but, playing at his table, correctly finished that puzzle more quickly than the winner. (Photos/Dan Woog)

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Mac is back!

Freestyle skier Mac Forehand grew up in Southport. His father — Ray Forehand — was on the Staples soccer team in 1976. His uncle Jack Forehand was a football star there, more than a decade earlier.

Mac was on the 2022 US Olympic ski team. He’s on it again in Cortina, competing in both freeski slopestyle and big

He’s already advanced to the next freeski slopestyle round, finishing 6th. You can watch him on Peacock (all times Eastern):

  • Freeski slopestyle final: Tuesday, February 10, 6:30-8:20 a.m.
  • Freeski big air qualification: Sunday, February 15, 1:30-3:45 p.m.
  • Freeski big air final: Tuesday, Feb. 17, 1:30-3:05 p.m.

The Fairfield resident — who attended the Stratton Mountain Ski School — has won 3 X Games medals, and a silver at the 2025 World Championships.

He made history in 2019, winning the overall World Cup title in slopestyle at just 17 years old. It was his first full season on the World Cup circuit.

Alert “06880” reader David Squires reports that his parents were shown on NBC’s coverage of the slopestyle qualification on Thursday.

For more information on Mac Forehand, click here.

BONUS RUN: For a 2016 lifestyle publication story on the Forehands’ life in Vermont, click here. (Hat tip: Dan Donovan)

Mac Forehand

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Attention, college students interested in hands-on experience in land conservation: Aspetuck Land Trust is accepting applications for a pair of paid summer internships.

Interns work flexible schedules for 8 to 10 weeks, supporting trail and habitat maintenance, invasive species removal, community outreach, and conservation education projects across their preserves and in Bridgeport. Click here for more information, and application details.

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Valentine’s Day is 6 days away.

But it came early for Lauri Weiser.

She spotted this heart outside her front door, at the Lansdowne condominiums.

It’s a natural for today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo feature.

(Photo/Lauri Weiser)

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And finally … speaking of that heart above, what better song than:

(A heart of stone … or gold? You decide! Please click here, to support the 24/7/365 work of “06880,” your hyper-local blog. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Y & Parkinson’s, Library & Financial Planning, BMS & Hunger …

Posted on February 4, 2026 | Leave a comment

For the past 4 years, Westport resident Robert Levy has volunteered at the Westport Weston Family YMCA.

They’re “a remarkable group of people living with Parkinson’s disease,” he says.

Levy teaches boxing, in a body-and-mind “Knock Parkinson’s Out” program that builds strength, balance, confidence and connection. There is a speech component therapy too.

What began as a small group of 25 has grown to nearly 35 boxers today. Meeting twice a week, they’re supported by 4 trainers, and 7 dedicated volunteers.

Brenda Waldron — the Y’s head boxing instructor — leads the program. “Her vision and energy have helped shape something truly special,” Levy says.

“What makes this group stand out is its spirit,” Levy says.

“Our ‘all for one and one for all’ mentality creates real camaraderie.” Beyond the gym, they’ve taken a bus trip to New York, and enjoy many meals together.

“Boxing develops strength, improves balance and sharpens memory — benefits that matter to everyone, but especially to those living with Parkinson’s,” Levy says.

Each year, I mark our progress by giving out a new shirt. The colors change, but the message remains the same.”

The 2026 “Knock Parkinson’s Out” shirt is blue, with a line from the Book of Psalms: “There is strength in my soul.”

“Knock Out Parkinson’s” participants, trainers and volunteers.

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Sure, it’s late notice. But you should never pass up an opportunity to learn about investing.

Tonight (Wednesday, 6 p.m., Westport Library), E3 Wealth Advisory Group presents an interactive session to help recent college graduates and young professional “navigate life-changing financial decisions and milestones.” Topics include budgeting, saving, investing, and starting a family. Click  here for more information.

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Bedford Middle School Art Collective students are designing original merchandise, for a fundraiser benefiting the Homes with Hope food pantry.

It’s one more project, in a 20-plus year relationship between BMS and Westport’s non-profit dedicated to ending homelessness and food insecurity.

“Students are learning that creativity and compassion go hand in hand,” says Art Collective advisor Cecily Anderson.

Students created original block prints, used in several ways. For example, a vending machine will dispense limited edition original “mini prints.” This was introduced as part of a broader conversation about contemporary art practices, including the growing use of vending machines and interactive systems as artistic platforms in museums and galleries.

Students also applied their original block print designs to tote bags and t-shirts.

In addition to the prints and wearables, students created handmade ceramic food-themed sculpture pins, plus small sculptural works called “Food Dudes”.

The tote bags, t-shirts, limited edition prints and other student works will be sold from 6;15 to 7 p.m. today (Wednesday), before the town-wide “Jazz & Java” event.

Bedford Middle School t-shirt designs, for Homes with Hope.

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If you haven’t been to Longshore lately, here’s a look at the renovation of the Inn:

(Photo/John Kantor)

Work is progressing well. And — importantly — the tree in the front is still there.

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Yesterday, the New York Times published an op-ed headlined “We Were Topo Homeland Security Lawyers. You Can’t Wish Away the Fourth Amendment.”

Among the 6 authors — all of them general counsels or acting general counsels for the Department of Homeland Security — is Ivan Fong. He served as general counsel from 2009 to 2012.

A Westport resident from 2000 to 2006, he is a graduate of Stanford Law School, where he was president of the Law Review. He earned a Fulbright Scholarship, and clerked for Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor.

Fong is now executive vice president, general counsel and secretary at Medtronic. (Hat tip: Lisa Friedland)

Ivan Fong

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The ice at Old Mill Beach is not going anywhere, any time soon.

Which makes it a great subject for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature:

(Photo/Rick Benson)

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And finally … in honor of the Y’s superb “Knock Parkinson’s Out” boxing program (story above):

(Speaking of finances — as we were, a few items above — “06880” is just about the best investment you can make. You’ll support our blog, AND feel good. Please click here. And thank you!)

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Roundup: MLK Day Video, HWH Food Drive, WTF Lambs …

Posted on January 31, 2026 | 1 comment

The inspirational Martin Luther King Day conversation between author/writer/ Columbia School of Journalism dean Dr. Jelani Cobb and Westport writer/ professor Trey Ellis is now online.

Click here; then use password Jelani_Cobb_2026. The video is available through February 27.

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We’re just a week from Homes with Hope’s “Soup-er Bowl” food drive.

The event — next Saturday (February 7, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Stop & Shop), is sponsored by the Westport Police Department, and the Westport Rotary and Sunrise Rotary clubs.

It’s a way to help our town’s homeless shelter and food pantry stock up on most-needed items, before the game.

They include cereal, oatmeal, pancake mix, pasta sauce, canned chicken, peanut butter and jelly, rice, laundry detergent and deodorant.

Not headed to Stop & Shop next Saturday? There’s an even easier way to donate needed items: Just click here, and select from the  Amazon wish list.

They’ll be delivered directly to the food pantry.

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Speaking of great causes: Earth Animal is well known for its care for canines.

But it sure does a lot for their 2-legged friends.

The Post Road store’s 18th annual Mitten Project raised a whopping — and record-breaking — $100,834.62 this holiday season.

The funds — coming from customers and other concerned residents — supports Connecticut Foodshare.

That translates to over 200,000 nutritional meals — and other resources — provided to families across the state.

The campaign was powered by Earth Animal retail sales, “Shop & Give” events with local businesses, donations, and customer support.

A matching contribution from Earth Animal Ventures, headquartered in Norwalk, amplified the campaign’s impact.

Thanks to all who participated — and of course to Earth Animal, for making it happen.

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Speaking of animals: Wakeman Town Farm just received 4 newborn lambs, from Bluebird Farm in Willington.

The southdown babydoll sheep — a sweet and loving breed — are 2 weeks old, all female, and related to the sheep that currently reside at WTF.

Farm educators, headed by Judy Panzer, train volunteers to help patiently teach the babies how to drink from bottles.

Wakeman Town Farm also offers “Lamb Cuddles,” a hands-on experience through which residents cuddle, socialize and connect with the animals while learning about their care and personalities. Click here for tickets, and more information.

To help defray the costs of care and feeding, WTF is running a fun “Name the Newest Farm Babies” contest.For $10, you can submit up to 4 name suggestions (one per lamb — remember, all are girls!). 


Winning names will be drawn February 9. Click here to enter.

 

Awww … too cute!

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We’re just a few days away from the Winter Olympics. The eyes of the world will be on Milan.

Of course, there’s a Westport connection.

Longtime resident/veteran sports and news journalist Dave Briggs has teamed up with Saatva — the  luxury mattress company founded by fellow resident Ron Rudzin, and the official provider of mattresses and bedding for the 2026 and ’28 Olympic and Paralympic Games — on a series of “Superpower” podcasts.

Briggs interviewed gold medalists Tara Lipinski (figure skating), Jessie Diggins (the most decorated American cross country skier), Jessica Long (the Michael Phelps of the Paralympics), and gold medalist Brenna Huckaby (Paralympic snowboarder) — all in bed, on Saatva mattresses.

These are in-depth interviews about the athletes’ lives — including personal challenges. Despite the luxurious and sports-related settings, there are no softball questions. Lipinski, for example, talks about pressure and performance, infertility, pregnancy loss and the LA fires.

Click here or below to see Briggs’ interview with Lipinski. Click here for the podcast on iTunes; click here for Spotify.

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Congratulations to the students involved with Soundings and QED.

Staples High School’s 2 literary magazines have been awarded “Superior” rankings, in the 2025 Recognizing Excellence in Art and Literary Magazines (REALM) contest. The honors come from the National Council of Teachers of English.

Publications are evaluated by a panel of judges. Criteria include the quality of writing, variety of genres featured, excellence of art and graphic design, and overall editorial layout.

At Staples, students oversee everything from the initial call for submissions to the final technical production. Editor-in chief Allison Cancro, and associate editors Eva Slossberg and Jack Robinson, worked with faculty advisor Kim Herzog.

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Westport is filled with entrepreneurs.

Plenty of youngsters are excited by the opportunity to run their own business. How can they start?

This Thursday (February 5, 5 p.m., Westport Library), they can head to the Mini Moguls Marketplace.

Staples High School junior Aanya Gandhi organized the event, for students in grades 5-8.

Participants will run their own business by selling a product (handmade items; gently used toys, books and games, etc. — no food please!), and creating posters explaining their product, pricing, and marketing strategy, while learning
valuable financial literacy and entrepreneurial skills.

Families are welcome to attend as customers. Click here for more information. Questions? Email aanyagandhi1213@gmail.com.

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Speaking of the Library: VersoFest audiences tap their feet to the music. Sometimes they dance.

On March 28 (10 a.m.), no one will be in their seats.

The Westport Library’s 5th annual music and media conference and festival welcomes master artist Andoche Loubaki. He’ll lead a lively traditional Congolese Dance and Drum workshop, presented by Brooklyn-based Cumbe Dance.

It’s a great family event. After all, who doesn’t want to dance in a library?

Click here for more information on the Congolese workshop. Click here for the VersoFest home page.

Cumbe Dance

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Club203 — Westport’s social group for adults with disabilities — gets a jump on Valentine’s Day.

Their next event (February 4, 6:30 to 8 p.m., VFW Post 399) includes music, dancing, art by MoCA\CT — plus heart-shaped pizza from Planet Pizza, sweet treats, and plenty of Club203 love.

Parents and caregivers can mix and mingle at the VFW cash bar. Click here for the Club203 website.

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For more than half a century, Larry Silver has been taking photos. They hang in some of the most prestigious galleries and museums in the world.

He’s still shooting. He’s been all over the planet, but Westport remains one of his favorite places.

The other day, Larry was at Old Mill Beach. He sent this image to “06880”:

(Photo/Larry Silver)

The cold continues this weekend. Temperatures will reach only the mid-20s today and tomorrow. Nighttime will see them dip to the low teens. Stay warm!

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Meanwhile, today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo is a no-brainer.

It’s a scene we’re all (too) familiar with these days:

(Photo/copyright Ted Horowitz)

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And finally … that’s a smooth segue into today’s featured song:

(Looking to warm up — and warm our heart too? Please click here, to make a tax-deductible contribution to “06880.” That’s such a cool thing to do, and we thank you from — well, the bottom of our heart.)

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Unsung Heroes #419

Posted on January 28, 2026 | 2 comments

The Westport Country Playhouse suggests perhaps the largest group ever, for this week’s Unsung Heroes award: their holiday audiences.

During last month’s run of “A Sherlock Carol,” Playhouse patrons offered significant donations and support for 3 area charities.

More than 12 boxes in the lobby were filled with donations of food for Homes with Hope.

Westport’s homeless shelter and food pantry says, “it means so much when local organizations step up to support our mission, especially during the winter months when the need is high and community support matters most. We’re grateful to be part of a town that continues to show up for its neighbors.”

 

Homes with Hope volunteers, with Westport Country Playhouse audience donations.

Audiences also donated hundreds of new toys and books for Norwalk Toys for Tots.

Meanwhile, The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp benefited from audience cash and online contributions. The total — $10,835.53 — will send 4 youngsters there this summer.

The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp has special meaning for the Playhouse. It was created by Paul Newman, who during his 50 years in Westport — with his wife Joanne Woodward — was also a generous WCP supporter.

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

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Roundup: Script In Hand, Home Demolitions …

Posted on December 31, 2025 | 1 comment

Two-time Tony Award winner Judith Ivey highlights the next Westport Country Playhouse Script in Hand play reading.

“The Pancake Club” — a new comedy directed by Playhouse artistic director Mark Shanahan — is set for January 12 (7 p.m.).

Ivey plays Brenda, a waitress at a small-town diner where a group of senior men regularly meet. As Brenda struggles with the sudden death of her oldest friend, members squabble over the eulogy, the widow refuses to grieve, a mysterious stranger threatens the town’s equilibrium, and Brenda’s only daughter teeters on the brink of a meltdown. Brenda wonders: Does anybody ever truly grow up?

Click here for tickets, and more information.

Judith Ivey

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The Historic District Commission meets January 13 (7 p.m., Zoom).

The agenda includes a vote on the partial demolition, renovation and addition to the main home, and demolition of a detached garage, with a new garage constructed, at 296 Main Street.

The HDC will also vote on whether to oppose demolition permits, and require the full 180-day delay, for these properties:

  • 19 Turkey Hill Road North
  • 11 Dogwood Lane
  • 10 Mary jane Lane
  • 10 Twin Falls Lane
  • 5 Over Rock Lane
  • 17 Adams Farm Road
  • 9 Berkeley Road.

They will vote too on whether to rescind adoption of the motion to oppose the issuance of a demolition permit for 11 Beachside Commons, which was adopted December 9.

11 Beachside Commons

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Up | Next Teens — the county-wide teen volunteer organization founded by Addison Moore, when the recently elected Representative Town Meeting member was a Staples High School student (just a few years ago) — partnered with Big Y to host a holiday food drive.

They collected a few hundred pounds of food, pantry staples, and essential items like diapers, laundry detergent, dish soap and personal care products, for Homes with Hope’s Gillespie Center. 

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Peter “PJ” Boehm Jr. died Saturday at St. Vincent’s Hospital in Bridgeport.

He graduated in May from the University of Miami Herbert Business School, with a double major in finance and economics. He was a 2021 graduate of Fairfield Ludlowe High School.

His obituary describes PJ as “fun-loving, generous, deeply kind and endlessly curious. With confidence and authenticity, he treated everyone with warmth and humility. His boundless energy infected his wide circle of friends.”

He loved boating with his father Peter, traveling with his mother Mary Kate, and his yellow lab Bella.

PJ is also survived by grandmother, Marilyn Klemish; uncles William Klemish Jr. (Lori), John Klemish (partner Dani Fernandez) and Michael Klemish (Sue), and aunts Christine Walker (John), JoAnnBoehm, and Jacquelyn Steedle. 

Friends may call Friday (January 2, 4 to 7 p.m., Harding Funeral Home). A funeral Mass will be held on Saturday (January 3, 11 a.m.).

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Connecticut Humane Society.

PJ Boehm

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” image shows Booler’s Point, in the fog.

I’ve lived in Westport my whole life, and never heard of “Booler’s Point.”

According to photographer Michael Tomashefsky — who found it on Google Maps — that’s the spit of land jutting into the Saugatuck River, between Grace Salmon Park and the Levitt Pavilion.

Here’s what it looks like, in Monday’s fog. And if anyone knows who Booler was, click “Comments” below.

(Photo/Michael Tomashefsky)

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And finally … Diana Ross rings in 2026 tonight, at Times Square. Other performers include Ciara, LE SSERAFIM, Little Big Town and Maren Morris.

Beginning in 1929 though, and continuing for half a century, Guy Lombardo & His Royal Canadians’ “Auld Lang Syne” was the way millions of Americans — live, and first listening to radio, then watching on TV — celebrated New Year’s Eve.

The intro to Lombardo’s 1947 Decca Records version is still played in Times Square, immediately following the ball drop.

So — for auld lang syne’s (time gone by) sake — we present:

(Happy New Year! Whatever your plans, you’ve still got a few hours to donate to “06880” — and take a tax deduction for 2025 too. Please click here. And then celebrate!)

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