Tickets sell like hotcakes (to mix a metaphor) every summer, when the Westport Rotary Club’s LobsterFest becomes available.
For good reason: It’s one of the town’s best parties. Lobster, steak, burgers, dogs, all the fixings, and plenty to drink.
(Photo/Mary Lou Roels)
Live music. Kids’ activities. Vendor booths. Celebrities helping out. Huge community spirit. All at a favorite spot: Compo Beach.
Clawdia the Lobster (aka Rick Benson) and friend. (Photo/Ellen Bowen)
And — best of all — hundreds of thousands of dollars raised for local and international charities, non-profits and good causes.
Thanks to all the Rotarians — and hundreds of volunteers, including Staples Service League of Boys, National Charity League, and A Better Chance of Westport — for throwing this bash.
And if you missed out on a ticket: Be quicker next summer.
A few happy Rotarians … (Photo/Dave Matlow)
… and many more. (Photo/Dave Matlow)
He’ll need a lot of lobsters to feel full. (Photo/Dave Matlow)
Those lobsters don’t cook themselves! (Photo/Dave Matlow)
That’s the spirit! (Photo/Dave Matlow)
What’s a community festival without crowds … (Photo/Dave Matlow)
… or face painting … (Photo/Dave Matlow)
… or more kids’ stuff? (Photo/Dave Matlow)
National Charity League volunteers. (Photo/Stephanie Tang)
Westport’s Finest (all 7 of them!) (Photo/Dave Matlow)
And learning that one damaged bridge may disrupt downtown traffic for up to 18 months.
The small, almost unnoticed, span on Jesup Road linking Imperial Avenue with the police station, Jesup Green, the Westport Library, Levitt Pavilion and Taylor parking lot — and a way to avoid the parallel Post Road — was severely damaged.
It’s early in the process. Further study is needed. But repairs — if necessary — could take up to a year and a half.
More information will be available as the process unfolds.
Small bridge on Jesup Road, at Imperial Avenue.
Off Church Lane, plenty of work remained.
And in Deadman Brook by Myrtle Avenue, a dumpster remained stuck.
(Photos/Sal Liccione)
While the rest of the town had dried out, however, significant standing water remained at Bradley Street and Fairfield Avenue.
Here’s a shot from yesterday afternoon, 24 hours after the rain ended:
This is a survey only. Submitting it is not a claim or request for assistance, and does not guarantee that disaster relief or other recovery assistance will be available.
Information collected will help state and local emergency management officials document the extent of the damage, and determine whether the State of Connecticut may be eligible for post-disaster programs through FEMA and/or the Small Business Administration.
Finally: CBS News sent a reporter to Westport, to document the cleanup effort. Interviewees included Sal Liccione and Morley Boyd — and a photo from our “06880” blog. (Hat tip: Jeff Mitchell)
After nearly 3 hours of debate, the issue of lights on athletic fields came into clearer focus last night.
Planning & Zoning Commission members discussed — in detail, with civility and plenty of back and forth — applications for 70-foot poles at PJ Romano and Wakeman Fields.
PJ Romano came first. The site behind Saugatuck Elementary School has elicited little public comment, because there are already temporary lights, and it is on well-traveled Riverside Avenue.
Traffic was more of a concern than noise. Commissioners insisted on a 9 p.m. weekend cutoff; no multi-team tournaments, and use restricted to Westport sports and Parks & Recreation Department activities. A straw vote showed 5 of the P&Z members in favor of the application.
Those and other restrictions will be clarified in writing by P&Z staff, and presented to the Commission on October 5 for a vote.
Temporary lights are currently used at PJ Romano Field. Here, a Westport PAL football team practices. (Photo/James Kingsley)
Wakeman — adjacent to Bedford Middle School — has elicited greater concern by neighbors.
Commissioners discussed the need for low-level lighting to ensure safety of players and parents once the lights are off; for audio limited to varsity games only (no practices), and to end once the game begins; a prohibition on multi-team tournaments; limited hours of usage, and the addition of several trees along the perimeter.
Another straw poll showed a majority in favor of the proposal, with those conditions. P&Z staff will clarify those conditions, and it too will be presented for an October 5 vote.
The Wakeman B turf field (left-center, above) is the only one that would be lit. (Drone photo/David Pogue)
Speaking of the Playhouse: Last night marked the first Script in Hand play reading of the season, with the premiere of “The Next Best Thing.”
The cast and crew. Front row (from left): Mia Dillon, Ayla Kopp, Tina Johnson, Hauako Stepper, Cindy Cheung, Grant Shaud, Alicia Thompson. Rear: Director Mark Shanahan, playwright Matt Hoverman. (Photo/Kelsey McFarland)
This year — as every year — LobsterFest is sold out.
So this is not a plug for tickets. It’s just an interesting update.
On Saturday, Compo Beach will welcome 1,500 guests for Westport Rotary Club’s annual event.
In celebration of its 15th year, Rotarians recently presented 1st Selectman Kevin Christie with an official LobsterFest hat.
From left: 1st Selectman Kevin Christie, LobsterFest chair Denise Thomas, Rotarian extraordinaire Rick Benson (in lobster suit), president Ron Henkoff, and LobsterFest entertainment chair Robert Augustyn. (Photo/Dave Matlow)
As the afternoon nears, Rotary offers heartfelt thanks to the Westport community for its overwhelming support.
LobsterFest’s sponsors have been exceptionally generous. This year’s event will raise over $400,000.
Special help comes from the Westport Fire and Police Departments and Emergency Medical Services, and many children’s entertainers (some work gratis).
The success of LobsterFest depends on over 200 volunteers. A few spots remain. Click here to sign up.
In other Rotary news, they’ve announced the winner of their lobster-naming contest.
It’s … Clawdia!
Congratulations to Vienna Tranquillo of Oxford. She earns a $25 gift certificate to The Sandbar at Compo Beach.
For 27 years, “Booked for the Evening” BOOKED for the evening has served as
the Westport Library’s signature celebration of ideas, achievement and community.
What began as a fundraising event has evolved into a cherished tradition that reflects the heart of the Library’s mission: fostering a love of learning, inspiring curiosity, and expanding our understanding of the world.
Each year, BOOKED brings together Library supporters, town leaders, cultural advocates and others for a night honoring a man or woman whose work has
made a lasting impact on society.
Tom Brokaw, E.L. Doctorow, Billie Jean King, Calvin Trillin, Wendy Wasserstein, Pete Hamill, Martin Scorsese, Doris Kearns Goodwin, David Halberstam, Patti Smith, Nile Rodgers, Lynsey Addario, Ron Chernow, Alan Alda, Justin Paul and Itzhak Perlman are just some of the honorees over the past quarter century.
This year, the Westport Library honors award-winning director, actress, choreographer, producer and cultural icon Debbie Allen. The event is Wednesday, October 28.
She is perhaps best known as dance instructor Lydia Grant in the 1982 series “Fame.” She was also the show’s principal choreographer.
Allen has earned 3 Emmys, a Golden Globe, 5 NAACP Image Awards, a Drama Desk honor, the first-ever Astaire Award for Best Dancer, 4 honorary doctorates, and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
She has choreographed the Academy Awards 10 times, directed and produced episodes of “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Scandal” and “A Different World,” and was the creative force behind Steven Spielberg’s “Amistad.”
Appointed by President George W. Bush as a Cultural Ambassador of Dance, Allen spent more than 15 years as an artist-in-residence at the Kennedy Center.
She’ll be in conversation with Shonda Rhimes. The noted TV creator, producer, author, CEO of global media company Shondaland — and a Westporter — was the 2022 “Booked” honoree.
Business leaders, professionals and community members are invited to he next Executive Network Series event.
VTB Financial Group and Prestige Cabinetry & Design host the September 29 gathering (6 to 9 p.m., Rizzuto’s). It’s a benefit for Ann’s Place, a non-profit providing support and resources for individuals and families impacted by cancer.
Pianist Marc Copland headlines this week’s Jazz at the Post (Thursday, 7:30 and 8:45 p.m., VFW Post 399; dinner service at 6:45). Bassist Yuriy Galkin, pianist Steve Johns and saxophonist Greg Wall join in.
Maryssa Miller sends today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo, and writes: “Every sunny afternoon, this little guy comes out of his home and perches in the same exact spot on the stone wall in my backyard to get some sun.
“Then he goes right back to wherever he lives. He’s been doing this since early August.
“I’m going to be moving in town soon. I’ll miss seeing him every day!”
And finally … in honor of tonight’s Westport Country Playhouse “Year in Anatevka” (story above):
(If I were a rich man … I wouldn’t have to suggest that readers help support this blog they read every day. But I’m not, so I do. Here goes: Please click here. And thank you!)
You Snooze, You Lose alert: LobsterFest returns to Compo Beach on Saturday, September 19.
Tickets go on sale at noon today (Tuesday, August 18). Click here at 12 — and be quick. They sell out fast.
LobsterFest is a fun-filled day, with over 1,500 guests, plenty of food, live entertainment, kids’ activities, booths and much more.
The Westport Rotary Club event generates over $400,000, all of which goes to local charities and international projects.
Over 250 volunteers help make it all happen. Tasks range from light duty to heavy lifting. Set-up is Friday, September 18; Saturday shifts are 2:30 to 4:45 p.m., and 4:30 to 7. Clean-up crews help out on Sunday, September 20.
NOTE: There is a special need for strong people (18 years and older) for the lobster cooker and cracker jobs.
Volunteers who would like to eat lobster or steak and enjoy beverages should buy a LobsterFest ticket. There are beverages, hamburgers and hot dogs available at no cost for volunteers who do not buy a ticket.
And … one more set of tickets, on sale this morning (Tuesday), beginning at 10 a.m.: the Westport Library’s 27th annual “Booked for the Evening.”
This year’s signature fundraising event (October 28) features award-winning director, actress, choreographer and producer Debbie Allen.
She’ll be in conversation with Shonda Rhimes. The noted TV creator, producer, author, CEO of global media company Shondaland — and a Westporter — was the 2022 “Booked” honoree.
Debbie Allen (Photo/Marvin Joseph for the Washington Post)
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As Democratic registrar of voters Deborah Greenberg steps down from her post, the party is seeking a replacement.
Registrar is a part-time elected official responsible for administering all local, state and federal elections. The annual salary is $52,086. There is a $750 transaction allowance, a $6,000 stipend for primaries; a $10,000 stipend for each November election, and a small daily stipend for conferences.
Interviews take place between August 31 and September 1. Email Andrew Nevas (abnevas@gmail.com) with interest.
“The End of Oak Street” opened earlier this month.
The science fiction survival film is set in Flowervale, Michigan. But a few real residents of the end of Oak Street — the one in Westport, off Clinton Avenue — went to see it the other day.
End of Oak Street residents (from left): Mark Shannon, Kenny Wildstein, Karen Kleine, Barbara Ryan, Edward Boyle, Trish Boyle, Eileen Ludy, Jay Ludy.
That’s not the only Westport connection. The movie stars Anne Hathaway, who lived here for several years.
Though not on Oak Street.
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Dozens of Staples High School football players gathered at Paul Lane Field last week for the 7th annual Murph Challenge.
It was the culmination of their summer fundraising for the Catch a Lift Fund (the non-profit that helps post-9/11 combat-injured veterans regain mental and physical health).
The workout honors US Navy SEAL Lieutenant Michael Murphy, killed in Afghanistan in 2005.
Over the last few weeks the 100 or so athletes in the football program raised money individually, did team lemonade stands, and prepared for a tough workout.
Coach Matty Jacowleff and the Gridiron Club reiterate the message of both physical and mental fitness, and a team first mentality — the same spirit carried by the veterans served through Catch A Lift.
The event began with US Army Sergeant Jason Smith talking to the players about sacrifice, resilience and commitment.
Sgt. Jason Smith
Then the athletes took on the Murph Challenge. It included a mile run, 100 pull-ups, 200 push-ups, 300 squats, and another mile run.
The 2026 season begins next month.
Staples players, coaches and Catch A Lift officials, at Paul Lane Field. (Photos/Adam Vengrow)
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Speaking of Staples: We’re proud of all our 2026 graduates.
And we get it: So are you.
(Photo/Dan Woog)
But come on! This is mid-August.
Your kid graduated more than 2 months ago. He or she is either already in college, or has one foot out the door.
It’s time to stop being proud. Start looking ahead.
And proud families of seniors: Order your Class of 2027 sign now.
June will be here before you know it.
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Speaking of Staples grads: It was a Westport reunion, on the Appalachian Trail.
Class of 1982 alum Jon Atwood is hiking the 2,198-mile route, from Maine to Georgia. His son Finn joined him for part of the journey.
Jon’s classmate and longtime friend Chris DiVecchio met them in New York. He did not look like he was ready to hike the entire trail. (Hat tip: Dan Donovan)
From left: Finn Atwood, Chris DiVecchio, Jon Atwood.
If you thought the New York Knicks’ NBA championship was exciting … well, just wait for tonight’s Compo Beach Men’s Summer Basketball League tourney.
It’s down to the final 4 teams. (And the semifinals have been moved to the Staples fieldhouse, due to lighting issues at Compo). Tip-off is 7 p.m., with the finals at 8.
One semi pits Team Clachko — with recent Wrecker grads Sam Clachko, Derek and Cody Sale, Caleb Tobias, Matty Corrigan and Griffin Kass — against Team Raus.
The other semi features defending champ Team Schur, against Team Dymond. Staples alumni on the court include Jordan Schur, Charlie Stoebe, and Aaron and Josh Shapiro, plus PAL travel coach Jamill Powell and former RTM member Noah Hammond.
Spectators are welcome.
Compo Beach summer league action.
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Westport children’s author Nicole O’Connor is launching the 3rd book in her “Kiera and Lamby” travel-themed picture book series.
It’s based on stories she told her daughter during the pandemic, inspiring her to dream about traveling the world. In each books Kiera and her stuffed lamb take a magic blanket to a different city: New York, Madrid, and now Tokyo). They explore famous landmarks and try new foods, in a playful, accessible way.
The launch includes a book signing and Japan-themed craft (origami ice cream bookmarks!) at Momu: Sunday, August 30 (1 to 3 p.m).
The latest addition to Riverside Park is this concrete pad.
We’re not sure if it’s for a bench, memorial, or something else. Like checked it out (see photo below), but did not act like a little kid. She left no paw prints.
The Village Voice called Dave Stryker “one of the most distinctive guitarists to come along in recent years.” He was voted one of the Top Jazz Guitarists in the 2025 Downbeat Critics and Readers Polls — for the 15th time.
This Thursday (August 20, shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner service at 6:45; VFW Post 399), he headlines Jazz at the Post.
And finally … on this date in 1868, French astronomer Pierre Janssen discovered helium.
(Supporting “06880” is no laughing matter. We rely on readers like you to help us do what we do, 24/7/365. Please click here to help. And thank you for putting a smile on our face.)
It’s no easy task, providing a couple of thousand lobsters, hundreds of pounds of steak, all the fixings and plenty of beverages to 1,500 hungry people, for 4 long hours.
Add setup, recycling and cleanup — and throw in live music, face painting, fire trucks and police vehicles for kids to clamber in, and much, much more — and you realize it takes a village to entertain a village.
Fortunately, the Westport Rotary Club is there.
Last weekend’s 14th annual LobsterFest was the best of Westport.
The community comes together at Compo Beach for a late-summer party. It’s fun. It’s festive. The food is delicious.
And the Rotary Club raises about $400,000, which they promptly distribute to dozens of worthy non-profit organizations, throughout Fairfield County and abroad.
LobsterFest ’25. (Photo/RB Benson)
But they can’t do it alone.
The Rotarians have help from many, many sources.
Dozens of businesses and individuals contribute goods, services time and energy.
Groups like the Y’s Men, Staples Service League of Boys, and A Better Chance of Westport — and many more! — provide volunteers.
Those lobsters don’t recycle themselves. (Photo/Dan Woog)
Politicians turn out in force — not to politick, but to cook lobsters, pour beer and clean up tables.
And from the moment the first lobster is boiled, to the last claw is cleared, everyone smiles.
To the Westport Rotary Club, their helpful compatriots at Sunrise Rotary, and every company, group or person who made LobsterFest such a success: You are our Unsung Heroes of the week.
Thank you!
(“06880” is proud to honor Unsung Heroes — and tell many other tales of town too. Please click here to support your hyper-local blog.)
Now she is backing the school’s housing vision. She pledged $15 million to name one of the new undergraduate residence halls.
The 5-story Shonda Rhimes Hall is both the first Dartmouth building named for a woman, and the first named for a Black alum. It opens in 2028. (Hat tip: Andrea Cross)
Shonda Rhimes, and her new dorm. (Rendering by Elkus Manfredi Architects; photo courtesy of Shondaland)
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This Saturday’s Staples-Fairfield Warde boys soccer game will be a great one.
And not just because the Wreckers and Mustangs are 2 of the top teams in the FCIAC.
After superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice and the Board of Education refused to renew the contracts of Staples head coach Russell Oost-Lievense and staff member Chris O’Dell, they were quickly hired as Warde assistants. They’ve been embraced by the players, athletic department and administrators.
O’Dell and Oost-Lievense are very happy in Fairfield. But they still love the Westport program, where both were high school captains (in 1994 and 2007, respectively).
So they’ve made Saturday’s 1 p.m. match at Warde’s Tetreau Field into not an us-against-them affair, but a we’re-all-in-this-together one. It’s called the “Gold Game.”
Led by the Warde parents, working with Staples parents, players on both teams have purchased game day socks, to raise funds to fight pediatric cancer through LivFree.
Players on the 2 squads are also soliciting donations of prizes. They’ll be used for a “Goals for Gold” penalty kick event for youth players, before and after the game.
There’s much more on Saturday, including giveaways — plus, of course, a great game.
Oh, yeah: Why is the theme “gold”? Supporters of both teams are encouraged to wear that color — not Staples blue, or Mustang red.
We — and they — are all in this together.
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You never know what you’ll find on “06880.”
Or what you’ll see when “06880” wanders around town.
The other day, I was downtown with Thomas Samaranayake (@thomas_sam123) — “06880”‘s fantastic social media guru — plus Frank Rosen and Mark Sogofsky, longtime News 12 producers who have started their own video company.
They offered to create an Instagram “donate to ‘06880’ video for (and with) me. (Many desktop, laptop and mobile users know this blog relies on reader support; most who follow us on social media — @06880danwoog — don’t.)
The Wall Street Journal has just introduced one of the most colorful to its readers.
The home, on Beachside Common above Burying Hill Beach, belongs to biotech entrepreneur/investor/scientist Alan Walton and his wife Elenor.
They bought the 1970s contemporary in 2000 for $6.3 million. It was expanded and “reimagined” in the 1990s — for $13 million.
The exterior …
With its floating staircase, periscope skylights, rainbow glazing purple carpet — and a 150-foot multicolored tile pathway that “meanders” through the house — it’s not for everyone. (Several online commenters made that quite clear.)
Alan died in 2015. Elenor died this past February. The couple was a much-admired part of their tight-knit neighborhood.
In her will, Elenor told her children to sell the property.
“06880” has reported on Saturday’s very successful LobsterFest. The Westport Rotary Club raised about $400,000 for a variety of non-profits, in Fairfield County and abroad.
Here’s another part of the story that’s worth telling.
CORR — Collective Oyster Recycling & Restoration, a non-profit that organizes a statewide sustainable shell recovery and recycling network, reclaiming shells from restaurants, seafood businesses and events, diverting them from landfills to use in shellfish restoration projects — was at Compo Beach, working hard.
They gathered used oyster shells from the Copps Island raw bar crew, and from festival goers at the waste disposal area.
CORR collected 175 pounds of shells — 7 buckets worth. They will be dumped back into the Sound to create new oyster reefs (baby oyster larvae attach to the old shells). (Hat tip: Hunter Peterson)
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Golfers are familiar with birdies and eagles at Longshore.
They may be surprised to find a coyote there too.
A pair of hawk-eyed “06880” readers sent photos from the course. Fore!
Enjoying a sand trap … (Photo/Robert Crowley)
… and at the 4th hole … (Photo/Tim Steele)
… and heading toward the next one. (Photo/Colin Livingston)
Faherty celebrates its first year at 26 Main Street with a “Day of Gratitude + Good Vibes.”
They’ll showcase their new fall; give away free totes — and donate 10% to Sweet P Bakery, the company owned by Westporters Bill and Andrea Pecoriello that trains and employs people with disabilities.
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Jazz at the Post’s “September Piano Madness” ends this Thursday (September 25; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner at 7).
Azerbaijan pianist Amina Figarova returns to VFW Post 399. Last year’s performance of “Suite for Africa” during her CD release tour, with her sextet and the Matsiko World Orphan Choir, was stellar.
She’ll be joined by flutist Bart Platteau, trumpeter Josh Bruneau, bassist Mark Lewandowski, drummer Ryan Sands and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall. Click here for tickets, and more information.
Longtime Westport resident Elaine Levy died peacefully on Sunday. She was 86, and had battled cancer.
The University of Pittsburgh graduate had a lifelong love of learning.
She met her future husband, Roy Levy, on Nantucket. They moved to Westport in the early 1960s, and raised a family here.
Elaine also built a career in Westport’s retail world, working in fashion and furniture.
She was known for her love of tennis, vibrant social life, and and joy in entertaining and dining out.
Elaine was predeceased by her husband, and by her sister Nina Fingerhood. She is survived by her daughter, Annie (Sam Vail), son Joshua, and grandchildren Roy and Graceanne Vail.
A private celebration of her life will be held September 26. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, designated for small cell lung cancer research.
Sonny Curtis — a singer-songwriter who performed with Buddy Holly (and was his pallbearer), opened for Elvis Presley and wrote hits like “I Fought the Law” (plus the theme song for “The Mary Tyler Moore Show,” which he also sang) — died Friday in Nashville. He was 88.
And finally … in honor of Ryan Inzero, the amazing “sign spinner” in the “06880” donation story above:
(Our “06880” fingers are tired, from all this Roundup typing. But we do it for you! If you enjoy, learn from or just kinda like our hyper-local blog, please click here to support our work. Thanks!)
Comments Off on Roundup: Shonda Rhimes, Soccer Coaches, Sign Spinner …
In just over a dozen years, LobsterFest has become one of the biggest, best loved and fun parties in town.
Yesterday, 1,500 folks of all ages celebrated at Compo. It’s the second biggest beach event of the year, after the fireworks.
They ate lobster and steak (plus a lot more). They drank beer and soda. They danced to a great band (Silver Steel). Hordes of kids climbed on a fire truck, went inside a police car, got tattoos and face paint, and had all the kind of fun we remember from our childhoods.
Politicians were out in force. But instead of politicking, they wore yellow volunteer shirts. They served beer, checked tickets and cleared trash. They looked like they had a blast.
RTM member Sal Liccione and man about town Dylan Curran.
And — thanks to the spectacular work of the Westport Rotary Club, and volunteers from many other town groups — LobsterFest raised nearly half a million dollars, for dozens of good causes.
In a few months the Rotarians will distribute large grants, to all those groups.
It’s a feel-good ceremony. Those funds will — literally — change lives.
But none of it would be possible without everyone who made LobsterFest happen yesterday. (Special kudos to whoever was in charge of the weather. You rocked it.)
PS: Tickets for LobsterFest ’26 go on sale next summer. As usual, they’ll sell out in minutes.
Towner Didier enjoys his first LobsterFest. (Photo/Steve Dodd)
What kid doesn’t enjoy a fire engine?
Friends from the Staples High School Class of 1982 dance to …
… the Silver Steel Band.
Parks & Recreation director Erik Barbieri, and operations manager Carmen Roda.
Jodi Bell and Rob Simmelkjaer. He’s a Westporter, and CEO of New York Road Runners. Both are training for next month’s Chicago Marathon. After yesterday’s lobsters, they’ll run 22 miles today.
Chrissy Toeplitz, Bre Injeski and Danielle Dobin.
LobsterFest organizers take recycling and waste seriously …
… in more ways than one.
There were plenty of beverages …
… and here’s the money shot. (All photos/Dan Woog unless otherwise noted)
Our “Historic Homes of 06880” tour returns for a third great year!
Save the date: Sunday, November 2 (1 to 4 p.m.).
Once again, we’ll open 4 beautiful — and very different — homes to the public. You’ll see loving restorations, creative touches, and some very cool surprises.
Once again, we’re working with KMS Team at Compass to present this fun (and very popular) event.
The 4 homes will be revealed soon. See you November 2!
This Cross Highway barn was part of our 2023 “Historic Homes of 06880” tour. (Photo/Dan Woog)
Want to help shape the future of Westport’s parks?
As part of the Parks Master Plan process, the Parks & Recreation Department hosts a public workshop on September 30 (6 p.m., Westport Library). All community members are invited. It will be run by the town’s consultants, BL Companies.
The Town’s consultant, BL Companies, will provide residents with the opportunity to engage directly with the consultants, share feedback, and learn more about the planning process.
If you’re between the ages of 6 and 18, and you play music — or want to — or you’re the parent of someone who does, check out the Music Collective’s open house this weekend (September 20-21, 3 to 6 p.m.; 1572 Post Road East).
The Collective (formerly the Gig Center) looks forward to showing off its space. Instructors will be there, attendees can try out some instruments. Or sing into a mic.
Jim Savage plays boogie-woogie piano on Saturday (September 20, 6-9 p.m.).
And a Veterans Benefits Luncheon is set for September 25 (11 a.m. to 1 p.m.). It’s open to all veterans as part of an ongoing effort to check in on all veterans’ welfare, and connect them with the benefits and support they earned.
Representatives will answer questions, and provide information on services and assistance available to veterans.
RSVPs are encouraged (but not required). Email vfw399ct@gmail.com, and include the number of attendees, or call (203) 227-6796.
PS: If you’re not a veteran, but know one: Please pass the word!
Mark Shanahan has earned standing ovations as the Westport Country Playhouse artistic director.
But he works his magic away from the local stage too.
Shanahan is the writer and director of the Hole in the Wall Gang Camp’s annual Fandango Benefit Gala. It’s this Saturday night, at the Ashford camp in northeastern Connecticut. Shanahan took over the role from the Playhouse’s Anne Keefe, several years ago.
The Playhouse is a strong supporter of the event.
The camp — which creates joy and community for seriously ill children and their families — shares a long bond with the WCP.
Westporters Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward supported both institutions generously. Many Playhouse staff members volunteer at Hole in the Wall throughout the year.
The Playhouse also raises funds for the Camp every December, through audience donations at “A Sherlock Carol.”
Club203 kicked off the 2025-26 year in style Tuesday, at Weston’s Lachat Farm.
Members of Westport’s social club for adults with disabilities kicked up their heels, danced with Marca, and enjoyed great food catered by Carmine Cenatiempo of Calise’s Deli.
MOCA offered art projects, Skip’s Good Humor ice cream added dessert, and the volunteers helped everyone make the most of the great Lachat setting.
Art by MoCA, at Club203. (Photo/Stacie Curran)
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Heating season (and heating bills) are near.
Fortunately, beginning October 1 income-eligible Westport residents can apply for the Connecticut Energy Assistance Program.
Those who previously qualified for assistance through Westport’s Department of Human Services will receive application instructions in the mail. Residents wishing to apply for the first time should call 203-341-1050 or email humansrv@westportct.gov.
To qualify, household income must be at or below 60% of the state median income. The maximum income for households is:
Households of one (1) $47,764
Households of two (2) $62,460
Households of three (3) $77,157
Households of four (4) $91,854
Households of Five (5) $106,550.
Applicants must have recent copies of heating, electric, water, lease or mortgage statements, and other proof of income documents.
On Saturday, 1,500 guests will enjoy lobster, steak, veggie burgers, all the trimmings, beer and wine and other beverages — plus music, kids’ activities and much more — at the Westport Rotary Club’s annual LobsterFest.
At Tuesday’s weekly meeting, longtime member and LobsterFest maestro Rick Benson updated members on logistics. All hands will be on deck, raising $400,000 for charitable organizations in Fairfield County and abroad.
Rick Benson, and his map.
Rotarians also heard from Wendy Petty. The Senior Center director said that 25% of Fairfield County residents are over the age of 65. The Center has seen a commensurate increase in membership over the past few years.
The Senior Center hosts over 100 classes each week, along with a tech hub, nutrition program, and a quarterly veterans’ coffee.
Wendy Petty (Photos/Dave Matlow)
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Westport’s other Rotary Club — Sunrise — celebrates International Day of Peace this Sunday (September 21, 2 p.m.), by sharing peace through music and humor.
The event — “Songs and Reflections on Peace, Kindness and Fun” features performances by the Whirled Peas Band, with members from area Rotary clubs and special guests David Friedman, Shawn Moninger, Eric Šebek and Samantha Talora.
There is a great back story to today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo.
But first, marvel at this creature:
(Photo/Seth Schachter)
Seth Schachter encountered this massive reptile yesterday on Maple Lane, near Burying Hill Beach.
A neighbor helped him get it to safety. Otherwise, Seth is sure it would have been struck by a car.
Turtles can live well beyond 100 years. This guy might have been roaming Greens Farms at the dawn of the automobile age.
Seth and his neighbor used a broom and a large blue recycling bin — something that was definitely not around when the turtle was born — to move it along.
And finally … sure, we honored this group just the other day, when Mark Volman died.
But thanks to the item above, they’re worth revisiting, with a different song:
(If you enjoy “06880,” we hope you’ll be part of our November 2 “Historic Homes” tour. We also hope you will click here, to make a tax-deductible contribution supporting our work. Thank you!)
Voters in more than half of Westport’s 9 Representative Town Meeting districts will have an actual choice this November.
But just barely.
Each RTM district elects 4 representatives to the town’s legislative body.
With the filing deadline passed, only 5 of those districts have more than 4 candidates on the ballot. They are Districts 1, 2, 3, 4 and 9. The other 4 have the bare minimum: 4 candidates each.
And of the 5 districts with actual races, 3 have just 5 candidates. Two — Districts 2 and 9 — have 6.
Here’s the breakdown.
District 1: Incumbents: Andrew Bloom, Matthew Mandell, Kristin Mott Purcell, Chris Tait. Petitioning: Gail Coykendall.
District 2: Incumbents: Jay Keenan, Melissa Levy, Louis Mall, Mike Perry. Petitioning: Harris Falk, Jenna Petok.
District 3: Incumbents: Ross Burkhardt, Jimmy Izzo, Pamela Troy-Kopack. Petitioning: Adam Drake, Srikanth Puttagunta.
District 4: Incumbents: Andrew Colabella, Clarence Hayes, Jeff Wieser. Petitioning: Charles Lucas, Victoria Wylie, Charles Lucas.
District 5: Incumbents: Peter Gold, Karen Kramer, Dick Lowenstein, Claudia Shaum.
District 6: Incumbents: Candace Banks, Seth Braunstein, Alma Sarelli. Petitioning: Lauren Karpf.
District 7: Incumbents Brandi Briggs, Jack Klinge, Ellen Lautenberg Hendel. Petitioning: Joseph Carson.
But those crustaceans (and all the steak, cole slaw, beverages — not to mention the band, booths, etc.) don’t fall from the sky. They take a ton of work.
The Westport Rotary Club fundraiser happens every year because of the very hard work of every member. And many more volunteers.
At yesterday’s weekly meeting, LobsterFest volunteer chair Susan Shuck described what all those people do.
Their efforts pay off. Approximately $400,000 will be distributed as grants in May, primarily to Westport and other Fairfield County non-profit organizations.
Representatives from one of those groups — Homes with Hope — spoke to the Rotary Club too. Paris Looney and Katherine Murray joined CEO Helen McAlinden.
She noted that HwH plays a major role in the greater Westport community — not only in the rehabilitation of homeless people, but through an array of programs and strategies that help prevent homelessness at its roots.
Back to LobsterFest: If you don’t yet have tickets, you’re out of luck. It sells out very quickly, when 1,500 tickets become available each summer. Watch this space next year!
Susan Shuck, with a LobsterFest volunteer t-shirt. (Photo/Dave Matlow)
Doris Skutch — a longtime Westporter, business executive, and ardent volunteer in politics and other areas of local life — died peacefully here on Sunday. She was 94.
After leaving Connecticut College in the 1950s, she moved to New York and began her professional journey as a journalist for women’s periodicals.
Her career soon transitioned into textiles, where she found her calling in communications and marketing. Doris spent over 3 decades at Burlington Industries. Starting as a secretary, she rose through the ranks to become vice president – fashion. She loved her twice-yearly trips to shows in Paris and London, bringing back wonderful concepts for fabric buyers.
Following her tenure at Burlington, Doris brought her expertise to a boutique communications firm in Westport. She later dedicating her skills to nonprofit work, as a grant writer for United Way in Bridgeport.
A passionate advocate for civic engagement and community service, Doris was a lifelong Democrat who remained active for over 50 years. She was a life member of the Westport League of Women Voters, and held LWV leadership roles at the local and state levels.
Her commitment to public service included the Y’s Women, and the Connecticut Alliance for Music. She also participated in several book clubs.
Doris was a devoted member of Christ & Holy Trinity Episcopal Church for many years.
Doris is survived by her sons Douglas and Elliot Royce; stepsons David and Christopher Skutch; niece Casey Farley; 4 grandchildren, and 4 great-grandchildren.
Doris Skutch
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Today, elephant ears make their first appearance in our “Westport … Naturally” feature.
And finally … Rick Davies, founder of Supertramp, died Saturday in East Hampton, New York. He was 81, and had been diagnosed with blood cancer over a decade ago. Click here for a full obituary.
(What can be more logical than supporting “06880,” your 24/7/365 hyper-local blog? And what can be easier than clicking here to do it? Thanks for helping us bring news, photos — and music — to you !)
As “06880” reported more than 2 weeks ago, the state Department of Transportation is changing the near-century-old Merritt Parkway exit numbers.
The new ones — “20” for our familiar Exit 41, and “21” for 42 — conform to federal standards, which mandate that exits show the approximate mileage from a starting point. With the Merritt, that’s the New York border.
Old habits die hard. This may take some getting used to.
Fortunately, for at least 2 years small signs underneath the larger ones will say “old Exit 41” or “42.”
Fingers crossed that GPS picks up on the change pretty quickly.
(Photos/Adrian Mueller)
In a couple of years, an even bigger change is coming.
Say goodbye to Westport’s I-95 exits 17 and 18. (Hat tip: Bill Dedman)
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All is ready for Alo’s opening.
The “activewear brand,” offering “studio-to-street clothing, yoga gear and luxury skincare,” replaces Oka — previously Banana Republic, and before that, Klein’s Department Store — tomorrow (August 1).
Can’t wait? There’s an Early Access Shopping event today (Thursday, July 31, 4-7 p.m.), at their “newest sanctuary.”
There’s a DJ, yoga performances, beverages, and a $500 Alo gift card giveaway.
The first 100 shoppers get an “exclusive gift” with their purchase.
But that’s not the only new activewear store opening downtown tomorrow.
Or the only one with a special opening event.
Beyond Yoga opens their second Connecticut store (after Greenwich) near Lux Bond & Green, in the “Elm & Main” shopping plaza (formerly called Brooks Corner).
They’ll host their own preview party tonight (Thursday, July 31, 5 to 7 p.m.), with their own DJ, light bites, sips, 20% off purchases, and a gift with any purchase of $300 or more. Click here to RSVP.
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LobsterFest is one of our town’s greatest parties.
The Westport Rotary Club event features lobsters (duh), steak, drinks, live music, kids’ activities and much more, all on a beautiful late summer day at Compo Beach. (This year it’s September 20.)
Over 1,500 guests help raise over $400,000, for nearly 50 community organizations.
But all that fun takes work.
At least 250 volunteers are needed — and as hard as Rotarians work, there are not that many club members.
Volunteers can purchase a lobster or steak ticket, or get a free hamburger or hot dog. All volunteers enjoy free drinks too.
All ages (youngsters and up) are needed for set-up on Friday, September 19 (3 to 6:30 p.m.) and Saturday, September 20 (9 a.m. to 1 p.m.); shifts during the September 20 LobsterFest (from 2 to 7:30 p.m.), and clean-up on Sunday, September 21 (9 a.m. to 1 p.m.).
The Clubhouse — Westport’s very popular sports simulator/big TV screen/ karaoke/rooftop event space hosted Club 203’s volunteers.
The town’s social club for adults with disabilities, and their partner Westport’s Department of Human Services, said “thank you” to the men and women who make each monthly gathering special.
“They are the glue to all of our celebrations. We would be nothing if not for them,” says Club203 co-founder Stacie Curran. She also thanked owners Tim and Emily Zobl of The Clubhouse, for their help.
Volunteers were the first to see the 2025-26 calendar. The year kicks off with a bash at Lachat Town Farm in Weston, and continues with Halloween, Thanksgiving and holiday gatherings. January brings a night at Westport Country Playhouse.
It’s on the bank of the Saugatuck River, behind the Levitt Pavilion.
She worries it may become a hazard.
“06880” often reminds drivers, bicyclists and pedestrians: “Be careful out there.”
Now we’ll add rowers and boaters to the list.
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Westport Police made 1 custodial arrest bewteen July 230 and 29.
A 40-year-old Norwalk man was charged with failure to appear. The warrant stemmed for a previous motor vehicle arrest. He posted a $10,000 bond.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Traveling unreasonably fast: 4 citations
Failure to obey stop sign: 2
Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 2
Failure to renew registration: 2
Criminal trespass: 1
Distracted driving: 1
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 1
Failure to insure a motor vehicle: 1
Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
Failure to obey traffic control signals: 1
Improper use of markers: 1
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Noted lawyer and 1959 Staples High School graduate Michael Cardozo died July 23 in White Plains, after a short illness. He was 84.
His career included over 45 years at Proskauer Rose, and 12 as New York City’s corporation counsel (appointed by Mayor Bloomberg). He also served as president of the New York City Bar Association, the New York State Commission on Ethics and Lobbying in Government, and on many non-profit boards.
He earned a BA political science in 1963 from Brown University, and a JD 3 years later from Columbia Law School.
Michael is survived by his wife Nancy Cardozo; daughters Hedy Cardozo (Michael Rosenblut) and Sheryl Cardozo (Adi Diner), and grandchildren Lucy, Josh and Ellie.
(Sure, the Merritt Parkway may switch numbers. But “06880” will never change. We’ll keep delivering news, features, history, photos an much more. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
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