When Gunnar Eklund and Graysen Peters headed to the Senior Center last Friday to meet with members, they figured there would be a generation gap.
After all, they’re a very different type of senior: 12th graders.
But instead of trying to explain their lives to a bunch of older people, they settled into an easy conversation. Amid banter and laughter, both sides asked questions, and offered honest responses.
The Senior Center seniors surprised the Staples seniors with their knowledge of AI. The teenagers surprised the Baby Boomers and Silent Generation by not reflexively opposing the high school cellphone ban.
And when their time was up, they all stayed for another hour, chatting and listening and learning from each other.
Gunnar Eklund and Graysen Peters (standing), at the Senior Center.
The “Seniors Meet Seniors” event began with an invitation from the Center, to Steven Greenberg’s Friday morning chat group. Staples assistant principal Christine Cincotta recommended Gunnar and Graysen.
Through their activities — he’s on the debate team; she’s in Model UN; both competed nationally with Staples’ We the People class — they know how to communicate.
Still, they wondered how well they could connect with a much older group.
Yet barriers quickly fell. What they thought would be a “presentation” turned into, Gunnar says, “a Socratic seminar.”
Gunnar Eklund
The Senior Center attendees wanted to know, for example, the best way to communicate with their grandchildren. Together, they agreed that phone calls — scheduled consistently, if possible — have much more impact than texts. Actual written letters are important too.
That resonated with the teens, They knew their own grandparents enjoyed connecting with them. But the conversation reinforced how important that is.
The men and women had heard about Staples’ cellphone ban. They were surprised — and pleased — to hear Gunnar and Graysen say they both feel more connected to others now, at lunch.
The older seniors were curious whether cursive writing is still taught. Graysen feels fortunate that her parents taught her how to sign her name; she and her friends struggle though to read cursive. Gunnar, meanwhile, learned it in a previous private school.
The Stapleites were surprised — and impressed — that the Senior Center members know a lot about artificial intelligence. Many use it.
Graysen Peters
When asked whether AI affects critical thinking, the teens offered personal perspectives.
Graysen said her teachers have taught her to use it in a good way. She knows how to fact-check. She does see some students use it as a shortcut.
Gunnar and his friends don’t really want to use it, he said; it takes away from critical thinking. He thinks many Staples teachers are too lenient about AI use.
Both explained about the technology to supposedly detect if students use artificial intelligence to write papers — and the harm that has come from false accusations.
Near the end, Gunnar asked what advice the seniors had for young people.
The main idea was simple: “Be kind!” (“Be kind on the road, too!” one joked.)
They’ve learned that being kind pays off in the long run, they told the teens.
“They said being kind makes you feel better,” Gunnar noted. “It gives you more positive experiences in life.”
Like, say, the experience of chatting about the world as it was, is, and will be one day, when today’s high school seniors are senior citizens.
Gunnar Eklund and Graysen Peters (middle row, 2nd and 4th from left), and the 2025 We the People team in Washington, DC.
(“06880” regularly covers Staples High School, the Senior Center — and everyone of every other age in Westport too. If you enjoy stories like this, please click here to support our work. Thanks!)
Last year’s first-ever Jackie Robinson Essay Contest drew a less-than-sold-out-stadium number of entries.
This year, the sponsors — the Westport Library, Westport Center for Senior Activities, BookTrib and Meryl Moss Media — hope for many more.
Organizers say: “Jackie Robinson didn’t just break baseball’s color barrier. He broke barriers in hearts and minds, paving the way for generations to dream bigger, stand taller, and speak louder. Now, you can honor his legacy.”
This year, the contest asks community members to write — or co-write — “a heartfelt letter addressed to Jackie Robinson. Reflect on how his courage, dignity and perseverance have impacted your lives and your relationship with each other.”
Submissions are “highly encouraged” in teams of 2. Ideally, that’s one senior (60 and up) and one younger person (ages 6–21).
Individual responses, or teams of 2 of any age, are also accepted. “This is more than a writing contest — it’s a chance to build connection across generations, celebrate social progress, and share powerful stories,” organizers say.
If you haven’t already bought a gift — heck, even if you have — here’s a heart-warming idea.
For just $5.50, you can send a 1-minute digital “Singing Gram” — a heartfelt musical message celebrating love, friendship or (sorry, babe) “moving on” — to your partner (or soon-to-be-ex).
They’re courtesy of Staples Orphenians, who will sing — and deliver — your personalized message tomorrow.
Click here to order, and for more information. That’s amore!
Staples’ Orphenians performed at the Holiday Stroll. Now they’ll “perform” at the next holiday: Valentine’s Day. (Photo/Dan Woog)
Speaking of Staples: Seniors Zander Bauer and Elijah Falkenstein — founders of the first Connecticut chapter of the national non-profit Make Our Schools Safe –were in Washington on Thursday.
They advocated for the passage of Alyssa’s Act, which would set national standards for emergency response systems.
Zander and Elijah participated in a press conference, gave interviews, and met with Congressmen, including Connecticut’s Jim Himes and Jahana Hayes.
Zander Bauer and Elijah Falkenstein, with Congressman Jim Himes.
Speaking still of Staples: On Monday, STORMAC — the school’s co-op boys hockey team (with Norwalk and Brien McMahon Highs) — hosted “Hockey Fights Cancer Night.”
Players honored family and friends who are currently battling the disease, who fought and survived, or who are remembered and missed.
Each player took the ice holding a sign with the name of someone special, followed by a moment of silence.
The evening was as a fundraiser. 100% of the proceeds benefit the American Cancer Society.
For 25 years, Read To Grow has provided books to new mothers, in hospitals and through a Bookmobile.
By promoting language skills and or children from the day they’re born, the non-profit gives an early boost to families that may not be able to afford books.
Read To Grow is partnering with the Westport Rotary Club and Westport Library, in an outreach program.
On Tuesday Suzannah Holsenbeck — Read to Grow’s executive director — spoke to Rotarians.
Suzannah Holsenbeck, Executive Director of Read To Grow, a not-for-profit group based in Branford, addressed the Westport Rotary Club at its Feb 10 luncheon via Zoom.
She described the importance of having books in a home, and of parents reading daily to young children.
Suzannah Holsenbeck addresses the Rotary Club, via Zoom. (Hat tip and photo/Dave Matlow)
The small mostly-takeout Mexican restaurant on Post Road East — sandwiched between ASF and the Shell station — posted a sign in the window saying “Sorry.”
But it adds “Hey Taco! Coming soon.”
We assume that means another Mexican spot.
It would be the third on that site. Border Grill replaced “Tacos or What,” owned by the legendary Dodie Perez.
The “We’re closed” sign, next to the front door. (Hat tip and photo/Jennifer Kobetitsch)
It’s been well over 2 weeks since a snowstorm deposited a foot of snow here.
Since then — with the temperature well below freezing — the beautifully plowed piles have congealed, frozen over, and proved almost impossible to remove.
The result: treacherous going on sidewalks. And, where are forced off of them, dangerous conditions on the road.
Yesterday’s temperature — a tropical 43 — may begin the melting process. (Though when the temperature dips at night, it re-freezes.)
The high today will be 36. Who knows what that will do?
Here are some scenes from Post Road East, on Tuesday. Be careful out there!
In front of Webster Bank, at Colonial Green.
Mobil gas station, across from Playhouse Square …
… and next door, the Mobil station.
M&T bank, at Compo Road North. The manager says this is an issue for the state Department of Transportation. (Photos/Molly Alger)
Westport Police made 1 custodial arrest between February 4 and 10.
A 38-year-old Wilton man was charged with operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol/drugs, failure to drive in the proper lane, operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance, and improper use of marker plates, following a single vehicle accident on Riverside Avenue, at 12:25 a.m. Sunday.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Texting while driving: 9 citations
Failure to stop at a stop sign: 7
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 3
Failure to renew registration: 3
Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 2
Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 2
Operating a motor vehicle without tint inspection: 2
Failure to obey traffic control signals: 2
Improper use of markers: 2
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 1
Speeding in a school zone (2nd offense): 1
Speeding: 1
Distracted driving: 1
Failure to drive in the proper lane: 1
Driving with an obstructed windshield: 1
Failure to reinstate license within 60 days: 1
Unreadable license plate: 1
It is illegal to drive with an unreadable license plate.
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Andrew Ippolito died peacefully at his Westport home, surrounded by family, on Monday. He was 95.
The Korean War veteran graduated from Georgetown University in international affairs, and earned a master’s in library sciences from Pratt University. He spent most of his career at Newsday, where he led the research and library department, and later founded Library Directory Associates.
Andrew was very involved in politics, and attended the 1968 Democratic National Convention in Chicago.
His wife Constance died 2020. He is survived by his children Jenette, Paul (Lisa) and Michael (Caroline); grandchildren Vanessa (Steve), Andraya (Keenan), Andrew, Dimitra, Michael, Sofia, Paul, Christofer and Lucas, and great-granchildren continues through his great-grandchildren Cosette, Charlotte, Daniel, Keenan, Jaxon and Josephine.
A wake will be held at Harding Funeral Home this Sunday (February 15, 2 to 6 p.m.). The funeral service takes place Monday (February 16, 10 a.m., St. Luke Church).
Condolences may be left online at www.hardingfuneral.com. Contributions in lieu of flowers may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Westporters woke up yesterday to fresh ice. It covered driveways, sidewalks, trees — and this holly bush. Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo comes from Burritts Landing, near Saugatuck Shores.
And finally … on this date in 1809, Abraham Lincoln was born. Happy 217th, to our 16th president!
(People often wonder how to celebrate Lincoln’s birthday. We always recommending clicking here to donate to “06880” — your hyper-local blog that celebrates all things Westport, and America!)
With an enormous amount of snow, and temperatures remaining well below freezing, cleaning up from the January 25 storm was difficult.
Plowed, congealed piles made walking and parking difficult downtown.
So on Tuesday night, SCA Crowley — led by vice president Maxx Crowley, president of the Westport Downtown Association — joined forces with Westport’s Department of Public Works team.
SCA spent 3 hours on Main Street removing snow.
It was then hauled away by DPW director Peter Ratkiewich’s crew, led by superintendent Joe Izzo and crew captain Dave Smith. Public Works followed up by salting roads and sidewalks.
It’s much easier to park now — which means it’s far easier to drive and walk, too. Thanks to all who helped!
One view of the Main Street cleanup …
… and another. (Hat tip and photos/Andrew Colabella)
“Your State, Your Business” — a 3-part event bringing 3 of Connecticut’s constitutional officers to Westport to discuss issues regarding the state and how they relate to business (and residents) is coming to town.
The Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce and Westport Library are collaborating on the series.
It kicks off on March 5 with Comptroller Sean Scanlon. Secretary of the State Stephanie Thomas follows on March 19. Attorney General William Tong is the final speaker, April 2. All sessions begin at 11 a.m.
Each event includes a presentation by the officer, a moderated discussion, and questions from the audience. It’s free, but registration is required.
Adria Petty — a noted producer and music video director — will be at the Westport Library on March 28 (3 p.m.). She’ll discuss her father’s legacy, with music and technology pioneer Sam Hendel.
Petty works as a managing partner at the Tom Petty estate with her family and the remaining members of Tom Petty’s band and operations team, preserving their archive of 40 years of American music.
She has directed videos for recording artists like Beyonce, Coldplay and Rihanna. She has also done commercial spots for brands such as Lancôme, Target, Converse, Hershey’s, McDonald’s and more.
The Westport Astronomical Society is introducing a new STEM opportunity for students in grades 9-12. It’s run through the Northeast Occultation Network (NEON).
Participants will learn to operate telescopes, observe and capture astronomical data from asteroid occultations, and contribute to professional astronomy research under the training of astrophysicist Dr. Kevin Green of the University of New Haven.
Students will work with the WAS team to collect, analyze and submit research-grade data to NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory.
So when alert “06880” reader Chris Grimm sent me a video clip about Gryphon (click here), I had to ask for details.
Turns out that’s his dog. He competes in agility.
His partner — Chris’, not Gryphon’s — handles the dog during runs. The Westminster Kennel Club hosts a big agility trial — the Westminster Masters Agility Championship — which ended Tuesday night.
Gryphon’s Standard run begins at the 12:00 mark in the video below.
Chris reports: “He froze a bit at the weave polls and Leslie took a spill by the tunnel, but Gryphon did a great job of finishing.”
In the video below, Gryphon’s jumpers run starts after 12:30. “Except for wandering off to say hello, it was a good run,” Chris says. “I can’t believe he got his Q for that.
The founder of Westport Writers’ Workshop, and noted memoir and creative nonfiction workshop instructor, has just practiced what she preaches.
Her new memoir, “West End Avenue,” has just been published.
Amazon describes it:
A young girl’s world is upended when her divorced mother of 3 marries a widowed father of 4.
Set against the backdrop of Manhattan’s Upper West Side, this evocative memoir traces the uneasy transformation of a blended household – where strangers become siblings bound by shared trauma, quiet acts of loyalty, and the unspoken bonds forged in childhood.
Orthopedic surgeon Dr. William Conaway was this week’s Westport Rotary Club guest speaker. Among his topics: the growing role of robotics in his specialty.
Westport Police made 4 custodial arrests between January 28 and February 3.
A 28-year-old Westport man was charged with interfering with an officer, following a complaint that he verbally threated an employee at Whole Foods. He fled, but was located nearby, and taken into custody based on repeated resistance to requests to stay away from the store.
A 64-year-old Hamden man was charged with larceny and criminal trespass, following an investigation into the theft of $110.31 of energy drinks from Stop & Shop. He had been formally warned earlier not to return to the store. He was held on a $25,000 bond.
A 53-year-old Bridgeport man was charged with failure to appear, after panhandling on the I-95 northbound ramp. He was held on a $25,000 bond.
A 28-year-old Westport man was charged with failure to appear, after being held in Pennsylvania on an unrelated matter. He was held on a $15,000 bond.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Texting while driving: 14 citations
Traveling unreasonably fast: 11
Failure to renew registration: 11
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 7
Failure to obey stop sign: 7
Distracted driving: 2
Failure to obey traffic control signals: 2
Speeding in a school zone, 2nd offense: 1
Speeding in a school zone: 1
Speeding: 1
Traveling too fast for conditions: 1
Failure to drive in the proper lane: 1
Failure to grant right of way: 1
Improper turn: 1
Unsafe backing: 1
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 1
Violation of readable license plates: 1
Failure to return license plates: 1
Improper use of markers: 1
Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
Failure to reinstate license within 60 days: 1
Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 1
Lots of license plate citations recently. That’s no laughing matter.
And finally … in honor of Tom Petty’s daughter’s appearance at VersoFest (story above):
(From dog shows to outer space, “06880” is “where Westport meets the world.” If you’re a part of our online community — and you’re reading this, so you are — please click here to support us. Thanks!)
Effective Tuesday, the fine for parking illegally at the Saugatuck and Greens Farms train stations will double.
At the request of the Westport Police Department, the Select Board approved
an increase in the fine for non-permit holders parking in permit-only areas, from $25 to $50.
As always, daily parking areas are available at both stations for non-permit holders.
Westporters know the joys of skating at the PAL Rink at Longshore.
Now, many other people know too.
NewEngland.com included it — right near the top — in their list of “30 Best Winter Activities Across All 6 States.”
(Okay, it’s near the top because the states are listed alphabetically, and Connecticut is first. But still …)
The writeup says:
For more than 25 years, the Westport Police Athletic League (WPAL) has sponsored this winter gem located just steps from Long Island Sound.
Meeting NHL rink specifications, the outdoor facility is open to all, with daily, weekend, and season passes available. Visitors can find skate rentals and sharpening here, as well as figure skating lessons offered through the Westport Parks and Recreation Department that range from beginner to advanced levels.
We’re right up there with Powder Ridge, Franconia Notch, and Okemo, Stowe and Stratton.
Local athletes have many opportunities to receive specialized, sport-specific training.
The mental and nutrition aspects: Not so much.
Three professionals — Rhodie Lorenz, Carrie Potoff and Adriana Liberatore — now fill that gap.
The multi-disciplinary group — Saugatuck Mind and Sports Lab — offers athletes, coaches and parents team and 1-on-1 coaching and counseling.
Lorenz — well-known to Westporters as a co-founder of JoyRide — already had a thriving mental performance practice, specializing in high school and college athletes.
Potoff is a therapist. She aids many athletes in areas like anxiety and perfectionism.
Liberatore is a registered dietician, who also has experience with athletes’ fuel for performance and recovery.
The trio saw a gap between physical regimens, and off-the-field aspects of training. They’ve designed a holistic approach, but are also available individually.
“Coaches have only so much bandwidth,” Lorenz notes. “They understand the value of mental training and good nutrition. They’re able to reinforce what we provide.
“Athletes often seek help when they struggle, or suffer a setback,” she adds. “But they don’t have to be reactive. We can be proactive, providing the tolls and skills they need to overcome the inevitable stresses of sports.”
From left: Rhodie Lorenz, Carrie Potof, Adrianna Liberatore.
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Speaking of sports: Friends of the Senior Center are sponsoring a Super Bowl tailgate party. (Indoors, of course: February 8, 1 p.m.).
All ages are welcome to enjoy hot dogs, chips and dessert, plus a chance to meet Staples High School’s championship boys soccer and rugby teams.
PAL and Staples cheerleaders will perform.
And there’s a “guess the final score” contest, with prizes.
All ages are invited.
The state champion “futbol” team will be at the Senior Center football Super Bowl party on February 8. (Photo/John Walker)
On Tuesday, the Zoning Board of Appeals unanimously denied an appeal of a previous Planning & Zoning Commission decision, to allow construction of an accessory dwelling unit at 21 Norwalk Avenue.
Adjacent Compo Beach neighborhood property owners David Johnson and Holly Jaffe had objected to the ADU, based on its 26-foot height and location 10 feet from the existing house. (Click here for a previous “06880” story on this issue.)
James Ezzes, ZBA chair, wrote that zoning regulations in effect at the time of the application allow construct of accessory dwelling units as of right; the proposed plans conform to the definite of an ADU and all applicable standards; regulations allow a 350-square foot coverage exemption for lots of 1.5 acres or less; and the zoning enforcement officer does not have discretion in the review of permits.
Neighbors in the area are considering a lawsuit.
The Norwalk Avenue home (top, 2nd from left), showing where the ADU would be situated. (Drone photo/John Videler)
On January 25 (2 p.m.), Westport Library goers get a first look at the Shoah Memorial. The sculpture — coming soon to Fairfield University — seeks to “honor history, while actively stemming the tide of hate.”
The afternoon features a conversation between Dr. Mindy Hersh and her mother, Judy Hersh, a Holocaust survivor, followed by a panel discussion with Shoah Memorial artist Victoria Milstein; Shelly Krieger, the founding educator of the Holocaust Research Center; Holocaust survivor Michell Schell, and Marla Felton of Common Circles.
The Shoah Memorial Fairfield University project began when Paul Burger attended the unveiling of the original She Wouldn’t Take Off Her Boots sculpture Greensboro, North Carolina. Moved by its powerful message, he decided to bring the memorial to his community, to ensure its broader impact.
Fairfield University is already home to the Carl and Dorothy Bennett Center for Judaic Studies, and offers a Judaic Studies program.
Longtime Westport resident Wayne Paull died January 3. He was 79.
Wayne graduated from the University of Connecticut, where he earned a football scholarship. After college, Wayne joined the Army.
With his wife Lee’s support, Wayne chose a career as a movie cameraman. His work took him around the world, covering the PGA, Indy racing, the circus, and interviewing figures such as George H.W. Bush, the Dalai Lama, and countless other world leaders and fascinating figures.
He was predeceased by his wife. He is survived by his son Matthew (Leslie), and grandsons Brittain and Cooper.
A service will be held Monday (January 19, 11 a.m.) at Harding Funeral Home.
Years ago, the Staples High School fieldhouse and adjacent gymnasium were named in honor of Lou Nistico.
Part of the noted Saugatuck family that founded and operated the legendary Arrow restaurant (now both Riko’s Pizza and Lomito’s, at 2 different sites), Lou was an ardent supporter of his alma mater.
He provided financial help — very quietly — to the athletic program, and any student who needed it. He gave many teenagers their first job. He was a big man, with an even bigger heart.
But from the day his name went up above the entrance, no one ever called it “The Nistico Fieldhouse.”
Unfortunately too, the sign bearing his name was in disrepair for at least a couple of decades. Letter were missing. It was embarrassing.
Over the holidays, at least that part of Lou Nistico’s legacy was addressed.
The new sign looks handsome and classy:
(Photo/Dan Woog)
Now, if we could only start calling it by its name …
The reflection of lights, and an exercise machine placed in front, don’t detract from this portrait of Lou Nistico near the fieldhouse.
In the nearly 4 years since Russia’s invasion, Mark Yurkiw has worked to help Ukraine.
The Westport artist — whose parents emigrated to the US from there in 1949, and whose first language was Ukrainian — has raised funds; collected medical equipment, generators, tools, other supplies, clothes and toys, and kept the country’s plight front and center.
His newest project is ambitious. And artistic.
A well-known Taiwanese artist wants to help. He understands that Taiwan may be the next Ukraine.
Chuang Chih Hui, whose work is exhibited around the world, donated his $15,000 “Winged” sculpture to help fund shipping a 40-foot container of medical equipment to Kharkiv, Ukraine.
The sculpture will go to the first person to donate $7,500, to cover the cost the shipment.
“Winged” (center), and Chuang Chih Hui’s other works.
“Winged” is on display through January 15 at the Senior Center. After that date, it can be seen by appointment; text 646-873-0050.
Yurkiw hopes to fund a second container of medical equipment too. For that, he is looking for additional donors, of any amount. “Every $10 saves a life,” Yurkiw says.
There’s an incentive to donate. Chuang Chih Hui has 2 other sculptures — “Symbiosis” and “Cycle” — worth $16,000 and $10,000 respectively. Both are shown above.
Yurkiw says, “If we raise enough with small donations to pay the artist full price, I will raffle off one or both. I’m certain he would donate back at least 1/3 of what we collect.”
To purchase “Winged,” or donate a smaller amount for a second shipping container and the raffle, email mark.think3d@gmail.com.
Posted onJanuary 2, 2026|Comments Off on Roundup: Balducci’s Charlotte, Compo’s Polar Plunge, Club 203’s Party …
As Balducci’s prepares to close, it’s already said goodbye to Charlotte.
Yesterday, some of her many friends also said goodbye.
The longtime, much-loved cashier — now 94 years old, whose tenure goes to back half a century to its Hay Day days — received a surprise retirement gift: over $3,100.
Charlotte (with flowers), and grateful customers. Dan Frank is in the center.
Dan says, “Charlotte and I had a wonderful trip. It was filled with a lot of emotion from friends and especially co-workers, who are sad to see Balducci’s coming to an end.
“Charlotte put a smile on everyone’s faces. It warmed my heart to see how happy everyone was to see her. She is blown away by all the love she’s received from all of you.”
Among their many other activities, the Senior Center offers an intriguing meeting this month.
On January 12, Westport Police Detective Erin Shaw will chat informally about scams, police matters and ID theft, and address members’ questions and concerns.
Meetings are by appointment only. Call 203-341-5099 to reserve a spot.
Detective Erin Shaw
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Club203 is not wasting any time kicking off the new year.
The first social event of Westport’s organization for adults with disabilities is Tuesday (January 6, 6:30 to 8 p.m., Westport Country Playhouse barn).
It’s an interactive experience with Sensei Palardy, including face painting and mask making with friends from MoCA\CT. Calise’s Deli caters, so the food will be great.
If you dine in Saugatuck this Saturday, don’t be surprised if carolers come to your table.
You can even book a reservation, to make sure your evening is merry and bright.
The Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce’s annual Saugatuck Caroling Crawl is set for December 20 (6 to 8 p.m.).
Staples High School’s elite Orphenians will sing a medley of songs, at 14 venues.
They begin at the Boathouse (Saugatuck Rowing Club), before heading to The Bridge, Kawa Ni, The Whelk, Tutti’s and the Black Duck.
Then it’s off to the train station, and Tarantino, Blu Olive and Romanacci. The final destinations are Riko’s Pizza, Zucca Gastrobar, Rizzuto’s, Viva Zapata and Little Pub @Dunville’s.
Joyeux Noël. And bon appétit!
Staples Orphenians: stars of the Saugatuck Caroling Crawl.
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Meanwhile, what will you do after Christmas?
Specifically, how will you get rid of that beautiful (but dried-out) tree — in an environmentally responsible way?
Scout Troops 39 and 139 will do it for you. It’s a win-win-win: convenient and affordable pick-up for residents; free mulch and conservation material for the town — and the only fundraiser of the year for the Scouts.
The event is all day, on January 10. Troops will pick up over 800 trees, in every neighborhood.
The suggested donation of $25 per tree — less than most services — helps fund a full year of Scout meetings, experiences and gear.
At Staples High School, the 1976 graduate was very involved with Players. He then co-founded a theater company in Massachusetts, and produced, directed and acted in an Equity troupe before retiring a year ago.
Mark Shanahan — now the Westport Country Playhouse artistic director — was a good friend of Kopko’s company; he directed, wrote and acted in many productions.
Kopko worked at the Playhouse while growing up. He always dreamed of performing on the legendary stage, but never got the chance.
His daughter is now an actor. She lives in Los Angeles, and over the years has worked with Shanahan.
Kopko was in the audience Sunday — proud of his daughter Alexandra, his friend Mark Shanahan, and the Playhouse where it all began.
Michael and Alexandra Kopko, at her Playhouse dressing room.
But that’s not all.
Kopko’s nostalgic weekend began the night before. He attended a caroling party — an annual tradition for over 40 years — hosted by Staples grads and musicians Brad Peterson (SHS ’75) and his wife Abby Anderson Peterson (’76).
A number of former Players and Orphenians were there — including the Petersons’ children Katie, Sarah and Scott. All are Staples grads too (2000, ’04 and ’12, respectively).
“Old” Orphenians. Brad Peterson is front right; Abby Peterson holds the candle.
Also this past weekend: the first snowfall of the season.
Did you notice how quickly and well the streets were plowed?
Maybe not. But Wendy Kleros and Claudia Coplen — co-chairs of the Westport Commission for Senior Services — did. They write:
“We extend our gratitude and appreciation to the entire Department of Public Works eam for their outstanding work clearing the roads and public parking lots.
“Their diligence and responsiveness make a meaningful difference for our community each and every day, particularly at the Senior Center, where safe and timely access is essential.
“Because of their efforts, older adults, staff, and visitors arrived safely and continued their daily routines without disruption. That kind of reliability brings real peace of mind, and reflects a deep commitment to public service.
“Their behind-the-scenes work often goes unnoticed. But its impact is felt by everyone, especially our senior residents who depend on clear, accessible pathways.
“We thank them for their professionalism, teamwork, and dedication to keeping Westport safe and moving forward, no matter the conditions.”
The next Veterans Benefits Luncheon is Thursday (December 18, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.), VFW Post 399).
It’s open to all veterans as part of an ongoing effort to check in on all veterans’ welfare, and connect them with the benefits and support they earned.
Representatives will answer questions, and provide information on services and assistance available to veterans.
RSVPs are encouraged (but not required). Email vfw399ct@gmail.com, and include the number of attendees, or call (203) 227-6796.
PS: If you’re not a veteran, but know one: Please pass the word!
Also at the VFW (as it is every Thursday): Jazz at the Post.
This week, guitarist Kenny Wessel — for years a key member of Ornette Coleman’s band, and now a Westport favorite and frequent collaborator with saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall — headlines the 2 shows (7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; click here for tickets and more information).
Also sitting in: bassist Boots Maleson and drummer Mike Campenni.
Longtime Westport resident Margery Silk died peacefully on Friday, at home. She turned 101 just 3 days earlier.
A third generation Californian — her great-grandparents founded the railroad and lumber town of Truckee in 1863 — she was valedictorian of her 1941 class at South Pasadena/San Marino High School.
Margery began her studies at Stanford University, then earned an undergraduate degree from UCLA and a master’s in art history from NYU.
She met her future husband — New Zealander and Life magazine photographer George Silk — while skiing at Stowe, Vermont.
Margery traveled the world pursuing her interests in art, architecture, birds and other animals, music and culinary pursuits.
Margery was a member of the Westport Garden Club, Bronx Botanical Gardens, the Bronx Zoo, and local tennis and bridge groups. At Cedar Point Yacht Club she crewed for her husband.
She was also active in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Aspetuck Land Trust (founding member), Friends of Sherwood Island, and Connecticut Audubon Society.
Her family calls Margery “that lady in tennis shoes and tennis skirt who came of age in the 1960s and ’70s, and who championed the ‘good fights’ by writing letters in many directions.” She helped lead the charge to defeat a plan to build a nuclear power plant on Cockenoe Island, in the 1960s.
Margery is survived by her children Stuart Silk, Georgiana Silk, and Shelley Silk
Wehrly and their spouses; grandchildren: Michael and Alexis Silk; Bryan, Kate
and Alexander Liggett, and Stuart Wehrly, Liza Wehrly Andrews and Christopher Wehrly and their spouses, and 12 great-grandchildren.
A decade and a half after it was first proposed, a 2-story office building will be built at 715 Post Road East.
That means the towering log pile on the 1/3-acre site — across Roseville Road from McDonald’s — will finally be gone. The target date for removal is 3 months. The building is expected to open, for medical and other uses, in a year.
The Planning & Zoning Commission approved the office plan — finally — on Monday. The vote was 6-1, with Michael Calise dissenting.
Westport-based national journalists Alisyn Camerota and Dave Briggs have done some great interviews on their “Sanity” podcast. They’ve asked tough questions of figures like Senator Richard Blumenthal and (former Westporter) James Comey.
Their most recent interview may be their deepest and most insightful yet.
Our Congressman — Jim Himes — is the ranking Democrat on the House Intelligence Committee. He’s one of the few people on Capitol Hill (or anywhere) to have seen the full video of the US military’s twin strikes on suspected Venezuelan drug dealers’ boats.
For half an hour, Himes spoke about the video (“it made me nauseous”), Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, the 53% of Americans who approve of killing suspected drug dealers, along with other subjects like his colleague, Marjorie Taylor Greene.
Click here or below for the full, fascinating interview.
The Residence at Westport invites Westport residents — and everyone else – to today’s Holiday Pop-Up Shop (Wednesday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., 1141 Post Road East).
Local artisans will sell handmade works, including jewelry, pottery and gifts.
The Residence at Westport
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Army and Navy may no longer be at the top of the college football heap.
But there’s still plenty of interest, when the military academies meet.
They kick off for the 126th time this Saturday (3 p.m.). And what better place to watch than VFW Post 399?
There’s a party there (465 Riverside Avenue), beginning at 2 p.m.
Everyone is invited. But if you’re a veteran (or active duty): Wear something that lets everyone know which team is yours.
Roni Goldberg — the new executive director of A Better Chance of Westport — spoke to the Westport Rotary Club on Tuesday.
Since 2002, the organization has provided outstanding and academically-gifted young men of color a home, and other support services, while they attend Staples High School.
The community has gotten behind the local chapter of the national ABC program — and the dozens of teenage scholars have given back plenty to our town.
Roni Goldberg, ABC executive director, at the Westport Rotary Club. (Hat tip and photo/Dave Matlow)
Westport Police made 2 custodial arrests between December 3 and 9.
A 69-year-old Bridgeport man was charged with criminal mischief and intimidation based on bigotry, after an investigation into vandalism at the former Westport National Bank building. A large symbol, described as a Star of David combined with a swastika, was drawn in blue paint. Identical symbols were painted on other structures in the area. He was unable to post a $75,000 bond.
A 30-year-old Westport woman was charged with risk of injury to a minor, after signs of injury were observed by school staff on a juvenile student. She was released on a $50,000 bond.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Texting while driving: 5 citations
Traveling unreasonably fast: 4
Failure to renew registration: 3
Speeding in a school zone: 2
Distracted driving: 2
Assault: 1
Breach of peace: 1
Speeding in a school zone (2nd offense): 1
Speeding: 1
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 1
Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 1
Failure to obey stop sign: 1
Improper turns: 1
Failure to obey state traffic control signals: 1
Failure to obey state traffic commission regulations: 1
And finally … on this date in 1913, the Mona Lisa was recovered in Florence, Italy. Leonardo da Vinci’s famed painting had been stolen more than 2 yeares earlier, from the Louvre.
(“06880” is where Westport meets the world — from Jim Himes to the Mona Lisa. If you enjoy these daily Roundups — or any other feature of our blog — please click here to support our work. Thanks!)
Westporters of all ages celebrated the season Friday, at Wakeman Town Farm’s annual holiday tree lighting.
The event included Staples High School’s jazz duo, On the Count of Two; musicians from Greens Farms and Saugatuck Elementary Schools; Staples band members, and goodies from The Granola Bar and Sweet P Bakery.
The main attraction saw 1st Selectman Kevin Christie and Bill Constantino — a Wakeman family member — keep a generations-old tradition alive.
Many attendees donated diapers, toys and food, for neighbors in need.
And finally … Harry Chapin was born on this date, in 1942. The singer-songwriter/philanthropist and hunger activist died in an automobile accident on the Long Island Expressway. He was 38.
(Harry kept the change. If you’ve got any spare change hanging around, we’re happy to have it too. Just click here, and you’ll support “06880” — your hyper-local blog. Thank you!)
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