As expected, last week’s Photo Challenge was tough.
Wendy Crowther’s image of a weather-beaten barn could have been a number of places around town. (Click here to see.)
But it can be seen on a walking path at a place some Westporters visit regularly, and others have never been to: Sherwood Island State Park.
Werner Liepolt explains: “It is an equipment barn on the shore of Sherwood Mill Pond, across the little road from the trailer park set for a Donald Sutherland movie based on a Stephen King short story filmed a couple of years ago.
“I know this portion of the barn because when dogs are allowed into Sherwood Island, Pip walks me by this barn every third walk. (He has 3 chosen routes. Go figure.)
“This is believed to have originated as the stable barn of the Sherwood family farm or estate; a nearby stone building reportedly served as the carriage barn.
“The Sherwoods settled on what was then called Fox Island in 1787. They operated a substantial 19th-century coastal farm, growing onions and potatoes for shipment to New York and running the gristmill at Sherwood Mill Pond. The barn is therefore an important surviving link between Sherwood Island’s agricultural past and its later public use.
“After the state made its first small purchase there in 1914 — the beginning of Connecticut’s state park system — it took a contentious 23-year struggle to secure sufficient land and public access in 1937.
“The old farm buildings were subsequently adapted for park maintenance, equipment storage and staff use. A former employee recalled working around the white barn in the 1960s and ’70s, and even living in it one summer.
“Unfortunately, Connecticut’s Department of Energy and Environmental Protection has classified the barn as structurally deficient and unusable for park operations. Its current restoration program lists demolition of the barn as ‘completed,’ and calls for construction of a new, simple metal vehicle-and-equipment storage building, originally estimated at $400,000.
“If the building in this recent photograph remains standing, DEEP’s notation may be premature, or this may be a surviving section of the larger historic service complex.”
Besides Werner, Jeanine Esposito and Joyce Evans correctly identified last week’s Photo Challenge.
This week’s is below. If you know where in Westport you’d see this, click “Comments” below.
(Photo/Nancy Breakstone)
(Every Sunday, “06880” hosts this Photo Challenge. We challenge you too to support your hyper-local blog. Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)
This year’s official Connecticut 9/11 ceremony — held annually at Sherwood Island State Park’s memorial to the victims of that horrific day — is Wednesday, September 9. It starts at 5:30 p.m.
“06880” reported an incorrect date earlier. The event is held every year prior to September 11, to give families and friends a chance to attend the ceremony at Ground Zero on that date.
The 9/11 Living Memorial at Sherwood Island State Park.
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The Downtown Plan Implementation Committee continues its hiatus.
The September meeting has been canceled, for the 9th consecutive month. The DPIC last met on December 11, 2025.
In January, 1st Selectman Kevin Christie removed Randy Herbertson as chair. A replacement has not been named.
In early July, Christie told “06880,” “we’re aware of the issue and are looking into it.”
Part of the DPIC Master Plan, when it was live on the town website.
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Just 4 days remain before “A Day in the Life of Westport.”
This Sunday (September 6), every Westporter can help create a unique portrait of the town. We’ll do it by taking a photograph that captures one real moment from our day.
Whether it’s a sunrise at Compo Beach, breakfast with family, volunteering at a community event, walking the dog, cheering from the sidelines or enjoying a quiet moment at home, every image will become part of a collective portrait of our town.
“A Day in the Life of Westport” is a collaboration between the Artists Collective of Westport, the League of Women Voters Westport, the David T. Langrock Foundation, and “06880.”
Inspired by the classic Life magazine photo essays documenting “A Day in the Life of America,” the project invites residents of every age to photograph one moment on Sunday, then submit it online with a brief caption describing what the image means to them.
Each participant may submit up to 3 shots, each accompanied by a brief caption describing the moment. For more information and submission details, click here or email Westportphoto2026@gmail.com.
Prospect Gardens — the spectacular 9-acre arboretum-style Greens Farms space featuring flowers, plants — is open to public twice a year. The next date is Saturday, September 19 (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.). The Staples high School Jazz Ensemble plays at 10:30 a.m.
New this season: “en plein air” artists, sitting in the gardens with paints and easels.
Among other treats, visitors can enjoy tall yellow helenium sunflowers, white Queen Anne’s lace, purple asters and evergreens; the very full vegetable garden; apples, quince and grapes in the orchards; water lilies and lotus ponds in the frog ponds.
Like any good town gathering place, Jesup Green hosts a variety of events. Some are political. Some are social.
On September 19, it’s cultural. The Japan Society of Fairfield County sponsors its annual Aki Matsuri fall festival (1 to 4 p.m.; marketplace opens at 12:30).
The family-friendly fest features taiko drum performances, a Japanese folktale dramatization, martial arts, ikebana flower arranging, calligraphy, J-pop dance, traditional Obon dancing, and Japanese-related activities.
New this year: group calligraphy, and a food truck selling matcha, other specialty teas and baked goods.
Speaking of Jesup Green: Since it opened 5 years ago, the Westport Book Shop across the road has featured artists of the month. They exhibit their work, and greet fans at a reception.
This month’s guest artist won’t do that.
George Hand Wright has been dead for 75 years.
But he’s perhaps the most famous Westport Book Shop artist ever. The longtime Westport resident was acclaimed nationally during his life (1872-1951).
Wright was a painter, illustrator and printmaker, and one of the early founders of Westport’s artistic community. His work appeared regularly in Scribner’s, Harper’s, Collier’s and The Saturday Evening Post. The Library of Congress holds over 100 of his illustrations.
The selected work is on loan from Ed Gerber. The Wright expert lives in (and has preserved) the artist’s former Westport home, on Cross Highway. It is now on the National Register of Historic Places. Wright’s nephew Frank Boylan was Gerber’s godfather.
A reception for Gerber, and Wright’s exhibit, is set for September 16 (6 p.m.). Copies of “George Hand Wright: An Artist’s Life Examined” — written by Kirsten M. Jensen, and underwritten by Gerber – will be available for putchase.
Ed Gerber, at the Westport Book Shop’s George Hand Wright exhibit.
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Westporters are an active bunch. Which means our bodies sometimes break down.
Westport Regenerative Orthopedics & Longevity is a new care facility in Westport.
Drs. Michael Cantor and Ilana Etelzon offer non-surgical options and advanced recovery technology for joint, tendon, muscle, back, neck and sciatic pain; sports and overuse injuries, and chronic and lingering issues.
Treatments include Regenexx procedures, PRP injections, bone marrow concentrate, MLS laser therapy, TenJet tendonitis treatment, hormones and peptide therapy, and IV vitamin drips.
Positive Directions — The Center for Prevention and Counseling — has a new executive director.
Kim DiBella-Farber, who has spent over 20 years leading nonprofit organizations in Connecticut and nationally, returns to the state where she began her career.
For 55 years, Positive Directions has offered mental health, substance prevention and peer support services. For more information, click here.
Kim DiBella-Farber
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Long Island Sound sparkles, in today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo.
And — thanks to the Mobi-mat — people with mobility issues can make it all the way down the sand, to the shore.
And finally … speaking of the Prospect Gardens open house (story above):
(Mamas, papas, grandparents, children, people without kids — everyone! If you’re reading this, you’re part of our “06880” community. We welcome your support; please click here. Thanks!)
Amy Shapiro’s 3 young sons are athletes: basketball football, soccer and lacrosse.
While coaches focused on skill and technique, they seldom gave advice on moving well, recovering properly and caring for their bodies.
Tight muscles, limited mobility, nagging aches and minor injuries were the norm for her sons, and their teammates.
Amy encouraged her kids to stretch. But like many young athletes, they did not always listen.
Amy — who has always exercised, and tried to get her boys to join her when she stretched did yoga and foam rolled (they were bored) — had an idea. What if young athletes stretched, and cross trained, as a team?
“The LAB” was born.
Rather than emphasizing sport-specific skills, its comprehensive approach combines performance training, mobility, recovery and mindset development.
Specifically, the “Grind LAB” focuses on speed and agility, footwork and coordination, explosive power, and athletic movement patterns.
The “Mind LAB” combines movement, mobility, stretching, mindfulness, breathwork and recovery techniques. Participants improve flexibility, reduce injury risk, manage stress, and develop mental toughness.
The LAB offers program for 1st grade through high school. Offerings include private training, small group sessions, weekly classes, specialty clinics and seasonal programs.
Classes start at $35. They’re held throughout Westport, including at Forme Barre next to Party Harty, Compo Beach, and private homes and yards.
Instructors include a former Staples High School football captain and pro player, and a woman who has taught over 5,000 hours of movement and mindfulness to children and families.
For more information, email TheLABSportsCT@gmail.com. The Instagram is @TheLabSportsCT.
13-year-old basketball players work on flexibility with a LAB coach.
Speaking of students: Our “06880 Students Speak” feature is gearing up for another school year.
Any youngster in a Westport school, public or private; any Westport student who goes to school outside town, and anyone who is home-schooled is welcome to contribute.
We’re looking for insights into any aspect of your life. Is your school a place of excitement or joy? Or do you hate it? Fear it?
Do you use AI to learn, or about yourself, or because you’re lonely, or to cheat?
Have you overcome body image issues? Were you bullied — or unfairly called a bully?
The goal of “Students Speak” is to give young people a voice. Our readers want to know what and how you feel. You deserve to be heard.
Posts can be anonymous, if desired. What’s important are your insights, your honesty, and the power of your words.
Unsure about your writing skills? We’ll work with you, to make sure it sounds right — while at the same time keeping your voice authentic and true.
To submit a “Students Speak” piece — or to learn more — email 06880blog@gmail.com.
The low-key — but very fun and welcoming — organization has been around since 1963.
It’s a place to socialize, make new friends, discover local treasures, and become more involved in the community. Events include casual gatherings, coffee meetups, book and cooking groups, special events and more.
Neighbors & Newcomers is open to recent arrives, longtime residents and everyone in between.
A $65 annual membership includes invitations to activities, access to the membership directory, a monthly newsletter, entry to the December holiday party and June beach party, and the fun of being connected to town. Click here for more information, and to join.
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All year long, the Westport Farmers’ Market has celebrated its 20th anniversary.
CTbites — Connecticut’s go-to food blog — took note this week. They posted a special video, with insights from a variety of vendors (and longtime director Lori Cochran-Dougall).
Spoiler alert: nearly every interviewee praised the market’s “community spirit.” (And not just customers — many vendors buy from each other, and even hang out together.)
The Farmers’ Market runs every Thursday (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.) through mid-November, at the Imperial Avenue parking lot.
Former resident Joseph Zambelli died July 28. He was 91.
The Iona College graduate served in the Navy from 1952 to 1954. He worked at General Foods for 37 years as a financial analyst, financial planning manager, controller, and consultant. He and his family lived in Westport for 27 years.
An expert in efficiency and cost strategy, Joe analyzed potential acquisitions and streamlined business operations across the US, Europe, South America and Asia. He also mentored scores of colleagues.
Joe loved sailing on Long Island Sound and playing golf at Longshore and in Florida, along with big band swing. He was a member of the Florida State Elks Association, and played in the Stonegate Golf Club men’s league.
Joe is survived by his wife of 63 years, Barbara Zambelli of Poinciana, Florida; children Bara of Asheville, North Carolina, Jean of Westport, Jay Zambelli (Caryn) of Portland, Oregon, and Carolyn of Darien; grandchildren Emma and Tasha Taggart; Isabel and Georgia Nichoson; Katherine, Thomas and Joseph Cavolo, and Freddy Zambelli; siblings Dolly Orza of Briarcliff Manor, New York, and Alfred Zambelli, of Harrison, New York, and many nieces and nephews. Joe was predeceased by his brother Andrew Zambelli, and sisters Mary Riggio, Rose Goldsmith and Jane Lieto.
A celebration of Joe’s life will be held at a later date.
Joe Zambelli
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Every sunrise is special.
But yesterday’s was extra-special.
Matt Murray captured its glory. It’s perfect for our “Westport … Naturally” feature of the day.
But other areas of Connecticut’s first state park are getting attention.
Yesterday, a large excavator dug up a huge pile of dirt, and loaded it into dump trucks. That’s in addition to work on the approach to the main gates, and new wooden guardrails on the posts installed this summer, and plenty of weed whacking and mowing.
Besides what’s left of the former mountain of dirt off the West Beach’s newly paved parking lot, there are just a few things left to finish (like striping the perimeter of the East Beach parking lot).
Work seems to have ramped up in preparation of Governor Lamont’s visit on September 10, for Connecticut’s annual 9/11 memorial ceremony. It’s held the Thursday before the tragic anniversary, to allow families and friends to attend the event in New York City on that date.
The state park is also the starting point for this Sunday’s CT United motorcycle rally, a tribute to the victims and first responders of 9/11.
The 9/11 memorial at Sherwood Island State Park.
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Westport Eyecare offers this timely back-to-school information: 1 in 4 children have a vision issue big enough to affect how they learn.
And a basic screening catches less than 4% of what a comprehensive exam checks.
A couple of examples:
A Weston 8-year-old who “couldn’t stay focused”: A mother brought her son along to her own eye appointment. On a whim, the staff ran a 2-minute test on his 3D/stereo vision. He failed it. One eye was significantly farsighted. Without intervention, that would have led to a lazy eye. He was already falling behind in reading, and a vision screening would not have picked that up.
A Staples High School junior was frustrated studying for SATs. He kept losing focus during the reading sections. Everyone thought it was typical teenage fatigue. He actually had convergence insufficiency — his eyes were not working together to hold his focus for long-term reading. A pair of glasses with a small amount of prism fixed the issue entirely.
Neither of these students or parents realized there was a vision problem. Issues like tracking, focusing and eye-teaming are easily mistaken for attention struggles, lack of effort, or a child who just “doesn’t like to read.”
The start of school is a great time to check on a student’s vision. A comprehensive exam looks far beyond screenings to evaluate eye tracking, teamwork, focusing power, eye pressure and overall eye health.
Also at Compo Beach yesterday, a few hours later: David Squires showed off Compo, to an out-of-town guest.
It was a gorgeous evening — including a vintage VW bus near the bout launch, complete with awning and lights.
(Photo/David Squires)
Then, the Squireses and their friend headed to Longshore.
They toured the total makeover, and were very impressed. The “stunning results” included the entry into the ballroom.
The stage has been relocated to the side. The result: a spectacular view, all the way to the water. “Truly an all-pro move,” David says. “The large deck in back is money too. Bravo!”
Finally, David notes, “the La Plage meal was terrific. The joint was jumpin’.
“We are sooo lucky to live where we live. It never gets old!”
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The Artists Collective of Westport’s next show debuts September 9, with a reception (6 to 8 p.m.) at the Westport Country Playhouse barn.
The show runs from September 10-13 (12 to 4 p.m.), with an artist talk at 2 p.m. on the 13th.
Among the 12 artists: Jeanine Esposito.
The longtime Westporter will show a new series: “The Nest Project.” All 11 works were created with natural nests, found in the wild. Each was a gift to Jeanine, by others.
The work explores states, transitions and chapters of life, and invites interaction from viewers.
With another show coming up, Jeanine is looking for more abandoned nests. They can be brought to the opening reception or artist talk. Or email contact@beechwoodarts.org, and she’ll pick it up.
Last night’s Levitt Pavilion concert starring Billy & the Showmen was sold out.
In more ways than one.
(Photo/Judith Katz)
This week’s schedule includes Mihali (full band show, with Mr. Mota; Friday, 4:30 p.m.), an Hollywood Nights: The Bob Seger Experience (Saturday, 7 p.m.).
is there a statewide competition to see which bureaucracy can spend the longest time on a project?
The Connecticut Department of Transportation took the lead, with its Post Road renovation.
But the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection is not sitting back. (Well, actually, they are.)
The popular Sherwood Island State Park pavilion has been closed since January 16 for “assessments for repairs.”
The other day, the Y’s Men of Westport & Weston — which is one of many groups that uses the pavilion — asked for an update.
Parks supervisor Caitlin Munson told Allan Siegert: “We unfortunately do not have any estimated timeframe for the repairs to the pavilion as the project is in the planning phase with the Engineering division, however, it is my best guess that it will remain closed for the remainder of 2026 and the majority, if not all of 2027.
“At this time, I don’t have any details to give, but you’re welcome to check back periodically to see if there are any updates. However- I would say for now while you plan for your events next year, it is safe to assume that the pavilion will remain closed next year.”
Ruben — the popular, ever-helpful Westport Post Office clerk — has seen a steady stream of customers requesting passports.
They’ve filled out forms online. But because they googled “Passport application,” and clicked on a “service,” they paid an additional fee that they did not need to.
Ruben urges “06880” readers to avoid the excess fee. The least expensive way to get a passport is through the official State Department website: https://travel.state.gov/en/passports.html.
You can also get passport forms at the Westport Library.
Remember: A “service” that you find online is anything but. Go to the official State Department page website!
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Frank Mastrone is always a Levitt Pavilion favorite.
His 10th annual appearance last night was extra special. The Connecticut-born Broadway star brought 2 friends: Westporters Dodie Pettit and Rex Fowler.
Dodie met Mastrone when both were in “Phantom of the Opera.” Rex — Dodie’s husband — is the co-founder of Aztec Two-Step. The duo now perform as Aztec Two-Step 2.0.
From “Send in the Clowns” and “Bring Him Home” to “Like a Rolling Stone” and “The Boxer,” it was a great evening.
And the rain held off until 10 minutes after the show ended.
Rex Fowler, Frank Mastrone and Dodie Pettit. (Photo/Dan Woog)
Just hours after she was born 9 weeks early, in June of 2022, Shea Greenfield’s heart stopped beating.
Doctors saved her life. But she was diagnosed with Long QT Syndrome. Her heart’s electrical system takes longer than usual to recharge between beats. She is at risk of fainting, seizures, cardiac arrest and sudden death.
There is no cure for the condition. And Shea’s condition is one of the most severe her doctors have ever seen.
Shea’s parents, Mark and Kira, had moved to Westport a year earlier. In addition to educating themselves about LQTS, they began raising funds for the Mayo Clinic, where Dr. Michael Ackerman’s team does cutting-edge research.
In 2023, the Greenfields organized a fundraiser. Others followed. Since then, they’ve raised over $1.4 million.
The next event — “Shank It & Serve It” is September 14, at Birchwood Country Club. The day includes an 18-hole morning golf scramble, 9-hole afternoon scramble, ladies’ point-play tennis tournament and canasta tournament — all capped by a cocktail reception (and pop-up market).
The Parks & Recreation Department’s “Kickoff to Summer” — postponed from last month by rain — is back on the calendar.
The event is this Saturday (June 13, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.). The family fun day includes food trucks, touch-a-truck, bounce houses, climbing walls, face painting, raffle prizes and more.
Parks & Rec officials will be on hand, with information about many programs and services.
In addition, the new mural — hung recently on the side wall of The Sandbar concession stand — will be unveiled (10 a.m.). Staples student Luke Bernier is the artist; the Westport Arts Advisory Committee and Artists Collective of Westport helped make it happen.
Attendees must have a beach sticker to park. Walk-ins are welcome! And of course: no dogs.
Fun at last year’s Kickoff to Summer. (Photo/Katherine Phelps)
Yesterday was quite successful, for 2 Staples High School sports teams.
Bruce Schlegelmilch’s grand slam keyed a 13-2 victory over Norwalk, in the baseball state tournament quarterfinal.
Coach Jack McFarland’s Wreckers, now 17-7, move on to the state semifinals. They’ll face Fairfield Ludlowe on Tuesday, at a site and time to be determined.
The boys lacrosse team downed Wilton 10-6, in their state tourney quarterfinal.
That vaults coach Will Koshansky’s squad into their 4th state semifinal in 5 years. Seeded 5th, they meet #1 seed New Canaan on Tuesday, at a site and time to be announced.
Both teams are 17-4. Although the Rams are ranked first, Staples has defeated them 3 times this year. The most recent win came in a nail-biting FCIAC final.
Lachat Farm’s first Farmers Market is Friday, June 26 (4 to 8 p.m.).
The Weston spot offers a wide array of local vendors — and live music, with the Snake Skin Boots Band.
Many guests buy dinner from the tents and food trucks, plus beverages from the Barn Bar.
New vendors this year include Agape Premium (olive oils), Anchored Homestead (small batch seasonings) and Celtic Cottage (organic breads, scones and treats).
Redding Knives returns too — for sharpening during shopping.
Here is the full list of vendors:
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Craig Ferguson is nearly at the end of his Tartan Trek.
The Scotsman is walking over 3,200 miles across the US. He started in Los Angeles.
Over 100 days later, he’ll finish in Boston — just in time for Scotland’s opening World Cup match. (Next Saturday, June 13, vs. Haiti. It’s actually in Foxboro, 29 miles away. That’s okay — there are buses and trains.)
Fellow Scot David Lyons — now a Westport resident — has been following online. But he did not know that Ferguson’s route would take him through Westport.
Or that they’d meet.
But Lyons was drinking beer with a friend at Little Barn around 5 p.m. Friday, when the intrepid walker walked past.
Lyons rushed out. They chatted. And he made a donation. (The trek is a fundraiser (and awareness-raiser) for Scottish Action for Mental Health.
“Tartan Trekker” Craig Ferguson (right, obviously) and David Lyons.
Ferguson had walked 25 miles that day, with another 9 to go. The day before, he’d met the “real” Craig Ferguson (former “Late Late Show” host) in Central Park.
Another international-comes-to-Westport story: New York Times Pulitzer Prize-winning photographer (and 1988 Staples High School graduate) Tyler Hicks took a break from documenting the Ukraine war Thursday night.
He was at the Westport Library, for the opening reception of the Artists Collective of Westport’s summer exhibits, “American Journeys” and “Piece by Pieces.” His sister Darcy Hicks is a Collective member.
He posed (below) with artist Mark Yurkiw. The Westporter has been very active in Ukraine relief efforts.
Photo Mark Yurkiw and Tyler Hicks, NYT photogarapher, taking a break from documenting the Ukraine war To attend a Art fundraiser at Westport Library last night.
PS- There is a musical fundraiser for Ridgefield Responds & UAI this Sunday in Easton
Tyler Hicks (left) and Mark Yurkiw.
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Just in time for the 90-degree weekend, the crane involved in the Ned Dimes renovation project is gone. Much of the work has been completed.
Several readers asked “06880” what happened to the osprey nest, which the raptors built at the top of the crane.
We’re not sure. So we asked ChatGPT. It replied that ospreys are protected under the Migratory Bird Species Act.
“An active osprey nest (with eggs or chicks, or sometimes a nesting pair actively using it) is generally protected under federal law. Construction companies often must coordinate with wildlife agencies before moving a crane, removing a nest, or continuing activities that could cause nest failure.
“However, cranes create a common and well-recognized conflict with osprey nesting. In many cases, project owners work with agencies such as the US” Fish and Wildlife Service or state wildlife authorities to:
Delay certain activities until nesting is complete.
Obtain permits where available.
Install alternative nesting platforms nearby.
Remove nests before the breeding season begins, when allowed.
“For Connecticut specifically, the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection may also be involved because state protections can apply in addition to federal law.
“The key facts would be:
Was the nest occupied by osprey at the time?
Were there eggs or chicks?
Was the nest removed, or was construction simply taking place nearby?
Did the construction company have approval or guidance from wildlife authorities?”
Retaining wall work, on Compo Beach Road. (Photo/Totney Benson)
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The temperature was near 90 yesterday.
But it’s still early June. The water has not yet warmed up.
So while there was a good crowd at Sherwood Island State Park yesterday, only a few brave souls went into the water.
And those who did, did not venture far.
Here’s the view from Burying Hill Beach:
(Photo/Ed Simek)
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Exactly 100 years ago yesterday, Agatha Christie published what the British Crime Writers’ Association called the greatest crime novel ever written: “The Murder of Roger Ackroyd.”
To celebrate — and promote their upcoming production of the show by the same name — the Westport Country Playhouse has a special anniversary offer.
From now through Friday (June 12), anyone making a $100 donation to the Playhouse will get a free ticket to the play. (Limit 10 tickets per household.)
Westport’s 2 candidates running for statewide office — John Bolton (attorney general) and Jen Tooker (comptroller) joined fellow Republican Ryan Fazio (governor) in Stratford today.
The campaign season has begun. Bolton and Tooker are stumping — sometimes separately, sometimes together — around the state. (Hat tip: Sal Liccione)
From left in Stratford: John Bolton, Ryan Fazio, Troy Gargiulo (state representative candidate), Jen Tooker.
Two milling and paving projects begin soon. All work will be done from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m.
Milling of a mile of Post Road East, between South Compo Road and the Sherwood Island Connector, is scheduled to begin the night of May 10, and end the morning of May 13.
Paving is slated to start the night of May 17, and end the morning of May 22.
Milling of 1.34 miles of Route 57, between Main Street and the Weston town line, is scheduled to begin the night of May 26, and end the morning of May 29.
Paving is slated to start the night of May 31, and end the morning of June 4.
Inclement weather could affect dates and times of the work.
Post Road East milling and paving work will be done at night. But until it’s finished, the road is likely to be bumpy all day.
Click here to learn how he takes inspiration from New York’s club scene, creates his signature guitar style, and writes his iconic songs.
Screen shot from Nile Rodgers’ New York Times video.
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A long-time Westporter reports: “Since early April, I’ve watched a major infrastructure project underway at my favorite place, Sherwood Island State Park.
“I’m certain the state would describe it as a betterment, but it has a huge impact on people using the parking in the interim.
“It’s now one month since work began. They’ll be lucky to finish in time for Memorial Day weekend.
“I don’t want to sound like an alarmist — the pavement was in poor shape and could use repaving — and I suppose installing new drains and catch basins improves rain water disbursement.
“But I am concerned that the end product may be a drastic change — too ‘modern’ and ‘citified.’ You should take a look.
MoCA\CT’s current exhibit — “Art, Jazz + the Blues” — continues its popular run through June 7.
But the Newtown Turnpike arts center is already looking ahead.
“Looking for History” — 3 solo presentations that examine how personal, local and national histories are pictured, preserved and contested — opens June 25.
As the US marks its 250th anniversary, the exhibitions invite visitors into conversations about the narratives and forces that have shaped the nation.
Rick Shaefer’s “Colossi” anchors the full season. Ellen Harvey’s “The Disappointed Tourist” is featured June 25 to August 2, followed by Michael Borders’ “Connecticut Industry” (August 13 through November 15).
As with all MoCA\CT exhibits, related programming will enhance the experience. The opening reception is 6 p.m. on June 25. Click here for much more information.
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Speaking of MoCA\CT: Executive director Robin Jaffee Frank was the guest speaker at yesterday’s Sunrise Rotary Club meeting.
She gave an informative, colorful presentation on all that’s happening at the contemporary arts (and much more) museum.
Robin Jaffee Frank, at the Sunrise Rotary Club.
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Congratulations to Fire Marshal Terrence Dunn!
Governor Lamont has appointed him to serve on the Connecticut Commission on Fire Prevention and Control.
Members help shape statewide fire service policy, training standards, and fire prevention initiatives.
Dandelion — the Delamar Westport’s restaurant — has become one of the town’s hottest spots since opening last fall.
Now, the patio will add to the buzz.
The first community event there was Wednesday. The Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce sponsored an education and networking event, on the impact of AI on search for small and medium businesses.
ThoughtPartnr — the Westport company that helps local businesses find AI solutions — offered demonstrations to nearly 80 attendees. They represented a variety of firms, from beauty salons and architecture to non-profits.
Jay Norris (with microphone) and “06880”‘s Dan Woog discuss AI for local businesses. Norris’ ThoughtPartnr developed a widget for the hyper-local blog.
Speaking of the Chamber of Commerce: They’re proud to announce that 4 Westporters have been honored by Westfair Business Journal, at their 26th annual “40 Under 40” event.
Cited as outstanding entrepreneurs under the age of 40 were Luke Andriuk, director of investments at Saugatuck Financial; Bianca Bazante, owner and creative director of The Artist Loft; Paul Lutsky, commercial lender at Fairfield County Bank, and Lindsay Tanne Howe, founder and CEO of LogicPrep.
From left: 40 Under 40 entrepreneurs Luke Andriuk, Bianca Bazante, Paul Lutsky, Lindsay Tanne Howe, and Matthew Mandell, Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce director.
And finally … to get you in the mood for today’s Kentucky Derby:
(Who will win the Run for the Roses? We have no idea. But here’s a sure bet: Please click here to support “06880.” It’s where Westport meets the world — including Kentucky. Thank you!)
As Earth Day (April 22) nears, Sustainable Westport asks: “Can you imagine what our planet could look like if we got it right?”
They answer their own question: “Less congestion and cleaner air, with communities that are more interconnected because towns are walkable and bikeable. Shorelines and waterways that are free from discarded plastic and waste. Native trees and plants supporting pollinators and clean water supporting vibrant ecosystems for generations to come.
“It’s a hopeful vision, and one that feels entirely possible when communities come together starting first with small, meaningful changes.
“At the heart of this vision is a simple, powerful truth: We are all guardians of this planet. This stewardship isn’t reserved for scientists or policymakers; it is a responsibility carried by every one of us. Each person in our community holds a vital piece of the puzzle, and the picture of a sustainable Westport is only possible when all of us are present and engaged.
During Earth Month, Sustainable Westport is re-emphasizing their commitment to reducing single-use plastic. They ask residents to watch an important video (click here) — and then participate and lead, by sharing the message, encouraging neighbors, and turning individual efforts into a community movement.
Also upcoming: a screening of “Plastic People: The Hidden Crisis of Microplastics.”
The documentary explores the alarming spread of microplastics throughout our planet — and our bodies.
The event — following a sold-out showing at SXSW — is Thursday (April 9, 6:30 p.m., Greens Farms Academy). A panel discussion follows the screening.
The Board of Finance’s next “office hours” — open times at which residents can chat with a member about questions or concerns — are Thursday, April 16.
There are 2 sessions — 10 to 11 a.m., and 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. — at the Westport Library’s Room 213.
The events have proved popular, with a broad range of Westporters asking an equally broad range of questions.
Speaking to 175 Y’s Men of Westport and Weston at Saugatuck Congregational Church on Thursday, Dr. Kenneth Pollack said that the war with Iran has become a grinding war of attrition with no easy exit for the United States.
A former CIA analyst and National Security Council official, Pollack is now vice president for policy at the Middle East Institute. He warned that forced regime change in Tehran is a dangerous gamble, and said Washington has “run out of good options,” leaving only bad choices as it struggles to end the conflict, reopen vital oil shipping lanes, and find a strategy President Trump can use to ease domestic economic pain while pressuring Iran’s hard‑line leadership to back down.
Looking ahead, Pollack said much of the world’s economic fate now hinges on whether the U.S. is willing to do the politically difficult work needed to pry open the Strait of Hormuz and blunt Iran’s regional influence. That could mean inserting limited ground forces to secure shipping lanes and potentially striking at Iranian allies such as Hezbollah, steps he called militarily feasible but politically fraught.
Until then, he warned, shortages of oil, liquefied natural gas and critical materials like fertilizers and helium will deepen, increasing the risk of a global recession and leaving Iran’s hard‑liners in position to keep exploiting their “chokehold” on the world economy.
Y’s Men member Peter Pollack (left) introduces his son, Dr. Kenneth M. Pollack. (Photo/Ted Horowitz)
Karen Schlansky — an abstract painter working in acrylic, oil, pastel and mixed media — is this month’s guest exhibitor. The local artist is displaying paintings from her recent “Books” series.
A reception is set for April 23 (6 p.m.). All work is available for purchase.
Karen Schlansky, with her work.
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Speaking of art: As the nation’s 250th birthday nears, the Weston Commission for the Arts seeks submissions that explore America’s past, present and future.
The “Weston Celebrates America 250” exhibit (July 3 to 31) will complement July 4th activities like a patriotic tailgating contest, bell ringing ceremony, old- fashioned family sports/field day and picnic, and fireworks.
Also planned during the month-long exhibit: art classes for children and adults, and a meet the artists reception July. Click here for details.
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This Thursday (April 9, 7 p.m.), MoCA\CT celebrates National Poetry Month bt transforming its galleries into a performance space.
Norwalk-based spoken word artist Sahmra Sawyer (Supreme Divinity) will perform original poetry inspired by “Art, Jazz + the Blues” — the museum’s current exhibit — while live jazz plays in the background.
As the performance unfolds, Bridgeport artist Lauren Clayton will create a large-scale painting — translating spoken word and sound into a visual work in real time.
29 Markle CT will provide an “elevated take on soul food.”
A wayward son moves home to care for his mother, and discovers chaos he never knew he needed.
That’s the premise behind “Sorry for Laughing.” The new solo play by Evan Zes, about caring for his mother during COVID, is part of the Westport Country Playhouse’s New Works Initiative. celebrating new works and new playwrights.
Westport’s first “pickleball ambassador,” Tom Lowrie, sent this along, with Easter and Passover greetings from himself and his successor, current ambassador Brandon Osterhout.
We don’t know who’s who in the photo, but it doesn’t matter. Enjoy the weekend!
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