NOTE: Registration for new voters is now only in person, at Town Hall.
Democracy in action. (Photo/Jo Shields)
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Although Sephora will replace Brooks Brothers at the “Elm & Main” shopping plaza downtown, the men’s clothiers is not leaving Westport.
The move will not come until late 2027 or early 2028, when Brooks Brothers’ lease expires. That gives them plenty of time to find a new location.
And, they assure customers, it will be somewhere in Westport.
FUN FACT: “Elm & Main” is the new (not very popular) name for what used to be called Brooks Corner, on Main Street at (duh) Elm.
But the name did not come from the store. It was developed — decades earlier — by the Brooks family. The commercial real estate company also owned the Westport News, whose offices took up much of the building.
(Photo/Sutton Bulkeley for Inklings)
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Over the last 2 weekends — one rainy, one gorgeous — Representative Town Meeting (RTM) members volunteered for annual tulip planting.
This year, member Andrew Colabella donated 1,500 bulbs, to jump start fundraising for the Sons of the American Legion.
The multi-colored tulips come directly from the Netherlands.
This year they were planted along the entrance to Compo Beach, and at Grace Salmon Park (suggested by RTMer Nancy Kail).
That makes over 5,000 total tulip bulbs, thanks to the RTM.
Colabella thanks Colorblends in Bridgeport for their amazing inventory, Westport’s Parks & Recreation Department maintanance division for grass seed, SCA-Crowley for topsoil, and Sons of the American Legion treasurer Mark Shornick for handling funds.
The SAL is still accepting donations. Cash or checks can be dropped off or mailed to: VFW Post 399, 465 Riverside Avenue, Westport, CT 06880.
After graduating from Staples High School in 2010, Raechel Alaimo worked at the Black Duck for 10 years.
She worked at a boutique salon too in Stamford, to put herself through hairdressing school.
She worked at a variety of salons, received advanced training, an spent the past couple of years at Effi’s Salon in Saugatuck.
Now she’s opened her own salon, Studio 111, as part of the Sola Salons suite at 495 Post Road East (between Autostrada and the former Humane Society).
She offers hair coloring, cutting, styling and keratin treatments. She will soon add Bellami extensions
Raechel and her clients appreciate that Sola Salons includes more than just hairstyling. The building includes professionals specializing in Botox, waxing, skin care, makeup, barbering, event styling and more.
“It’s a one-stop shop for a slew of services in a private environment, eliminating the chaos that can come with the standard salon atmosphere,” Raechel says.
Former Staples High administrative assistant Lynette “Lyn” Birkmaier died Friday. She was 95, and lived in Trumbull.
The Illinois native spent 40 years in the school’s front office, including time as the principal’s assistant. She is survived by her son Gary (Lisa Laplante), grandson Karl Birkmaier, sister, Joyce and brother Paul.
Funeral services will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her name to Faith Food Pantry in Newtown. Click here to send online condolences.
And finally … on this date in 1977, a plane carrying Lynyrd Skynyrd crashed in Mississippi. Six people, including 3 band members, were killed.
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Comments Off on Roundup: Sephora & Brooks Brothers, Raechel & Studio 111, ALS & Cancer Walks …
The New York Giants and Gatorade have selected the Staples football team’s first-year coach as High School Coach of the Week.
The Wreckers are now 4-0, after pummeling Darien on the road last Saturday, 31-6. It was Staples’ first victory over the Blue Wave in 13 years.
The honor comes with a $2,000 check from the Giants Foundation and Gatorade for the football program. Jacowleff will also receive a certificate signed by Giants head coach Brian Daboll, and be honored at a dinner following the season, and a 2026 pre-season game.
Staples football head coach Matty Jacowleff.
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The art featured this fall in the Westport Library aligns with StoryFest — the multimedia homage to storytelling.
The exhibits — on display now through December 16, include:
The exhibit features renowned photographers Philippe Halsman, Alfred Eisenstaedt, Eliot Porter and Lucia Nebel White, and Westport photographers Larry Silver, David Kalman, Spencer Platt, Lynsey Addario and more.
Larry Morse’s “Black Men Reading” (opening reception October 29 at 6 p.m.; conversation between Morse and Westport artist Miggs Burroughs at 7).
The idea for this series began in 2020, inspired by daily subway commutes where Morse observed fellow passengers, including the occasional sight of Black men with books in hand. Those moments transcended timely happenings, and spoke to deep-rooted aspects of identity, dignity, and representation.
“Art of the Album: Modern Blues” showcases a selection of LPs featuring Westport resident and Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Mark Naftalin’s performances on keyboard, including with the Paul Butterfield Blues Band. From Mother Earth’s “Living With the Animals” to Brewer & Shipley’s “Tarkio,” these albums capture the cultural time when vinyl packaging were both a canvas and a keepsake.
Staples High School Class of 1973 graduate Bob Gill died peacefully in February in Honolulu. He was 69.
An Eagle Scout, Bob earned a gymnastics scholarship — and a bachelor arts in education — at Arizona State University.
Bob in the Los Angeles and Honolulu public schools. The North Shore, with its culture and surfing challenge, became his home.
He was also an actor, model and house painter.
Bob is survived by his siblings Jeffrey, Steven (Sally) and Kirsten Bartie (Steve). He was predeceased by his parents Robert and Olivia, and brother Gary.
A memorial will be held this Sunday (October 12, 11:45 a.m., Willowbrook Cemetery).
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Connecticut Humane Society.
Longtime Westporter Jo Ann Arciola died peacefully at her home on Wednesday, surrounded by her family, after a brief illness. She was 78.
The Boston native found her professional home at Resnick Advisories, where she spent more than 20 years. She was noted for her dedication, integrity and kindness.
Jo Ann was an avid reader, traveler and cook. Her family says, “her kitchen was a place of warmth, laughter, and love.”
Jo Ann is survived by her husband of 58 years, Sam Arciola, Jr.; son Sam Arciola III (Kelly); grandsons Sam Arciola IV and Dominic Arciola; brothers-in-law Carmen Arciola of Florida and Jay Westerhold of Virginia; many nieces and nephews, and her dog Romeo. She was predeceased by her brother Edward Austin, sister Eleanor Westerhold, and Joseph Arciola.
A memorial service is set for Thursday (October 16, 11 a.m., Assumption Cemetery, 73 Greens Farms Road).
And finally … in honor of Mark Naftalin, and the album cover exhibit at the Westport Library (story above):
(“06880” is Westport’s hyper-local blog — your source for news, events, photos, and everything else about our town. We rely on reader support. Please click here — and thank you!)
As Westport’s selectperson’s race ramps up, “06880” is there.
This afternoon (4 p.m.), Dan Woog and TV journalist Dave Briggs take their InstagramLive camera into the political arena. We’ll chat with Republican-endorsed candidates Don O’Day and Andrea Moore. It’s the first in a series we’ll do, with all those running.
Find us @06880danwoog at 4 today. We’ll take your questions, and listen to your comments.
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Westport Rotary Club LobsterFest tickets go on sale tomorrow (Friday), at 10 a.m.
Rotary officials sent an incorrect link, which was posted yesterday. Here’s how to get tickets tomorrow morning, starting at 10: Click here, then follow the prompts.
Yesterday morning, alert “06880” reader Mark Mathias spotted 4 of them.
(Photo/Mark Mathias)
Mark has no idea where they came from. Perhaps, he says, they’re friends of the stuffed animal at Trader Joe’s. (It’s “hidden” in the store. If a child finds it and brings it to the front, he or she is rewarded with candy or a sticker.)
There are many mysteries in Westport. (Including at Winslow — for example, the oddly symmetrical, strangely placed slightly creepy hill near the entrance.)
If you’ve got any info — or even a theory — about these stuffed animals, click “Comments” below.
On Tuesday at Yankee Stadium, Westport resident Stew Leonard Jr. threw out the first pitch, against the Minnesota Twins. It was a perfect strike.
The supermarket mogul wore a custom jersey, courtesy of the Yanks, emblazoned with #38 and “Stewie.”
It honored his toddler son, Stew Leonard III, who drowned in 1989. Stewie would have been 38 this year.
Stew was selected for the honor of throwing out the first pitch by Yankees sponsor Mike’s Amazing, in recognition of his quick action in saving a choking crew member at the WPIX Channel 11 studio on August 1.
Mayor Adams declared yesterday “Stew Leonard Day” in New York, in honor of his heroics. Click here or below for the Instagram. (Hat tip: Susan Farley)
Speaking of sports: Staples High School football is just beginning its new season. They’ve got a new coach, Matty Jacowleff.
But some things don’t change. This afternoon, the program hosts its 6th annual Murph Challenge.
It’s a culmination of their summer fundraising, for both the football program and the Catch a Lift Fund (the non-profit that helps post-9/11 combat-injured veterans regain mental and physical health).
The event begins at 4:30 p.m., with Catch a Lift veteran Andy Smith talking to the players about sacrifice, resilience and commitment.
Then the athletes take on the Murph Challenge. It includes a mile run, 100 pull-ups, 200 push-ups, 300 squats, and another mile run. (With a modified version for linemen!)
Everyone is invited to Paul Lane Field, to listen to Smith’s talk, and watch the Wreckers take on the Murph. Donations are welcome by Venmo: @Staples-Gridiron.
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Westport Police made 11 custodial arrests, in the 2 weeks between July 30 and August 12.
Five New York City males, ages 31, 18, 18, 17 and 15, were charged with forgery, and conspiracy to commit forgery, after attempting to pass counterfeit bills at local businesses. The 31-year-old was also charged with risk of injury to a minor.
A 38-year-old Milford man was charged with larceny, criminal attempt and conspiracy to commit larceny, and failure to appear, after officers responded at 3:44 a.m. to a report from a homeowner that someone had entered and searched her unlocked vehicle, parked in her driveway. A nearby resident reported that items had been stolen from his unlocked vehicle too. An officer observed a suspicious vehicle parked in the middle of the road on an adjacent street. The operator fled, but at the same time another man was seen walking toward the vehicle. He admitted to entering the unlocked vehicles. He was unable to post a $10,000 bond. The second suspect’s identity is still under investigation.
A 28-year-old Bridgeport woman was charged with larceny, after complaints from 3 residents regarding missing jewelry from their homes. An investigation revealed that all 3 employed the same cleaning service. An employee of the service was pawning the jewelry. She was unable to post a $250,000 bond.
A 25-year-old Old Greenwich woman was charged with larceny, after shoplifting $14,651 worth of goods at Michells. She was released on a $10,000 bond.
A 41-year-old Stamford man was charge with larceny, after a report that jewelry valued at $10,000 was missing from a home. The suspect worked for a company that provided service at the victim’s home. He was released on a $25,000 bond.
A 43-year-old Westport man was charged with criminal possession of a firearm. He was ineligible to possess the Taurus .357 magnum handgun. He was unable to post a $100,000 bond.
A 59-year-old Stratford man was charged with failure to appear. He was released on a $10,000 bond.
WEstport Police also issued these citations:
Traveling unreasonably fast: 17 citations
Driving while texting: 12
Failure to obey stop sign: 12
Speeding: 4
Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 4
Distracted driving: 3
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 3
Operating an unregistered motor vehcile: 3
Failure to obey traffic control signals: 3
Texting while driving (2nd offense): 2
Failure to obey state traffic commission regulations: 2
Possession of a vicious/barking dog: 1
Permitting a dog to roam: 1
Following too closely: 1
Failure to grant right of way: 1
Failure to drive in the proper lane: 1
Failure to drive right: 1
Improper stop: 1
Failure to insure a motor vehicle: 1
Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
Failure to renew registration: 1
Failure to carry driver’s license: 1
A citation was issued for a vicious/barking dog. This is not it.
The Planning & Zoning Commission meets in executive session at 4 p.m. today, at the law office f Berchem Moses.
There is one agenda item: “Discussion of pending litigation, Roan Development Ventures LLC v. Planning and Zoning Commission of the Town of Westport, for property at 601, 606, and 609 Riverside Ave, 91 and 96 Franklin St, 2 and 16 Railroad Place (The Hamlet at Saugatuck).”
It is the first of many such discussions, following the filing of a lawsuit against the P&Z by the developer, following denial of its proposed Saugatuck project.
Speaking of public hearings: The Planning & Zoning Department says that scammers have contacted residents regarding zoning and/or public hearing applications.
The bad guys falsely claim that a “public hearing fee” must be paid directly to them before an application can proceed.
The town of Westport will never request payment fees through phone calls, texts, emails or payment apps like Venmo, Zelle or CashApp.
All official fees are paid directly to the town through established, secure payment methods.
Scammers may use official-sounding titles, fake letterheads, or spoofed phone numbers to appear legitimate.
If you receive a suspicious request:
Do not provide personal or financial information.
Do not send payment.
Contact the P&Z Department immediately (203 341-1030) to verify the legitimacy of any request.
Report the incident to the Westport Police Department: 203- 341-6000.
The other day, “06880” published a photo of parking signs downtown.
They showed new 2-hour limits (down from 3) on several streets. (Parking lots are not affected.)
The signs said the limits were in effect from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. — even though the new regulation does not start until 8 .m.
In fact the erroneous signs had already been changed, by the town Highway Department.
They were clearly way ahead of “06880.”
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Speaking of downtown: The public is invited to his year’s free Japanese Fall Festival (Saturday, September 6, 1-4 p.m., Jesup Geen).
The family-friendly festival is sponsored by the Japan Society of Fairfield County. It features taiko drum performances, brief plays of Japanese folk tales, martial arts demonstrations, and traditional dancing.
We’ve reported on the success of the Fairfield Little League team — regional champs, now competing in the Little League World Series in Williamsport, Pennsylvan — several times, because pitcher Ben Herbst is the son of a Staples grad, nephew of another, and grandson of Mickey and Candace Herbst.
But there are other reasons to root for our neighbors, too.
Jennifer (Zeoli) Curley is a 1996 Staples graduate. Her son Colin is on the team — and her husband Tom is one of the coaches.
Britt (Horton) Dunlap is a 1999 Staples grad. Her son Boden is on the squad too.
Fairfield won their first game in Williamsport last night. They play tomorrow night (Friday, 7 p.m.) against Hawaii. The game will be televised on ESPN.
Here’s hoping they go at least as far as the 2013 Westport team — World Series finalists! (Hat tip: Chuck Haberstroh)
Boden Dunlap, Ben Herbst and Colin Curley are all in this photo.
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Pam Docters describes today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature photo: “Gorgeous contrast of the blue sky and the white hydrangeas on Saugatuck Shores!”
And finally … you may have predicted this, from the Police Reports (above):
(Winslow Park, Staples football, Westport police — a few of the things that make our town special, all together in one Roundup. If you enjoy features like this, please click here to support us. Thanks!)
As students head off to college, they pack many things: Clothes. Electronics. Favorite items from home.
And: Narcan.
Positive Directions offers a safety kit with the medication that quickly reverses the effects of an opioid overdose, plus fentanyl test strips and more.
There’s also a 15-20 minute info session on mental health, substance risks and resources at college, including overdose signs and how to administer Narcan.
“Who knows what will come of the legendary caboose that has lived off Newtown Turnpike for decades?
“For months, a large demolition sign has been on the door of the house (120 Newtown Turnpike, or 1 Crow Hollow Lane) that the caboose sits in the rear of.”
The demolition sign …
“Legend has it the caboose was flown in, as in literally dropped via air, by a doting father for his daughter’s birthday party. And so it has been there for years, now encroached by brush, no one living in or near, though at one point it was an office for the nearby house.
… and the caboose today. (Photos/Jessica Branson)
“Neighbors hope the caboose will stay when ‘the little red house’ is finally torn down.”
In 2016, “06880” featured the caboose — and Gigi New, the writer who used it as her office (and muse). Click here for that fascinating back story.(Spoiler alert: It includes plenty of facts. And a lot of mystery.)
The caboose in 2016 …
and writer Gigi New, who used it as an office. (Photos/Dan Woog)
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For Steve Moen, painting means returning — to physical places and emotional landscapes.
For the 1972 Staples High School artist, his “Circling Back” series began with visits back to Westport, where his childhood memories live in tidal marshes, rocks and boulders along the shore.
The exhibit is on display at the Westport Library’s Sheffer Gallery from now through October 5. On August 13 Moen returns, for a 6 p.m. reception and 7 p.m. conversation with Artists Collective of Westport co-founder Miggs Burroughs. Click here for more information.
Speaking of sports: An “06880” story about Westport’s Domestic Violence Task Force request for donations of items needed by their clients caught the eye of the Staples cheerleaders. They wanted to help women in need.
The captains asked dteammates to bring an item from the list to the next practice.
But — wanting to raise more awareness, and collect more items — they reached out to the football team.
With help from the Gridiron Club and captains, they collected many more items.
The other day, they dropped off their donations at the police station. The officers — and “06880” — thank the Staples cheerleaders and football team!
A portion of the cheeerleading and football teams’ donations.
Speaking of community service: In just 2 weeks, the Westport Rotary Club collected 153 musical instruments, and assorted sound gear.
They ranged from drums, guitars and keyboards to ukeleles, clarinets, flutes — even music stands and conductor’s batons.
The collection — worth about $14,000 — is being shipped to the Youth Orchestra of Ecuador.
Green’s Farms Church served as the collection point. Westport Rotary president Peter Helt drove all over Fairfield County to pick up donations, then hauled it all to New London, for shipping.
Speaking still of community service: Staples High rising junior Mika Smith volunteers with the National Charity League.
Organizing book drives for Caroline House in Bridgeport, she has collected 2,000 books over the past 3 years.
This year Mike and her sister Gretchen — a rising freshman — also customized tote bags to deliver the books. They’ll be used long after the books are delivered — and will be a constant reminder of Caroline House’s great work.
Mika and Gretchen Smith, with their donated books and tote bags.
Low Cut Connie got the Levitt Pavilion rocking last night.
They brought a creative, inclusive take on rock ‘n’ roll, channeling early Elton John, punk, Rod Stewart, Philly soul and other genres into a musical stew.
(Photo/copyright DinkinESH Fotografix)
Frontman Adam Weiner often jumped into the audience, to sing — and dole out hugs.
(Photo courtesy of Levitt Pavilion)
This week’s free shows include:
Tuesday, August 5: Comedy Night, 7 p.m.
Wednesday, August 6: Children’s Series: Danny Weinkauf & His Red Pants Band, 7 p.m.
Thursday, August 7: Barboletta: A Tribute to Santana, 7:30 p.m.
Friday, August 8: Lulada Club: New York City’s All-Women Salsa Orchestra, 7 p.m. dance lesson, 7:30 show.
For over 20 years, St. Vincent’s Hospital “Swim Across the Sound” has raised funds to help cancer patients facing financial hardships. Last year’s event raised $590,000, to help pay for rent, utility bills and groceries.
The 17-mile swim begins in Port Jefferson, Long Island, and ends at Captain’s Cove in Bridgeport.
Among the boaters escorting swimmers yesterday: Westport Josh Schwartz. Here is the Clarkson University swim team — before they got wet:
When they got in the water — and back out — they finished third, in the college division.
“They weigh about as much as a penny, and have approximately 20 heartbeats per second. It takes a lot of energy to keep up that pace, so the hummingbird will eat up to 3 times its body weight a day. One of their favorite sources of energy is the jewelweed, a native yellow flower.
“Some of them migrate from Southern Canada as far as Costa Rica. They can cross the Gulf of Mexico — approximately 500 miles — in a non-stop single flight.
“Their aerial displays are unmatched. Up, down, backwards and forwards, hovering and with great speed, they are marvels to watch.
“As we continue to eradicate green open space, such as the planned destruction of the 4 acres of open space adjacent to Long Lots Elementary School, we continue chipping away at the ability of our beautiful natural environment to sustain itself.
“Destroying green open space like this is exactly the opposite of what we are teaching our kids in school, and is in direct contrast to helping a world that seems to be falling apart at its environmental seams.”
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And finally … tying together a couple of the first items in today’s Roundup:
(You never know what you’ll find in our Roundup. But there’s always something special here — and, hopefully, news and info you can use. We also hope you’ll click here to support us. Thank you!)
When Staples High School head football coach Adam Behrends resigned this winter, he took a position far away: on the staff at the University of New Mexico.
Athletic director VJ Sarullo did not look far for his replacement.
Matty Jacowleff — announced as the Wreckers’ new head coach this afternoon — was already on staff.
He’s been an assistant football coach since 2019. He’s also an assistant lacrosse coach — and a special education teacher at the school.
Jacowleff is also a 2015 Staples graduate. He captained the 2014 football squad.
At 27, he is the youngest head football coach in Wrecker history.
Matty Jacowleff (Photo courtesy of Staples Football)
Jacowleff earned a BS degree in business administration from Northeastern University, and an MA in secondary education from Fairfield University.
He joined the Staples football coaching staff right after college. He has served as associate head coach, offensive coordinator, wide receiver and defensive backs coach, and head junior varsity coach.
Sarullo says, “Coach Jacowleff brings a wealth of experience, knowledge and unmatched passion to this new role.
“As a lifelong Wrecker, Coach Matty exhibits great pride for the community, school, program and student-athletes.
“Throughout the interview process, Coach Matty communicated a clear vision for the future of the program, ensuring continued success both on and off the field.”
Adam Behrends — the inspirational head coach who took a moribund Staples High School football program to a state championship in just 5 years — is leaving Westport.
Behrends told his players earlier this afternoon that he has accepted a college assistant coaching position.
In 6 years, the Iowa native — who came to North Avenue following 9 years at IMG in Florida, where he helped launch the football program — compiled a 40-16 record. In 2023, the Wreckers captured the “LL” (extra large schools) state championship.
Adam Behrends
Athletic director VJ Sarullo says, “Even more impressive than the on-field results were the lessons and values that Coach Behrends taught to all that participated in the football program. These will stay with our student-athletes long after their time here has concluded.”
Sarullo adds, “As good a football coach as he is, he’s an even better person. I’ll miss him, but I know this is a great opportunity for him.”
A search committee will be formed, to find Behrends’ successor.
Head coach Adam Behrends (far left), with players and coaches after the 2023 state championship win.
Nearly 80 years ago, Westport’s sister city relationship with Marigny, France began with Christmas gifts.
Westporters donated, then shipped dozens of presents, for youngsters in the Normandy town that was just beginning to recover from World War II.
The tradition continued for years. The boys and girls who received those gifts — now in their 80s — have never forgotten Westport’s generosity.
Now Marigny is paying it forward. For the second year in a row, they have collected, and shipped, Christmas gifts for children in Lyman, Ukraine. That’s the sister city that Marigny and Westport now share.
They’ll add others — a total of 500 — for other youngsters in Kharkiv and surrounding towns, which like Lyman have been devastated by Russia’s invasion.
Gifts galore, in Marigny.
This Saturday, Marigny residents are invited to a “symbolic send-off ceremony” of the presents.
Donors, partners and friends of the Westport-Marigny-Le-Lozon-Lyman Association, and the Rotary Clubs of the Manche region, will be there. They’ve been working on this project all year long.
The ceremony takes place in one of the central squares in the village: “Place Westport.”
Meanwhile, don’t forget: Westport is helping Lyman this holiday season too.
We’re raising $56,000, to ensure that 200 kids in our sister city enjoy time away from the terrors of the past 3 years. That will pay for them — scattered now, as they have been evacuated from their homes — to get together, with friends, teachers and counselors, at a therapeutic camp in the Carpathian Mountains.
To help, please click here. Under “Designation,” choose “Westport-Lyman sister city” from the dropdown menu. You can also choose a monthly or one-time donation. If you use the mail or Venmo option, please make a note: “For Westport-Lyman.”
The Staples High School football team rolled to a 42-6 victory over Manchester last night, in the quarterfinals of the state Class “LL” (extra large schools) tournament.
There #2-ranked Wreckers move on to the semifinals on Sunday. They’ll face #3 Greenwich at 12:30 p.m. That contest, like yesterday’s, will be played at home.
The Cardinals are familiar with Paul Lane Field. Just lat week, on Thanksgiving Day, the Westporters trounced them, 27-0.
The No. 2 Staples football team put together a dominant effort in the state Class LL quarterfinals Tuesday, clobbering No. 7 Manchester 42-6.
Quarterback Neil Weil (9 of 18 completions for 155 yards; 3 touchdowns), Shane Sandrew (2 touchdowns), Anthony Armentano (2 TDs) and Nathan Smith (1 TD) keyed the decisive win.
Nathan Smith, in action against Greenwich last week. (Photo/Douglas Healey)
Last night, Westport’s Town Representative Meeting celebrated its 75th anniversary with speeches, cake, and a commemorative booklet.
But the legislative body is also looking forward.
Their page on the town website has been updated. Gone is the dull, bureaucratic look. It’s now livelier — at least, in the confines of what a municipal website should look like. (Click here to see.)
A header shows members marching proudly (and non-partisanly) in the Memorial Day. Photos liven up the links, to pages like FAQs, Members, District Map and Minutes.
There’s even a link to that new 75th anniversary brochure.
Screenshot of the new town website RTM page.
PS: Planning way ahead: The RTM invites all Westporters to a “Community Conversation,” with members.
Mark the date: Sunday, March 23, 2025, 2 p.m. at the Westport Library.
Also last night: A large crowd celebrated the release of Alison Milwe Grace’s new book, “Savor: Recipes to Celebrate,” last night at Wakeman Town Farm.
The energetic, talented owner of AMG Catering & Events greeted her fans and friends. She answered questions from her aunt, longtime Westporter Liz Milwe.
And, of course, she made sure her guests were well fed.
Alison Milwe Grace, her book and her chacuterie. (Photo/Dan Woog)
Saugatuck Rowing Club’s Holiday Festival this Sunday (December 8, 1 to 4 p.m.) will benefit the Survive-Oars, the great program that helps breast cancer survivors heal and find community on and off the water.
The afternoon features live music, mulled wine, spiked warm cider, fire pits, s’mores, a raw bar, charcuterie, hot cocoa, dunkable grilled cheese and tomato soup, and a cash bar.
Santa and Mrs. Claus will be there (1 to 2:30 p.m.).
Guests are asked to bring an unwrapped toy for Al’s Angels.
Tickets are $50 (tax-deductible) — and kids are free. Click here for tickets.
And finally … on this day in 1956, Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins and Johnny Cash recorded together at the Sun Record Studios in Memphis. It was the only time the “Million Dollar Quartet” played together, and was entirely unplanned.
(We’re not asking for a million dollars [though we wouldn’t turn it down.] But we hope you appreciate “06880” enough to toss a few coins, or whatever feels right, our way. Just click here — thanks!)
Hundreds of runners — including 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker — took part in the annual event. They got some exercise, saw some friends, and worked up an appetite for the feasts that followed.
Rain did not deter the Staples football team, either.
Both the offense and defense excelled, in a 27-0 pasting of traditional Thanksgiving Day rival Greenwich at Paul Lane Field. The Cardinals are now 8-2.
The decisive win lifts the Wreckers’ record to 9-1, and gives them the #2 spot in the state “LL” (extra large schools) tournament. Fairfield Prep is #1.
Staples will host #7 Manchester (6-4) in the LL quarterfinals. The game is set for Tuesday (December 3), at a time to be determined.
Nathan Smith intercepts a pass, and scores.
Action from yesteray’s Staples (blue) vs. Greenwich football game. (Photos/Douglas Healey)
Meanwhile, not far away at Wakeman Field, nearly 30 current and former Staples boys soccer players ignored the rain, and enjoyed their annual Turkey Bowl alumni game.
The oldest participant was Dave Wilson. He captained the Wreckers in 1975, then led the Dartmouth College squad too.
Among the players: Dylan Hoke. A Connecticut College freshman, he’ll be playing in the NCAA Division III national semifinals Thursday. The Camels face Washington & Lee, in Las Vegas.
Westport Police and Fire Departments assisted their Weston counterparts yesterday, in battling a fire that desroyed a home near the Broad Street and Weston Road intersection.
Traffic was diverted for several hours, as firefighters from Westport, Weston and Georgetown fought the blaze.
Water was pumped from the pond between West Branch Road and Broad Street. Smoke was smelled as far away as North Avenue, nearly 2 miles away.
(Photo/Sayje Benjamin Photo, via Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Services)
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These 2 hooded mergansers have not headed south yet for the winter. They joined a black duck, paddling around Burying Hill Beach and posing for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.
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As the first month of classes ends — that was quick! — superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice offers this update:
Civics Hub: The Westport Public Schools recently added a “Civics Hub” page to its website.
The goal is to make civic learning fun and engaging for all. The district’s social studies team developed lessons and resources for the election season.
Scarice says, “The objective in all of our classes is to teach students about civics, and model civic engagement, in order to support their development as informed and engaged citizens.
“While there might be a lot of intense, passionate, and at times divisive conversations outside of our schools, we work hard to foster productive and respectful discourse in classrooms through a nonpartisan teaching approach.
“Our schools and classrooms should always be spaces where students feel a sense of belonging as part of a community of learners.” Click here for the Civics Hub page.
Security: Following security concerns last week, the district has worked closely with the Westport Police Department to provide answers to many questions about school security. Click here for those security Frequently Asked Questions.
Growth Mindset Community/Parent Workshop October 16: The entire school community is reading the book “Grit,” by Angela Duckworth.
In addition to a day of professional development for faculty dedicated to the primary tenets of a “growth mindset” last week, WPS hosts a community/parent workshop on October 16 (11 a.m.-12:15 p.m., and 7-8:15 p.m., Westport Library. Registration is required; click here.
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Speaking of schools: Yesterday was Homecoming at Staples High.
The afternoon pep rally included shout-outs to all fall sports teams.
It sure worked.
Kody Goldman’s bulled in for a touchdown from 1 yard out — his 4th of the night — with just 8 seconds left — gave the Wreckers a thrilling, and well-earned 28-21 victory over Maloney-Meriden at Paul Lane Field last night.
Staples is now 3-0. They host Westhill next Friday, at 7 p.m.
Staples cheerleaders, at yesterday’s pep rally. (Photo/Jonathan Alloy)
Speaking still of sports: 2017 Staples graduate Ben Casparius earned his second MLB win — against no losses — last night.
The Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher struck out 7 Colorado Rockies in 4 2/3 innings at Coors Field, in an 11-4 victory. He gave up 2 runs and 6 hits, and walked 2.
It was only his third big league appearance. Click here for highlights of his game. (Hat tip: Carl Leaman)
And financial help is available for low-income households.
The federally funded Energy Assistance Program is administered through Connecticut’s Department of Social Services, and Westport’s Department of Human Services.
If your household’s gross annual income is at or below 60% of the state median income, you can qualify for assistance.
For a household of one, the maximum income is $45,505. It increases to $59,507 for a household of 2; $73,509 for 3; $87,751 for 4, and $101,513 for a household of 5.
The Y’s Men of Westport and Weston often host interesting speakers.
This week, their guests’ message was music.
Lyricist Barry Kleinbort and musical theater star Kim Maresca discussed and demonstrated their creativity in writing, composing and performing music theater.
During their interview by Y’s Men’s president Bruce Borner, they pulled back the curtain to show what it takes to make lyrics and music come alive on stage.
Click below for their presentation:
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There’s a lot to like about the Senior Center.
A hidden gem — well, to the public maybe, but not to seniors and volunteers — is the garden behind the Imperial Avenue building.
Molly Alger captures its colors, in today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.
For some reason, the YouTube link to the Westport Library’s “Battle of the Sexes” — the subject of this morning’s lead story — did not come through for some readers.
If you could not access it, try below. Let’s hope this works!
Debra Kandrak is the woman behind the very successful “Paint the Town Yellow” project.
She writes: “On Friday, during my daily walk at Compo Beach, I came upon the memorial service for Max Harper — a young man taken tragically too soon.
“It was a beautiful tribute in his honor, with hundreds of people in attendance.
“So today I ask everyone to plant yellow daffodils in Max’s memory. (You may recall that the theme for ‘Paint the Town Yellow’ is to honor loved ones
“Let’s plant them all over town: around street signs, stop signs, mailbox posts, at the entrance to Staples and in front of the school.
“Let’s make this a community event. Email me (debra.kandrak@raveis.com) where you are going to plant, so I can post photos next spring for his family to see how much this community cares.
“I would like to see an explosion of yellow daffodils all around town in the spring, in honor of Max. This will be a beautiful tribute, and may give his family some peace.”
A large crowd packed Paul Lane Field last night, for the opening game of Staples’ football season.
(Photo/Luca Caniato)
The state champion Wreckers picked up right where they left off last fall, hammering non-league Hamden 48-7. Junior quarterback Nick Weil threw 5 touchdown passes.
Many attendees — including those not yet in Staples — wore “Play for Max” buttons.
(Photo/Bianca Jonas)
The buttons — honoring senior Max Harper, who died Wednesday in a dirt bike accident — were made Friday in the Staples library, by students.
(Photo/Mark Mathias)
On Thursday and Friday, therapy dogs were available at Staples, to help students cope with the tragedy.
The dogs have been welcome fixtures at Staples at other times of stress. As shown below, they are always happy to help.
The Matsiko World Orphan Choir — 24 gifted and spirited teenagers — wind up their 2024 American tour, singing and dancing to songs from their native Africa — with a free concert on September 19 (Bedford Middle School, 7:30 p.m.).
It’s a gift to Westport from an anonymous benefactor, intended to expand the audience’s musical and cultural horizons.
Matsiko means “hope” in Ugandan. The Choir performs to help thousands of children attain a brighter future. Proceeds from the tour and merchandise sales support the organization’s worldwide educational programs for orphans.
The Matsiko World Orphan Choir has performed at the White House, US Capitol, Disneyland, Mount Rushmore and the Rose Bowl.
After Westport they head to Yale University, then Jazz at Lincoln Center.
Click here for free tickets, and more information.
On October 7 (Fire Engine Pizza Company, 768 Bridgeport Avenue, Shelton; 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.), the Westport Uniformed Firefighters Charitable Foundation sponsors an important event.
There’s fun, food, and valuable information, to support awareness and celebrate survivors.
Casting for Awareness — a non-profit that provides free fly-fishing wellness retreats for women with breast cancer — will receive up to 20% of the total sales at the restaurant that day.
Fire Engine Pizza Company is a great place. And there’s no better cause.
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Finally. At last!
The moment we’ve all been waiting for.
A gaping Westport need will soon be filled.
Not a moment too soon … a nail salon will open in town!
(Photo/Stephanie Mastocciolo)
I’m sure customers will flock there.
But where will they go on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday …?
Personally, I think it’s too early for Halloween decorations.
Or even pumpkin spice latte.
But Costco thinks this is a fine time to roll out their Christmas goods.
(Photo/Dinkin Fotografix)
On second thought: Why not?
There are only 102 days left before Santa arrives.
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Well-known former Westporter Stephen Kaye died September 2. He was 86.
The Boston-area native, who graduated from Harvard Business School and MIT, and was a 1st lieutenant in the US Army Quartermaster Corps. lived in Westport for over 50 years. His family says he was known as “funny, smart, kind, caring, quirky and unique. Steve lived his life with energy and positivity. A passionate sailor, his boat ‘Forever Young’ expressed his outlook and vigor. Steve was an avid skier of groomed blue runs, a black belt in martial arts, always made new friends at the gym and was a ping-pong player with an overpowering serve.”
After working for Procter & Gamble, Gillette and other advertising, packaging and consulting firms, he founded Steve Kaye New Products in 1977. He built it into a successful firm, working with Fortune 500 as well as entrepreneurial companies.
He helped create Huggies diapers, the “Got Milk” campaign, chocolate-covered Oreos and other products of the 1980s and ’90s.
For the past 11 years Steve was an adjunct professor of marketing and sales at Sacred Heart University and Housatonic Community College.
Steve is survived by his life partner of over 30 years, Linda Arenson of Westport; son Bruce (Misael Rodriguez) of Milford; daughter Joan Garbow (Ralph) of Ridgefield; son Peter Kaye (Andrea Mazur) of Chevy Chase, Maryland; grandchildren Ben and Julia Garbow and Sally and Margot Kaye; sister and brother-in-law Barbara and Kenny Wexler of Brookline, Massachusetts, and cousins Stanley and Enid Shulman of Brookline.
Donations in Steve’s honor can be made to Congregation Shir Shalom of Westchester and Fairfield Counties, 46 Peaceable St., Ridgefield, CT 06877.
Steve Kaye
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Staples High School Class of 1971 graduate Dave Kingsley died September 4, from complications of lymphoma.
He and his wife Kathy settled in Newtown in 1986, where they raised 2 daughters.
Dave’s love for fishing, boating and sailing where cultivate during his youth on Long Island Sound. He particularly enjoyed bone-fishing in the Bahamas.
Dave played basketball, baseball and softball into adulthood. He found great joy in watching his daughters play sports, coaching several of their youth basketball teams.
He was a voracious reader, full of knowledge gained through his life as a builder, designer, contractor and business owner. He designed, built and remodeled homes and businesses in Connecticut and New York, including his own home.
One of his proudest achievements was the renovation of an old building on the Fairfield Hills campus, transforming a staff dining room and library at the former psychiatric hospital into a brewery.
Dave is survived by his wife Kathy; daughters Emma of Portsmouth, New Hampshire and Caroline of Sausalito, California; sisters Karen of Wallingford, Patricia of San Diego, Mary Ann of Severna Park, Maryland, plus nieces and nephews.
A celebration of his life is set for tomorrow (Sunday, September 15, 3 p.m., at his brewery), followed by a funeral Monday (September 16, 10:30 a.m., Saint Rose of Lima Church, Newtown).
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Newtown Youth & Family Services.
Dave Kingsley
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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature introduces its first-ever black crown night heron.
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