To celebrate, Sustainable Westport announces their first-ever group of Restaurant Champions.
These restaurants do far mor than whip up delicious food. They’re also serious about operating sustainably, and supporting our local food system.
The Restaurant Champions program celebrates those that lead by example — and offers guidance and resources to those wanting to improve their sustainability efforts.
The program focuses on 4 key areas: complying with Westport’s single-use plastic ordinance, sourcing ingredients sustainably, engaging in responsible waste management, and prioritizing energy efficiency.
Led by Samantha Schwab, the Restaurant Champions program offers personalized support to help businesses cut waste and hauling costs, earn tax incentives, avoid penalties, improve employee satisfaction and gain recognition.
Here’s how some of the Restaurant Champions are already making a difference:
Kneads excels at sourcing local and sustainable ingredients from farms they know and trust; they even mill their own grains on-site.
The team also goes above and beyond while recycling food scraps and limiting waste. Not only does Kneads compost — they also donate end-of-the-day leftover baked goods to US Food Rescue, feeding the hungry while preventing waste.
Kneads is a proud Sustainable Westport Restaurant Champion …
Momu is another strong example of sustainable sourcing. Their dairy is Arethusa Farm (Litchfield). Their coffee comes from Irving Farm in New York. And they’re at the Westport Farmers Market every Thursday, seeking inspiration for seasonal flavors.
The Whelk team does an exceptional job with the restaurant’s waste management. They partner with CORR (Collective Oyster Recycling & Restoration) to recycle oyster shells for an oyster habitat restoration project in Long Island Sound. This prevents shells from ending up in landfill, while also providing environmental benefits.
Massi Co regularly donates excess food to the Gillespie Center — a few yards behind it on Jesup Road — to minimize food waste. Since becoming a Restaurant Champion, they’ve swapped out their plastic to-go lids for paper ones, reducing single-use plastic.
… and so is Massi Co.
AlliumEateryhas also shown dedication to limiting single-use plastics. The buvette uses compostable containers for their to-go provisions, and since partnering with Sustainable Westport, they’ve swapped out their plastic bottles for glass. Allium also hangs educational signage, to help customers properly dispose or compost their takeaway containers.
For the launch, the Sustainable Westport team zoned in on Saugatuck. But they plan to open the program up to downtown and beyond. Click here for details.
Do you know of a food business in Westport with a strong commitment to sustainability? Send all nominations to restaurantchampions@sustainablewestport.org — and spread the word!
PopUp Bagels — the Westport start-up that popped up during the pandemic, roared into regional and now national prominence, and has clearly outgrown its motto — “Not famous, but known” — is in the headlines again.
Bloomberg reports that Tiger Global has agreed to invest — at a $300 million valuation.
That’s “roughly 5 times what the startup was quoted at as recently as 5 months ago.”
“The buzzy bagel brand races to turn its TikTok-fueled hype into a national presence,” Bloomberg adds.
It describes the brand as developing “a cult-like following around its smaller, fluffier bagels, sold in limited flavors with a minimum order of 3.”
PopUp Bagels plans to open up to 300 locations across the US in the next 4 years.
The 30th store opens Friday in Chicago. Number 31 follows the next week, in Dallas.
Donations have already funded 2 public water bottle filling stations: one at the Compo Beach basketball courts, the other at Winslow Park. Both will keep tens of thousands of plastic water bottles out of landfill.
Rendering of the water bottle filling station at Winslow Park …
Five more “priority locations” have been identified:
Burying Hill Beach
Old Mill Beach
Grace Salmon Park
PJ Romano Field
Town Farm Little League fields.
Three “wish list locations” — requiring more logistical planning — are the Wakeman Fields, Longshore and downtown.
The cost and installation of each station ranges from $5,000 for an in-wall unit, to $15,000 for a standalone, ADA-compliant one.
“Love + War” — the remarkable documentary about the professional and personal lives of Pulitzer Prize and MacArthur fellowship winner (and 1991 Staples High School graduate Lynsey Addario — has been nominated for 4 Emmy Awards.
The nominations include the biggest category — Best Documentary — along with others for Outstanding Editing, Outstanding Sound, and Outstanding Promotional Announcement.
Addario congrats her team — including National Geographic — and adds, “It took me years to feel comfortable letting a film crew into my life. Even then, it never felt entirely natural as someone who’s usually behind the camera, not in front of it. So thank you to our cameramen.”
She cites their “gorgeous (and subtle!) cinematic eye (and) powerful footage from Ukraine, often shot while under fire.
“It’s been amazing to share this film with so many different people across the world. I hope ‘Love + War’ continues to stand as a testament to a profession that became my calling, while also being clear-eyed about the complexities and sacrifices that come with it.”
Winners will be announced at Lincoln Center on May 28. “Love + War” can be streamed on Hulu and Disney+.
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As models get fitted, styled, and practice their runway strut, a few tickets still remain for “Fashionably Westport.”
The Westport Downtown Association-sponsored evening (April 25, 7 p.m., Westport Library) is a benefit for Homes with Hope. It features an actual runway, with friends-and-neighbors models from all over town, wearing outfits from over 20 local stores.
(Spoiler alert: One of those models is yours truly. Please don’t laugh — but please come to the show!)
And finally … on this date in 1742, George Frideric Handel’s oratorio “Messiah” had its world premiere in Dublin.
If you’re free for the next 2 1/2 hours — enjoy!
(Hallelujah! “06880” is your 24/7/365, hyper-local go-to blog — “Where Westport meets the world.” We rely on reader support. Please click here to donate. And thank you!)
Americans discard 20 million mattresses and box springs annually. 55,000 end up in incinerators and landfills each day.
Sustainable Westport can help.
On May 2 (8:30 to 11:30 a.m. Earthplace), they’re sponsoring a free mattress/ box spring recycling event.
Up to 90% of old mattresses can be recycled into new products, like carpet pads, exercise equipment cushioning, bike seats, insulation, air filters and steel materials.
Dry and unsoiled mattress and/or box springs are welcome. Please, none that are damaged, wet or contaminated (e.g., bed bugs).
If you can’t transport your mattress or box spring, Westport Scout Troop 36 will provide a pickup service for a small donation. Click here to register.
Scout Troop 36 helps with the mattress recycling drive.
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Who says today’s teenagers don’t care about the future of their country?
On Wednesday, the League of Women Voters of Westport partnered with US Vote Foundation to register seniors at Staples High School.
In just 2 1/2 hours, 118 students completed forms. Many others took forms with them, or captured a QR code to register, or make a plan to vote where they attend college.
Voter registration was just one part of Staples’ “Invest in Yourself” program.
The day-long event helped seniors build practical skills, as they prepare for life after high school.
A Financial Reality Fair and series of health and wellness workshops gave students hands-on experience with the kinds of decisions they will face as young adults.
In the Financial Reality Fair, held in partnership with Connecticut’s credit unions, students managed personal budgets based on their chosen career paths and projected net salaries.
At booths staffed by PTA and credit union volunteers, seniors made spending decisions about housing, transportation, utilities and other expenses, before reviewing their financial choices with financial professionals.
The health and wellness sessions included “Know Before You Go,” a sexual violence prevention program presented by the Rowan Center of Norwalk, and a documentary about the dangers of mixing alcohol and prescription drugs.
The sessions were followed by conversations with the Westport Police Department, Positive Directions, and Staples mental health professionals.
In addition Chartwells presented “Nutrition 101″L practical guidance for maintaining a healthy diet away from home.
Van Gogh meets Mr. Brainwash at Clarendon Fine Art in Westport.
This month, the Main Street gallery — the British-based company’s first in the US — unveils a new collection.
Mr. Brainwash — who fuses street art, vibrant color, mixed media and cultural references, in an intriguing intersection of street art and contemporary pop — now reimagines Van Gogh’s most recognizable motifs.
The artist will be at Clarendon April 23 (6:30 to 8:30 p.m.). The exhibition is on view through May 3.
Carolyn Doan — Westport’s osprey whisperer — noticed a lot of activity at the Fresh Market osprey nest yesterday. She writes:
“Both raptors were relaxing in the sun. A few moments later they were visited by a third osprey, vying for the attention of the female. It was quickly chased away by the male after 2 low flying swoops.
“The couple then engaged in mating attempts, and relaxed some more in the sun. Mother Nature never disappoints…”
We won’t comment on their mating attempts. But if this spring is like previous ones, we’ll be welcoming another osprey pair back next year.
Speaking of wildlife: Scott Smith has enjoyed several sightings of a large flock of turkeys this spring at the H. Smith Richardson Wildlife Preserve, on the Southport border.
He writes: “I’m happy to stop for them as they cross Sasco Creek Road heading over to the Christmas Tree Farm from the meadow, which is being restored by the Connecticut Audubon Society.
“The big birds roost high up in trees at night, which is why a group of them is called a rafter.”
Scott adds that next week, Audubon will permanently ban dogs from the meadow, as well as the biggest parcel of the property: the open space that goes all the way to the playing fields of Greens Farms Academy.
He adds, “I can see why dog walkers would be upset — but not me, or the turkeys, or all the other field-nesting birds like the indigo bunting that call this rare habitat home.”
Roadwork — repairs, maintenance and improvements — are going on all over town.
This is the scene on Whitney Street, where sidewalks are being torn up, and trees removed, as the first steps in repaving the road and replacing sidewalks.
But “Get Up With It! A Miles Davis Centennial Celebration” kicks off the 2026 season on May 24 (7 p.m.).
The event — honoring the jazz legend’s 100th birthday — features a longstanding project of The War on Drugs drummer (and Greens Farms Academy graduate) Charlie Hall.
Now in its third decade, the 10-person ensemble focuses on 3 of Davis’ most influential albums: 1969’s visionary “In a Silent Way,” the 1970 magnum opus “Bitches Brew,” and 1971’s “Jack Johnson.”
And finally … Wayne Perkins, a guitarist who “injected Southern rock into the reggae of Bob Marley and the Wailers’ breakthrough album, ‘Catch a Fire,’ auditioned for a spot in the Rolling Stones and turned down an offer to join Lynyrd Skynyrd,” died last month in Alabama. He was 74, and had suffered a stroke.
With over 1,000 votes cast, the winners of the Great Westport Sandwich Contestare …
Best Chicken Sandwich: Garelick & Herbs
Best Steak Sandwich: Nômade
Best Combo Sandwich: A & S Fine Foods
Best Vegetarian Sandwich:Nômade
Best Club Sandwich: The Clubhouse
Best Pressed Sandwich: The Granola Bar
Best Breakfast Sandwich: The Granola Bar
Best Wrap Sandwich: Kabab & Hummus House
Best Fish/Seafood Sandwich: Rizzuto’s
Best NY Deli Sandwich:Gold’s Delicatessen
Honorable mentions go to Calise’s Market and Outpost Pizza in the Best Chicken category.
The contest was organized by the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce, with sponsorship from the law firm Bercham Moses.
The winners (clockwise from top left): The Clubhouse, The Granola Bar, Kabab & Hummus House, A & S Fine Foods, Gold’s Delicatessen, Nômade, Rizzuto’s, Garelick & Herbs.
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Earthplace celebrates 2 milestones soon: the 40th anniversary of Harbor Watch, and the 15th anniversary of “Cocktails & Clams.”
The fundraiser is set for June 6 (5 to 7 p.m.), at Copps Island Oysters, Norwalk.
The location is fitting. Proceeds will help modernize the water quality lab at Harbor Watch, Earthplace’s Long Island Sound program. They’ll also provide hands-on training for student interns, and will support ongoing water monitoring.
Guests will enjoy an unlimited, super-fresh raw bar, hors d’oeuvres, an open bar, plus a live band and silent auction.
The Westport Senior Center kicks it off on May 1 (1 p.m.), with a special event featuring Melissa Bernstein.
The co-founder of Melissa & Doug Toys will chat with “06880” founder Dan Woog about her personal journey through anxiety and depression.
She’ll discuss the tools and insights that helped guide her back into the light, and what she has discovered about finding purpose and meaning along the way.
Melissa is the author of “Lifelines” and “The Heart of Entrepreneurship: Crafting Your Authentic Recipe for Success.” She also curated a collection of stress-relief tools inspired by her own life experiences, available at Lifelines.com.
The event is open to Senior Center members, and anyone 60 or older.
Melissa Bernstein
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Among the agenda items for today’s Board of Selectpersons agenda (Wednesday, 9 a.m., Town Hall auditorium): acceptance of $20,000 from Sustainable Westport, for the purchase and installation of 2 ADA-compliant water filling stations.
They’ll replace the current fountains at Compo Beach and Winslow Park
A plaque on the Winslow Park water filling station will honor the memory of Sherry Jagerson. The longtime environmental activist died in 2024.
Sherry Jagerson
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The Blight Prevention Board meets tomorrow (Thursday, 7 p.m., Zoom).
They’ll continue their discussion of 20 Center Street, and address 3 new properties:
Westport resident Carole Williams died Sunday, surrounded by her family. She was 86.
A longtime customer service manager at Pepperidge Farm, she was known for her dedication and care. After retiring she worked for the town of Westport, at the Fire and Building Departments.
She was an avid traveler, and also enjoyed both playing tennis and shopping.
She is survived by her daughter Kim Thibodeau, grandson Michael Thibodeau, sister Phyllis Denke, brother Samuel (Sandy) Anastasia Jr. .
A Requiem Mass will be held at Assumption Church on Friday (April 10, 10 a.m.). In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude’s or the American Cancer Society.
Carole Williams
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Longtime Westporter Dick Alley sends along today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo: Schlaet’s Point, at low tide in early spring.
And finally … in honor of Earthplace’s “Clams & Cocktails” fundraiser, benefiting Harbor Watch — harborside, at Copps Island Oysters (story above):
(From the environment and entertainment to the Senior Center and beach, if it’s happening in Westport you’ll read about it on “06880.” We rely on readers’ support; please click here to help. 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!
Tonight’s main event — a public meeting about next steps for the Cribari Bridge, with representatives of the state Department of Transportation — begins at 6 p.m., in the Town Hall auditorium.
Can’t be there? It will be livestreamed at www.westportct.gov, and aired on Optimum channel 79.
The Cribari Bridge leads from Saugatuck (above) to Greens Farms. (Photo/John Videler for VidelerPhotography.com)
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Meanwhile, Saturday’s main event will be the state high school basketball championship.
The Staples boys team — already 2-time FCIAC champions — competes for their first Connecticut crown since 1937.
Tip-off is 8:30 p.m., at Mohegan Sun.
Sure, it’s late — and at the other end of the state. But it’s been nearly a century since Westporters have been able to cheer the Wreckers on in a state boys basketball final.
Go Wreckers! And go Westporters — see you Saturday night at Mohegan Sun!
The Staples boys basketball team. (Photo/Diane Lowman)
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Looking ahead: The theme for the Memorial Day parade float contest has been announced.
And — looking back — it’s a great one: “250 Years of Honor and Service.
Certificates will be awarded in 6 categories: Best Development of Theme, Best Youth Organization Float, Most Creative, Best Community Organization, Most Colorful, and Best Overall Float.
Of course, we already know the winner in the Overall category.
It’s the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston.
After all, they’ve won for the last 250 years.
Another Y’s Men Memorial Day parade float winner. This one won in 2021. (Photo/Dan Woog)
In their continuing effort to UnPlastic Westport, Sustainable Westport will show “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 April 9 (6:30 p.m., Greens Farms Academy). A panel discussion will follow the screening.
Westport Professionals Network co-founders Lisa Fedorchak and Katie Gervasio, analyzed the current job market, at Tuesday’s Westport Rotary Club meeting.
The WPN connects local college students and young professionals with job and networking opportunities. Volunteers offer mentorship and advice, in person and online.
“Right now, this is a tough time,” said Fedorchak. “The young professional unemployment rate is 10.5%.”
Lisa Fedorchak (speaking) and Katie Gervasio, at the Westport Rotary Club. (Hat tip and photo/Dave Matlow)
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Westport resident Vivek Kanthan wants to end the drought of Americans ascending to the top of Formula 1.
“06880” last checked in just over a year ago, when he signed with the Formula 4 team Griffin Core by Campos — the top-ranked team in that division.
Since then, Kanthan won his first F4 race, captured Rookie of the Year honors, and set several records, including the single lap speed mark in Mexico City.
Last weekend, the 15-year-old placed 1st at the Spanish Winter Championship.
For more than 4 decades, The Susan Fund has provided college scholarships to Fairfield Country residents who have been diagnosed with cancer at some time in their life, and attend (or plan to) enroll in an institution of higher learning.
The Fund was established in 1980 in memory of her Susan Lloyd, a Staples High School graduate who lost her battle with cancer. Since its founding, the organization has provided over $2 million in scholarships to more than 300 students.
The deadline is near — April 1 — for applications for the 2026 school year. To apply or to learn more about the Susan Fund, click here.
On May 2, the Nolan Team at Compass is sponsoring a town-wide tag sale. It will likely be Westport’s biggest ever.
Residents can participate by hosting a sale at their own home.
It’s a great way to get plenty of publicity. The Nolan Team handles all promotion (including a sign for your lawn or driveway). Your address will be included on a map, and all publicity.
Shoppers can plan their own route, and visit multiple sales all day.
To participate, and for more information, click here.
300 years of passageways in Weston is the topic of an April 19 book talk at the Weston History & Culture Center.
Artist Julie O’Connor will discuss her 2008 book, “Doors of Weston.”
The lecture is free, but registration is required. Click here.
doors are accessible “portals” to understanding the evolution of Weston and its people over the last three centuries, as we celebrate America and Weston since the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
The Center says, “doors are accessible ‘portals’ to understanding the evolution of Weston and its people over the last 3 centuries, as we celebrate America and Weston since the signing of the Declaration of Independence.”
Westport Police made 3 custodial arrests between March 11 and 17.
A 44-year-old Woodside, New York man was charged with 2 counts of larceny, following 2 shoplifting incidents at Walgreens. Both involved allergy medications. One was of $2,659 worth of merchandise; the other was $1,964. He was extradited after being incarcerated for an unrelated matter in New York.He was held on a $40,000 bond.
A 50-year-old Redding man was charged with sexual assault, after a complaint by a restaurant employee that a customer had used his hand to pinch the victim’s buttocks.
A 44-year-old Plymouth, Massachusetts man was charged with failure to appear. He was held on a $25,000 bond.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Texting while driving: 9 citations
Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 6
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 5
Failure to obey stop sign: 5
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 4
Failure to renew registration: 4
Failure to obey traffic commission regulations: 4
Distracted driving: 3
Operating a motor vehicle without tint inspection: 2
On Wednesday, Westport’s non-profit that works to end homelessness and food insecurity in Fairfield County welcomed the congressman to the Gillespie Center.
Homes with Hope staff, board members, community partners and local leaders thanked Himes for his continued advocacy in Washington, on behalf of our most vulnerable neighbors.
Himes met with HwH board chair Becky Martin, emeritus chair John Walsh, and board member Amanda Castellano, along with selectpersons Kevin Christie and Amy Wistreich.
During the visit, a veteran now residing at the Gillespie Center thanked Himes for helping him obtain medical benefits. Another resident said that the congressman had helped her too.
Congressman Jim Himes (2nd from right), with 1st Selectman Kevin Christie (far left) and Homes with Hope staff members and friends.
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“Urinetown” opened last night, to a raucous reception.
Staples Players’ spring production of the Tony Award-winning satiric musical is a worthy successor to the fall’s “Les Misérables” (with a few winks and nods to that popular show).
The cast has a great time conveying the dystopian-with-a-song message. Young kids enjoy the potty humor; older ones, and adults, understand the deeper theme.
Westport’s next Hazardous Waste Day is Saturday, April 11 (9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Greens Farms railroad station).
The free program enables residents of Westport, Norwalk, New Canaan, Darien, Stamford and Greenwich to safely dispose of household hazardous wastes.
Residents of those towns may bring these types of hazardous waste: gasoline, kerosene, spray paint, paint strippers, paint thinners, solvents, paints, stains, turpentine, varnishes, wood preservatives, degreasers, fertilizers, fungicides, herbicides, insecticides, pesticides, bleach, charcoal lighter, cleaning chemicals, drain cleaners, mercury thermometers, moth balls, pet flea shampoos, photo chemicals, rug shampoos, spot removers, art supplies and paints.
Make sure items are clearly labeled.
Never mix chemicals!
Keep products in their original labeled containers.
Place leaky containers in clear plastic bags.
Tighten lids of all containers, and pack items in sturdy cardboard boxes lined with paper.
Put boxes in the trunk or in back of the vehicle, away from passengers.
Leave pets and children home when bringing hazardous materials for collection.
Westport residents may recycle antifreeze, motor oil, batteries of any type, light bulbs and electronics at the transfer station on the Sherwood Island Connector, weekdays from 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.; Saturdays from 7 a.m. to noon.
The following items are NOT acceptable: ammunition, flares, commercial hazardous waste.
Questions? Call Westport’s Public Works Department: 203-341-1793.
Program manager Gretchen Hoffman shows how small changes can make a big difference.
She leads a tour of her own kitchen, describing reusable product bags, a variety of storage containers, cutting boards and stainless steel cooking utensils.
A “maple syrup boil and demonstration” (March 28, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Wakeman Town Farm) offers a chance to talk to WTF farmers about tapping and producing maple syrup, and to check out the Farm’s homestead-sized evaporator.
It’s also a great time to ask the farmers any general gardening questions.
Speaking still of the environment: The 2023 film “Common Ground” unveiled a dark web of money, power and politics behind our food system. But it also profiled farmers who use alternative “regenerative” models of agriculture that could balance the climate, save our health, and stabilize America’s economy.
Connecticut farmers feature prominently in the documentary.
The Westport Farmers’ Market is sponsoring a free showing this Sunday (March 15, 4:30 p.m., The Warehouse @ Fairfield Theatre Company). Click here to reserve a spot.
The Longshore golf course reservation system will transition from Chelsea to a new tee time reservation platform — ForeUp — ext week.
To ensure a smooth changeover, all handpass holders must log into their Chelsea account and confirm that their contact information is current before the system transfer.
The new reservation system requires each handpass holder to have a unique email address associated with their account. If multiple accounts share the same email address, or if account information is not updated prior to the transfer, delays or issues booking tee times at the start of the season may result.
Fore! (Photo/Susan Garment)
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Will this be Westport’s biggest tag sale ever?
On May 2, the Nolan Team at Compass is sponsoring a town-wide tag sale. Residents can participate by hosting a sale at their own home.
It’s a great way to get plenty of publicity. The Nolan Team handles all promotion (including a sign for your lawn or driveway). Your address will be included on a map, and all publicity.
Shoppers can plan their own route, and visit multiple sales all day.
To participate, and for more information, click here.
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The Westport Library is a town gem. The only 5-star library in the state offers an astonishing array of events, programs, services — even a state-of-the-art recording studio.
But it doesn’t just happen. A board of trustees provides guidance and oversight.
As upcoming vacancies loom, they’re looking for qualified, eager candidates.
Responsibilities include governance and fiduciary duties, strategic oversight, collaboration with leadership, financial stewardship and support, and more.
Candidates must be Westport residents. Fundraising experience and strong community connections are key. Skills in strategic planning, finance, law, nonprofit operations or areas supporting innovation and digital strategy are valued but not required.
Trustee appointments are for 4 years, this year beginning July 1. Interested candidates should email a resume and letter of interest to spresutto@westportlibrary.org by March 20.
Last weekend, she became the first Staples female wrestler ever to place in the state open tournament.
Amelia placed 6th, at 138 pounds. Great work, Amelia.
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Despite the dismal end to the week, the earlier part gave us hope that spring is lurking nearby — somewhere.
Amy Schneider spotted these snowdrops along the Library Riverwalk.
(Photo/Amy Schneider)
May there be many more to follow.
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And finally … Today is the second straight month with a Friday the 13th.
That’s pretty rare. In fact, it can only happen in a non-leap year, when the first one is February. Enjoy!
(Despite the unlucky day, we are lucky to have you as an “06880” reader. And it will truly be our lucky day if you click here, to support our work. Thank you!)
The initiative aims to reduce single-use plastics, and expand water-filling stations around town. The goal is to “turn shared intention into measurable, community-wide change.”
Once a month, we’ll help them highlight an area of daily life where single-use plastic is most common, along with practical ideas to use. This month, we focus on a space filled with plastic: the kitchen.
Walk into almost any Westport kitchen, and you’ll find plastic.
It’s what you flip pancakes with, wrap leftovers with — it’s even in your morning coffee.
Because plastic is so quiet and convenient, we’ve let it become part of the family.
But this guest has overstayed its welcome. It is leaching into our lives.
Glass products, and a reusable produce bag.
The kitchen is uniquely powerful because of frequent daily use. A small change can have a big impact. A single swap — repeated hundreds of times a year — can significantly reduce waste and exposure.
Focus on High-Impact Swaps
Rather than attempting a fully plastic-free lifestyle, focus on a few changes that deliver outsized benefits:
Stop Heating Food in Plastic: Microwaving or reheating food in plastic containers can release microscopic particles and chemicals into food. Switching to glass or ceramic containers is one of the simplest and most impactful upgrades.
Wrap and Store Food Differently: Plastic wrap and disposable baggies are among the most frequently discarded kitchen items. Beeswax wraps, reusable silicone bags and glass storage containers provide durable alternatives that last for years.
Which wrapping and storage products will you choose?
Upgrade Everyday Cooking Tools: Plastic utensils and cutting boards gradually wear down through heat, friction and cleaning. Wooden, bamboo or stainless steel tools reduce microplastic shedding into the food you consume, while often lasting longer.
Rethink the Morning Brew: Many single-use pods and tea bags are actually lined with plastic mesh that steeps in your cup, while creating additional plastic waste. Switch to a reusable pod, a glass French press, or a stainless pour-over, to ensure your morning ritual is just beans, leaves, and water.
Want some microplastics with that coffee?
Reduce Plastic Before It Enters the Home: Choosing loose produce, bulk items, or products packaged in glass reduces plastic exposure upstream, often without increasing cost.
Progress Over Perfection
One of the biggest misconceptions about sustainability is that it requires dramatic lifestyle change. In reality, incremental adjustments — one swap at a time — create lasting habits and community-wide impact.
By starting in the kitchen, households can lower waste, reduce plastic exposure, and help protect coastal environments. The goal isn’t perfection; it’s awareness, experimentation, and steady progress toward healthier homes.
Are you ready to kick plastic out of your kitchen? Join your neighbors, and take the UnPlastic Pledge. Start with one swap, share your progress, and help us build a healthier, plastic-free Westport.
Staples High School’s two basketball teams have had magical seasons.
Coach Dave Goldshore’s boys are undefeated: 22-0. Coach Tommy Sparks’ girls have lost only twice; they’re 20-2.
The magic continues tonight (Wednesday). Both squads battle for the FCIAC championship. It’s a Wrecker doubleheader, at Fairfield University. The girls tip off at 5:30 p.m.; the boys follow at 7:30.
The top-seeded boys team faces #3 Ridgefield, for a rematch of last year’s final –won by the Westporters, for their first league title in 62 years.
A week ago, in the regular season finale, Staples downed the Tigers 67-49.
The #2-ranked girls play #1 Greenwich. Earlier this year, the Cardinals handed the Wreckers their first defeat, 55-42.
Now they’ve augmented it with an easy-to-follow video. What’s particularly impressive is that it includes not just successes, but “compromises” and a “fail.”
Gretchen Hoffmann — Sustainable Westport’s program manager — shows how she’s tried to UnPlastic her own bathroom.
She’s swapped out soap, toilet paper and a loofah, with great results. She’s had to compromise around her use of face care products and disposable contact lenses. She’s had the least success with shampoo and conditioner.
Gretchen talks honestly about all that in the video below.
Sustainable Westport asks for feedback, in the Comments section here or on YouTube. You can also take the UnPlastic Pledge, and let them know one swap you’re committed to making.
Westport youngsters have many opportunities to discover and thrive in the arts.
Those in Bridgeport have fewer chances.
Neighborhood Studios fills a vital role. For nearly 50 years, the non-profit has provided an inclusive, welcoming environment that offers high-quality art, music, theater and dance instruction to children of all ages, regardless of ability, background or finances.
They do it through after-school, Saturday and summer programs; partnerships with schools and non-profits; performances, and transportation and financial assistance.
Many Westporters support Neighborhood Studios.
On March 20 (6 p.m., Foolproof Brewery, Bridgeport), several local couples –Jeffrey and Laurie Gross, Jim and Lizzie Wolf, Zach and Erica Barratt, and Zack and Sheera Gross — are sponsoring a “Spring Fling Fundraiser.”
The night features live music from Sonic Bullet, food, an open bar, beer tastings, a silent auction — and of course, memorable performances from the students at Neighborhood Studios.
Speaking of young artists: The Westport School of Music combines its former fall faculty chamber concert and its biennial student chamber music concert on Saturday, March 21 (1 p.m., Pequot Library).
Faculty members will join some of the duos. The concert will feature classical jazz and pop music for voice, piano, guitar, violin, viola, cello, bass and flute.
The performance is free/ For more information, call 203-227-4931, or email smiller@wsmusic.org.
Upcoming this month at (or sponsored by) the Westport Book Shop:
An afternoon with children’s author Lauren Tarshis (March 15, 3 p.m., Westport Library): The Staples High School graduate talks about her “I Survived” series, and signs book. Participants can win prizes playing “I Survived Kahoot!” trivia.
It’s a ticketed event, to benefit the Westport Book Shop. Children’s tickets are $10, and include 1 book. Chaperone tickets (or for those who do not want a book) are $5. Click here to purchase, and for more information.
Meet children’s author/social advocate/actress/producer Ebbe Bassey (March 21, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Westport Book Shop): On World Down Syndrome Day, Bassey reads from and discusses her children’s book “Anoushka’s Extraordinary Heroes.” A spunky 5-year-old and a diverse group of superheroes show that true strength comes from friendship, compassion, inclusivity, and embracing what makes us different.
March Short Story Club: March 25 (6 p.m.): The selection will be about the immigrant experience, and announced soon. Registration is required: 203-349-5141, or RSVP@westportbooksaleventures.org.
This Sunday (March 8, 2 p.m. Westport Library, Emmy Award-winning natural history filmmaker Kevin Bachar offers “Sharks by The Saugatuck”: stories and films for the whole family. (Arrive early, for family-friendly shark crafts).
In the event — presented by Andrew Wilk — Bachar will talk about swimming with hammerhead sharks, tiger sharks, bull sharks, and the fearsome great white.
He’ll also show photos and videos of killer whales, on the rim of exploding volcanoes, and tracking moose in the north woods of Connecticut. Click here for more information.
In 2023, a baby shark washed up on Burying Hill Beach. (Photo/Margaret Schwabe)
The subject of last night’s Westport Country Playhouse Script in Hand series was “The Subject Was Roses.”
The Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award winner has been performed on stage at the historic theater before. This was its first incarnation as a play reading.
From left: director Joe Delafield, stage director Faith Sandberg, actors Lenny Wolpe, Isabel Keating and Etai Benson, artistic director Mark Shanahan, stage manager Caitlyn Ostrowski. (Photo/Kelsey McFarland)
We’ve run bobcat photos before, as our “Westport … Naturally” feature of the day.
Most show them slinking around at the edge of a property.
This one — on Richmondville Avenue — came close enough Monday to pause, and pose.
Be careful out there!
(Photo/Natalie Kollman)
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And finally … in honor of Sunday’s “shark” event at the Westport Library (story above):
(You don’t need to draw out all your hard-earned cash to support “06880.” Whatever you can afford is great! Just click here. We’re not “back in town,” after all. We’re here, and not going anywhere.)
The town has released the bid document for a new food and beverage concessionaire at Compo Beach and Longshore.
Parks & Recreation Department director Erik Barbieri tells “06880” that he will visit all applicants, to see how they operate their current businesses.
His hope is for the new concessionaire to be ready to operate this summer. If not, interim arrangements will be made for food and beverage services.
It’s a time for “reflection, self-love, and ending relationships that are no longer working.” (That’s what Google says, anyway.)
Sustainable Westport knows a thing or two about breaking up, too.
They’ve rolled out a community-wide initiative to reduce the town’s use of plastics — especially single-use — and expand public water-filling stations.
As part of the “Un-Plastic” movement, they’ve begun a social media campaign to help Westporters “break up” with the synthetic material.
It’s pretty clever. You may recognize several neighbors in the video (click here or below). It’s also available on Facebook and LinkedIn.
Parents: Want to know more about “Today’s Weed and Teen Mental Health”?
That’s the title of a session led by Dr. Amy Swift, who oversees in-patient services at Silver Hill Hospital. The event is co-sponsored by Positive Directions and the Mid-Fairfield Youth Cannabis Prevention Project.
It’s this Wednesday (February 25, 7 p.m.), with both in-person (New Canaan High School) and virtual options. Click here for more information.
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After weeks of sold-out houses, standing ovations and enthusiastic word-of-mouth, this is the final weekend for the Westport Community Theatre production of “Looped.”
Performances are set for today (Saturday, 7:30 p.m.) and tomorrow (Sunday, 2 p.m.), in the lower level of Town Hall.
The play is set during a 1965 recording session, where Tallulah Bankhead must re-record (“loop”) a single line of dialogue for a film. What should take minutes stretches into hours as the star clashes with the weary film editor and practical studio manager.
Sharp wit gives way to honesty, revealing the vulnerability beneath the bravado while turning a hilarious backstage story into something unexpectedly moving.
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The Restaurant Champions program celebrates those that lead by example — and offers guidance and resources to those wanting to improve their sustainability efforts.
