Yesterday — based on inaccurate information — our “06880” Roundup reported that the Board of Finance turned down a Public Works Department request for equipment for the Ned Dimes Marina renovation project.
Public Works director Larry Roberts clarifies: “We brought an appropriation request to the Board of Finance, but it was withdrawn due to inaccuracies in the accompanying materials.
“In any event, the work was not anticipated to begin until after the summer boating season.”
Speaking of last Sunday’s flood: In 2021, the Westport Arts Advisory Committee partnered with landowner David Waldman. They installed 5 mini-murals in the alley behind Anthropologie.
This one depicts what Westport artist Rebecca Ross thought Westport would look like in 50 years.
As Miggs Burroughs notes: “She was off by only 45.”
Westoberfest is less than 2 weeks away.
The 9th annual craft beer and family fall event returns Saturday, October 3 (1 to 5 p.m., Elm Street. Among the highlights: craft beer, music, food, art, shopping, and family-fun activities.
Admission is free. Guests who want to sample more than 50 local and regional beers, from over 20 breweries, can purchase a tasting pass.
This year, Westoberfest introduces a collaboration with 3 local arts organizations for hands-on creativity in the family area.
MoCA\CT invites families to design tote bags using colorful stamps, patterns and doodles, then take them home. One River School of Art + Design offers a fall-inspired mandala activity, while Whimsy Works Atelier brings parent-child creative play.
The family area, sponsored by Gault Family Companies, will feature carnival games from Chris and Pete Amusements, pumpkin decorating, and more.
For friendly competition, the annual stein-holding competition, hosted by CBS News weather anchor and Westport resident Lonnie Quinn, will once again challenge participants to show off their strength and stamina.
One Bad Oyster takes the stage with their energetic ska-surf sound.
Food and treats will be served by Blind Rhino, Freshko by Krisia, Fryborg, LemoNate’s, Lovely Chocolate by Talita Dupin, Paradise Island Food, and Van Leeuwen Ice Cream.
Elm Street will also feature a shopping and services vendor area
A beer tasting pass is $50 now, $55 on-site. Click here to purchase. Beer tasting participants receive a Westoberfest tasting glass and koozie.
Wakeman Town Farm’s “Fantastic Farmhands” welcomed a special guest last week: monarch watch conservation specialist Alice Ely.
She helped the youngsters release Petey, a monarch butterfly, and provided a fascinating peek into the science behind monarch migration.
Before Petey took off, Alice attached a tiny radio tag to his back using eyelash adhesive. The transmitter weighs no more than a grain of rice, so it’s light enough for Petey to fly freely.
Petey wasted no time.
In 2 days, the feisty butterfly traveled 109 miles, heading southwest toward Mexico.
To follow his journey, download the Project Monarch app, then search for Petey2026. You can track his migration in real time as he flies south.
Once they arrive in Mexico, the butterflies stay there until late winter. As temperatures warm and the days get longer, they receive their cue to head north, where they mate and lay eggs on the first milkweed they find — often in Texas.
The tiny tags are powered by solar cells, so Petey may occasionally disappear from the radar while his tag recharges. The WTF butterfly — the first monarch ever released from Connecticut with this type of radio tag — could make it all the way to Mexico.
Alice Ely, with monarch butterfly and Wakeman Town Farm “farmhands.”
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Sure, it’s another Sunday with rain in the forecast. (Though nowhere near as much as last week … knock wood.)
But the Staples High School girls swim and dive team is washing cars today, rain or (fingers crossed) shine.
They’ll be at 176 Post Road West — the old Carvana spot, opposite Kings Highway Elementary School — from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
A suggested donation is $20. Stop in for a wash. If these girls can spend hours a day in the pool, the least you can do is get wet, while supporting the squad.
This was the scene at an old sea captain’s home, on Sylvan Routh South:
(Photo/Susan Garment)
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Actors have to flexible.
So does their entire company.
Westport Community Theatre had an unexpected change in their season lineup just a few weeks before opening.
“Vintage Hitchcock: A Live Radio Play” moved into the first slot.
It showcases a talented cast of Fairfield County actors, as well as Fairfield playwright Joe Landry.
The show — featuring suspense, intrigue, murder and touch of dark humor — runs through October 4, in the basement level of Town Hall.
Landry transforms 3 Hitchcock thrillers – “The Lodger,” “Sabotage” and “The 39 Steps” – into a 1940s-style radio broadcast performed before a live audience.
The 7-member cast moves among multiple roles, voices and characters as the stories unfold, creating the world of Hitchcock with microphones, scripts, music, and an elaborate soundscape.
Remaining performances are at 2 p.m. Sundays (today, and September 27 and October 4), and 7:30 p.m. on September 24, 25, 26, and October 2 and 3.
A 6-play subscription for the year is available for $140. WCT’s 69th season includes “Betrayal” by Harold Pinter; “Summer, 1976” by David Auburn; “What the Constitution Means to Me” by Heidi Schreck; “Catch-22” by Joseph Heller, and “Happy Days” by Samuel Beckett.
Tom Rusen and John Bachelder in “Vintage Hitchcock.”
Looking for a fun afternoon, with competition, food, camaraderie — and a chance to help support a new initiative?
A Better Chance of Westport’s inaugural Cornhole Tournament is set for Saturday, October 3 (11:30 to 3 p.m., Longshore’s Evan Harding Point).
Proceeds will help launch ABC’s College Scholarship Fund. It’s a way to expand their commitment to the scholars they sponsor and support during their time at Staples High School, as they move on to the next chapter of their educational journeys.
And finally … on this day in 1973, Jim Croce and 5 others died when their light plane crashed shortly after takeoff from Natchitoches Airport in Louisiana.
(It’s been a week since a huge “rain bomb” hit Westport. “06880” reported that story all day, and every day since. If you appreciate our coverage, please click here to support this blog. Thanks!)
And learning that one damaged bridge may disrupt downtown traffic for up to 18 months.
The small, almost unnoticed, span on Jesup Road linking Imperial Avenue with the police station, Jesup Green, the Westport Library, Levitt Pavilion and Taylor parking lot — and a way to avoid the parallel Post Road — was severely damaged.
It’s early in the process. Further study is needed. But repairs — if necessary — could take up to a year and a half.
More information will be available as the process unfolds.
Small bridge on Jesup Road, at Imperial Avenue.
Off Church Lane, plenty of work remained.
And in Deadman Brook by Myrtle Avenue, a dumpster remained stuck.
(Photos/Sal Liccione)
While the rest of the town had dried out, however, significant standing water remained at Bradley Street and Fairfield Avenue.
Here’s a shot from yesterday afternoon, 24 hours after the rain ended:
This is a survey only. Submitting it is not a claim or request for assistance, and does not guarantee that disaster relief or other recovery assistance will be available.
Information collected will help state and local emergency management officials document the extent of the damage, and determine whether the State of Connecticut may be eligible for post-disaster programs through FEMA and/or the Small Business Administration.
Finally: CBS News sent a reporter to Westport, to document the cleanup effort. Interviewees included Sal Liccione and Morley Boyd — and a photo from our “06880” blog. (Hat tip: Jeff Mitchell)
After nearly 3 hours of debate, the issue of lights on athletic fields came into clearer focus last night.
Planning & Zoning Commission members discussed — in detail, with civility and plenty of back and forth — applications for 70-foot poles at PJ Romano and Wakeman Fields.
PJ Romano came first. The site behind Saugatuck Elementary School has elicited little public comment, because there are already temporary lights, and it is on well-traveled Riverside Avenue.
Traffic was more of a concern than noise. Commissioners insisted on a 9 p.m. weekend cutoff; no multi-team tournaments, and use restricted to Westport sports and Parks & Recreation Department activities. A straw vote showed 5 of the P&Z members in favor of the application.
Those and other restrictions will be clarified in writing by P&Z staff, and presented to the Commission on October 5 for a vote.
Temporary lights are currently used at PJ Romano Field. Here, a Westport PAL football team practices. (Photo/James Kingsley)
Wakeman — adjacent to Bedford Middle School — has elicited greater concern by neighbors.
Commissioners discussed the need for low-level lighting to ensure safety of players and parents once the lights are off; for audio limited to varsity games only (no practices), and to end once the game begins; a prohibition on multi-team tournaments; limited hours of usage, and the addition of several trees along the perimeter.
Another straw poll showed a majority in favor of the proposal, with those conditions. P&Z staff will clarify those conditions, and it too will be presented for an October 5 vote.
The Wakeman B turf field (left-center, above) is the only one that would be lit. (Drone photo/David Pogue)
Speaking of the Playhouse: Last night marked the first Script in Hand play reading of the season, with the premiere of “The Next Best Thing.”
The cast and crew. Front row (from left): Mia Dillon, Ayla Kopp, Tina Johnson, Hauako Stepper, Cindy Cheung, Grant Shaud, Alicia Thompson. Rear: Director Mark Shanahan, playwright Matt Hoverman. (Photo/Kelsey McFarland)
This year — as every year — LobsterFest is sold out.
So this is not a plug for tickets. It’s just an interesting update.
On Saturday, Compo Beach will welcome 1,500 guests for Westport Rotary Club’s annual event.
In celebration of its 15th year, Rotarians recently presented 1st Selectman Kevin Christie with an official LobsterFest hat.
From left: 1st Selectman Kevin Christie, LobsterFest chair Denise Thomas, Rotarian extraordinaire Rick Benson (in lobster suit), president Ron Henkoff, and LobsterFest entertainment chair Robert Augustyn. (Photo/Dave Matlow)
As the afternoon nears, Rotary offers heartfelt thanks to the Westport community for its overwhelming support.
LobsterFest’s sponsors have been exceptionally generous. This year’s event will raise over $400,000.
Special help comes from the Westport Fire and Police Departments and Emergency Medical Services, and many children’s entertainers (some work gratis).
The success of LobsterFest depends on over 200 volunteers. A few spots remain. Click here to sign up.
In other Rotary news, they’ve announced the winner of their lobster-naming contest.
It’s … Clawdia!
Congratulations to Vienna Tranquillo of Oxford. She earns a $25 gift certificate to The Sandbar at Compo Beach.
For 27 years, “Booked for the Evening” BOOKED for the evening has served as
the Westport Library’s signature celebration of ideas, achievement and community.
What began as a fundraising event has evolved into a cherished tradition that reflects the heart of the Library’s mission: fostering a love of learning, inspiring curiosity, and expanding our understanding of the world.
Each year, BOOKED brings together Library supporters, town leaders, cultural advocates and others for a night honoring a man or woman whose work has
made a lasting impact on society.
Tom Brokaw, E.L. Doctorow, Billie Jean King, Calvin Trillin, Wendy Wasserstein, Pete Hamill, Martin Scorsese, Doris Kearns Goodwin, David Halberstam, Patti Smith, Nile Rodgers, Lynsey Addario, Ron Chernow, Alan Alda, Justin Paul and Itzhak Perlman are just some of the honorees over the past quarter century.
This year, the Westport Library honors award-winning director, actress, choreographer, producer and cultural icon Debbie Allen. The event is Wednesday, October 28.
She is perhaps best known as dance instructor Lydia Grant in the 1982 series “Fame.” She was also the show’s principal choreographer.
Allen has earned 3 Emmys, a Golden Globe, 5 NAACP Image Awards, a Drama Desk honor, the first-ever Astaire Award for Best Dancer, 4 honorary doctorates, and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
She has choreographed the Academy Awards 10 times, directed and produced episodes of “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Scandal” and “A Different World,” and was the creative force behind Steven Spielberg’s “Amistad.”
Appointed by President George W. Bush as a Cultural Ambassador of Dance, Allen spent more than 15 years as an artist-in-residence at the Kennedy Center.
She’ll be in conversation with Shonda Rhimes. The noted TV creator, producer, author, CEO of global media company Shondaland — and a Westporter — was the 2022 “Booked” honoree.
Business leaders, professionals and community members are invited to he next Executive Network Series event.
VTB Financial Group and Prestige Cabinetry & Design host the September 29 gathering (6 to 9 p.m., Rizzuto’s). It’s a benefit for Ann’s Place, a non-profit providing support and resources for individuals and families impacted by cancer.
Pianist Marc Copland headlines this week’s Jazz at the Post (Thursday, 7:30 and 8:45 p.m., VFW Post 399; dinner service at 6:45). Bassist Yuriy Galkin, pianist Steve Johns and saxophonist Greg Wall join in.
Maryssa Miller sends today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo, and writes: “Every sunny afternoon, this little guy comes out of his home and perches in the same exact spot on the stone wall in my backyard to get some sun.
“Then he goes right back to wherever he lives. He’s been doing this since early August.
“I’m going to be moving in town soon. I’ll miss seeing him every day!”
And finally … in honor of tonight’s Westport Country Playhouse “Year in Anatevka” (story above):
(If I were a rich man … I wouldn’t have to suggest that readers help support this blog they read every day. But I’m not, so I do. Here goes: Please click here. And thank you!)
On the last Sunday morning in September, Compo Beach will look the way it has on that date for over 2 decades: bikes racked along the sand, wetsuits half-zipped, and a line of swimmers walking down to the jetty.
For many years it was the Kiwanis Westport Triathlon (“The Minuteman”). Money raised went back to the community.
Two years ago, Kiwanis handed the race to myTeam Triumph Connecticut. Entries still fund a local cause: mTT-CT puts athletes with disabilities into endurance events across the state, at no cost to the athlete or their family.
The course is the same. And it’s still a hometown race, run by neighbors, for anyone willing to show up.
The 2026 edition is Sunday, September 27. Registration is 7 a.m. The competition begins at 8:30.
The course is short: a 1/2-mile jetty-to-jetty swim, 5.5 miles on bikes through the flat Compo neighborhood, and a 2.2-mile run.
There are 3 ways to take part
Race it. Go solo, or split with 2 friends as a swim-bike-run relay. The field already runs from age 12 to 80. For many, this is their first triathlon. Register at active.com.
Race with myTeam Triumph. The organization pairs athletes with disabilities (“captains”) with volunteer athletes )”angels”) who push, pull and pace them through the course. Angels can cover 1, 2 or 3 legs. Sign up at runsignup.
Volunteer. A race this size needs people holding clipboards, pointing at corners, registering, marking bodies, at the transition area, course marshals, and at the finish line and cleanup. No athletic ability is required. Sign up at runsignup.
myTeam Triumph, at last year’s Triathlon.
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Harvest Fest is one of Westport’s best parties ever.
Wakeman Town Farm’s biggest fundraiser (and food & wine) event of the year includes tons of seasonal fare from local farmers and chefs, wine and signature cocktails, live music, an auction with culinary and travel experiences, and much more.
It’s the closest thing our town has to an old-fashioned barn-raising party. And proceeds help WTF provide education to folks of all ages, incomes and abilities.
Also cooking at Wakeman Town Farm: a Tuscan harvest cooking class with chef Laura Weinman (September 17, 6 p.m.).
WTF says, “Tuscan foods are simple, sun-drenched, and feature fresh herbs and extra virgin olive oil instead of heavy sauces. Delicious natural flavors shine through in a cuisine that is healthful, economical and celebrates its raw ingredients.”
It’s a “John” fest on Sunday September 6 (12:30 p.m., Saugatuck Rowing Club).
First Folk Sunday features the music of John Denver and John Prine. Two singer/songwriters — Westport’s Suzanne Sheridan and Northampton’s Dave Dersham — provide their interpretations of the iconic musicians. Both straddled the line between folk and traditional country music, relying heavily on acoustic guitar and narrative storytelling.
Tickets are $20, and are available online. For more information call Rozanne Gates: 203-984-7562.
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It was registration day yesterday, at Greens Farms Elementary School.
Judging by the line of cars on Center Street, everyone had the same idea, at the same time.
Speaking of driving: It’s been a while since we’ve run an Entitled Parking photo.
The bar is usually quite high: something breathtakingly batshit crazy, or one that prevents a minimum of 2 other drivers from pulling in.
This is neither. But it makes the cut, because to pull this I-can’t-be-bothered-to-fix-this stunt, the driver had to already have come the wrong way down this 1-way section of Parker Harding Plaza.
And finally … in honor of the first day of school in Westport:
(Another school year. Another “06880” Roundup. Another chance for us to remind you: This hyper-local blog relies on the support of readers. Please click here — it’s as easy as ABC Thank you!)
The Westport Farmers’ Market is 20 years old this year.
Beyond providing hundreds of shoppers with fresh produce and herbs, meats, seafood, breads, ice cream, lunch, Thai food, pet food and knife sharpening each week, they feed over 50,000 people a year through partnerships with the Gillespie Center, Homes for the Brave, Norwalk Arts Space and Cardinal Shehan Center.
To celebrate — and raise funds — they’ve planned a special, intimate event. “Fork It Over” (September 17, 6 p.m., Terrain) features several Big Names (and friends of the Market): Jen Bengtson (Terrain Café), Dan Kardos (Café Melba), Hoodoo Brown Team, John Nealon and Christian Wiki (Crust Issues) and Piereluigi Mazzella (Fatto a Mano).
They visited Tirop’s Angels, a non-profit created after elite runner Agnes Tirop was murdered by her domestic partner. The Simmelkjaers spoke with many victims of gender-based violence, an importand issue in the country.
This week Julia — a rising Staples High School senior — announced a “Back to School 5K.” The virtual race will benefit Tirop’s Angels.
Julia is getting many Staples cross country teammates to run, and invites anyone else interested — anywhere in the world — to join them, for a $25 donation.
The race is open through September 13. Runners can race individually, or as part of a team.
Need more incentive than helping a great cause? Runners with the fastest men’s and women’s times get complimentary entry into New York Road Runners’ United Airlines NYC Half Marathon in March.
In Kenya, Tirop’s Angels is building a safe house for abused women. Above (left to right): Annika, Rob and Julia Simmelkjaer, with Viola Cheptoo. She founded the Angels, and is an elite runner who will compete in the New York Marathon this November.
Last December, “06880” reported that the building next to Five Guys — which old-timers still think of as IHOP, and newer-comers know as the Westport Pancake Shop and/or one of many nail salons — would have a new tenant.
JetSet Pilates — the Miami-based “market leader in Reformer Pilates.” with 100 locations open, or in development — would open there.
“In mid-summer,” we said.
Well, that’s come and gone. And here was the scene yesterday:
(Photo/Colin Livingston)
We have no clue whether it’s still the future site of JetSet Pilates.
The Westport Country Playhouse has just added 2 new — and very different — shows.
Coming up next in their Barnstormer Series: “The History of a Brief Time” (September 8, 7 p.m.).
Written and performed by Bill Williams, it tells the very personal story of the loss of his son to opioid addiction. Called a “vividly, beautifully and painfully described experience,” it’s one family’s journey through struggle, grief and, ultimately, healing.
On September 19 (1 and 4 p.m.), the big red dog Clifford–bounds onto the stage. The new musical comedy adventure (named for him) celebrates friendship, imagination, and the magic of unconditional love.
Matthew Mandell reports: “The crowd was Comfortably Numb as The Machine — the internationally touring Pink Floyd tribute band — returned to Westport for an exceptional show at the Levitt Pavilion last night.
“They first played here during COVID at the drive-in concerts hosted by the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce and the Westport Library on the Imperial Avenue parking lot.”
This weekend at the Levitt:
Tonight (Saturday): Frank Mastrone & Friends (7:30 p.m.; free)
Sunday, August 22: Andy Frasco & the UN, and Kitchen Dwellers with special guests Magoo (5 p.m.; tickets).
Recently, while visiting the John F. Kennedy Library & Museum in Boston, Staples High School Class of 1967 graduate Ron Berler bought a copy of a book he had last read in high school: “Profiles in Courage.”
He was struck, he said, by its currency. “The same issues that tempered brave acts in some members of Congress when Kennedy published his book in 1956 apply today: The fear of losing their next election. Of being tarred as traitors by their party. Of submitting to power. Of forfeiting pride and honor.”
It made him appreciate all the more “those few in Congress who have demonstrated true courage – even if just once.”
As he thought about the type of person he’d like to see in municipal, state and national offices, he wrote an essay. It was just published in Washington Monthly, under the headline “What is Political Courage?” Click here to read Berler’s piece.
Ron Berler
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Congratulations to winners of the Longshore Women’s Golf Association’s Invitational: Sarah Kim, Sally Rogol, Debbie Thron and MarthaLee Taylor.
Lnnch followed the competition, in the newly (and beautifully renovated) Inn at Longshore ballroom.
Members and guests donated food and money to Homes with Hope, this year’s designated charity.
The LWGA — going strong since 1960 — is open to all women golfers from Westport and surrounding towns.
From left: Sarah Kim, Sally Rogol, Debbie Thron, MarthaLee Taylor, and Longshore head professional Jon Janik.
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Next Saturday’s “Movie Under the Stars” — a Weston tradition — is a double feature.
Local band Good Godfrey open the show (August 29, 6 p.m.; free) at the Weston Middle School Field.
The 8 p.m. film is “National Treasure,” starring Nicholas Cage. It is an apt choice, as the country celebrates its semiquincentennial.
Tony’s Pizza Truck will be on hand, at the Weston Commission for the Arts and 250th Advisory Committee event.
And finally … on this date in 1902, the Cadillac Motor Company was founded.
(“06880” is the Cadillac of local blogs. But you don’t have to support us at that level. A Ford, or even Yugo level is fine. Please click here to donate what you can. Thank you!)
Cat Malkin — a local animal communicator, pet loss grief counselor and animal Reiki teacher/practitioner — has created a “Guide to Staying Safe Around Dogs.”
It’s free, and filled with practical tips to help children, adults and families better understand dogs, respect boundaries, and feel safer around them. Click here to download.
Speaking of safety: An increasing number of Westporters are alarmed at the increasing number of electronic bikes, being driven recklessly and thoughtlessly all around town.
An “06880” reader sends this photo from the Post Road near ASF …
… and writes: “Technically, I think this is legal.
“But it feels like an episode of ‘Lost in Space,’ where something’s bound to go wrong. I am very concerned about the safety issues presented by this.”
We’re glad the young riders are wearing helmets. And they are riding single file.
But we hope they’ve been properly instructed — and reminded, over and over — about the rules of the road.
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Harvest Fest is one of Westport’s best parties ever.
Wakeman Town Farm’s biggest fundraiser (and food & wine) event of the year includes tons of seasonal fare from local farmers and chefs, wine and signature cocktails, live music, an auction with culinary and travel experiences, and much more.
It’s the closest thing our town has to an old-fashioned barn-raising party. And proceeds help WTF provide education to folks of all ages, incomes and abilities.
This year’s event is September 26. Tickets go on sale Monday (August 17) at http://www.wakemantownfarm.org. Get ready — they always sell out fast!
Looking for a fun kids’ activity for this fall — and far beyond?
Westport Scout Troops 39/139 invite students in grades 5-12 (and their families) to Compo Beach on Thursday, September 3.
From 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., they’ll make pizzas with their camping ovens. They’ll have a fire pit (with s’mores!). Scouts and leaders will answer questions, and share experiences.
The troops note, “We’re organization. Almost all of our Scouts do other activities — sports of all kinds, Staples Players, music and more. Scouts can choose to do some or all of our activities they find most interesting, and that fit with their schedules.”
The civic and outdoor-oriented troops’ 2026-27 calendar includes:
Hiking in the Adirondacks, and part of the Appalachian Trail
Biking the Rail Trail in Trumbull
Haunted Lake Compounce
Sleeping on a battleship
Visiting the Eastern State Penitentiary
Winter cabin camping
Skiing
Weekend campout on Block Island
Helping with Lobster Fest, veterans’ grave flags and wreaths, myTeam Triumph
And more!
Questions? Interested, but can’t be there? Email Troop39westport@gmail.com.
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An upstairs leak damaged the Westport Book Shop Thursday night.
The popular Jesup Road store lost its entire vinyl section, along with some furniture and books. But an extraordinary morning effort by staff, neighbors and volunteers helped clear the damage.
They opened at their regular time. Last night, they hosted a reception for guest artist Gregg Ziebell.
While full restoration of the music section and damaged areas will take a few weeks, the non-profit bookstore is open to all. They offer a massive “thank you!” to all who jumped in to help.
We’ve got one more photo of this week’s solar eclipse.
This is from Stratford-upon-Avon, England, where Diane Lowman — Westport’s first poet laureate, and a prominent Shakespeare scholar — observed the phenomenon.
As the Bard said in “King Lear”: “These late eclipses in the sun and moon portend no good to us.”
Financial Times reports that Goldman Sachs is buying NEOS. The deal is worth up to $2.3 billion, and is expected to close early next year.
NEOS — based in Westport — is an asset management/ETF firm. Its SEC filings showed about $14.7 billions in assets under management as of last September. Click here for the full FT story.
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Our “Westport … Naturally” photo series includes natural phenomena of all kinds.
Including this 70-foot tree near Cross Highway and North Avenue. It was burned and flayed by lightning last weekend. Huge shards landed up to 30 feet away, and buried themselves into the ground.
And finally … in honor of Diane Lowman, and everyone else in Europe was saw much more than we did (story above):
(From safety to fundraisers, “06880” has Westport covered. If you enjoy our daily Roundups — or any other feature on our hyper-local blog — please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
But this was the scene this morning at Burying Hill Beach:
(Photo/Seth Schachter)
Seth Schachter — who made the early morning discovery — searched AI for information.
It says, “based on the shape and markings in your photo, this appears to be a juvenile smooth dogfish (Mustelus canis), which is one of the most common small sharks found in Long Island Sound.”
He notes that it’s a baby; the photo makes it look larger than it is.
Seagulls were picking at it. Seth guesses that high tide will carry it back into the water.
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Wakeman Town Farm is a place of wonder for many youngsters.
And for plenty of others, from nearby communities.
This summer, Wakeman Town Farm welcomed young campers from around the area for a week of discovery, connection and hands-on learning.
With muddy boots, curious minds and big smiles, campers harvested fresh vegetables, met friendly animals, and explored composting, planting and regenerative farming practices.
Through WTF’s Room to Grow initiative, hundreds of students from Hall Neighborhood House, the McGivney Center and Horizons embraced every opportunity to learn, explore, and grow — for free.
The Room to Grow Fund was launched at the 2025 Harvest Fest gala. Generous donors, and the Westport Woman’s Club and Town Fair Tire Foundation, provide added support.
It’s one of several Wakeman Town Farm initiatives that connect young people from neighboring communities with nature, fresh food, and the lifelong benefits of land stewardship.
Fun at Wakeman Town Farm.
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Westport resident Carl Wistreich is the son of Holocaust survivors from Poland and Germany. Pursuing a career in business and law, he achieved the financial security his grandparents had in their respective countries, before making the lifesaving decision to leave it all (including close relatives) behind.
Finally, in his 50s, Wistreich had time to read family memoirs describing miraculous stories of survival. He realized the stories his parents rarely spoke about needed to be shared.
The result — My Lethal Obsession, a novel about ruin, resilience and rebirth, of one family and the Jewish people as a whole — will be published September 1. The next day — September 2 (7 p.m), Wistreich launches his book at the Westport Library, in a conversation with Temple Israel’s Rabbi Michael Friedman. An audience Q-and-A and book signing will follow. Click here for more information.
Each year they offer free music lessons, summer camps and instruments, to 600 youngsters in 21 schools.
A front lawn party this Sunday (August 2, 4 to 6 p.m., 53 Compo Beach Road) will introduce guests to the organization, including volunteer, donation and support opportunities.
Park at Compo Beach. Bring a lawn chair if you’d like. Learn more about KEYS –and enjoy their very “empowered” jazz group, who will perform live. For more information, email KanikaTaylor@hotmail.com.
Grammy Award-winning trumpeter/composer/arranger Michael Mossman has done it all.
After apprenticing as a youngster with jazz legends Lionel Hampton, Dizzy Gillespie, Art Blakey and others, he took center stage as music director for Blue Note Records’ “boy band”, Out of the Blue. Mossman went on to be a key performer in Latin jazz, working with the Afro-Latin Jazz Orchestra and others.
He returns this Thursday for “Jazz at the Post” (July 30, shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner from 6:45; VFW Post 399).
He’ll play with pianist Luis Perdomo, bassist Alex Ayala, percussionist Carly Moldonado, drummer Vince Cherico and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall. Click here for tickets, and more information.
The Newton, Massachusetts native trained as a secretary at Katherine Gibbs in Boston. She married Paul in 1052. The family moved to Westport in 1966.
Jean loved Compo Beach, and raising her children here. She was a parishioner and volunteer at St. Luke Church for over 60 years, working with the Friendly Visitor Program, Multiple Sclerosis Society, Sacred Heart St. Anthony’s School, and St. Luke Women’s Guild. She also cared for the altar linens.
Jean was predeceased by her husband and siblings Peg Davis, Dick McLellan, Ruth Vlass (Gordon) and Tom McLellan. She is survived by her children Dr, Karen Edwards (Lawrence), Joseph (Kan), Paula Bruns (Robert), Nancy Schiavone (Norman Schulman) and Barbara Pinkerton (Steven); grandchildren Katherine Bernard (Scott), Benjamin Bruns (Christina) Timothy Bruns (Eleni) Emily Schulman (David Stone), Peter Schulman, Molly Edwards, Alison Pinkerton, Michael Pinkerton, and great-grandchildren Alice Bernard, Elijah Bruns, Noah Bruns, Lucia Bruns and Anais Stone; sisters-in-law Sally McLellan and Betty McLellan; brother-in-law Gene Davis, and many nieces and nephews.
Visiting hours will take place at Harding Funeral Home this Thursday (July 30, 9:30 to 10;30 a.m.). A funeral mass for Paul and Jean will follow at 11 a.m. at St. Luke Church.
Donations in Jean’s memory may be made to the Matthew 25 Fund at St. Luke Church, which provides food and assistance to individuals and families in need.
These 2 chicks — the subjects of today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature — look as happy as if they were just hatched in, say, a tree or bush somewhere.
Hey — none of us has any control over where we’re born.
Traditionally, each member of the winning National Hockey League team gets it for a day. But, we asked, what was the connection between the Carolina Hurricanes’ Shayne Gostisbehere and Westport?
There was, we noted, a rumor that he lives here.
Turns out: It’s true.
Gina Gostibehere — presumably his wife — posted on our Instagram: “We live here in Westport!!”
We look forward to learning more — like, how (and why) a Stanley Cup champ ends up here. And how he flies (or skates) completely under the radar.
In the meantime: here’s a link to Gina’s Instagram. Looks like she’s got her own great business.
Welcome to Westport, Shayne and Gina.
Unless you’ve been here for a decade, and we never knew.
With ballot security in the national spotlight, CT Mirror shined a light on Westport.
A story yesterday in the Pulitzer Prize-winning independent online site examined the many steps and procedures Westport’s Democratic and Republican registrars of voters take to ensure security and accuracy, from before the election, to the voting process and afterward.
From left: Yesterday, Democratic deputy registrar of voters Sharon Fiarman, Democratic registrar of voters Deborah Greenberg and Republican deputy registrar of voters Francesca Signore tested a tabulator machine at Town Hall. (Photo/Eddy Martinez for Connecticut Public)
It’s one of the best-kept secrets in town. (Of course, IYKYK).
The Wakeman Town Farm farm stand is open every Saturday (9 a.m. to 1 p.m.). Farm-fresh produce — plus coffee, flowers, local products, even animal visits and more — make it a family-friendly event.
When Tuesday’s intense but quick storm passed, Rachel Precious assessed the damge.
The rowboat she’d owned for 30 years disappeared from its spot on Evergreen Avenue.
Rachel searched all along Deadman Brook and its banks into town that day, but found nothing.
Finally, yesterday — 24 hours later — a neighbor found it. It had flipped over and was wedged between rocks downstream, underwater and covered up.
That’s one rowboat that did not go “gently down the stream.”
Rachel Precious’ rowboat, downstream …
and in calmer times.
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Nefaire — the facial and aesthetic service spot next to Il Pastaficio at 141 Post Road — is gone.
Its replacement sounds somewhat similar.
Skincare business Osphere’s website says it “brings together 2 things that rarely share a roof: the safety and accountability of medicine directed by our medical director, and the sensibility of Japanese and East-Asian beauty culture — where less is more, details matter, and the goal is harmony rather than exaggeration. A clinic where the price is on the menu before you book, and subtle is the standard.”
Next up for First Folk Sunday: a tribute concert to Cheryl Wheeler.
Singer Suzanne Sheridan, keyboardist Bob Cooper and percussionist Howard Kesten offers an homage on August 2 (Saugatuck Rowing Club; 12:30 p.m.). Click here for tickets, and more information.
Clockwise from upper left: Cheryl Wheeler, Suzanne Sheridan, Howard Kesten, Bob Cooper.
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Writing stand-up comedy is no laughing matter.
Well, actually — as hard as it is — it is all about the laughs.
And from August 3-6 (3:30 to 5:30 p.m.), the Westport Country Playhouse offers a “Stand Up & Learn” comedy writing workshop, for ages 12 through 16.
The payoff: a performance for family and friends, at 5 p.m. August 6.
The program engages students in creative writing, communication, critical thinking, and team and confidence building.
The fee is $295. Scholarships are available.
“Stand Up & Learn” founder and director Kevin Flynn is an award-winning actor, writer, producer, host, and comedian. After a professional soccer career, he transitioned to stand-up comedy and won the Boston Comedy Riot.
Westport Police made 3 custodial arrests between July 15 and 21.
A 28-year-old Stamford man was charged with assault, strangulation and disorderly conduct, following an investigation into a 2025 domestic incident. Medical treatment was sought, after the man allegedly placed his hands around the victim’s neck. He was held on a $50,000 bond.
A 22-year-old New Haven man was charged with larceny and conspiracy to commit larceny, following an investigation into a 2025 shoplifting incident at Ulta Beauty. He was held on a $5,000 bond.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Traveling unreasonably fast: 7 citations
Failure to obey state traffic commission regulations: 6
Failure to renew registration: 4
Distracted driving: 3
Speeding: 2
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 2
Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 2
Failure to obey traffic control signals: 2
Operating a motor vehicle while under suspension 1
Texting while driving: 1
Failure to comply with handicap parking regulations: 1
Failure to drive in the proper lane: 1
Failure to display plates: 1
Handicap parking regulations must be followed.
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Among the many effects of Tuesday’s storm (besides Rachel Precious’ missing rowboat): the mulch that Mark Mathias had spread nearby.
Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo shows what happens when Mother Nature meets a modern garden.
In January, 1st Selectman Kevin Christie removed Randy Herbertson from his position as chair.
Christie told “06880”: “I have not yet named a new chair for DPIC. Regarding the website, we’re aware of the issue and are looking into it.”
DPIC had spent a long time working on parking plans, including lot renovations, changes to time limits, an app to track open spots, and the possibilities of meters and a deck. Member Matthew Mandell says, “A lot of work has been done. A lot of work is still on the table. We’d like to be able to move forward.”
Part of the DPIC Master Plan, when it was live on the town website.
He won’t be in concert. But it will be a very entertaining evening nonetheless.
The internationally acclaimed Italian pop artist will be at the Westport Library’s Trefz Forum (Thursday, July 9, 4 p.m.). He and Connoisseur Medi radio host Jon Kamal will talk about music, the creative process, and the story behind his Falling in Love Tour.
It’s a different stage for the son of tenor Andrea Bocelli. Matteo made his live debut at 18, in Rome’s Colosseum, and has performed all over the world since.
Tomorrow, he receives the inaugural Rock the Walls Award. The non-profit brings musicians and artists together to support survivors and end the silence around domestic abuse.
At mid-afternoon yesterday, Bob Weingarten sent this update on Saturday’s powerful storm, which left hundreds of residents without power:
“Our electric came on this morning, along with others on Hillandale Road and Morningside Drive South.
“I’m not sure of Hillandale and Center Street. The intersection is blocked off because of tree parts with wires (hopefully not electric) — embedded within the logs and branches.”
At 7 a.m. today, Eversource reported only 570 outages in the entire state of Connecticut. Power has been restored to all Westport and Weston customers.
Wakeman Town Farm’s biggest event of the summer — their annual Family Fun Day — takes place Saturday, July 18 (11 a.m. to 2 p.m.).
The day includes hands-on activities (crafts, story time, hair tinsel, garden planting, bubble show, and more) entertainment, farm fun, and food.
The day is dedicated to longtime WTF supporter Pete Romano. His generosity and enthusiasm were legendary — as was his smile while serving ice cream. In his memory, sponsors Al’s Angels, LandTech, Gault and Saugatuck Sweets will provide free ice cream for all.
Curious about polo? And/or about the Fairfield County Hunt Club?
You’re invited to a day-long exhibition on Saturday, July 26 (gates open at 11 a.m.).
In addition to matches, there are vendors, food and drinks. Tickets are $15, at the gate. VIP tickets are available by Venmo: @fchcpolo.
Questions? Email HuntClubPolo@gmail.com.
Polo comes to Westport.
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Local author Lori Miller Kase (“The Accident”) leads a 2-part fiction writing workshop for teens (July 20 and 22, 4 to 5:30 p.m., Westport Library).
The free sessions help both experienced and aspiring writers generate ideas for new work, and offer inspiration to those with short stories or novels in progress.
Faded is the Crimson — a Grateful Dead tribute band — takes the stage next, in the Weston History & Cultural Center’s “Music at the Barn” summer concert series.
The show — reprising the Dead’s 1981 live acoustic double album “Reckoning” — is July 26 (5:30 p.m.). Guests are invited to bring a lawn chair, picnic, and bottle of wine,
Tickets ($15 members, $20 non-members; children 12 and under free) are available at the door or online.
The “Career Coach” will be in the Westport Library parking lot on Thursday, July 16 for a session on “Intro to AI: Job Seeker Strategies.”
It returns August 20, with Tips for Resume and Cover Letter.
There are 2 sessions ( 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.) each day; both are 2 hours long. Registrants can choose one.
The service is available to people who are exploring career opportunities, actively looking for a job, or seeking additional part-time employment. Click here to reserve a spot.
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Westport resident Isabel Moskowitz — a founder and past president of TCS — died Monday. She was 74.
A pioneer in the financial services industry, Isabel built a distinguished career at a time when few women held leadership roles in the field. She led her own brokerage firm, advocated fiercely for her clients, and helped open doors for women who followed.
In addition to her other roles at TCS, she served for decades on the board of directors, chaired many committees, and supported the synagogue in ways both visible and quiet. She also held leadership roles with Federation, ORT and other Jewish organizations, working to strengthen Jewish life locally and beyond.
Her obituary says, “She was happiest when bringing people together, especially around the holiday table, where she welcomed family and friends with extraordinary food, warmth and care. She gave generously of herself through her love, advice, support, guidance, thoughtfulness and steady presence. She had a sharp wit, a beautiful spirit, and a strength and resolve that made her a true force — in her family, her work, and her community.”
Isabel is survived by her husband Steve; her daughter and son-in-law, Alyssa and Josh Gold; her brother Michael Price; her stepchildren Alan (Michelle) Moskowitz and Dana Moskowitz, and her granddaughters Abigail Gold, and Naomi, Zoe, and Dafne Moskowitz.
Funeral services will be held tomorrow (Thursday, July 9, 11 a.m., TCS).
Donations in Isabel’s memory may be made to TCS or the Whittingham Cancer Center at Norwalk Hospital.
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Sherwood Island State Park punches way above its weight, in our daily “Westport … Naturally” series.
Today we feature a sharp-looking black swallowtail butterfly, courtesy of Clarence Hayes:
And finally … in honor of our “Westport … Naturally” image above:
(“06880” is where Westport meets the world — and where you get the full version of this beautiful song. What a blog! If you enjoy our 24/7/365 service, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
Everyone in Westport cares about — and for — their yard.
But how many care in an eco-friendly way?
Sustainable Westport, Wakeman Town Farm and Wild Ones can help. On June 25 (6:30 p.m.. Wakeman Town Farm), they offer a hands-on evening dedicated to eco-friendly yard care.
This event is part of Sustainable Westport’s “Your Yard, Our Climate” initiative, aimed at building a more resilient, biodiversity-rich Westport, one backyard at a time.
Attendees will learn how to create a beautiful, thriving outdoor space without synthetic pesticides. That includes natural strategies to deter pests, support for local pollinators, and building healthy soil.
Participants can also pre-order mosquito buckets. They’re safe, very effective and targeted ways to control mosquitoes at the source, without indiscriminate insect death caused by other pesticide treatments.
On June 7 the troop held a Court of Honor. to award the rank of Eagle Scout to Dylan O’Brien, Nathaniel Greely and JC Gura. Each earned at least 21 merit badges, and led a community service project.
This past weekend, Life Scout Finn Martens led his own Eagle service project at VFW Post 399. He coordinated a crew of Scouts to clean up the grounds and repaint the parking lot lines.
The “Career Coach” will be in the Westport Library parking lot this Thursday (June 18), for a session on “Intro Excel.”
It returns July 16, covering “Intro to AI: Job Seeker Strategies ,” and August 20 (Tips for Resume and Cover Letter).
There are 2 sessions ( 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.) each day; both are 2 hours long. Registrants can choose one.
The service is available to people who are exploring career opportunities, actively looking for a job, or seeking additional part-time employment. Click here to reserve a spot.
More than 1,800 teen artists across the country — including students from Westport’s One River School of Art + Design — are participating in what may be the largest teen art exhibition ever organized in the US.
The exhibition includes 15 One River locations from New York to Oregon.
Students were challenged to create artwork based on the prompt “a place that matters to you.” The result: 1,800 interpretations expressed through painting, drawing, mixed media, animation and digital design.
Eight students will be invited to a special studio experience with Daniel Heidkamp at his Brooklyn studio later this summer.
A public reception for Westport students is set for June 25 (4 to 5:30 p.m.). The show will remain up for 3 weeks.
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Grammy Award-winning pianist/composer/ arranger Alan Broadbent and master bassist Harvie S. Alan headline this Thursday’s “Jazz at the Post” show (June 18, 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner at 8
And finally … on this date in 1967, the Monterey International Pop festival began in California. There were many big names, including The Who, Grateful Dead, Jefferson Airplane, Janis Joplin, Jimi Hendrix and The Animals.
But perhaps the most stunning performance of all was this:
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