On Friday, Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Service put on extra crews for their evening and overnight shifts.
They responded to multiple motor vehicle accidents and medical calls, alongside Westport Fire, Police and Public Works.
In one instance, DPW responded in just 2 minutes to plow a blocked driveway.
WVEMS cited volunteer Emergency Medical Technicians Brett Humphrey and Luca Escarlate; EMT drivers Dorrie Harris, Justin Sun and Andrew Miller, and volunteer crew chiefs Brian Crane and Dan Paliotta for staffing the ambulances throughout the storm.
WVEMS offers this advice, for all snowstorms: Drive slowly. And clear driveways and walkways, so an ambulance and stretch can reach you fast if needed.
And don’t forget: our Volunteer Emergency Medical Service pays for all their equipment, from ambulances to Band-Aids. Click here to donate.
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Westport Farmers’ Market will not be open this Thursday. It’s New Year’s Day.
No problem! They’ll be at their usual winter post — Gilbertie’s Herbs & Garden Center — this Tuesday (December 30, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.) instead.
Three greenhouses will be filled with food, holiday gifts and more. Kiin Sauna will be there too, as a “hot” special guest.
Edgar Winter — who spent some time in Westport — turns 79.
Alex Chilton — who had no Westport connection — was born on this date in 1950. He died in 2010, at 59. He was only 16 when his band the Box Tops’ “The Letter” went to #1. They had several other hits, including:
(Like Westport’s Volunteer Emergency Medical Service, “06880” relies on contributions from residents. Donate to them first; if you’ve got anything left over, please click here for us. Thank you!)
The Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Service’s ambulances get a lot of use. They save thousands of lives.
Now, some of those lives will be saved in a state-of-the-art, fully stocked new one.
This past week, the Westport Woman’s Club donated a brand new ambulance to WVEMS.
Funds came from a $150,000 donation to the WWC from the Lea Ruegg Foundation, and additional contributions by the Woman’s Club.
Westport Woman’s Club past president Karen Kleine hands ambulance keys to Westport Volunteer EMS president James Bairaktaris. Looking on are WWC member Donna Richardson, and 1st Selectman Kevin Christie.
The near-half-million dollar project took 3 years to complete, including designing and building.
“The custom ambulance — nicknamed ‘Lea’ — will replace one of our 10+ year-old current ambulances,” says Westport Volunteer EMS president James Bairaktaris.
“We’re blessed to have the Westport Woman’s Club as both our neighbors and supporters, and so, too, all of our EMTs and the patients we’ll help.”
HUGE thanks to the Westport Woman’s Club. But did you know that Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Service pays for all their equipment they use to help all of us — from ambulances down to Band-Aids?
More than 70 years after its release, “Santa Baby” remains one of the most popular Christmas songs of all time.
Eartha Kitt sang it in 1953. She later moved to Weston, where she died of colon cancer on — coincidentally — Christmas Day, in 2008.
Her daughter Kitt Shapiro now owns WEST, a very popular women’s shop, on Post Road East.
An older woman came into the store on Thursday. Her name was Joan Javits — and she co-wrote “Santa Baby,” all those years ago. (She’s 97 years old — though she sure doesn’t look it!)
Kitt Shapiro and Joan Javits, at WEST.
It may not be the Christmas miracle of 2,000 years ago.
But it’s still pretty amazing.
PS: Among the lyrics Eartha Kitt sang were:
Come and trim my Christmas tree
With some decorations bought at Tiffany’s.
I wonder if after leaving WEST, Joan Javits crossed the street and walked a few yards west.
To buy some decorations at — you know the rest.
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Since graduating from Staples High School in 1999 — as the Gatorade National High School Player of the Year — Kyle Martino has done many things.
He earned MLS Rookie of the Year honors, played alongside David Beckham, and made 8 appearances with the US men’s national team.
He was an NBC Sports analyst for the Premier League, and ran for US Soccer president.
Now Martino — who recently moved back to Westport — is a staunch advocate for bringing soccer to underserved communities and neighborhoods around the country.
He’s got a staunch ally: New York City’s next mayor, Zohran Mamdani. (He’s a huge soccer fan — and former player — himself. Click here for a cool story.)
The other day, Martino and Mamdani chatted about the city’s role in the world game — from access to all, to the upcoming World Cup. It was an intriguing discussion. Click here or below to listen in.
What’s better than the weekly Westport Farmers’ Market?
Two in a week!
Today (Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Gilbertie’s Herbs & Garden Center) is their annual Holiday Artist Market.
Over 30 local vendors — jewelers, woodworkers, potters — offer handcrafted gifts.
There’s coffee, carolers and more.
Including, of course, the usual farm favorites.
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Westport’s annual Holiday Giving Program supported more than 80 households and 154 children last year.
This year the need is greater: 167 children from over 90 households qualify for support.
Many Westport families struggle quietly with job loss, rising living costs, and unexpected hardships.
Many local parents work 2 jobs, while caring for young children without reliable childcare. After rent, utilities, babysitting and medical expenses, there is often nothing left for presents.
The Family-to-Family Holiday Giving Program provides modest gift cards that allow parents to choose gifts, and bring comfort and joy back into their homes.
Longtime Westport resident Hymie Malbin died peacefully on Tuesday, surrounded by his family. He was 98 years old.
At age 2, the native of Poland emigrated with his family to South Africa. Though he did not finish high school, his lack of formal education did not preclude his success.
Most family members still in Poland were killed in the Holocaust. Hymie joined the South African Zionist movement. In 1948 he joined volunteers and war refugees bound for the new state of Israel, a defining chapter in his life. Years later, on the 50th anniversary of Israel’s independence, he was honored by the IDF.
Hymie returned home to South Africa. In 1958 he founded a brassiere company, Charmfit. It expanded into companies that manufactured lingerie, dresses, handbags, leather goods and plastics, and became the largest toy manufacturer in South Africa. Charmfit went public in 1968.
In the late 1970s Hymie and his wife Marge made the difficult decision to emigrate to London, then several years later to Westport where their children and grandchildren thrived.
Their home was an anchor, welcoming friends and family from around the world.
While Hymie formally retired in his 50s, he never stopped working. He developed interests in real estate, building and flipping homes, and was actively engaged in the markets.
He learned to sculpt, and was an avid bridge and tennis player and golfer, and swam into his 90s.
Hymie is survived by Marge, his wife of 75 years; daughters Rochelle Malbin and Hazel Malbin Shulman (Stephen), son Peter, and grandchildren and great- grandchildren. He was predeceased by his son Jonathan Malbin.
Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo comes from Leigh Gage. She spotted this “large German shepherd-sized” creature mid-afternoon yesterday, on Manitou Road.
And finally … in honor of that amazing Eartha Kitt/Kitt Shapiro/Joan Javits/ WEST story (above):
(Joan Javits didn’t write it, so we will: “Santa baby, bring me readers who will click this link, and donate to this blog, wink wink … Of course, all the elves at “06880” thank you!)
1st Selectman Kevin Christie led the ceremony yesterday, accompanied by the Staples Orphenians, town poet laureate Donna Disch, and a small group of children who counted down the numbers.
The tree is in front of Town Hall, on Myrtle Avenue.
1st Selectman Kevin Christie leads the countdown …
… and poses with the Orphenians …
… ta da! (All photos/Dan Woog)
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The 85th annual Candlelight Concert is the Staples Music Department’s gift to the town. This year’s shows are Friday, December 12 (8 p.m.) and Saturday, December 13 (3 and 8 p.m.).
The always-hot tickets went on sale this morning at 9 a.m (www.StaplesMusic.org). They’re free — but donations to the Staples music program are greatly appreciated.
There are other ways to support our young musicians too. The poinsettias that decorate the stage can be ordered here, then picked up at the end of the final show.
Also available, at all performances: “Candlelight Cookies” from Alina’s. They’re just $6 — and each includes a coupon for a free cupcake. Click here to order.
Finally: Staples’ Tri-M Music Honor Society again sponsors “CanDelight” — a canned food donation drive benefiting the Homes for Hope food pantry. Collection bins will be in the lobby before every concert.
Poinsettias set the stage for Candlelight. (Photo/Dan Woog)
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Nearly every seat was filled last night, for the Westport Country Playhouse’s final Script in Hand reading of 2025.
“What The Constitution Means to Me” by Heidi Schreck was one of the most timely in the long-running and popular series.
The star, Nina Hellman, grew up in Westport and was a member of Staples Players. She now lives in Brooklyn with her husband Jeremy Shamos, who was also in the show.
Every audience member received a copy of the US Constitution. (Hat tips: Susan Garment and Dave Matlow)
The “Constitution” crew, Standing (from left) Liz Beatty (stage manager), Jocelyn Shek, Nina Hellman, Mark Shanahan (Playhouse artistic director), Amanda Charlton (director). Seated: Jeremy Shamos. (Photo/Dave Matlow)
New Yacht City’s tribute to music of the 1970s and ’80s — Steely Dan, Christopher Cross, Michael McDonald and more — rocks the VFW this Saturday.
Doors open at 6 p.m. The band comes on at 8. Tickets are $15 in advance, $20 at the door. Click here to purchase.
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The Westport Farmers’ Market winter location — Gilbertie’s Herbs & Garden Center — is warm and cozy.
It’s the perfect place for “Operation Warm Hug.” This Thursday and Saturday (December 4 and 6, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.), they’re collecting new and gently used coats, hats, mittens and gloves, for nOURish clients in Bridgeport.
All donations are “warmly” welcomed.
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Meanwhile, not far from the VFW, Railroad Place was closed temporarily yesterday morning.
A truck on the 1-way section of Franklin Street took down a utility pole, which landed on a car. There were no injuries.
Acoustic band On the Trail brings their bluegrass/contemporary pop/traditional blend of music to Voices Cafe this Saturday (December 6, 8 p.m., Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport).
Tickets for the “toe-tapping” show are $25. Click here to purchase, and for more information.
A Holiday Pop-Up Shop is set for December 10 (11 a.m. to 3 p.m.; The Residence at Westport, 1141 Post Road East).
It features pottery, jewelry and other gifts, all from local artisans.
The Residence at Westport.
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Guitarist Paul Bollenback and pianist Dave Kikoski highlight this week’s Jazz at the Post (Thursday, December 4; 7:30 p.m. and 8:45 p.m.; dinner at 7; VFW Post 399).
They’re joined by bassist Essiet Essiet, drummer Ryan Sands and saxophonisthttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b1DCWLJ4m8U Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall. Click here for tickets, and more information.
Former Staples High School basketball player Geoffrey Lavaty died November 3, at his Wilton home. He was 86.
The Bronx native grew up in Westport, and graduated with the Class of 1957.
After Rollins College he served for 2 years in the Army, then moved to New York. He sold radio time, then partnered with his father. Their firm — Frank and Jeff Lavaty Associates — represented commercial artists and illustrators, many of them from this area.
Jeff and Ebba Von Koch were married in 1968. They lived in New York and Wilton.
Jeff was an oil painter, displaying his work in local galleries and public buildings. He was also a skilled pool player, an avid freshwater fisherman, a fan of the New York Giants, Knicks, Fats Domino, Pavarotti and Cabernet Sauvignon.
He is survived by his wife; sisters Judy Strauss (Jeffrey) and Jane Cooke (Donald), and cousins, nieces and nephews. Services will be private.
Two Staples High School teams are headed to the state finals.
The boys soccer team was dominating, but scoreless, until 3 second-half goals — the first 2 just 41 seconds apart — lifted the #4-seeded Wreckers to a 3-0 win over #9 Hall-West Hartford, at Newtown High.
Noah Rossoni, Brendan Allen and Adrian Rodriguez tallied for the Wreckers, with assists from Gabe Duque and Josh Whitaker.
That sets up an intriguing championship rematch with Greenwich. The Cardinals — ranked 2nd in the state “LL” (extra large schools) division — handed Staples one of their only 2 defeats in their 21-2-0 season so far, coming from behind to win 4-3. The Westporters got revenge in the FCIAC final, by a 3-2 count.
Staples goes for its 13th state title, but first since 2009, this weekend at Hartford’s Trinity Health Stadium. The day and time will be announced today.
The Staples High School boys soccer team. (Photo/John Walker)
The field hockey team, meanwhile, shoots for its 3rd consecutive class “L” (large schools) state championship — and it will be their 3rd straight title match against Darien.
The top-seeded Wreckers edged #4 Fairfield Ludlowe in a shootout yesterday, at Brien McMahon High.
The teams were deadlocked 1-1 after 2 overtimes. Each side made 1 of their first 5 shootout attempts. Leah Larit got the game-winner for Staples, in sudden death.
The Wreckers and Blue Wave face off Saturday, at Wethersfield High School. Game time will be announced today.
While the Westport Fire Department’s annual Share the Warmth Coat Drive continues through November 30, they just learned that Bridgeport Rescue Mission is in urgent need of food for their Thanksgiving Food Drive.
Our firefighters have stepped up once again. And they’re asking our community to join them in helping fulfill their mission.
Non-perishable food items can be dropped at fire headquarters (515 Post Road East) and Town Hall through November 19. Monetary donations can be made to the Westport Firefighters Charitable Foundation. 100% of all those funds will be used to purchase turkeys.
In addition, firefighters are looking for new coats for the A Better Chance of Westport house: 3 men’s medium, 3 men’s large. For more information, call 203-451-2695.
One of the best shopping events of the year — for yourself or others — returns next month.
The Westport Library Big Fall Book Sale takes place December 5-8.
There are thousands of “gently used” books in over 50 categories, plus vintage children’s and antiquarian titles, audiobooks, CDs, vinyl, DVDs, ephemera and framed artworks. Admission is free (except for those purchasing an early access ticket, for 8:45 a.m. to noon, December 5).
A link to our Featured Specials list is available on the Book Sale’s website, at www.westportbooksaleventures.org/our-events. This list will be updated periodically during the weeks leading up to the sale.
The “06880”/Westport Downtown Association Holiday Stroll is still 3 1/2 weeks away.
But 2 dozen merchants and vendors have already signed up for giveaways, promotions and more.
The 5th annual event (December 6, 4 to 7 p.m., Main Street and beyond) features all kinds of family fun, from Orphenians caroling to Santa Claus, face painting and much more.
Nômade returns with their much-loved s’mores. Savvy + Grace will again be North Pole center, for kids’ letters to Santa (all get answered!).
Toy Post offers small gifts for children. Adults will enjoy holiday cheer at Clarendon Fine Art and Lux Bond & Green; 20% off at Kerri Rosenthal; $50 off $150 or ore at Southern Tide, and $25 off per dress at Bella Bridesmaids.
There are many more promotions to come. Businesses interested in participating in the Holiday Stroll can email Huong Belpedio: operations@westportdowntownassociation.com.
The Staples Orphenians: always a Holiday Stroll hit.
Speaking of the holidays: Ashley Skatoff was a Westport Farmers’ Market board member. But she wanted to do even more, to help farmers and vendors.
An idea that simmered for a long time has finally launched. Modern Farm Kitchen delivers weekly from the WFM, direct to homes.
The menu includes dairy and cheese, basics, meats, seafood, veggies and fruits, breads, baked goods and more.
A soft launch this summer went well. Now, Skatoff has created a holiday list. Categories range from pantry, healing and prevention, home spa and pets to cozy luxury, “H-artists” and gift bundles. She can guide customers to liquor, too.
She calls them “truly luxurious goods — grown, crafted, created and hyper-local to Westport. I feel like we can live as if were are in Italy, with amazing products right here in our very special town.” She takes the “hunting and gathering” out of it, offering items directly to residents.
She does not add a fee on top of the farmers, vendors and artists. “These are all super small businesses trying so hard to get their products to us,” Skatoff says. MFK charges only $35 for finding, shopping across vendors, organizing into 1 order, and delivering to the door.
Skatoff stresses, “This is not an online store. To order, you have to pick up the phone and talk to me.” She will make sure customers get what they want, and “create a connection for them to follow up if they want to.”
The tag line is: “Give LOVE. Not stuff.” She says here gifts are “perfect for teachers, neighbors, friends, gift exchanges, relatives. They are also beautiful to send and give a little Westport to faraway friends.
There are 100 billion trillion stars in the observable universe.
But only a limited number of Westport Astronomical Society 2026 calendars. They feature spectacular images (including a few of those stars from WAS photographers), along with daily astronomical data.
Project Sunshine delivers “the healing power of play” to children with medical needs.
While volunteers must be 18 to visit children in hospitals, high school clubs contribute through fundraising and packing “activity kits,” designed by child life specialists for children with medical challenges.
The first high school club started at Staples. There are now 24 Project Sunshine clubs, in 8 states. They’ve packed hundreds of activity kits, raised funds for resources, and helped spread awareness about the organization.
High school students nationwide are encouraged to start their own Project Sunshine clubs. If you know someone interested in launching a Project Sunshine club, click here.
And finally … in honor of the Westport Astronomical Society’s 2026 calendar (story above):
(“06880” is where Westport meets the world … and the universe. If you feel connected to others through our hyper-local app, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
If you like “Shark Tank,” you’ll love Westport Start-up’s first-ever Pitch Competition.
Five finalists — out of 77 applicants — will compete for $25,000 in non-dilutive funding November 20 (6 p.m., Westport Library).
The judges — all Westport-based venture capitalists — will evaluate live pitches from early-stage companies that have spent month refining their businesses, through mentorship and coaching, including Start-up Westport, the local public/private partnership of innovators and entrepreneurs.
Those finalists are:
Chroma Shield– Medical device technology
Mirabelle Medical– Women’s breast health technology
But the biggest indication that the seasons are changing is the move of the Westport Farmers’ Market from outdoors on Imperial, to its winter indoor location at Gilbertie’s Herbs & Garden Center (7 Sylvan Lane).
The first date is November 20. Every Thursday, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the greenhouses will be filled with fresh, locally sourced produce and prepared foods.
Also on tap: kids’ activities, music, food trucks, and holiday pop-ups.
New this year: Once-a-month Saturday markets, beginning December 6.
In response to community feedback, WFM is also excited to expand the market with the addition of once-per-month Saturday markets (December 6th, January 3, February 7, March 7).
A pre-Thanksgiving market is set for Tuesday, November 25 (the WFM is closed on that holiday). Featured items include fresh produce, meats, desserts, flowers, pet food and more.
How do young Westporters learn the importance of Veterans Day?
By doing what the Cub Scouts of Pack 39 did on Sunday.
Working with Phil Delgado and Patty Kondub of Westport VFW Post 399, 4th grade Webelos Scouts visited Christ & Holy Trinity Cemetery on Kings Highway North. Very carefully, they placed flags at veterans’ graves.
Those flags provide a vivid, patriotic background today, as we honor all the men and women who served.
Yesterday’s “recanvass” of 3 Representative Town Meeting (RTM) election results — those decided by 20 votes or less — did not change any results.
It did cut Kristin Schneeman’s winning margin for the 4th and final District 9 seat from 3 votes to 2, over Sal Liccione. Both are incumbents.
When it was over, the loser congratulated and embraced the winner. As John Suggs — who was there at Town Hall — notes, “a real class act on Sal’s part!”
Kristin Schneeman and Sal Liccione. (Photo/John Suggs)
Sustainable Westport takes their mission seriously.
And means much more than just composting, recycling and electric vehicles.
This weekend, the non-profit teams up with the Senior Center and Westport woman’s Club to collect lightly used durable medical equipment, to support Wheel It Forward.
Crutches, canes, wheelchairs, walkers, knee scooters, shower tub seats, toilet risers, new commodes and unopened disposable items can be dropped off at the Woman’s Club (44 Imperial Avenue), on Saturday, November 15 (8 to 10 a.m. and 2 to 4 p.m.) and Sunday, November 16 (11 a.m. to 1 p.m.).
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A new documentary about World War II journalist Sigrid Schultz — a longtime Westport resident — is nearing completion.
“Eyes on Evil” chronicles Schultz’s remarkable career covering the rise and fall of Nazi Germany — from the liberated exuberance of Weimar Berlin to Hitler’s ascent and the devastating aftermath.
It includes the years during the war when Schultz returned to the US and settled in Westport, after being injured in a British bombing raid on Berlin. She launched a nationwide lecture tour to warn Americans about the growing threat of Hitler’s regime.
In 1945 she was among a small group of reporters to cover the liberation of the Buchenwald concentration camp.
The film is directed by Vanessa Johnston, an award-winning documentary filmmaker and former Reuters producer based in Washington. She made several trips to Westport, including an interview with historian John Suggs.
Congratulations to the Westport Police Department, and Officer Dominque Carr.
The WPD recently earned a Gold Traffic Safety Award from AAA Northeast. Only 12 police departments in the state received the honor, presented to communities that have implement programs and projects that have an active safety committee, and for efforts in education, engineering and enforcement, along with other statistical measures of success
Carr — a member of the WPD traffic enforcement division — was recognized for his efforts as a “traffic safety leader.”
From left: Officer Dominque Carr, Captain Eric Woods, Lieutenant Sereniti Dobson.
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“The A Chronicles 10-Minute Play Festival” — “bold, funny and fearless short dramas” by 9 playwrights, selected from over 350 submissions — runs for 2 performances on November 19 (2 and 7 p.m., at MoCA\CT).
The A Chronicles stages live theatrical events around reproductive rights—”amplifying voices, disrupting narratives to fuel real conversations.”
But an albino squirrel — like today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature (spotted across the border in Weston — that’s one in 100,000, says photographer Andy Berliner.
(Photo/Andy Berliner)
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And finally … to all the men and women who have served our country, so bravely and so well, for so long:
Candidates — and their relatives — were out early at polling places around Westport. This was the scene at 6:20 a.m. at the Westport Library, where District 9 votes:
Pippa Bell Ader’s pots, to be clear. And her friends’ pots, at the Silvermine School of Art.
Just make a donation to the Green Village Initiative — the Bridgeport-based urban gardening and farming non-profit — at the Thursday market (November 6, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Imperial Avenue parking lot).
The 18th annual AmFab Open Studios — celebrating Bridgeport’s thriving creative community — is a free event (November 8-9, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.), offering visitors the chance to explore studios, learn about artist’s processes, and purchase original works.
Among the artists with ties to Westport are Jay Petrow, Eric Chiang, Holly Hawthorn, Kelly Rossetti, Joe Floto, Janet Slom, Janine Brown, Joanie Landau and Dale Najarian.
Other activities include live music, gourmet cookies, an art museum bus for kids and families, a build-your-own-notebook workshop, raffle, and food and coat drive for the Bridgeport Rescue Mission.
The always-interesting Westport Astronomical Society’s free online lecture series continues November 18 (8 p.m., Zoom and YouTube).
MIT Professor Sara Seager will speak on “From Lab to Cosmos: 3 Frontiers in the Search for Signs of Life Beyond Earth.”
A MacArthur “genius grant” recipient, her ground-breaking research ranges from the foundation of exoplanet atmospheres and innovative theories about life on other worlds, to development of novel space mission concepts. She currently leads the Morning Star Missions to Venus to search for signs of life (or life itself) in the Venus clouds.
Yesterday’s Roundup announced the Staples Service League of Boys’ 3-v-3 basketball fundraiser. Proceeds go to Staples Tuition Grants — a very worthy cause for the teens — in memory of their friend Perrin Delorey.
The November 21 event (6 p.m.) includes pizza. Registration is $25 per participant; Venmo @jhgillman.
But you don’t have to play hoops — or even go — to help. Businesses that donate by November 15 (click here) will be included in the event posters. Their names will also be included in an email to all 275+ SLOBS, and an Instagram post.
Some changes are in store for this week’s Jazz at the Post (Thursday; 7:30 and 8:45 p.m. shows; dinner at 7; VFW Post 399).
Reserved seating returns. So are dinner reservations for ticket holders.
Thursday’s featured artist is drummer Steve Johns. He’s joined by vocalist and vibist Mone Croft, guitarist John Hart, pianist Greg Murphy, bassist Joris Teepe, and saxophonist Greg Wall.
Staples High School Class of 1969 graduate Thomas Krygier died peacefully on October 17, with his daughters by his side. He had battled health conditions for several years. He was 74.
Growing up he played hockey on Bulkley Pond, and lifeguarded at Compo Beach. He captained the football, ice hockey and baseball teams before tearing his ACL as a senior.
Tom was the first member of his family to attend college. He earned a bachelor of science degree from Southern Connecticut State University, and a master’s of art from Fairfield University.
Tom worked at Burndy Corporation in Norwalk, then moved on to multi-national corporations in California and North Carolina. He ran national sales divisions, selling electronic connectors for the aviation and biotech industries as well as the US military.
He moved home to help when his father fell ill, then back again to help his mother after he retired.
Tom worked at Longshore, as a junior golf instructor. He got a hole-in-one at that course too.
He loved working outside, walking at Compo Beach, bird and deer hunting, salt and freshwater fishing, riding bikes, skiing, and riding his motorcycle up the California coast (until he broke his collarbone).
Tom is survived by his daughters Erin and Wendy, and granddaughter Hana. His memorial service will be held Saturday (November 8, 2025, 11 a.m., Shaughnessey Banks Funeral Home, Fairfield).
Friends and family are invited to a 1 p.m. at the Westport VFW.
Tom Krygier
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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” image is as beautiful as it gets.
(Photo/Dayle Brownstein)
Dayle Brownstein snapped it through the large windows at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport.
“Now, this is a spiritual experience,” she writes.
And finally … in honor of the Westport Astronomical Society’s upcoming “Life Beyond Earth” talk:
(Did you vote today? That’s the most important thing. Way down the list — but hopefully you can get to it — is clicking here to support “06880,” your blog that will report tonight’s results. Thank you!)
Still undecided about the local election? Want one more chance to confirm your choices?
Tonight, the 1st selectman and Planning & Zoning Commission candidates face off at the Westport Library (6:30 p.m.), for their final debates.
The League of Women Voters event also includes statements from the 2nd selectwoman candidates.
Co-sponsors are the Y’s Men, Y’s Women, and Westport Rotary and Sunshine Rotary Clubs.
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WWPT-FM — Staples High School’s groundbreaking radio station — always does well in the John Drury Awards, for schools across the country.
But this past weekend, they did really well.
‘PT won the top award: Best High School Radio Station in the nation, for 2024-25.
It’s not the first time. WWPT also won in 2011, 2017 and 2018. Congratulations to advisor Geno Heiter, and the many students — some graduated, many still there — who contributed to the honor.
But wait. There’s more. Much more!
‘PT won 2 other 1st-place trophies:
Best Use of Video (WWPT/Staples Television)” Game Break: Highlights & Hype” Promo (Ryan Allen)
Best Newscast: “From Headlines to Harvest” (Jack Jacob, Isabel Alfageme).
There were 7 2nd-place honors too:
Best News Feature Story: “Payment Due” (Max Benke)
Best Public Affairs Program: “Zoning, Policy and Opportunity: A Look at Westport (Charlie Curran, Michael Brennan)
Best DJ: Charlie Curran
Best Station Promo: “The Voice of Now” (Vivian Schmidt, Mia McDonald)
Best PSA: “Do the Work” (Jack Jacob, Isabel Alfageme, Max McAuley)
Best Sports Play-by-Play: Boys Basketball, Staples vs. Fairfield Warde (Weston Hochhauser, Jake Goldshore)
Best Radio Drama: “A Tree Grows in Brooklyn” (Theater 3, Eva Slossberg, and Audio and Radio Class)
Added to that haul were 3 3rd-place awards:
Best Sports Talk Show: “Beyond the Arc 5/21” (Michael Brennan, Mickey Ross, Nathan Bernstein, Finn Rockwell, Sam DiGiovanni, Drew Hill)
Best Sportscast (“From Aces to MVPs: May 27 Sports Rundown” (Mason Tobias)
Best Newscast: “Contracts, Caregivers and Canines” (Charlie Curran)
If you haven’t tuned in: You can find WWPT-FM at 90.3. Make it a pre-set!
Quite a haul, for WWPT-FM. (Photo/Geno Heiter)
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More champions!
The Staples boys soccer team earned their record-with-no-one-else-even-close 28th FCIAC (league) championship last night.
Their gritty 3-2 win over previously undefeated (17-0-0) Greenwich avenged a 4-3 loss to the Cardinals during the regular season.
A large crowd at Fairfield Warde saw the Wreckers prevail, with goals from Adrian Rodriguez (2) and Brendan Allen; excellent defense by Spencer Girling (Most Valuable Player of the match), Dylan Shackelford, Gabe Hellman, Adrian Carpi and Drew Hill; stellar saves by goalkeeper Jack D’Amore, and great chemistry and spirit from all.
Staples — now 17-2-0 — moves on to the state tournament. It begins Friday (2 p.m., Wakeman Field).
Speaking of congratulations for Staples athletes: Shout-out to Oliver Samuel!
The Staples senior not only won the class “LL” (extra large schools) state cross country championship on Saturday — he did it by a whopping 17 seconds.
Samuel’s time at Manchester’s Wickham Park was 16:12.1. It was a stunning triumph, as he finished 13th in the FCIAC championship just a few days earlier.
Teammates Harrison Sydor (9th), Luke Cooper (11th), Maxwell Benke (28th) and Samuel Burmeister (34th) were the Wreckers’ other top finishers.
Staples captured second place overall, behind Greenwich.
Click here or below, for an interesting interview with Samuel.
State Senator Ceci Maher sends along another. This has details on more services — including unemployment benefits, help with utility bills, mental health resources, etc. — available to all Connecticut residents.
Speaking of the shutdown: The New York Post recently featured a furloughed IRS lawyer who now operates a hot dog cart. (“Frankly, it’s his dream job,” the Post chuckles.)
The attorney-turned-street vendor is Isaac Stein. He graduated from Staples High School in 2012, after serving as Inklings web editor, and playing basketball.
His “Shysters” cart sells candy and cola, in addition to dogs.
Stein told the Post that running a business like this has been a dream since he was 12, and worked at a basketball concession stand. Click here for the full story.(Hat tip: Julia McNamee)
Isaac Stein, and his hot dog cart. (Photo courtesy of Reuters)
Lots of stuff gets stolen in Westport: cars from driveways. Checks from mailboxes. Benches from front lawns.
But this recent theft seems particularly eerie. Yesterday, Leah Bottner wrote on Facebook: “Somebody stole a few of my Halloween decorations last night from my stone wall on Easton Road. The little skeleton who sits on our wall, and our zombie!
“If anyone happens to know anything about this, please return our friends, no questions asked. You can just put them back or leave them anywhere at our house, no cameras or trouble.
“We just really want them back, especially our zombie. He’s a member of the family.”
Curbside leaf collection begins next Monday (November 3).
All leaves must be placed in biodegradable paper bags safely near the curb of a town street by December 1 to guarantee pick-up. Leaves placed in plastic bags will not be picked up, as plastic contaminates the composting process.
Residents living on private streets must place their leaves behind the curb of an intersecting town roadway.
There is no need to call and schedule a pick-up. Crews will complete pick-ups as schedules allow.
For further information, contact the Department of Public Works (203-341-1120), or click here.
Speaking of organic waste: What will you do after Halloween, with your suddenly obsolete pumpkin?
For the 6th year in a row, the Westport Farmers’ Market and nonprofit Action Waste Solutions is sponsoring a Great Pumpkin Toss.
Bring your leftover pumpkin(s) to the Market (November 6, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Imperial Avenue parking lot). It’s a fun, family-friendly way to fight food waste and support sustainability, by diverting pumpkins from landfill.
Instead, unwanted pumpkins become rich compost, for soils and gardens.
Participants can “toss” their pumpkin into the compost bin at the Farmers’ Market.
All pumpkins and gourds in their natural state are accepted. Squishy and/or rotted ones are fine. NOTE: Decorated or painted pumpkins cannot be composted.
Last year, 1.4 tons of pumpkin waste were diverted from the landfill through the Great Pumpkin Toss. The goal this year: Beat that record!
Sunday’s story on the ages of Westport houses — which also included information about our upcoming “Historic Homes of 06880” tour — neglected to include a link for tickets to this Sunday’s event (November 2, 1 to 4 p.m.).
There are 4 great homes: 221 and 249 Greens Farms Road, plus 155 Long Lots Road and 209 Wilton Road. You’ll get a chance to walk through these historic houses — 2 of whom belonged to the famed Bedford family — and see how they’ve been updated for today, while still retaining yesterday’s beauty and charm.
Clarendon Fine Art welcomes art lovers — and kids — this fall.
On Wednesday (October 29, 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.), the Main Street gallery hosts young trick-or-treaters, as part of the Westport Downtown Association’s Halloween event.
On November 13 (5:30 p.m.), a talk on art heists — “brushes” with the law (ho ho) explores some of the most daring thefts (and forgeries) in history.
From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. — like every Thursday from May to November — the Imperial Avenue parking lot will be filled with shoppers.
Moms with strollers, seniors with walkers, folks who work downtown — and everyone else — will find the ripest berries, freshest sourdough, sweetest honey, tastiest mushrooms and most fragrant flowers around.
(Photo/Quinn Fitts)
They’ll buy produce, meat and dog food, for home. They’ll get lunch too: pizza, Thai food, empanadas.
They’ll listen to music. They’ll learn about local non-profits. They’ll even get their knives sharpened.
A small part of the big scene. (Photo/Matt Murray)
It’s a farmer’s market on steroids (organic ones, of course). (Just kidding!)
And it’s been going for 20 years.
From humble beginnings in the Westport Country Playhouse (thank you, Paul Newman and Michel Nischan) to its much larger, but still down home and funky, version today, the Farmers’ Market is one of our town’s true gems.
It doesn’t magically appear, Brigadoon-like every Thursday. (Don’t forget the winter version, every week at Gilbertie’s Herbs & Garden Center, from November through March.)
Fatto a Mano, at the indoor Farmers’ Market.
The Westport Farmers’ Market blooms because of hard work. Executive director Lori Cochran and her small staff do a spectacular job — behind the scenes 6 days a week, then front and center on Thursday.
The volunteers and musicians deserve a huge hand too.
But of course the Farmers’ Market would be nothing without its dozens of farmers and other vendors. From their fields, kitchens, beehives and other work spaces, to the Imperial Avenue and Gilbertie’s stalls: Thank you!
You are our unsung — but much admired and important — heroes of this (and every) week.
Executive director Lori Cochran, with Fire Chief (and Farmers’ Market regular) Nick Marsan.
(“06880” is proud to honor Unsung Heroes — and tell many other tales of town too. Please click here to support your hyper-local blog.)
Just in time for today’s Westport Farmers’ Market (Thursday, Imperial Avenue parking lot, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.), there’s a fresh look and expanded offerings for their very popular “Get Growing” children’s programs.
With more young visitors than ever, the WFM has added new (and sturdy) tables and chairs, creating a welcoming space for creativity and learning.
Since starting on a blanket 7 years ago, the kids’ area has grown steadily. A Drew Friedman Foundation donation has made several upgrades — and the entire program — possible.
Get Growing’s hands-on activities keep children engaged, while helping them connect with local farmers, businesses and the greater community.
Weekly craft sessions help children understand the importance of supporting small, sustainable farms, as they explore and express their creativity.
Programming over the coming weeks includes:
Kids’ yoga
Create Grow Flow – Sound bath and Reiki
Mud & Nature Kitchen – Hands-on outdoor play
Earth place activities
Apple Blossom and Housatonic Valley Waldorf School programming.
When there is not a guest host, Mae Farrell will continue to lead creative fun, through arts and crafts projects.
Several area organizations are preparing for a large-scale mass casualty drill.
The September 16 event (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.) will test the ability of local Emergency Medical Services, hospitals and volunteer organizations — including the Community Emergency Response Team, Medical Reserve Corps, American Red Cross and State Animal Rescue Team — to respond to and manage a simulated disaster scenario.
Members of the Westport Astronomical Society’s amateur radio station K1WAS will join the Connecticut Amateur Radio Emergency Service, Aspetuck and Trumbull Health Districts, and area police, fire and EMS groups in the drill.
Sherwood Island State Park will be part of the “incident command.”
The 2022 Staples High School graduate — now a senior, and a star on the Johns Hopkins University soccer team — is one of just 20 student-athletes nationwide chosen for the 2025-26 Fall Allstate NACDA Good Works Team. The honor recognizes exceptional community service.
Scotty is fundraising chair for Baltimore Scores in STEM. The program provides scholarships and mentorships to students pursuing education in science, technology, engineering or math.
Scotty — a dean’s list student majoring in neuroscience — is also a research assistant at Johns Hopkins’ Department of Pediatrics and Center for Psychedelics and Consciousness Research.
Speaking of student-athletes: TOPSoccer — the program for youngsters with physical or learning differences — returns for a fall season. It follows a successful reboot last spring.
Blake Serotta — a freshman player at Staples — leads the program, in conjunction with the Weston Soccer Club and Westport Soccer Association.
TOPSoccer is open to boys and girls in grades K-8. High schoolers are welcome as volunteers and buddies.
The program runs Saturdays from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Morehouse Farm Park in Weston, from September 13 through October 25. Click here to register, and for more information. Questions? Email blake.serotta@gmail.com.
The Department of Public Works’ annual roadway crack seal program begins Friday. It will involved up to 10 miles of roads throughout town, and will last 2 weeks.
Traffic will not be detoured, but alternating 1-way flow will be used around the continually moving work zone. The roadways will be open for two-way traffic as the work crew progresses.
Crack sealing
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Singer/songwriter/2007 Staples High School graduate Drew Angus’ first single comes out tomorrow.
Drew says, “‘Patterns’ is self-reflection, an acknowledgement of bad habits and traps I’ve let myself fall into when the going gets tough and sticking through seems impossible.
“I think it’s a pretty universal feeling for a relationship in just beyond the infatuation phase. ‘Patterns’ also takes on another meaning for me: that of the completely independent artist knocked around plenty, but too stubborn to give up.
“Well, I can confirm I’ll be here making art and writing songs until the pen runs out of ink.”
The track includes drummer Fred Eltringham (Sheryl Crow) keyboardist Billy Justineau (Eric Church, Maggie Rose), and Drew on acoustic guitar, and lead and backing vocals.
For a decade, Circle of Care has hosted a 5K run/walk in Wilton. The event supports Connecticut families facing childhood cancer, with practical, emotional and financial help.
This year, the event moves to Sherwood Island State Park.
The timed 5K for runners and joggers, untimed walk for all abilities, and other activities for all ages takes place Sunday, September 28 (9 a.m.). To learn more and register, click here.
Former Westporter Douglas Moser has just published “James & Jim” — a “darkly comic thriller.”
Set in this area, and Manhattan’s “ruthless corporate towers,” it “plunges readers into the cutthroat world of management consulting in 2007 — just before the financial crash and tech revolution …. it’s a world where ambition turns deadly, success has a body count, and the rules are made to be broken.”
Moser was named artistic director of the Boston Post Road Stage Company in Fairfield and Westport at age 26. His adaptation of “A Christmas Carol” played sold out theaters for 2 years, and won the Connecticut Critics’ Circle Award. He has directed regionally and in New York, including an opera debut at Lincoln Center.
MaryEllen Hendricks is this month’s Westport Book Shop guest exhibitor.
The photos on display come from her book “Thin Places Project,” in which she captures “the spiritual dimensions of the physical world.” She uses antique lenses, toy cameras, and other old and new technologies.
A reception is set for September 20 (6 to 7:30 p.m.). All artwork is available for purchase.
And finally … congratulations to Drew Angus, on his new release “Patterns.”
He’s too young to remember, but:
(Whew! We crammed a ton o’ stuff in again today. But that’s how we roll. A Roundup of everything, every day. If you appreciate our hard work, please click here to support “06880.” Thanks!)
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