The Westport Downtown Association picked the perfect fall Saturday for their 9th annual Westoberfest. A large crowd enjoyed beer, food, beer, music, beer, kids’ activities, beer, non-profit giveaways and much more, all around Elm Street downtown.
On the other hand, the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce picked the wrong Saturday — last week — for their 14th annual Slice of Saugatuck.
It was rained out. But they pivoted to today. A similarly large crowd enjoyed food, music, food, bounce houses, food and merchant giveaways, in the “slice” of Saugatuck from Riverside Avenue and Railroad Place to Saugatuck Avenue.
Here are a few scenes. First, the Slice of Saugatuck:
Little guy with a big smile, and an even bigger fire truck.
Serving up samples at Tutti’s.
Beer and wine on Railroad Place, served up by local notables.
Patty Kondub passes out sliders — with a smile — at the VFW.
Who doesn’t love a bounce house?
And now, Westoberfest:
What’s a Westoberfest without lederhosen?
Dozens of beers, from a variety of brewers.
Unleashing her creativity, in the kids’ zone.
The stage is set for an afternoon of music.
Sure, Westoberfest is all about beer. But don’t forget pumpkins!
If you move fast, there’s still time to enjoy these great community events. Both run until 5 p.m.
PS: The Slice and Westoberfest were not all that’s going on.
Compass realtors showed off their new offices. They’ve reimagined the old Patagonia store.
For decades before that, it was Westport Bank & Trust. The huge vault and historic WPA murals are still there.
Meanwhile, this is the 2nd floor view from what was once the bank president’s office.
(All photos/Dan Woog)
(If something is happening in Westport, you’ll read about it — before, during and/or afterward — on “06880.” But we can’t do it without readers’ help. Please click here to support us. Thank you!)
There’s been a change to tonight’s (Thursday) Parks & Recreation Department forum on beach resiliency.
The 6:30 p.m. event — to discuss existing site conditions, potential beach profiles, and anticipated regulatory requirements — had been scheduled for Town Hall.
Sunny weather is predicted for this Saturday’s Slice of Saugatuck.
The event — postponed by last weekend’s nor’easter — runs from 2 to 5 p.m.
The family friendly event features food tastings, retail experiences, 7 bands, 4 bouncy houses, a balloon bender, face painter, antique fire truck as well 2 beer/wine gardens and more.
The price is $15 per adult, kids under 13 remains $5, with age 5 and under free. Only credit card or electronic payment will be accepted. All tickets are sold on site.
If it’s October, it’s time for a … Halloween story.
The Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce’s annual Halloween Window Painting Contest is set for Saturday, October 24 (9 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
Merchants offer their windows for painting. Kids paint them. There are prizes (gift certificates), and everyone enjoys the kids’ work. There’s no trick — what a treat!
Youngsters can request a window, or have one assigned to them. Painters supply their own water-based paint, drop clothes and brushes (and clean up when they’re done).
There are different age groups, for elementary and middle schoolers. Prizes are awarded for:
Two more great entertainers have been added to the lineup for Saturday’s Westport Country Playhouse gala.
Tamar Greene — Broadway’s longest-running George Washington in “Hamilton” — and Patty McCormack (“The Bad Seed”) join Santino Fontana, Dan Lauria, Wendie Malick, Javier Muñoz, James Naughton, Kelli O’Hara, and NaTasha Yvette Williams.
All will salute productions that have gone “from the page to the stage” at the Playhouse, since its founding in 1931.
A free “PopShop Market” pops up Saturday (October 3, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Westport Museum for History & Culture).
Independent boutiques, makers, designers and artisans offer women’s fashion, jewelry, accessories, vintage finds, home goods, gifts and more. See below for a full vendors’ list.
================================================
Westport Police made 1 custodial arrest between September 23 and 29.
A 38-year-old Brooklyn man was charged with larceny and identity theft, following an investigation into a 2025 complaint of a fraudulent wire transfer of $89,000.He was held on a $100,000 bond.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Traveling unreasonably fast: 9 citations
Failure to obey state traffic commission regulations: 6
Failure to renew registration: 5
Texting while driving: 3
Unreadable plates: 1
Failure to obey stop sign: 1
Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
Failure to obey traffic control signals: 1
===============================================
There was plenty of food in the bird feeder.
But this guy couldn’t get it. So he’s looking elsewhere for a meal. Or to stock up for winter.
We’re impressed with 2 things, in today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature: His agility.
Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce officials announced this morning that the 14th annual event will be postponed.
The new date is Saturday, October 3 (2 to 5 p.m.).
The Chamber says, “After consultations with the Fire Department and the National Weather Service, the potential for rain, high winds and flooding has made it clear that postponing the event is the safest and most responsible decision for our attendees, vendors, performers, and volunteers.
“After 10 straight Slice events without rain, this is the 4th year in a row the festival will be rescheduled.
The family friendly event features food tastings, retail experiences, 7 bands, 4 bouncy houses, a balloon bender, face painter, antique fire truck as well 2 beer/wine gardens and more.
The price will again be $15 per adult, kids under 13 remains $5, with age 5 and under free. Only credit card or electronic payment will be accepted. All tickets are sold on site.
The Chamber has donated $60,000 to the Gillespie Center’s food pantry from proceeds from the prior events. This year will push towards the $65,000 mark.
Posted onMay 18, 2026|Comments Off on Dog Day Afternoon (And Morning)
Hundreds of man’s best friends fetched their humans to Winslow Park yesterday.
The 10th annual Dog Festival was blessed with the best weather in months.
The guests of honor were blessed with an obstacle course, contests, treats, and the chance to sniff more other dogs (and people) than they ever dreamed possible.
“06880” photographer Quinn Fitts trotted down to the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce event.
Though every dog has its day, she unfortunately could not capture all of them. Here are some favorites:
(If it’s a story involving humans or animals — or the beach, a bridge, or anything else in town — you’ll read all about it on “06880.” We rely on reader support, so please click here to help. Thank you!)
An update on the AWARE event May 30: The acronym stands for Assisting Women Through Action, Resources and Education. Each year the organization selects a women’s cause, then partners with a charity to benefit it. Through a fundraiser, hands-on activity and educational event, AWARE shines a light on a different meaningful women’s issue.
This year, they’re working with Susie’s House.
The 124 Compo Road North residence is run by Homes with Hope. Named for former director Susie Basler, it provides stable, affordable living for 6 young women ages 18 to 24 who are homeless, or at risk of homelessness.
Susie’s House helps resident get back on their feet through education and employment, eventually moving on to independent living. Each woman has a mentor, community support and case management.
The goal for this event is to raise $12,000 in educational scholarships — $2,000 for each of the 6 women. Grants go toward educational expenses such as 4-year or community college, driving classes or professional training.
Pop-Up Bagels and Granola Bar will provide brunch. Local experts will offer gardening tips. And 2 women graduating from college will be celebrated too.
And area residents can get ready, at a special event with Wakeman Town Farm, Blau House & Garden, and the Connecticut chapter of the American Rhododendron Society.
On Sunday, May 17 (10 a.m., Wakeman Town Farm)Melissa Finley, senior curator at the New York Botanical Garden, will speak on “Rhododendrons: From Wild Roots to Modern Blooms.”
Guests then head to Blau House — the spectacular garden off Bayberry Lane — for a private tour.
For nearly 20 years, the Staples High School boys lacrosse team has sponsored a “Sticks for Soldiers” game. 100% of funds raised go to a military veteran who was injured in combat.
This year’s honoree is Master Sergeant (ret.) Joseph Deslauriers. The Massachusetts native and Silver Star recipient lost one arm and both legs, and suffered a traumatic brain injury and PTSD after stepping on an IED in Afghanistan.
The game is May 19 (5 p.m., Paul Lane Field) against Wilton — an important one.
A custom store is open, for special shirts and hats that youth players and families can wear to the game. $8 from each sale will also be donated to Sgt. Deslauriers. Sales close tonight!
Speaking of Staples: Congratulations to Elijah Falkenstein and Zander Bauer!
The 2 seniors are winners of the Connecticut Bar Association’s Ralph J. Monaco Memorial Award for excellence in civics education and civic engagement.
They were recognized at the annual Law Day Ceremony last week, at the Connecticut Appellate Court in Hartford. Each student received a $1,000 grant.
The honor is presented to one or more Connecticut high school students who demonstrate a significant commitment to advancing civic engagement, civics education, and/or the rule of law. .
The pair co-founded the first Connecticut chapter of the national non-profit Make Our Schools Safe. It empowers students and staff to help create a culture of safety and vigilance, while advocating for laws that promote safer schools.
Last year, Zander and Elijah testified before the state legislature, for a bill calling for installation of silent panic alarms directly linked to law enforcement, which dramatically reduces response time. The legislation passed.
This year they traveled to Washington. They advocated for passage of Alyssa’s Act, which would set national standards for emergency response systems.
Elijah Falkenstein and Zander Bauer with “Stop the Bleed” kits — another project of the Make Our Schools Safe club.
=================================================
The Clubhouse has everything: golf and other sports simulators. A bar and restaurant. Karaoke. A rooftop lounge.
Plus speed dating.
A special event is set for May 13, 7 to 9 p.m.). It includes a casual mixer kickoff, guided conversational ice-breakers, and a “simple matching system.” Mutual matches receive contact information the next day.
It’s advertised for singles ages 35-49. But, organizers — the private Sips & Sparks group — say, “it’s not a strict rule. If you feel like you’d vibe with this crowd, you’re welcome to join. Our goal is to create a well-balanced group where connections actually make sense.”
For its first 9 years, the Dog Festival has advertised itself with yard signs, a banner at the Winslow Park site, emails, and (of course) mentions on “06880.”
This year, the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce — the hard-working sponsors — add YouTube (and AI) into the mix.
The host Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce has produced a short, cute video starring “Wrex” (a play on Staples Wreckers, and a typical dog’s name).
Click here or below to view. But if you need another reminder: It’s next Sunday (May 17, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Winslow Park).
A reader near Clinton Avenue has safety concerns. He writes:
“Drivers routinely exceed the speed limit, with the 2 existing speed humps proving far too low to serve as an effective deterrent. Motorists fail to stop at the stop sign further down the street.
“There are no sidewalks, forcing children, walkers, cyclists and pet owners to share the road with speeding traffic. Clinton Avenue’s proximity to Exit 21 off the Merritt Parkway makes it a commuter cut-through, compounding the problem
“The other day, a school bus stopped to pick up children during morning rush hour. Kids were crossing the street to board, but drivers still tried to squeeze around the bus. The only thing between those children and a tragedy was luck.
“We are asking the town to demolish and rebuild the existing speed humps to a greater height, introduce additional traffic calming measures, and increase enforcement on Clinton Avenue, at no cost to taxpayers. The response is clear: Residents want action.” Click here for the Change.org petition.
Clinton Avenue speed hump. A resident calls the height ineffective.
Over 150 people enjoyed great dinners and a powerful show, at last night’s “Supper & Soul.”
Vanessa Collier — who played the second-ever “S&S” event in 2018 — returned as the headliner. The Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce-sponsored “Supper & Soul” includes a pre-concert meal, a high-energy performance at the Westport Library, and drinks afterward.
The next show, featuring the Grateful Dead tribute act Spadastics, is set for November.
Last night’s Vanessa Collier show, on the Library stage and big screen. (Photo/DinkinESH Fotografix)
Speaking of the Library: The Read to Grow Bookmobile will be in the back lot on Thursday (May 7, 3 to 5 p.m., back lot).
Families can hop in, and let their children choose a book to take home and keep.
Read to Grow is a non-profit, Their mission is to “support families as their babies’ first teachers.” The goal is for every child in Connecticut to have books of their own — from birth on.
=================================================
Just hours after she was born 9 weeks early, in June of 2022, Shea Greenfield’s heart stopped beating.
Doctors saved her life. But she was diagnosed with Long QT Syndrome. Her heart’s electrical system takes longer than usual to recharge between beats. She is at risk of fainting, seizures, cardiac arrest and sudden death.
There is no cure for the condition. And Shea’s condition is one of the most severe her doctors have ever seen.
Shea’s parents, Mark and Kira, had moved to Westport a year earlier. In addition to educating themselves about LQTS, they began helping the Mayo Clinic, where Dr. Michael Ackerman’s team does cutting-edge research.
In 2023, the Greenfields organized a fundraiser. Since then, they’ve raised over $1.7 million.
The 4th annual Shake It For Shea gala is May 14 (7:30 p.m., The Knowlton, Bridgeport). There’s live entertainment, delicious food and drinks, a night of dancing, and much more.
“06880” is “Where Westport meets the world.” And Chocolatieree is where Westport meets “The Devil Wears Prada 2.”
The downtown chocolate-and-more shop has just cooked up The Runway Edit. The limited collection of hand-painted chocolate bags comes straight from Miranda Priestly’s desk.
The first one featured — “The Miranda. That’s All” — comes in deep red, with black pyramid hardware and a gold Prada plaque. Every detail is rendered by hand in, chocolate.
Owner Laureen Hayes says, “It’s the kind of thing Miranda would leave on your desk, without explanation.”
The Runway Edit is available at Chocolatieree (66 Church Lane). Reservations are required: 203-939-7339.
“The Miranda,” at Chocolatieree.
=================================================
We’ve mentioned Westporter Nile Rodgers’ recent inclusion in the New York Times’ list of 30 Greatest Living Among Songwriters.
But he’s not the only artist with local ties.
Valerie Simpson and husband Nick Ashford co-wrote “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” “Reach Out and Touch (Somebody’s Hand)” and “I’m Every Woman,” among many others.
The couple lived for many years on Cross Highway. They were frequently seen around town.
And their 4th of July parties — with some of the Biggest Names in Entertainment — were legendary.
May is AAPI Heritage Month. To celebrate, the Westport Library hosts Scott Kurashige.
On Tuesday (May 5, 7 p.m.), the historian discusses his new book, American Peril: The Violent History of Anti-Asian Racismwith Jason O Chang, director of the Asian and Asian American Studies Institute at the University of Connecticut.
The event is co-sponsored by AAPI Westport. Click here for more information.
Speaking of the Library: On May 19 (7 p.m.), they celebrate the theatrical release of the original “Shrek” film.
Roger Schulman, Oscar-nominated co-writer of the film, will be in conversation with Professor Todd Barnes, artistic director of the graduate film program at Sacred Heart University. Schulman is an artist in residence there. Click here for tickets, and more information.
Westporter Sandra Krenzer visited her daughter Alexis the other day, at Northwestern University.
She also went to a Chicago Cubs game. It was fun enough to sit next to Jason Sudeikis and Brendan Hunt (aka Ted Lasso and Coach Beard).
But then they all appeared on the jumbo screen.
Sandra is to the right of Lasso. Hey: Why didn’t they include her name too?! (Hat tip: Dave Briggs)
================================================
Longtime Westport resident Eve Clifford died peacefully at home on Thursday. She was 83.
A native of Tallinn, Estonia, she emigrated in 1944 to Malmö, Sweden following the Soviet occupation during World War II.
She and her family later settled in St. Catharines, Ontario. She was a 1965 graduate of the University of Toronto with a degree in nursing, and was a clinical nursing instructor and visiting nurse.
After the death of her husband Robert, Eve became a sales specialist for Macy’s in Stamford.
She is survived by her sons Michael and Christopher, of Westport.
A graveside memorial service will be held Monday (May 4, 11 a.m., Willowbrook Cemetery).
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 38 Richards Ave, Norwalk, CT 06854.
Eve Clifford
=================================================
Another spring day, another colorful “Westport … Naturally” image.
This one shows Celia Campbell-Mohn’s Timber Lane yard, in full bloom.
Two milling and paving projects begin soon. All work will be done from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m.
Milling of a mile of Post Road East, between South Compo Road and the Sherwood Island Connector, is scheduled to begin the night of May 10, and end the morning of May 13.
Paving is slated to start the night of May 17, and end the morning of May 22.
Milling of 1.34 miles of Route 57, between Main Street and the Weston town line, is scheduled to begin the night of May 26, and end the morning of May 29.
Paving is slated to start the night of May 31, and end the morning of June 4.
Inclement weather could affect dates and times of the work.
Post Road East milling and paving work will be done at night. But until it’s finished, the road is likely to be bumpy all day.
Click here to learn how he takes inspiration from New York’s club scene, creates his signature guitar style, and writes his iconic songs.
Screen shot from Nile Rodgers’ New York Times video.
=================================================
A long-time Westporter reports: “Since early April, I’ve watched a major infrastructure project underway at my favorite place, Sherwood Island State Park.
“I’m certain the state would describe it as a betterment, but it has a huge impact on people using the parking in the interim.
“It’s now one month since work began. They’ll be lucky to finish in time for Memorial Day weekend.
“I don’t want to sound like an alarmist — the pavement was in poor shape and could use repaving — and I suppose installing new drains and catch basins improves rain water disbursement.
“But I am concerned that the end product may be a drastic change — too ‘modern’ and ‘citified.’ You should take a look.
MoCA\CT’s current exhibit — “Art, Jazz + the Blues” — continues its popular run through June 7.
But the Newtown Turnpike arts center is already looking ahead.
“Looking for History” — 3 solo presentations that examine how personal, local and national histories are pictured, preserved and contested — opens June 25.
As the US marks its 250th anniversary, the exhibitions invite visitors into conversations about the narratives and forces that have shaped the nation.
Rick Shaefer’s “Colossi” anchors the full season. Ellen Harvey’s “The Disappointed Tourist” is featured June 25 to August 2, followed by Michael Borders’ “Connecticut Industry” (August 13 through November 15).
As with all MoCA\CT exhibits, related programming will enhance the experience. The opening reception is 6 p.m. on June 25. Click here for much more information.
=================================================
Speaking of MoCA\CT: Executive director Robin Jaffee Frank was the guest speaker at yesterday’s Sunrise Rotary Club meeting.
She gave an informative, colorful presentation on all that’s happening at the contemporary arts (and much more) museum.
Robin Jaffee Frank, at the Sunrise Rotary Club.
=================================================
Congratulations to Fire Marshal Terrence Dunn!
Governor Lamont has appointed him to serve on the Connecticut Commission on Fire Prevention and Control.
Members help shape statewide fire service policy, training standards, and fire prevention initiatives.
Dandelion — the Delamar Westport’s restaurant — has become one of the town’s hottest spots since opening last fall.
Now, the patio will add to the buzz.
The first community event there was Wednesday. The Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce sponsored an education and networking event, on the impact of AI on search for small and medium businesses.
ThoughtPartnr — the Westport company that helps local businesses find AI solutions — offered demonstrations to nearly 80 attendees. They represented a variety of firms, from beauty salons and architecture to non-profits.
Jay Norris (with microphone) and “06880”‘s Dan Woog discuss AI for local businesses. Norris’ ThoughtPartnr developed a widget for the hyper-local blog.
Speaking of the Chamber of Commerce: They’re proud to announce that 4 Westporters have been honored by Westfair Business Journal, at their 26th annual “40 Under 40” event.
Cited as outstanding entrepreneurs under the age of 40 were Luke Andriuk, director of investments at Saugatuck Financial; Bianca Bazante, owner and creative director of The Artist Loft; Paul Lutsky, commercial lender at Fairfield County Bank, and Lindsay Tanne Howe, founder and CEO of LogicPrep.
From left: 40 Under 40 entrepreneurs Luke Andriuk, Bianca Bazante, Paul Lutsky, Lindsay Tanne Howe, and Matthew Mandell, Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce director.
And finally … to get you in the mood for today’s Kentucky Derby:
(Who will win the Run for the Roses? We have no idea. But here’s a sure bet: Please click here to support “06880.” It’s where Westport meets the world — including Kentucky. Thank you!)
Posted onApril 14, 2026|Comments Off on Roundup: Governor Lamont, Food News, Fishing Fun …
Governor Ned Lamont spoke to over 150 people at the Westport Library yesterday.
It was the 4th “Your State, Your Business” event, sponsored by the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce.
Lamont covered a lot of ground, from the stability of Connecticut’s economy and energy costs, to affordable healthcare and housing.
But the audience was interested in local issues too.
The first question — from Representative Town Meeting member Kristin Schneeman — concerned the future of the Cribari Bridge.
The governor said he was getting up to speed on the subject. He said he understands that residents are concerned, and will look to put people — including 1st Selectman Kevin Christie, and the state Department of Transportation commissioner — together to figure out a solution.
A video of the event will be available later today.
After lunch at Nômade, Governor Lamont spoke to a smaller group at the Senior Center.
Governor Lamont answers a question from moderator Matthew Mandell, director of the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce. (Photo/Lindsay Katz)
At Nômade, Governor Lamont posed with Chef Zoli Kovacs. (Photo/Sal Liccione)
One more restaurant item: Hey Taco! has opened on Post Road East, between the Shell station and ASF.
It replaces Border Grille, which itself replace another mostly-takeout Mexican place, Tacos or What?
Chris Dobransky — aka FairfieldFoodDude — recently visited. He loved it.
He wrote about the “authentic, made-with-love tacos done right. Between the bold flavors, generous portions, and obvious passion behind the food, this place is already making a name for itself.”
Book lovers, take note: The Westport Library’s big spring book sale takes place May 15-18.
There is something for everyone — toddlers through adults — with thousands of gently used books in over 50 categories of non-fiction and fiction, including antiquarian, comic books, and vintage children’s books.
Plus a huge assortment of DVDs, CDs, vintage vinyl, jigsaw puzzles, ephemera, and framed artwork, from small desktop pieces to large wall pictures.
A small part of the large Westport Library book sale.
=================================================
Yesterday was the first day of the Westport schools’ spring break.
Many families have already skedaddled out of town.
But bright and early, Andrew Colabella spotted these 2 boys, at Riverside and Treadwell Avenue.
(Photo/Andrew Colabella)
“It’s 7 a.m. School is off for the week,” Andrew writes.
“Your buddy meets you at your house, fishing pole and gear ready to go. Take the long haul across the bridge to the fishing spot.
“Two kids, living in the moment. Reminded me of when I was a kid. I love this town!”
=================================================
Atla DeChamplain — a jazz vocalist, lyricist and educator known for her expressive phrasing, vocal control and authenticity — headlines this Thursday’s Jazz at the Post (April 16, VFW Post 399; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner at 7).
She’ll be joined by her husband, pianist Matt DeChamplain, plus bassist Sameer Shankar, drummer Ben Bilello and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall.
Speaking of the VFW: Rock star/soul singer/multi-instrumentalist Eliot Lewis — a longtime member of the Average White Band and Hall & Oates’ band, and who has performed with legends like Joe Walsh and Todd Rundgren — brings his many talents to the VFW this Friday (April 17). He’s joined by special guest artist, Weston’s own Owen Daniel.
The doors open at 6 p.m., for an opening set by Ecoustic Rock Monster.
Tickets are $15 online, $20 at the door. Light bar food and drink specials are available.
===============================================
The daffodils — and the daffodil photos — keep on coming.
Today’s “Westport … Naturally” image shows the colorful scene, from the lower Imperial Avenue parking lot up the steps to the back of the Westport Woman’s Club.
And finally … on this date in 1912, Titanic hit an iceberg in the North Atlantic. It sank a few hours later.
1,501 passengers and crew members died; 707 were saved.
(Was there room for Jack on the door frame? Why didn’t Rose beg him to try? Who knows? But here’s one thing we know for sure: You can click here, and support “06880.” Our hearts will go on. Thanks!)
Comments Off on Roundup: Governor Lamont, Food News, Fishing Fun …
It’s official: Carolyn Doan — Westport’s unofficial osprey spotter — says that the Fresh Market osprey is back.
The actual first raptor of the spring was spotted earlier, by Gray’s Creek. An earlier report of the osprey at the tall perch next to Terrain turned out to be a hawk.
Their mates will no doubt join them soon. We’ll see them building nests, fishing for food, and — hopefully — tending their young.
Carolyn Doan usually has a high-powered lens. This was taken with her iPhone. (Photo/Carolyn Doan)
“Your State, Your Business” — the program that brings high-ranking officials to the Westport Library to share their work with business owners and residents — continued Thursday.
Connecticut Attorney General William Tong — the third speaker, in the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce series — opened with “Law School 101,” which set the stage for the civil legal and constitutional law discussions that followed.
Key topics included the role of the AG here, and differences with other states; high profile issues like personal data and privacy, and cases Tong has filed on behalf of the state and its citizens.
Attorney General William Tong, at the Westport Library.
===============================================
Congratulations to Ignacy Nieweglowski, Sahil Vora, Rohan Sareen, Ezra Schwartz and Kevin Cano!
On Sunday, the Staples High School students captured first place in the Lockheed Martin CyberQuest Competition.
And they snagged gold for the second year in a row.
In the annual capture-the-flag competition, students take on a wide range of challenges designed by professional cybersecurity engineers. They include multi-step intrusion scenarios, steganography, reverse engineering, operating system exploitation, packet analysis, web vulnerabilities and social engineering.
The event was held at Lockheed Martin’s Sikorsky headquarters in Stratford. Facing teams from across the region, the Stapleites worked collaboratively through 3 hours of intense problem-solving.
Following last year’s win, the students grew Staples’ cybersecurity program, and formed a larger team.
In addition to this year’s first-place finish, the B and C teams also placed in the top 5. The B team included Anit Arvind, Tucker Eklund, Srihan Popuri, Maadhav Subramaniam and Jonah Frey, while the C team was Joey Carpenter, Cora Barrett and Nora Ismael-Bakkali.
Up next: the national semifinals. Go Wreckers!
From left: Ignacy Nieweglowski, Sahil Vora, Rohan Sareen, Ezra Schwartz, Kevin Cano.
Speaking of Staples: Congratulations to the 24 band, orchestra and choir programs who participated in the recent Connecticut Music Educators Association All-State Festival at the Hartford Convention Center.
The 3 days included rehearsals led by guest conductors, culminating in a final performance.
Staples All-State Festival musicians included
Band: Justin Jendrock, Gargi Karve, Dylan Taylor, Christian Green (horn in orchestra)
Choir: Veronica Albee, Josie Caricato, James Donoghue, Beckwith Fipp, Catherine Herbert, Abigail Kim, Josephine Lewertoff, Jasmita Mani Lorenzato, Lyla McEntee, Sophia Macris, Christian Michaels, Denver Razza, Helen Root, Ari Sklar, Samantha Skopp
Orchestra: Kirthana Gowthaman, Isabel Jo, Isabella Mariani, Ayush Rudra, Chloe Wong
Staples’ All-State Festival musicians (missing James Donoghue and Josephine Lewertoff).
“06880” is Westport’s full-service blog, and the Roundup is where you can find nearly every service: upcoming events, achievements, obituaries.
The other day, we helped a Westport firm find a summer intern.
The New England Consulting Group received inquiries from several outstanding applicants. They extended an offer to a Staples graduate.
Now they’ve got another opening. This is for a part-time, experienced administrative assistant. For details, contact Applicants can contact Susan Owen, CFO: seo@necg.net (put “part-time admin at NECG” in the subject line), or call 203-297-9389.
Yesterday’s announcement of the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce’s “Your State, Your Business” event with Governor Ned Lamont (April 13, 11 a.m., Westport Library) did not include the registration link.
Saturday’s “Hero to Hero” event drew a large, passionate crowd to the Saugatuck Rowing Club.
“Hero” is a non-profit that help highly qualified military members transition to first responder careers. It’s a win-win-win — for the servicemembers, their employers, and the entire community.
Locally, 5 Westport Fire Department members are graduates of the program.
This weekend’s event raised awareness of “Hero to Hero” — and raised funds for an independent film, which will raise even more funds for the organization.
The “Blue Bunny” film project is led by Rita Marcocci, a Westport resident and award-winning producer. She says:
“Our community came together in a powerful way — united by purpose, storytelling, and a shared commitment to those who have served our country.
“The fundraiser was a reminder of what’s possible when community, creativity and compassion align. From heartfelt remarks by veterans to the overwhelming generosity in the room, and the passion behind Senator Blumenthal’s speech, the evening reflected the very mission we stand behind: supporting our veterans as they transition from active duty into meaningful roles as first responders, while using storytelling to shine a light on the realities of veteran mental health.
“For those who couldn’t attend, but believe in supporting our veterans and the mission of Hero To Hero as well as independent filmmaking that will hire veterans for on screen and behind the scenes roles, we invite you to donate. Great auction items are still available too. Click here to help.
Westport Fire Chief Nick Marsan (far right) and Deputy Chief Matt Cohen (far left) with (from left): Clayton Janssen (Navy), Cody Ruschmeyer (Army), Liam Chrzanowski (Marines) and Zach Oullette (Marines). Not pictured: Kyle Sanzo (Marines.)
=================================================
Everyone who has heard the Bedford Middle School Jazz Band knows they’re special.
Now music educators all over the state know too.
The group performed as a “showcase ensemble” for the Connecticut Music Educators Association All-State conference, at the Connecticut Convention Center.
Gregg Winters’ 25 student musicians’ set included “Front Burner,” “Take the ‘A’ Train,” “The Girl from Ipanema” and “On Broadway,” a mix of swing, Latin and contemporary styles. All students also performed improvised solos.
Bedford Middle School Jazz Band.
=================================================
This may be a first, in Staples’ long sports history:
For 3 consecutive years, a Manchester sibling served as captain of the Staples High School ski team.
And … all 3 received the Coaches’ Award at the end of their senior year, for their contributions to the program.
Congratulations, Logan (2024), Max (2025) and Ella (2026)!
PS: Their father, Jeff Manchester, earned plenty of awards too, as a Staples wrestler back in the day.
Three Manchesters: From left: Logan (now a sophomore at Bentley College), Ella (headed to the University of Colorado) and Max (Bentley freshman).
Speaking of teenagers: The Westport Senior Center is looking for high school students to volunteer in their Tech Hub on Thursdays (3 to 4:30 p.m.).
It’s a flexible opportunity. Weekly emails are sent to check availability.
This is a great chance for tech-savvy youngsters to show what they know — and give back to their community. Most probably have experience already, helping their grandparents (and parents).
For more information or to sign up, email Diana Andrews: dandrews@westportct.gov.
Tech help, at the Senior Center.
=================================================
The stairs from the Westport Library’s main entrance to the Riverwalk below have been in disrepair for a while.
The Riverwalk — stretching from the Taylor parking lot all the way behind the Levitt Pavilion, ending at Deadman Brook — is one of Westport’s hidden jewels.
Soon, we’ll have one more way to access it — again.
Melissa Newman — a longtime Westporter, and Jazz at the Post favorite — kicks off the series’ first-ever Voices of Spring festival, this Thursday (VFW Post 399; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner from 7).
And finally … on this date in 1930, the Motion Picture Production Code began. It imposed strict guidelines on sex, crime, religion and violence in film, until it was replaced in 1968 with 4 ratings: G(eneral), M(ature), R(estricted to under 16, unless accompanied by an adult) and X (no one under 16 admitted).
(There are no restrictions on “06880.” Anyone can read anything we post — and anyone can click here too, to support our work. Thank you for your patronage!)
Click here to help support “06880” via credit card or PayPal. Any amount is welcome, appreciated — and tax-deductible! Reader contributions keep this blog going. (Alternate methods: Please send a check to “06880”: PO Box 744, Westport, CT 06881. Or use Venmo: @blog06880. Or Zelle: danwoog@gmail.com. Thanks!)
GET THE “06880” APP
The “06880” app (search for it on the Apple or Android store) is the easiest way to get “06880.” Choose notifications: whenever a new post is published, or once or twice a day. Click here for details.
