Westport and Weston seem to have weathered the Blizzard of 2026 well.
At least, judging from the low number of power outages.
As of 6 a.m., Eversource reported only 17 Westport customers without electricity. That’s 0.13% of the town. They all appeared to be in the Center Street area of Greens Farms.
Weston had 85 outages (2.17%).
Statewide, 8,104 residents had lost power (0.61.%).
Snow and wind is expected to continue through noon. Another 2 to 4 inches of snow are possible, with winds continuing at 25 to 35 miles an hour.
Stay warm and safe! If you need anything, please email 06880blog@gmail.com. We’ll do our best to help!
The view outside “06880” headquarters. (Photo/Dan Woog)
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An incorrect date was listed yesterday, in the story on The Thing’s VersoFest show this week.
The platform helps local businesses and organizations offer part-time, seasonal and intern positions to high school students. Jobs include retail work, business support, non-profit assistance, lifeguarding, camp counseling and more. The Job Bank can be found here.
The Student Job Bank is free to businesses and students.
Speaking of high school students: Congratulations to Staples wrestlers Gavin Donaldson (120 pounds), Seamus Brannigan (126) and Julian Rousseau (215) — all first-place winners at Saturday’s state “LL” (extra large schools) tournament.
Congrats too to silver medalist Damian Rousseau.
Those 4 — plus Kai Schwartz (132) and Jessiah Jones (190) — move on to the state open meet this coming weekend.
Staples head coach Jordan Marion (far left), and Staples wrestlers at the LL tournament. First-place winners holding their bout sheets are (from left in the middle) Julian Rousseau, Gavin Donaldson and Seamus Brannigan.
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Sharp-eyed viewers of yesterday’s Winter Olympics opening ceremony may have spotted former Staples High School cross country coach Larry Sidney marching with Israel’s athletes.
But there is much more to the story than meets the eye.
Larry Sidney (left), at the 2026 Olympics opening ceremony.
After leaving Westport, Larry moved overseas. He was a dual athlete, competing in skeleton from 2014-18, and curling from 2018 on.
In 2024 — at 46 years old — he qualified for this year’s Olympics.
Then he was diagnosed with cancer. Almost exactly a year ago today, his right leg was amputated below the knee.
But there Larry was yesterday, walking proudly as an Olympic administration for his country.
Professionally, he’s a holistic financial advisor. He graduated from the University of Connecticut, then earned an MBA at the University of California-Berkeley.
Click here or below for an inspirational 2024 TEDx talk by Larry, on the power of pursuing audacious dreams. (Hat tip: Richard Fogel)
The Board of Selectpersons has a full agenda for its Wednesday meeting (February 11, 9 a.m., Town Hall auditorium; click here for the livestream).
Among the 17 items:
♦ Approving policy changes recommended by the Parks & Recreation Commission, including”
— Change of dry stall first launch date from May 1 to April 1.
— To allow the sale of alcoholic beverages, with the exception of THC products, at the Longshore golf course by approved vendors only.
— To continue to offer, and add 1 additional, firepit rentals on South Beach at Compo Beach.
— To require parking emblems at Canal Beach from May 1 to September 30.
— Fee increases, for golf cart rentals (9 holes, to $15 from $14, 18 holes $22 from $20; Camp Compo resident $325 from $265, non-resident $350 from $285; RECinc Crew resident $400 from $315, non-resident $425 from $335).
♦ Appointing 2 alternate members to the Board of Assessment Appeals: Thomas Bloch and Robert Bass.
♦ Approving contracts for work at the Imperial Avenue lot, an for the replacement of the Levitt Pavilion stage.
The Select Board is expected to approve replacement of the Levitt Pavilion stage. The Tedeschi Trucks Band was one of many acts to play there last year. (Photo copyright DinkinESH Fotografix)
Screen time — and how to navigate it safely –– is all over the news.
It’s one thing for youngsters to hear strategies from parents and teachers. It’s another — much more important — thing to learn from almost-peers.
Recently, 6th graders at Coleytown and Bedford Middle Schools took part in iMentor. The initiative is facilitated by the Westport Youth Commission, using trained Staples High student mentors.
The high schoolers lead engaging, age-appropriate discussions that encourage middle schoolers to think critically about their online behavior and digital decision-making.
The interactive topics include civility and kindness, digital footprints, safety risks, identifying trustworthy sites and managing screen time.
iMentors also emphasize the importance of speaking with a parent or other trusted adult about anything concerning online.
iMentors in action, at Coleytown Middle School.
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The next generation of business leaders took over the Westport Library on Thursday.
The first-ever Mini Moguls Marketplace youth business fair drew (very) young vendors in grades 5–8, and plenty of shoppers.
Founded and organized by Staples High School junior Aanya Gandhi, it featured over a dozen student businesses, ranging from handmade crafts to collections of gently used books and games.
Each “mini mogul” offered a poster board, outlining pricing strategies and marketing plans.
A financial literacy keynote presentation emphasized the benefits of understanding money management at a young age.
Long Lots Elementary School students Leo Rubin and Luke Capolupo made their first necklace sale to superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice. (Photo/Phil Rubin)
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11 Beachside Commons — the 1970s contemporary home with 5 bedrooms, 7 1/2 bathrooms, a floating staircase, periscope skylights, rainbow glazing purple carpet and a 150-foot multicolored tile pathway that “meanders” through the house, and which was the home of the late biotech entrepreneur/investor/ scientist Alan Walton and his wife Elenor — will be demolished soon.
An estate sale is set for today and tomorrow (Saturday and Sunday), from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
It’s a chance to buy some very interesting items.
And to see one of Westport’s most stunning homes, before it meets the wrecking ball.
Inside 11 Beachside Commons. (Hat tip and photo/Cindy Nigro)
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Chryse Terrill was “buzzing” with excitement during a recent visit to Caroline House in Bridgeport.
The Wakeman Town Farm educator brought a lesson on bees. The preschoolers were eager to learn about their lifecycles, honeycombs, and the importance of bees as pollinators. They also loved the honey from WTF’s hives.
The program is part of Wakeman’s new “Farm on the Go” initiative. It expands equitable access to nature-based education for children facing financial, transportation or other barriers.
With a grant from Town Fair Tire and the motto “Grow Your Food, Know Your Food,” the initiative helps students understand where their food comes from, how natural systems work, and why environmental stewardship matters throughproject-based learning delivered by WTF educators.
To suggest a school that would benefit from the “Farm on the Go” program, email info@wakemantownfarm.org.
Exploring a honeycomb, through WTF’s “Farm on the Go.”
The fun continued last night. The Tedeschi Trucks Band brought their 12-piece (including 2 drummers) rock/soul/blues/jazz/country powerhouse to town, for one of the most memorable galas in the riverside amphitheater’s 5-decade history.
The sold-out crowd called TTB back for an exciting encore. The Levitt rocked loud and long.
(Photo/Susan Garment)
(Photo/Susan Garment)
(Photo/DinkinESH Fotografix)
The show was preceded by a party, hosted jointly by the new Massi Co restaurant and its next door neighbor, Walrus Alley.
It too was packed.
(Photo/Dan Woog)
Internationally known photographer Larry Silver and his wife Gloria (not pictured) were among the guests. (Photo/DinkinESH Fotografix)
This weekend also marked the opening day of Challenger Baseball.
It was even more special than most. Beth Cody was honored for both her 70th birthday, and her 25 years of devotion and service to Westport Little League.
She’s served as league commissioner, executive secretary, and the force and founder of Westport Winners Challenger Baseball Division, for boys and girls age 5-18 with physical or intellectual challenges.
Longtime Westport Little League volunteers Jeff Mitchell and Jeff White presented Beth with awards.
Beth Cody’s award.
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Westport’s first selectman race is drawing plenty of attention among voters.
Our town’s teenagers are interested too.
Though most are not yet 18 — and thus ineligible to vote — they have a stake in what goes on here. They care about its present, and its future.
On October 14 (7 p.m., Toquet Hall), the Westport Youth Commission hosts a special student-focused conversation with the 3 hopefuls.
Don O’Day, David Rosenwaks and Kevin Christie will answer questions about leadership, experience and issues.
Moderators are Youth Commission co-president and Staples High School senior Jake Shufro, YC member and Greens Farms Academy junior Jack Thompson, and “06880” executive editor (and long-ago Youth Commission member) Dan Woog.
Teen audience members are invited to ask questions too.
Shufro and Thompson encourage students and parents to attend. “This is a non-partisan event, intended to educate the community and promote informed voting for all eligible voters,” they say.
Westport’s League of Women Voters is providing guidance to the organizers.
Historical markers are filled with fascinating information.
They’re also easy to overlook.
In Westport, some residents – old-timers and newcomers — love the markers on Jennings Trail.
Others have no idea they even exist.
Jennings Trail is named in honor of Bessie Jennings. Her family settled in this area around 1650.
A beloved educator and noted authority on Westport’s past, she originated and led tours of local historic sites, for decades of elementary school students.
Conceived in 1974 as part of Westport’s plans to celebrate the Bicentennial, the Trail was initiated by the Westport Historical Society in collaboration with the Westport Young Woman’s League.
23 markers were installed at historic locations throughout Westport. They are made of bronze, mounted on stone plinths, and contain brief narrative descriptions that describe the significance of each site. Jennings Trail is now under the stewardship of the Westport Historic District Commission.
Bessie’s cousin, 11th-generation Westporter Peter Jennings, has maintained the Trail for a quarter century. (At his own cost.)
The other day, Seth Schachter spotted this sign at the top of Burying Hill Beach:
(Photo/Seth Schachter)
Want to know more about Burying Hill — including how it got its name?
It happens once every 3 centuries: Trinity Episcopal Church turns 300 years old.
The Southport congregation — which includes many Westport worshipers — celebrates its tricentennial on September 20 (9 p.m.), with a “Son et Lumière” sound and light show.
All are welcome to the free gathering; no church affiliation is required.
Trinity has survived all 3 Biblical elements: fire, wind, and water.
It was burned to the ground during the Revolutionary War, struck by a tornado in 1862, and flooded during Superstorm Sandy in 2012. Each time, it rose again.
The “Son et Lumière” is a dramatic 40-minute account of Trinity’s 300-year history, using actors’ voices, sound and light effects. It will take place outside, in front of the church, as darkness falls.
But the Staples senior recently won the Green Building Award for Achievement in Sustainable Design and Construction.
Oliver founded HomeCycle CT. It connects residents and builders with nonprofits to deconstruct homes and donate usable materials — reducing landfill waste, supporting affordable material access, and creating community benefits like job training opportunities.
Oliver Vynerib and 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker (front), with family and officials at Town Hall.
Tricia Summers was on a friend’s deck tonight last night, overlooking the Saugatuck River while awaiting the Tedeschi Trucks concert at the Levitt Pavilion.
She spotted a paddleboarder with his dog, about to go under the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge.
Our “Westport … Naturally” feature often highlights the beauty — trees, flowers, water, birds and other living creatures — that surrounds us, nearly everywhere.
Usually. But not always.
Today’s image shows normally picturesque Deadman Brook, near the Library and Levitt Pavilion.
And finally … Cannonball Adderley was born on this date in 1928. The jazz saxophonist died in 1975, 4 weeks after suffering a stroke. He was 46 years old.
Citing the need for “buy-in” from local communities — and acknowledging fierce opposition from suburban communities and Republican legislators — Governor Lamont vetoed HB 5002 yesterday.
The omnibus housing legislation — passed nearly 3 weeks ago — would have dramatically changed the ability of local governments to impose zoning restrictions.
Non-partisan groups like the Connecticut Conference of Municipalities and Connecticut Council of Small Towns, along with bipartisan leaders from towns including Westport, urged the governor to veto the bill.
Lamont previously supported the bill. He called his veto “reluctant.”
Last September, Governor Lamont spoke at the opening of 122 Wilton Road, where Homes with Hope sponsors 19 units of affordable housing. (Photo/Dan Woog)
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The Soundview Summer Stroll returns soon, for a second great year!
Mark your calendar: Sunday, July 27.
From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., the event — presented by “06880” and the Compo Beach Improvement Association — will once again close Soundview Drive to vehicles.
The beach exit road will be transformed into a pedestrian-only party.
Like last year’s initial Stroll, the road will be filled with music (4 bands), kids’ activities (games, face painting, photo booth and more), food, and a fun community vibe.
More details will be announced soon. See you at the Stroll!
Last year’s Soundview Stroll. (Photos/Benji Porosoff)
The popular Westport Downtown Association event takes place this Friday through Sunday (June 27-29), on Main Street, Elm Street, Church Lane, Post Road East and Sconset Square. Other retailers beyond downtown will also provide discounts.
It’s 3 days of open-air shopping, community fun (and plenty of bargains).
PS: The weather this weekend will not be as hot as today!
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And another long and important Westport tradition continues this Saturday (June 28).
The 60th annual jUNe Day celebration brings 30 guests from the United Nations to town.
The day-long event — coordinated by the United Nations Association of Southwestern Connecticut and town officials — begins with opening ceremonies (10:30 a.m., Jesup Green).
It includes a special message from UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, and brief remarks, by UN Under Secretary-General Christian Saunders.
Then, UN families will head off to swim at Compo Beach, play tennis and golf at Longshore, visit Earthplace, tour Wakeman Town Farm, and walk and shop downtown. Many may stay for the Sunrise Rotary Club Duck Race and family fair, also at Jesup Green.
jUNe Day was established in 1965 by Ruth Steinkraus Cohen, founder of the UN Association of Southwestern Connecticut. The Post Road bridge was named in her honor — and on Saturday, the flags of many of the UN’s 193 member nations will fly on the span.
A few volunteers are still needed. Email Andreasusa@yahoo.com, or call 203-526-3275. For more information on the jUNe Day, call 203-454-7685.
Every jUNe Day, the flags of member nations fly on the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge. (Photo/Jeff Simon)
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It was the hottest ticket in town — literally.
The Westport Country Playhouse air conditioning faltered. But Justin Paul — the Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony Award-winning songwriter (“Dear Evan Hansen,” “La La Land,” “The Greatest Showman”) and Staples Class of 2003 graduate — and his writing partner Benj Pasek delivered a rousing benefit show.
They — and their Broadway musical guests and backup musicians — were drenched in sweat from the opening bars of the first song, “Waving Through a Window.” (The fundraiser was called “Waving Through Westport.”)
Their “fans” in the audience fanned themselves with programs.
But Pasek & Paul showed why they are not only great songwriters — but great showmen as well.
The duo gave plenty of props to Paul’s home town. It was the latest magical night, in the Playhouse’s proud 95-year history.
Front, from left: Justin Paul, Benj Pasek and Alex Newell, at the Westport Country Playhouse. Paul and Pasek took off their jackets soon after the show began. (Photo/Susan Garment)
Youth Commission members solicit businesses downtown.
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A celebration of the life of Carol Randel — the longtime Westport, noted professor and beloved civic volunteer, who died last month — is set for this Sunday (June 29, 4 p.m.). The public is invited.
The setting is appropriate: the Saugatuck Rowing Club. That’s where Carol discovered herself as an athlete, found joy on the water and camaraderie with teammates. She won plenty of medals there too.
One other tribute to a beloved Westporter: A flower garden in memory of Cathy Talmadge — a founder and longtime friend of Wakeman Town Farm — will be dedicated across the street from there on Saturday (June 28, 1:30 p.m.).
The longtime Representative Town Meeting member, civic volunteer and environmental advocate died in January 2023.
First selectwoman Jen Tooker and Westport poet laureate Donna Disch will speak. Friends are invited to share memories. RSVP: nancyp311@gmail.com
Cathy Talmadge, at Wakeman Town Farm.
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Due to the extreme heat advisory, tonight’s Levitt Pavilion concert — Suzanne Sheridan & Friends — has been postponed. The new date is August 12.
Suzanne Sheridan
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Adam Nussbaum — the jazz drummer who grew up in Norwalk, won a Grammy, and has played with artists like Gil Evans and Stan Getz — headlines this Thursday’s Jazz at the Post (June 26, VFW Post 399; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner at 7; music cover $20, $15 for veterans and students).
He’ll be joined by bassist Jay Anderson, pianist Rob Aries and saxophonist Greg (“The Jazz Rabbi”) Wall. Click here for tickets.
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Former Westporter Patricia Anne (White) Dunn died June 20, in North Carolina. She was 82.
She attended Westport schools, then earned a BA in English and world religions from the University of Miami. She was a former board chair of the North Carolina Chapter of the Lupus Foundation of Ameirca, and served on the board of directors of the Charlotte Alumnae Association of Kappa Kappa Gamma.
She is survived by her love and caregiver Sean Lowther; son Christopher Lee (LaDonna) of Mobile, Alabama; brother F. Terrence White (Dena) of Pembroke Pines, Florida; sister Meeche White of Leavenworth, Washington; 2 grandchildren, and members of the Lowther family.
Donations may be made in her memory to the Lupus Foundation of America or Kappa Kappa Gamma Education Foundation, 6640 Riverside Drive, Suite 200, Dublin, OH 43017.
Patty Anne Dunn
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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature is our first two-fer.
We’ve gotten some good egret submissions lately.
Here’s a solo bird, at Deadman Brook …
(Photo/Janine Scotti)
… and a flock, from Judy Point near Saugatuck Shores:
And finally … happy 80th birthday to Colin Blunstone. He was the lead singer/ guitarist/songwriter for The Zombies. They’re in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, but remain one of the most underrated of all British Invasion groups.
(It’s the time of the season. And time to support “06880,” your hyper-local blog. Don’t tell us no! Please click here. We thank you!)
There’s a Touch-a-Truck show, face painting, obstacle courses, raffles and food trucks.
It’s a perfect place for bikes. And Bike Westport invites everyone to ride to the beach (or bring bikes in your car).
They’ll be set up by the basketball court, with:
Bike Rodeo: Kids navigate a safe, marked course with cones/signals (helmets required). Led by the Westport Police Department.
Helmet inspection and bike assessment: Is your gear up to date and safe to ride? A professional mechanic will be there to assess.
Test Ride: New bikes, E-bikes and traditional, if you’re looking to upgrade.
Giveaways: Bike Westport swag, and CB Sportif discount coupons for bike service.
Bike Westport info: Learn how to get involved and donate. Share your ideas for safer, more walkable and bike friendly streets and routes in Westport.
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Speaking of bikes: The town’s next Traffic and Pedestrian Safety update session is Thursday, May 29 (7 p.m., Town Hall auditorium).
The Traffic and Pedestrian Safety Task Force will offer details on their progress, and hear input from residents about issues of concern.
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Bedford Middle School was packed last night, for Westport Public Schools’ 4th annual district-wide art exhibition
“Spark” — a celebration of student creativity and artistic expression — is “a powerful display of the depth and breadth of arts education and the role it plays in shaping thoughtful, expressive, and empathetic students,” says Steve Zimmerman, WPS music and visual arts coordinator.
The show features over 1,000 works of art from students in pre-K through Advanced Placement Art & Design. They include observational drawings, mixed media, sculptures and digital art.
A small part of the large “SPARK” student art exhibit.
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Back in the day, there were 2 mini-golf courses in Westport.
Is it time for another?
The Westport Youth Commission wants to know.
They’ve created a quick survey to gauge interest. All ages can participate — because mini-golf appeals to every.
The miniature golf course (and driving range), owned by the Backiel family. It’s now the site of the Regents Park condos, near the BevMax shopping plaza.
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The Staples High School internship program is a chance for seniors to get out in the field for a few weeks. They test the real world, right before graduation.
Andre Albanese and Grace Zhang take that literally.
The two are spending their internship with the Westport Farmers’ Market.
They work on farms, help the bakers, learn to makek bagels, and help facilitate the WFM’s operations every Thursday (10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Imperial Avenue parking lot).
They also spend time learning who grows their food. And they eat plenty of it — happily and healthfully.
The Mom Salon podcast is a way for women to feel less alone in motherhood.
But what good is listening to their show alone?
Hosts Melissa Fairchild (a post-partum therapist) and Leah Devito (a stylist and community organizer) are hosting “The Ultimate Moms’ Night Out” at Content Studio on Saugatuck Avenue (May 29, 7 p.m.).
In addition to a live capture of their podcast, they promise cocktails, lite bites, Bridgewater chocolates, Sweet Bond permanent jewlery, and plenty of networking opportunities.
Jay Norris is one of Westport’s most active residents. He’s the founder of Westport10, a co-founder and board member of StartUp Westport, Westport Weston Family YMCA board member and former board member of the Westport Library — and that’s just here.
Jay is also co-chair of the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce, a board member of the New York Urban League — in addition to his full-time job as co-founder and CEO of Guesst.
In his Urban League role, he’ll celebrate the 59th annual Frederick Douglass Awards Gala in New York (June 5, 6:30 p.m., Ziegfield Ballroom, New York City).
Honorees include Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, actress Meagan Good, Great Performances founder and CEO Liz Neumark, and Xponance founder, CEO and CIO Tina Byles Williams. Details and reservations are available here.
Frederick Douglass
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Viburnum makes its first-ever appearance in our “Westport … Naturally” feature. Welcome!
One of Westport’s signature events — the Fine Arts Festival — returns for its 52nd year on Memorial Day weekend.
On May 24 and 25 (10 a.m. to 5 p.m.), the national Top 20 show draws 165 fine artists from 19 states to Main Street and Elm Street. As always, there are returning faces. This year, 41 artists are new.
The Westport Downtown Association includes plenty of family activities. They include Elmo and friends, facepainting, crafts, games, dancing and photo ops.
Another great tradition — though just a decade old — is the Westport Pops Concert.
This year’s event is June 6. The Staples High School Symphonic Orchestra and Band, Jazz Ensemble, Orphenians, Choralaires and other small group ensembles will perform — and Jim Naughton will host — at the Levitt Pavilion.
Gates open at 6 p.m., with the show starting at 7. Tickets are free, but a suggested donation of $15 helps offset production costs. They’ll be available at Staplesmusic.org beginning 9 a.m. on May 28. They’re first-come, first-served, so be ready. They’re snapped up fast!
This year’s poster was designed by senior Connor Yuan.
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On Tuesday, the Westport Young Woman’s League awarded $65,000 in grants, to a dozen local non-profits making a difference locally.
They include:
• Caroline House ($10,000): Provides ESL education and early childhood support to immigrant and refugee women and children in Bridgeport, promoting literacy and life skills for the whole family.
• Circle of Friends ($10,000): Offers inclusive social experiences, and a sensory-friendly “Quiet Zone” for people with autism and disabilities.
• Filling in the Blanks ($10,000): Delivers weekend meals to food-insecure children, to close the hunger gap when school is not in session.
• Liberation Programs ($10,000): Supports childcare for mothers undergoing substance use treatment at the Families in Recovery Program in Norwalk.
• Westport Farmers’ Market ($5,000): Funds a culinary program where students prepare farm-to-table meals for residents of local homeless shelters.
• VFW Post 399 ($5,000): Launches a veteran lunch and food donation program to connect veterans — especially disabled and underserved — with critical resources.
• Levitt Pavilion ($4,000): Sponsor of a free children’s concert series.
• Staples Tuition Grant ($3,000): Supporting local students’ educational goals.
• LiveGirl ($2,500): Backing youth leadership and confidence-building programs.
• Westport Country Playhouse ($2,000): Offering free and discounted tickets to family-friendly performances based on children’s literature.
• My Team Triumph ($2,000): Covering race registration fees for athletes with disabilities.
• Positive Directions ($1,500): Promoting local mental health awareness initiatives.
VFW quartermaster Phil Delgado (center) with the $5,000 Westport Young Woman’s League grant from Grants Committee chairi Bronwyn Cousins and president Tainara Cruvinel.
As parrt of the Sunrise Rotary Club’s Epic Day of Service this tomorrow (Saturday, May 17, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.), they’re partnering with Big Y to collect food for Homes with Hope.
This is Big Y’s first time working with Sunrise Rotary — and the cause is great — so they hope for a huge turnout.
Bring non-perishable items — and/or pick up some while you shop.
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The Westport Youth Commission’s Student Job Bank is relaunched. And it’s better than ever.
The platform helps local businesses and organizations offer part-time, seasonal and intern positions to high school students. They include retail work, business help, non-profit assistance, lifeguards, camp counselors, and many more.
The previous Job Bank was free for students, but businesses had to pay to post jobs. The Youth Commission donated a percentage of those fees to charity.
When the platform they used went out of business last year, the Commission had to fiind a new solution. Based on student and business feedback, they opened a new platform, without anyone paying. It’s now free.
Youth Commission co-chair Jake Shufro (3rd from left) presents Homes with Hope with a check, from previous Job Bank proceeds.
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May is AAPI Heritage Month. And Westport is celebrating with a wide array of events.
It began with a lunch at the new downtown hot spot, Sushi Jin. AAPI Westport members Vicky Nguyen and Anna Kai about spoke Vicky’s new bookm “Boat Baby,” at the New Canaan Library. Members then enjoyed Japanese treats and sodas while watching Gundam Gquuuuuux at Middle School Anime Night at Toquet Hall.
A conversation with Kevin Nguyen about his new book, “My Documents” (Tuesday, May 20, 7 p.m., Westport Library). It’s been named one of the “Best Books of 2025 (So Far)” by Esquire Magazine.
AAPI Westport gives a Special shoutout to the elementary school librarians and PTAs for inviting Christina Soontornvat as their visiting author this year. Students will meet her next week.
And finally … on this date in 1888, Nikola Tesla delivered a lecture about how to use alternating currents to transmit electric power over long distances.
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Posted onApril 21, 2025|Comments Off on Student Power: Youth Commission Seeks Members
Danya Herman writes: “Margaret Mead said, ‘Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.’
“As a sophomore at Greens Farms Academy who had recently moved from New York City to Westport, I never imaged I could have a voice in the governing of our town. That is, until I heard about the Westport Youth Commission.
“After attending my first general meeting and then, through getting involved in projects and sharing my voice, moving up the ranks to now be on the executive committee my junior year, I’ve seen how this quote defines the work we do.
“We are not just a group of students and adults; we are a rising tide, shaping the shores of our community bit by bit with every idea, conversation, and event.
“Whether through Dodge-A-Cop, where laughter and friendly competition fill the Staples fieldhouse and relationships are built one dodgeball throw at a time, or the iMentor Internet Safety Program, where we become guiding stars for elementary and middle school students navigating the vast digital and social sky, our work proves that youth are not just the future; we are the present.
Police and Staples students, before a Dodge-a-Cop dodgeball event.
“I love being part of the Westport Youth Commission because together, we are not just waiting for a better town. We are helping create it.”
Westport Youth Commission applications for the 2025-26 school year are available now. They’re looking for 9th-12th graders interested in discussing youth issues each month, while making a difference in the community.
The WYC includes 15 high school students and 15 adults), all recommended by the Board Development Committee and appointed by the First Selectwoman.
The application deadline is May 2. Click here for an application form, and more information.
A student discount program is another Youth Commission initiative.
Comments Off on Student Power: Youth Commission Seeks Members
Back in the day, I served 5 terms on the Westport Youth Commission.
For 10 years we tried to develop a student discount program, for merchants.
It never happened.
In fact, back when I was a student at Staples High School, the Youth-Adult Countil — the Youth Commission’s ancestor — talked about a student discount card.
It too went nowhere.
All good things are worth waiting for.
Starting today — for the first time since the idea was broached, in the Johnson administration — Westport high school students (and those in college) can enjoy discounts, at over 2 dozen stores and restaurants.
And — how’s this for inclusion? — the program is also open to local educators.
The offers range all over town, from Vineyard Vines, Theory and Basso to The Bridge at Saugatuck, Pizza Lyfe and Restore Hyper Wellness. Most are from 10 to 20% off.
Even the Westport Country Playhouse is on board, with substantial ticket discounts for students and teachers.
The Youth Commission and Westport Downtown Association are partners in the launch.
Jake Shufro — a Youth Commission member and Staples High School junior — was aware of many long, fruitless attempts at a discount program.
He figured the WDA had the ability to make somethng work, and asked them to join the effort.
Youth Commission member Jake Shufro (left) and Westport Downtown Association community director Brian Spurr outside Rhone, one of 25 participants in the discount program.
Kevin Godburn, the town’s liaison to the Youth Commission as Department of Human Services director of youth services, notes, “This has been a great opportunity for student leaders to work with the local business community, and encourage peers to shop and socialize in town.
“With each program, the students learn a lot about what works and what doesn’t. We’re excited about the sustainability of this current version and look forward to a successful launch.”
To participate, high school or college students must present a valid student ID, or show their Schoology account. Educators must show their active credentials.
Partipants include:
Amenity Nail & Spa: Discounts on gel manicure, regular mani + pedi, and gel mani+regular pedi
Artistic Image Salon & Blow Dry Bar: 15% off
Brooks Brothers: 15% off
Courtgirl: 15% off
Earthplace: $5 admission for students
Field Trip Snacks: 20% off
GlowBar: 20% off
Hammer & Nails: 10% off
Kerri Rosenthal: 15% off
Madewell: 15% off
Marine Layer: 15% off
Moxie Salon: 20% off
Restore Hyper Wellness: 50% off core services for students; 20% off for teachers
Rhone: 20% off
The Two Oh Three: 10% off
Theory: 15% off
Vineyard Vines: 15% off
Vivid Cottage: 15% off
Westport Country Playhouse: Students, $20 tickets to any regular season performance; educators, 25% off regular single-ticket prices for all mainstage productions
Westport Cut & Shave: 10% off
Field Trip is offering 20% off its snacks.
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Basso: 15% off
The Bridge at Saugatuck: 10% off
Joe’s Pizza: 15% off
Original Pancake House: 20% off
Pizza Lyfe: 10% off
(For more details on the Youth Commission/Westport Downtown Association discount program, click here. There’s a form there too for merchants, services and restaurants to participate.)
(“06880” regularly covers retail and restaurant news, plus teen life. If you enjoy those stories, and so much more, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
“Caroling Crawl” — a Saugatuck tradition — continues this Saturday (December 21, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.).
Staples High School’s elite a cappella group the Orphenians will entertain diners at several restaurants, in the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce-sponsored event.
They’ll start at the Saugatuck Rowing Club’s Boathouse, then make their rounds at other restaurants around Riverside Avenue, Railroad Place and the rest of the neighborhood, ending at the Little Pub at Dunville’s.
Add that to the list of specials on Saturday’s menu!
Staples Orphenians’ Caroling Crawl.
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Speaking of Christmas in Saugatuck: Startup Westport — the public/private partnershp for tech entrepreneurs and innovators — chose a perfect location for their holiday party.
Nearly 150 people gathered at Content Studio — Chirag Shah and Jay Norris’ Saugatuck Avenue production studio/meeting/media location — to celebrate the season.
Startup Westport events are always high-energy, with plenty of creative men and women sharing ideas and networking.
Throw in food, drinks, and a DJ, and it was one of the organization’s best events in their very busy 2 years.
Some of the many attendees enjoying yesterday’s Startup Westport holidy party, at Content Studio.
Startup Westport co-founder Jay Norris and his wife Crystal. They celebrated both the party, and her birthday.
A memorial service for Dick Fincher — the Tree Board chair, Earthplace and Staples Tuition Grants board member, and church vestryman, who died October 31 at 86 — will be held Saturday, December 28, at 11;30 a.m. at Christ & Holy Trinity Episcopal Church.
A reception will follow. The public is invited to attend.
Dick Fincher
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16 teams of Staples High School students and Westport Police officers hurled balls at each other Monday, in the annual Westport Youth Commission dodgeball tournament.
The event — held in the Staples fieldhouse — has 2 important rules. Each team must include 1 cop. And no aiming at heads.
Otherwise, is a night for ducking, diving, and of course dodging.
Staples’ Teen Awareness Group co-sponsored the tourney. Entry fees help fund their projects.
The Dodge-a-Cop champs! From left: James Penny, Anthony Armentano, Charles Clark, Casey Bag, Nicholas Weil, Officer Mike Davis. (Photo/Andrew Colabella)
Margery Fisher — a longtime Coleytown Middle School librarian, children’s book author and the wife of noted illustrated Leonard Everett Fisher — died peacefully at home on Friday. She was 94.
After majoring in mathematics and earning Phi Beta Kappa honors at Mount Holyoke College, Margery was recruited by IBM to teach at their school in New York City.
She soon became a system service representative, one of the very few women in the IBM business machine program and pioneering computer path.
While at IBM she met and married her husband of 71 years. She and Leonard moved to New Haven. IBM transferred Margery to its office there. For the next several years she serviced IBM’s growing business machine products, from industrial computers installed in hardware stores and grocery stores to the United States Navy’s first atomic submarine, the USS Nautilus.
Margery left IBM prior to the birth of their children. After moving to Westport she earned a master’s degree in library science at Southern Connecticut State University.
She served as Coleytown Middle School’s librarian for 25 years, retiring in 1995.
Margery was the author of 2 children’s books, for which her husband provided the illustrations: “But Not Our Daddy” and “One and One.”
Margery continued her interest in children’s literature after retiring. She joined the Bank Street College Book Committee, creating, editing and publishing world-wide yearly lists of the best in North American children’s literature.
Margery and Leonard lived in Westport for more than 68 years. They traveled the world together from England (33 times) to the Panama Canal, Italy, Russia, Egypt, China, Hawaii, Normandy and Maine.
Margery is survived by her children Julie Fisher (Robert Aldoroty), Susan Fisher Plotner, and James Fisher (Pamela Viglielmo); grandchildren Lauren, Michael, Samuel, Jordan, Gregory and Danielle, and her sister Betty Meskin Pincus.
Donations in Margery and Leonard’s name can be made to the “Margery & Leonard Everett Fisher Endowment for Children’s Books in the Arts,” c/o Westport Library, 20 Jesup Road, Westport, CT 06880.
Margery Fisher
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Longtime Westport arts community member and philanthropist Gary Cosgrave died peacefully on Monday. He was 82.
A graduate of Mamaroneck (New York) High School, Gary did not go to college because he suffered from undiagnosed dyslexia. Nevertheless, he achieved remarkable business success.
After the passing of his father, Paul, Gary took over the family business, PROGroup, and as chair and CEO turned it into a conglomerate of 5 businesses: Pro Hardware. Garden Master and Farm Mart, as well an advertising agency and distribution business.
For over 25 years Gary was an active member of Vistage, a worldwide business advisor group. After selling his business in 2011, Gary continued to mentor business executives and entrepreneurs, and was on the board of Soluxe Inc., parent company of Solomon Community Solar LLC.
Gary served for many years on the boards of the Westport Country Playhouse and MoCA CT. In 2012 he was honored by the Westport Art Center for his success as chair in stabilizing the group’s finances and developing a new strategic vision.
He was a major donor to the Southport School, an independent day school for cerebrodiverse children dealing with challenges like dyslexia, and to Seeds for Peace and Operation Smile.
An accomplished sailor and scuba diver, Gary threw himself into underwater photography. He built an impressive portfolio of stunning images that he published as books, sold and displayed widely. He co-authored a book, “Stop, Think and Dream: Be the Difference That Makes a Difference (Teens for Planet Earth),” empowering New York City teenagers.
Gary survived by his fiancé Dina Upton of Westport; son Terry Cosgrave of Colorado Springs, and grandchildren Michaela Patry, Lily Cosgrave, Isabell and Ella Rosenberg. He was preceded in death by his wife Ruby, daughter Tracey, and brothers Jack and Victor.
Gary’s ashes will be interred at his family plot at Lakeview Cemetery in New Canaan on February 8 (10:30 a.m.), followed by a celebration of his life at Rive Bistro (11:30 a.m.).
Claudia Sherwood Servidio — one of our very talented “Westport … Naturally” contributors — finds beauty everywhere.
She shot this image yesterday, at rainy Sherwood Island State Park:
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And finally … Robert Moses — the urban planner responsible for the construction of hundreds of highways, bridges, tunnels, playgrounds, beaches — and a World’s Fair — in and around New York, sometimes for better and sometimes for worse, was born on this day in 1888. He died in 1981.
(Holy Moses! If you appreciate “06880”‘s daily coverage of all things Westport, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
Posted onSeptember 1, 2024|Comments Off on We’re Hiring! Youth Commission Matches Students, Employers
As a new school year begins, people are scrambling to fill jobs.
Parents search for tutors, babysitters and yard work. Stores and restaurants replace employees who returned to college.
Local high school students are ready to fill flexible, part-time jobs.
The Westport Youth Commission can help.
Last year, teen member Jake Shufro led the organization’s collaboration with Quad Jobs. The online platform is free for all Westporters with a high school email address. Filling out a profile helps create viable matches.
Now a Staples High School junior, he is heading the project again.
When an employer posts a job, students who live nearby with an interest in that category are notified.
When a student applies for a job, the employer receives both an email and pop-up message. They communicate with students directly via the app, or through the student’s phone or email.
Over 30 employers hired students last year, for jobs ranging from babysitting to bike shops to lacrosse trainer.
To sign up, students should click here, then follow the instructions.
Household employers pay $10 for a one-time post, $50 a year for unlimited posts. Use the code“Free10” for a free first post, and “gowestport” for 50% off unlimited posts.
Businesses pay $100 a year for unlimited posts. Use the code “westportbiz” for 50% off.
Ten percent of profits are donated to charity.
Employers of all kinds can click here to begin, or click here for more detailed instructions.
Click here for more information, on the town’s Youth Commission page.
(If there’s news about Westport’s young people, you’ll read it on “06880.” Please click here to support our ongoing work. Thank you!)
Comments Off on We’re Hiring! Youth Commission Matches Students, Employers
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When a student applies for a job, the employer receives both an email and pop-up message. They communicate with students directly via the app, or through the student’s phone or email.
