Millions of “Today” show fans know Craig Melvin from TV.
Thousands of Westporters know him as our neighbor.
Last night, a capacity Westport Library crowd got to know him even better.
The co-anchor of the 74-year-old TV institution — heir to a tradition that includes Dave Garroway, Barbara Walters, Tom Brokaw, Katie Couric, Bryant Gumbel, and many more illustrious names — spoke for nearly 90 minutes about his life, his career and, especially, his and his family’s life in our town.
For once, he was not the host.
That task fell to Jim Marpe, former 1st selectman and a member of the Y’s Men of Westport & Weston. That also-venerable institution sponsored the event.
Before he took the stage, Craig Melvin (right) and Jim Marpe watch a video of the co-host’s “Today” show career. (Photo/Ted Horowitz)
Under Marpe’s warm but insightful questioning, Melvin described the route he and his wife, TV journalist Lindsay Czarniak, took to Westport. Searching for a home between New York City and Bristol, Connecticut, where she worked for ESPN, they toured Fairfield County.
Sitting at Mansion Clam House, he thought, “Everyone here is in finance. And white.”
But they rented a place just across the river, on Otter Trail, and fell in love with the town.
As their children grow up here, Melvin has enjoyed participating in their lives: flag football, basketball, gymnastics, dance and more.
He’s also a member of Westport 10. The organization — founded by Jay Norris — brings Black men together, to network and socialize. It’s also a way for their children to meet other Black youngsters in town.
Jim Marpe with “Pops: Learning to be a Son and a Father.” Melvin wrote the memoir about fatherhood, addiction and resiliency. (Photo/Ted Horowitz)
There were other serious moments too. Melvin and Czarniak are involved in several cancer-related charities (his brother died of colorectal cancer).
The “Today” anchor grew emotional when describing the recent trauma involving the disappearance of co-host Savannah Guthrie’s mother. He described the “family” atmosphere among the show’s cast and crew, and offered insights into the close relationship between himself and Guthrie. (Not long ago, on a trip to Arizona, Melvin visited her mother’s home.)
During the audience Q-and-A, a woman asked for advice on getting into the television industry.
“One thing you can’t learn is genuine intellectual curiosity,” he noted.
A capacity crowd filled the Trefz Forum. (Photo/Ted Horowitz)
Another woman said that she sees Melvin around town, but doesn’t want to say anything to him.
“That’s rude!” he shot back.
He enjoys speaking with residents, he said — though he appreciates not being approached when he’s with his family.
“Lindsay and I knew what we were getting into” when they went into television, he explained. “Our kids didn’t sign up for this.”
Melvin also gave shout-outs to several Westporters in the audience, including the Rhimes family, Dave Briggs, and Bill Mitchell (“you buy a tie, next thing you know he’s got you doing something for Sacred Heart University”).
“This is not the life I imagined” growing up in South Carolina, Melvin said. One day he’s interviewing Keanu Reeves; the next, Marco Rubio.
But it a life he relishes.
Last night, thanks to Jim Marpe and the Y’s Men, hundreds of Westporters understood why.
Jim Marpe and Craig Melvin, enjoying their conversation. (Photo/Susan Garment)
(“06880” is “where Westport meets the world” — and we all meet neighbors like Craig Melvin. If you enjoy stories like this, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
As Earth Day (April 22) nears, Sustainable Westport asks: “Can you imagine what our planet could look like if we got it right?”
They answer their own question: “Less congestion and cleaner air, with communities that are more interconnected because towns are walkable and bikeable. Shorelines and waterways that are free from discarded plastic and waste. Native trees and plants supporting pollinators and clean water supporting vibrant ecosystems for generations to come.
“It’s a hopeful vision, and one that feels entirely possible when communities come together starting first with small, meaningful changes.
“At the heart of this vision is a simple, powerful truth: We are all guardians of this planet. This stewardship isn’t reserved for scientists or policymakers; it is a responsibility carried by every one of us. Each person in our community holds a vital piece of the puzzle, and the picture of a sustainable Westport is only possible when all of us are present and engaged.
During Earth Month, Sustainable Westport is re-emphasizing their commitment to reducing single-use plastic. They ask residents to watch an important video (click here) — and then participate and lead, by sharing the message, encouraging neighbors, and turning individual efforts into a community movement.
Also upcoming: a screening of “Plastic People: The Hidden Crisis of Microplastics.”
The documentary explores the alarming spread of microplastics throughout our planet — and our bodies.
The event — following a sold-out showing at SXSW — is Thursday (April 9, 6:30 p.m., Greens Farms Academy). A panel discussion follows the screening.
The Board of Finance’s next “office hours” — open times at which residents can chat with a member about questions or concerns — are Thursday, April 16.
There are 2 sessions — 10 to 11 a.m., and 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. — at the Westport Library’s Room 213.
The events have proved popular, with a broad range of Westporters asking an equally broad range of questions.
Speaking to 175 Y’s Men of Westport and Weston at Saugatuck Congregational Church on Thursday, Dr. Kenneth Pollack said that the war with Iran has become a grinding war of attrition with no easy exit for the United States.
A former CIA analyst and National Security Council official, Pollack is now vice president for policy at the Middle East Institute. He warned that forced regime change in Tehran is a dangerous gamble, and said Washington has “run out of good options,” leaving only bad choices as it struggles to end the conflict, reopen vital oil shipping lanes, and find a strategy President Trump can use to ease domestic economic pain while pressuring Iran’s hard‑line leadership to back down.
Looking ahead, Pollack said much of the world’s economic fate now hinges on whether the U.S. is willing to do the politically difficult work needed to pry open the Strait of Hormuz and blunt Iran’s regional influence. That could mean inserting limited ground forces to secure shipping lanes and potentially striking at Iranian allies such as Hezbollah, steps he called militarily feasible but politically fraught.
Until then, he warned, shortages of oil, liquefied natural gas and critical materials like fertilizers and helium will deepen, increasing the risk of a global recession and leaving Iran’s hard‑liners in position to keep exploiting their “chokehold” on the world economy.
Y’s Men member Peter Pollack (left) introduces his son, Dr. Kenneth M. Pollack. (Photo/Ted Horowitz)
Karen Schlansky — an abstract painter working in acrylic, oil, pastel and mixed media — is this month’s guest exhibitor. The local artist is displaying paintings from her recent “Books” series.
A reception is set for April 23 (6 p.m.). All work is available for purchase.
Karen Schlansky, with her work.
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Speaking of art: As the nation’s 250th birthday nears, the Weston Commission for the Arts seeks submissions that explore America’s past, present and future.
The “Weston Celebrates America 250” exhibit (July 3 to 31) will complement July 4th activities like a patriotic tailgating contest, bell ringing ceremony, old- fashioned family sports/field day and picnic, and fireworks.
Also planned during the month-long exhibit: art classes for children and adults, and a meet the artists reception July. Click here for details.
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This Thursday (April 9, 7 p.m.), MoCA\CT celebrates National Poetry Month bt transforming its galleries into a performance space.
Norwalk-based spoken word artist Sahmra Sawyer (Supreme Divinity) will perform original poetry inspired by “Art, Jazz + the Blues” — the museum’s current exhibit — while live jazz plays in the background.
As the performance unfolds, Bridgeport artist Lauren Clayton will create a large-scale painting — translating spoken word and sound into a visual work in real time.
29 Markle CT will provide an “elevated take on soul food.”
A wayward son moves home to care for his mother, and discovers chaos he never knew he needed.
That’s the premise behind “Sorry for Laughing.” The new solo play by Evan Zes, about caring for his mother during COVID, is part of the Westport Country Playhouse’s New Works Initiative. celebrating new works and new playwrights.
Westport’s first “pickleball ambassador,” Tom Lowrie, sent this along, with Easter and Passover greetings from himself and his successor, current ambassador Brandon Osterhout.
We don’t know who’s who in the photo, but it doesn’t matter. Enjoy the weekend!
A few hours before headlining last night’s VersoFest concert, Wyclef Jean was the special guest at Startup Westport’s first-ever daytime event.
The musician/rapper/composer/producer/entrepreneur/philanthropist spoke with 75 attendees at Saugatuck’s Content Studio about his journey from Haiti to Brooklyn; the teacher who encouraged him (and introduced him to Miles Davis); his father’s life as a pastor; influences ranging from Charlie Daniels to Bach, and Run-DMC to Shakespeare; shooting his “Carnival” video with Bob Dylan, and much more.
He spoke too about his 7 (!) upcoming albums. “These projects are all about discovery,” he said. “My best work is ahead of me.”
Wyclef Jean and Madeline Nelson, at Content Studio. (Photo/Dan Woog)
Jean supports ventures ranging from a Haitian robotics team and No Kid Hungry to Music Will, which brings music education to over a million students.
In lieu of a performance fee last night, the Westport Library made a substantial donation on Jean’s behalf to Music Will.
Jean was joined by Madeline Nelson of Heads Music, Sam Hendel of Chord Music Partners, Jared Heiman of Fandiem and Brooke Rascoff of Riot Games. They discussed the intersection of music, culture, and AI.
His evening show at the Westport Library was jam-packed, eclectic, and quintessentially Wyclef.
One view of the Trefz Forum audience … (Photo copyright Dinkin ESH Fotografix)
… and another … (Photo/Matthew Mandell)
… and the star. (Photos copyright DinkinESH Fotografix)
VersoFest continues today and tomorrow, with workshops, panels, and special events. One of this afternoon’s highlights: a talk with Adria Petty, Tom Petty’s daughter.
The Staples High School student earned a national gold medal in the 2026 Scholastic Art & Writing Awards — one of the most prestigious recognitions for creative students in the country.
His photograph, “Rising in the Dawn: The Calm Before the Flight,” was selected from more than 335,000 submissions nationwide. It was cited for originality, technical skill and personal vision.
Case will be honored in New York on June 10. Previous Scholastic Art & Writing Awards winners include Andy Warhol, Stephen King and Amanda Gorman.
Friends Roger, Billie Jean, Blackjack and Tubs met up at Compo Beach on Thursday.
(Photo/Nancy Lally)
It was one of their last romps for 6 months. Westport beaches are closed to dogs from April 1 through September 30.
And beginning May 1, beach stickers are required for entrance too.
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Saugatuck Church’s Hoskins Hall was packed this week, for the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston’s meeting.
Dr. Anca Micu explained how artificial intelligence can make everyday life easier. A former copywriter turned marketing professor at Fairfield University, she said that the most important AI skill is not coding; it’s communication.
Good “prompt engineering” means giving AI clear context, a specific task, practical constraints, and a preferred format — whether analyzing an ad campaign, planning travel, checking facts or anything else.
Vague prompts (“analyze this campaign”) produce vague answers; detailed prompts (“you are a marketing analyst…identify patterns…present in a professional but accessible tone”) turn AI into a useful partner. (That’s good advice for our “06880” widget too, located at the top right of every blog page.)
Micu warned that AI responses are confident but not always correct, and urged the audience to protect privacy and use their own judgment.
Used well, she argued, AI makes people think more — not less — by forcing them to ask better questions, check sources, and actively curate the machine’s work. (Hat tip: Allan Sieger)
More on the Y’s Men: Want to know more about the war in Iran, fighting across the Middle East, and the threat to global oil shipping routes?
The very active, very involved group hosts Dr. Kenneth M. Pollack — vice president for policy at the Middle East Institute — on Thursday (April 2, 9 a.m., Saugatuck Congregational Church).
A former CIA analyst and National Security Council official, he is a leading authority on Middle East security and was recently interviewed on “Meet the Press.”
Guests and prospective Y’s Men members are welcome.
A bicyclist was struck by an automobile driver yesterday morning, on Riverside Avenue.
“He’s okay,” Saugatuck resident Robbie Guimond reports. “But boy, did it look bad!”
Be careful out there!
(Photo/Robbie Guimond)
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Westport residents Rikki Zelkowitz Dworkis and Emmy Hollenberg work with many local families, supporting early learning and executive functioning skills.
For 10 weeks beginning April 22 (SproutWell, Darien; $800), their “Ready, Set, K!” play-based kindergarten readiness program focuses on confidence, independence and a smooth transition into kindergarten.
Key areas include classroom routines and transitions, emotional regulation and flexibility, attention, listening skills, peer interactions and group learning, and problem-solving. All are integrated into pre-K literacy and skills.
Bob Weingarten writes: “A few days ago, a large branch came down on Center Street.
“A day after, Westport tree warden Ben Sykas surveyed the incident, and said the rest of the tree had to be removed because of decay.
“Two days later, a crow crew came. It took them 2 days to take it down.
“I compliment the town and tree warden for their rapid action in removing a hazard to the neighborhood and people walking by. Quick action like this is great.”
Center Street tree, with branch removed … (Photo/Ben Sykas)
Westport Police made 4 custodial arrests between March 18 and 26.
A 34-year-old Brooklyn man was charged with larceny, attempt to commit larceny, identify theft, illegal possession of a personal identification information device, and forgery, after a bank customer reported in April 2025 that a $24,000 check to the IRS had been intercepted from the mail. An unknown party attempted to cash it. Two weeks later, a Westport business reported that an $835 check made payable to a vendor had been intercepted from the mail and deposited. After the man was incarcerated at Rikers Island, he was extradited to Westport on the 2 outstanding warrants. He could not post $325,000 bonds.
A 41-year-old Norwalk man was charged with operating a motor vehicle with suspended registration and driver’s license, failure to meet minimum insurance requirements and failure to appear, when an officer on patrol was alerted by an in-car license plate reader of the violations. He posted a $35,000 bond.
A 54-year-old Westport man was charged with assault and disorderly conduct, after verbal argument escalated into a physical altercation. The victim sustained an injury to the head.
A 35-year-old Westport man was charged with 2 counts of risk of injury to a child, after he left 2 juveniles unattended for 13 to 20 minutes while in Fairfield.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Texting while driving: 12 citations
Traveling unreasonably fast: 10
Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 9
Failure to renew registration: 9
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 7
Failure to obey stop sign: 4
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 3
Speeding: 2
Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 2
Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 2
Distracted driving: 2
Failure to obey stop sign: 2
Passing a standing school bus: 1
Operating a motor vehicle with unsafe tires: 1
Defective windshield wipers: 1
Following too closely: 1
Failure to grant right of way: 1
Failure to drive in the proper lane: 1
Improper turns: 1
Failure to obey traffic control signals: 1
Failure to insure a motor vehicle: 1
Failure to register a commercial vehicle: 1
Improper use of markers: 1.
Don’t drive with defective tires!
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For today’s “Westport … Naturally” featured photo, look at the top half of the photo — not the bottom.
The sun’s rays are a lot more interesting than this less-than-lovely view of Riverside Avenue, taken from Rich Vogel’s Wright Street office.
And finally … Dash Crofts, half of Seals & Crofts, died of hear failure on Wednesday in Austin, Texas. He was 87.
To be honest, I never got into their music. But they sure sold a lot of records. And in 2022, Rolling Stone listed “Summer Breeze” at #20 in their list of all-time greatest summer songs. Go figure.
A second Westport Republican has announced a run for statewide office.
Planning & Zoning Commission member John Bolton has filed for the attorney general race, Kevin Rennie’s Daily Ructions reports.
He joins Jen Tooker. The former 1st selectwoman is running for comptroller.
Bolton is “unlikely to face any competition for the Republican nomination for the job when it meets in May to select a candidate,” the political news source reports.
And to ensure that the vegan/feminist/iconic Bridgeport restaurant — co-founded by Westporter Selma Miriam — the very popular Bloodroot Giant Tag Sale returns this week.
On Friday and Saturday (March 27-28, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., 85 Ferris Street, Bridgeport), tons of Bloodroot “stuff” will be on sale.
For example: vintage and antique tables, chairs, bookcases, and other furniture; vintage pine farmhouse style bins, cubbies and bookshelves; high quality looms and spinning wheels; patio furniture, outdoor tables and outdoor chairs; stone and concrete benches; vintage and mid-century lamps; farmhouse-style pendant lighting and ceiling lamps.
Plus books and paper ephemera with LGBTQ, feminist and vegetarian themes; original signed art (prints, sculptures, photos and posters); antique and vintage china, glassware and tableware; tools and office supplies; pots, pans, cooking supplies and restaurant equipment; household items, clothing, shoes, fabrics — “pretty much everything under the sun.”
The Bloodroot tag sale crew (from left): Lauren, Noel, Sarah, Stephanie and Marina.
There are plenty of grandparents — with grandchildren — in Westport.
On Saturday, May 2 (1 to 3 p.m., Westport Weston Family YMCA), they’ll have a chance to play together — without screens.
The pilot program, called Grand Play Day, brings together grandparents and their grandkids (ages 5-12). Using simple tools (question cards, paper-and-pencil table games and other easy activities), they’ll laugh and share stories.
Grand Play Day is built on “Connections Thru Play,” created by Playocracy founder Lynn Campanella in partnership with the National Institute for Play — where Joe Miller, a member of the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston, serves as a volunteer executive.
The event will be facilitated by Campanella and Miller, include academic input from professors of Childhood Development and Aging, and serve as a potential model for other community groups.
MoCA\CT is seeking ideas for Ellen Harvey’s upcoming exhibit, “The Disappointed Tourist.”
Is there a place you wish you could revisit — a landmark, neighborhood or gathering spot that has disappeared?
Harvey has asked that question around the world, transforming hundreds of public memories into a haunting series of paintings that reimagine sites erased by time, tides or bulldozers.
From June 25 through August 2, she brings her project to MoCA\CT.
Nominations close April 25. Harvey will select 4 sites to immortalize in paint.
Click here to submit an idea, or explore existing works and stories from around the world,
Ellen Harvey in front of a portion of “The Disappointed Tourist.”
“Primary Trust” — the 2024 Pulitzer Prize-winning play about change, friendship quiet courage and mai tais — comes to the Westport Country Playhouse next month.
Trumpeter/composer/arranger Michael Mossman has apprenticed with Lionel Hampton, Dizzy Gillespie and Art Blakey. He’s performed and recorded with Tito Puente and many other greats.
Pianist Zaccai Curtis is an acclaimed recording artist and producer. The Curtis Brothers Band, which he leads with his brother Luques, was earned a 2025 Grammy Award for Best Latin Jazz Album.
They — and bassist Edward Perez, drummer David Alvarez, percussionist Marlon Sobol and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall — take over VFW Post 399 this Thursday (March 26, 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.), for this week’s “Jazz at the Post.”
And finally … on this date in 1721, Johann Sebastian Bach dedicated what are now called the Brandenburg Concertos to Margrave Christian Ludwig of Brandenburg-Schwedt.
(You may not have time to listen to nearly 2 hours of the Concertos. But hopefully you’ve got 30 seconds to click here, to help support the “06880” blog that brings you great music — and much more!)
Among the many details offered at last night’s Cribari Bridge public meeting, this one passed without further comment: The state Department of Transportation has identified 10 properties and 1 dock as potentially affected by the project.
This morning, Bridge Street resident Werner Liepolt wrote to John McAvoy, Federal Highway Administration division administrator in Hartford: “No map, list of properties, or description of the nature of these potential impacts (temporary or permanent) was provided at the meeting nor, to my knowledge, at previous stage of the project.
“Without this information, it is not possible for affected property owners or the public to meaningfully evaluate or comment on the project’s impacts, as required under the National Environmental Policy Act and the Section 106 review process under the National Historic Preservation Act.”
Liepolt asks CTDOT and the FHWA to provide identification of all properties under consideration for right-of-way acquisition or easement; mapping showing the extent and type of potential impacts, and clarification of whether impacts are temporary (construction) or permanent.
He also requests that the comment period — now set to run through April 17 — be extended, so that the public and affected property owners have “a meaningful opportunity to respond.”
CTDOT has not indicated which 10 properties, and which dock, might be affected — including possible condemnation and eminent domain taking — by the Cribari Bridge project. (Drone photo/Alex O’Brien)
On April 6, all daily parking in Lot 1 — the large one opposite Riko’s Pizza — will revert back to permit-only parking.
The state Department of Transportation has returned Lot 8 (off Saugatuck Avenue, between I-95 and Exit 17) to the town for railroad parking, following several years as a staging area for the 95 bridge replacement project.
That restores approximately 140 daily parking spots.
During COVID and for some time afterward, permit-only lots were underutilized. The WPD adjusted parking allocations by adding daily spaces to Lots 1 and 3 to help offset the loss of Lot 8, and better utilize the lots closest to the station.
Now that commuting levels have returned to near pre-COVID patterns on most weekdays, they’ve readjusted again.
The website will be updated, and signage posted to alert commuters. A new parking map is also being developed, and will be available on the website soon.
Saugatuck train station parking map. Click on or hover over to enlarge.
On April 8 (VFW Post 399; cocktails for purchase 5:45; program 7 p.m.), 3 experts offer advice on keeping safe in the digital age.
Panelists include Westport Police Department Detective James Baker; Connecticut State Police Detective Mathew Hogan, and former Secret Service agent Brian McCabe.
The free event is sponsored by the Westport Republican Town Committee.
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Read to Grow — the great non-profit that ensures children begin life surrounded by books — once again hosts its annual statewide fundraiser in Westport.
“A Night for the Books” is set for May 7 (6 p.m.). The venue is appropriate: the Westport Library.
The evening will highlight the power of books, community, and connection, while raising money for programs that provide books and literacy resources to families across Connecticut.
Dave Briggs — former CNN, Fox, NBC, Turner Sports and Yahoo Finance journalist, and a Westport resident — will emcee.
Twelve Artists Collective of Westport members are creating book-inspired centerpieces, for the auction. Zucca Gastrobar caters the farm-to-table food; Alina’s Bakery adds treats. A giving tree – with gift cards donated by local stores and restaurants — will be part of the “mystery pull.”
Before the event (3 to 5 p.m.), families can pick up free children’s books, at the Read to Grow bookmobile.
The organization’s programs include Books for Babies, which gives newborns in Connecticut hospitals their first book; Books for Kids, through which families request free books delivered directly to their homes, and the statewide bookmobile.
In what has become an annual tradition, the Westport PAL 8th grade boys and girls basketball players took the court at Madison Square Garden this week, before the Knicks game.
For the past few years, the NBA (through its Jr. Nicks program) team has offered PAL a great experience. Young players attend the pre-game shootaround, scrimmage on the Garden floor, then watch the game.
Thanks, Jr. Knicks — and Westport resident and former Staples player Brett Tessler — for making it happen.
Westport PAL players, at Madison Square Garden.
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Want to laugh on April 1 — without being a fool?
VFW Post 399 is hosting a free comedy night, with local comedians.
The show begins at 7:30 p.m. Open mic sign-ups begin at 7.
For questions and more information, email meganharvist@gmail.com.
IYKNY.
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Speaking of entertainment: Corky Laing is no stranger to Westport.
The legendary drummer for Mountain has played — and hung out — here before
Can’t quite place Mountain? They’re the “Mississippi Queen” band.
Laing provided the iconic cowbell intro.
He returns April 11 (7 p.m., VFW Post 399), this time as a special guest with Ten$Grand Band.
Up next at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport: “Birthday Club.”
The play — about 5 friends who reunite to celebrate a milestone birthday, and confront changes in marriage, career, health and identity, while examining what has sustained their friendships over decades — will be presented March 27 and 28 (7 p.m.) and March 29 (2 p.m.).
The story “gives space to regret, loyalty and second chances, revealing the warmth and resilience that shape enduring friendships.”
The production is presented by UU Players. Tickets are $25 at the door; students with ID are free. All proceeds support UU Westport.
At last summer’s Pequot Library book sale, teenager Morgan Kofron bought an antique family Bible.
Soon after, it was learned that the Bible had belonged to the Adairs — Black and Indigenous (Shinnecock) landowning family who played a significant role in the economic and cultural history in both Westport and Fairfield.
The Adair family papers are preserved at the Westport Museum for History & Culture. The Bible will now be added to those materials.
Adair family Bible.
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It’s been a while since we featured Man’s Best Friend as a “Westport … Naturally” item. Our bad.
And finally … Vera Lynn was born on this day, in 1917. The English singer — whose performances lifted all of Great Britain during World War II — died in 2020, at 103.
(They just don’t make ’em like Vera Lynn anymore. Fortunately, “06880” remembers her. But we also do a lot more than that. If you enjoy this hyper-local blog, please click here to support us. Thanks!)
Tonight’s main event — a public meeting about next steps for the Cribari Bridge, with representatives of the state Department of Transportation — begins at 6 p.m., in the Town Hall auditorium.
Can’t be there? It will be livestreamed at www.westportct.gov, and aired on Optimum channel 79.
The Cribari Bridge leads from Saugatuck (above) to Greens Farms. (Photo/John Videler for VidelerPhotography.com)
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Meanwhile, Saturday’s main event will be the state high school basketball championship.
The Staples boys team — already 2-time FCIAC champions — competes for their first Connecticut crown since 1937.
Tip-off is 8:30 p.m., at Mohegan Sun.
Sure, it’s late — and at the other end of the state. But it’s been nearly a century since Westporters have been able to cheer the Wreckers on in a state boys basketball final.
Go Wreckers! And go Westporters — see you Saturday night at Mohegan Sun!
The Staples boys basketball team. (Photo/Diane Lowman)
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Looking ahead: The theme for the Memorial Day parade float contest has been announced.
And — looking back — it’s a great one: “250 Years of Honor and Service.
Certificates will be awarded in 6 categories: Best Development of Theme, Best Youth Organization Float, Most Creative, Best Community Organization, Most Colorful, and Best Overall Float.
Of course, we already know the winner in the Overall category.
It’s the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston.
After all, they’ve won for the last 250 years.
Another Y’s Men Memorial Day parade float winner. This one won in 2021. (Photo/Dan Woog)
In their continuing effort to UnPlastic Westport, Sustainable Westport will show “Plastic People: The Hidden Crisis of Microplastics.” The documentary explores the alarming spread of microplastics throughout our planet — and our bodies.
The event — following a sold-out showing at SXSW — is April 9 (6:30 p.m., Greens Farms Academy). A panel discussion will follow the screening.
Westport Professionals Network co-founders Lisa Fedorchak and Katie Gervasio, analyzed the current job market, at Tuesday’s Westport Rotary Club meeting.
The WPN connects local college students and young professionals with job and networking opportunities. Volunteers offer mentorship and advice, in person and online.
“Right now, this is a tough time,” said Fedorchak. “The young professional unemployment rate is 10.5%.”
Lisa Fedorchak (speaking) and Katie Gervasio, at the Westport Rotary Club. (Hat tip and photo/Dave Matlow)
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Westport resident Vivek Kanthan wants to end the drought of Americans ascending to the top of Formula 1.
“06880” last checked in just over a year ago, when he signed with the Formula 4 team Griffin Core by Campos — the top-ranked team in that division.
Since then, Kanthan won his first F4 race, captured Rookie of the Year honors, and set several records, including the single lap speed mark in Mexico City.
Last weekend, the 15-year-old placed 1st at the Spanish Winter Championship.
For more than 4 decades, The Susan Fund has provided college scholarships to Fairfield Country residents who have been diagnosed with cancer at some time in their life, and attend (or plan to) enroll in an institution of higher learning.
The Fund was established in 1980 in memory of her Susan Lloyd, a Staples High School graduate who lost her battle with cancer. Since its founding, the organization has provided over $2 million in scholarships to more than 300 students.
The deadline is near — April 1 — for applications for the 2026 school year. To apply or to learn more about the Susan Fund, click here.
On May 2, the Nolan Team at Compass is sponsoring a town-wide tag sale. It will likely be Westport’s biggest ever.
Residents can participate by hosting a sale at their own home.
It’s a great way to get plenty of publicity. The Nolan Team handles all promotion (including a sign for your lawn or driveway). Your address will be included on a map, and all publicity.
Shoppers can plan their own route, and visit multiple sales all day.
To participate, and for more information, click here.
300 years of passageways in Weston is the topic of an April 19 book talk at the Weston History & Culture Center.
Artist Julie O’Connor will discuss her 2008 book, “Doors of Weston.”
The lecture is free, but registration is required. Click here.
doors are accessible “portals” to understanding the evolution of Weston and its people over the last three centuries, as we celebrate America and Weston since the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
The Center says, “doors are accessible ‘portals’ to understanding the evolution of Weston and its people over the last 3 centuries, as we celebrate America and Weston since the signing of the Declaration of Independence.”
Westport Police made 3 custodial arrests between March 11 and 17.
A 44-year-old Woodside, New York man was charged with 2 counts of larceny, following 2 shoplifting incidents at Walgreens. Both involved allergy medications. One was of $2,659 worth of merchandise; the other was $1,964. He was extradited after being incarcerated for an unrelated matter in New York.He was held on a $40,000 bond.
A 50-year-old Redding man was charged with sexual assault, after a complaint by a restaurant employee that a customer had used his hand to pinch the victim’s buttocks.
A 44-year-old Plymouth, Massachusetts man was charged with failure to appear. He was held on a $25,000 bond.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Texting while driving: 9 citations
Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 6
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 5
Failure to obey stop sign: 5
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 4
Failure to renew registration: 4
Failure to obey traffic commission regulations: 4
Distracted driving: 3
Operating a motor vehicle without tint inspection: 2
Tonight, we take a big step on our long slog toward spring.
Daylight Savings Time returns! Remember to turn your clocks ahead 1 hour.
The bad news is: We lose an hour of sleep.
The good news: It won’t be dark at 6 p.m. anymore.
At least, not for another 8 months.
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The judges have ruled, on the Connecticut History Day regional contest.
We’re not sure if these results are historic. But Westport students did very, very well.
Students are encouraged to explore any aspect of history, from local to international. They can work individually or in groups, on topics of their choice. This year’s theme was “Revolution, Reaction, Reform in History.”
They present projects in one of 5 categories: exhibits, documentaries, websites, papers or performances.
Winners (below) advance to the state competition in May. First and second place finishers there move on to represent Connecticut at the national contest in Maryland.
Staples High School winners include:
1st Place
Noah Bruno (“NASA: How a Space Agency Drove Civil Rights Reforms” — individual documentary)
2nd Place
Alexandra Ben (“Marian Anderson: A Voice That Challenged a Nation” — paper)
Ruby Boroujerdi, Carol Berger, Madeleine Stiber (“Technicolor in ‘The Wizard of Oz’: Revolutionizing the Standards of Cinema” — group exhibit)
Luca Ghedini, Pranav Tamilselvan (“Igniting History: How Gunpowder Triggered a Global Transformation — group documentary)
Cameryn Brink (“We Are Columbine: How Normalized Deviance in Gun Violence has Undermined Effective Gun Reform in School Shootings” — individual website)
3rd Place
Charlotte Hoke, Cali Kingsley (“Progression Toward Gender Equality: Violence Against Women’s Act” — group exhibit)
Serena Goldfarb (“Equality Over Injustice: How Title IX Shaped Female Athletics” — individual documentary)
Honorable Mention
Madelynn Flom, Lilly Ford, Brooklynn Crawford (“The Degree that Sparked Revolution an the Woman Behind It: Elizabeth Blackwell” — group exhibit)
Alexandra Gottlieb (“Southbury vs. Fascism: When a Small Town Took a Stand” — individual documentary)
Graham Lewis, Akshay Rao, Ryan Asiel (“Revolution on the Fairway” — group documentary)
Middle school winners include:
1st Place
Mia Amin, Coleytown (“A Revolution in Medicine: How the Spanish Flu Led to Reform in American Public Health” — paper)
Henry Bach (“The Race to Discover DNA an the Dark Side of Winning” — individual exhibit)
Emily Bernier, Emmeline Cutler, Coleytown (“Lewis Hine and Adding Awareness to Child Labor” — group documentary)
Brandon Sheefel, Olivia Duran, Coleytown (“1810 May Revolution, Voice of the Cabildo” — group performance)
2nd Place
Matilda Jones, Nora Lipschutz, Coleytown (“The Legacy of Lewis Hine” — group exhibit)
Madyan Hemdan, Bedford (“The Radium Girls: Shining a Light on Injustice” — individual documentary
Leanne Wong, Bedford (“The Needle That Saved Millions: The Eradication of Smallpox” — individual website)
Brooklynn Flom, Johanna Lawton, Bedford (“Angel of the Battlefield” — group website)
3rd Place
Sofia Farquhar, Bedford (“The Radium Girls” — individual exhibit)
Honorable Mention
James Ben, Bedford (“Truman vs. McArthur: The Firing That Changed History” — individual exhibit)
Gemma Porrino, Charlotte Carr, Bedford (“A Day to Remember: The Attacks on 9/11” — group exhibit)
Dexter Abrams, Rhys Livingston, Coleytown (“The Reform on Chemotherapy and Radiotherapy” — group documentary)
Thursday’s was particularly insightful. Jeff White — a longtime Westporter, former CFO of Major League Baseball, executive vice president of the New York Mets and CFO of CBS News — offered a frank assessment of MLB”s future.
His topics ranged from gambling risks and a looming labor war, to international expansion.
White called legalized sports betting “an accident waiting to happen,” despite the advertising revenue flowing in. He noted that the people most affected by a work stoppage would be the the 500 to 1,000 game day workers, and 400 to 600 full-time staffers at each club.
And he spoke about his vision to bring the professional leagues of Japan, Taiwan and South Korea into an expanded MLB postseason (a true “World Series”).
Jeff White, at the Y’s Men meeting.
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Staples High School 2006 graduate Max Orland has a speech and language disability.
That has not stopped him from achieving many of his dreams.
His career includes positions with the New York Mets, US Open (center court, for Federer and Serena Williams), Philadelphia Phillies, Boston Red Sox, Northeastern University, and Winged Foot and Tiburon golf clubs, plus retail experience (with many awards) at Legends @ Yankee Stadium, J. Crew, Under Armour, Vineyard Vines and Nike.
Most recently, the University of Delaware sport management graduate has been involved with the Miami Heat, and Special Olympics Florida
He writes: “No one can truly embody how I feel living with my personal challenges in speech and language, but moments like this remind me why it’s so important to keep getting involved, whether through work or in the community.
“Being featured on Heat TV wasn’t just about me. It was about the voice I share and what I represent as part of the Miami HEAT organization, and as an advocate for others. I will keep putting myself out there to speak on the importance of inclusive education and inclusion in the workplace, and to be a face for those who may need one when opportunities arise.
“My first year with the Heat has been about more than just a job. It’s about impact and the drive to help make the world a better place. I never take these opportunities for granted, and will continue striving to create meaningful change.”
Click here or below for a video, including words from Max.
After more than 25, Jane Ross, founder and executive director of Smart Kids with Learning Disabilities — retired yesterday.
Since launching the non-profit — which serves many Westport families — in 2000, Ross has helped transform the landscape for families raising children with learning and attention challenges.
At a time when parents often felt isolated and unsure where to turn, she helped provide information, guidance, and a community of supportive families.
MoCA\CT was packed last night, for the opening of its “Art, Jazz + the Blues” exhibition.
The sprawling show explores the intersections between visual art and 2 musical forms deeply rooted in African American traditions.
Westport artists are well represented, with many works drawing from the rich holdings of the Westport Public Art Collections. The centerpiece is “Giants of the Blues,” 7 large pieces by Eric von Schmidt depicting scores of influential artists, from the jazz, blues and folk worlds. It has hung for 20 years in auditorium lobby at Staples High School — von Schmidt’s alma mater — but at MoCA can be seen and appreciated much more grandly.
The exhibition also includes art by high school students, responding to a prompt about music in their lives and culture.
The opening reception featured remarks by von Schmidt’s daughter, and piano entertainment by Westport resident and the Paul Butterfield Blues Band’s original keyboardist, Mark Naftalin.
MoCA\CT executive director Robin Jaffee Frank (far left) and others involved in the “Art, Jazz + the Blues” exhibit. One of Eric von Schmidt’s 7 works hangs at the right. (Photo/Dan Woog)
Also last night: a reception honoring Bill Harmer’s 10 years as executive director of the Westport Library.
Former board of trustees chairs spoke about his work transforming the institution into Connecticut’s only 5-star library. In his remarks, Harmer praised the trustees, his staff, and the community for their collaborative work, and promised even deeper relationships in the future.
The event was held at The Visual Brand studio on Church Lane, where Harmer and other Library officials spent a great deal of time during the Library’s actual physical transformation in the late 2010s.
Bill Harmer, at his 10-year reception. (Photo/Dan Woog)
The only agenda item for next month’s meeting (March 3, 7:30 p.m., Town Hall auditorium) is “to hold a public discussion to support the Town Administration in its Cribari Bridge discussions with the State of Connecticut Department of Transportation, with the intent to adopt a sense of the meeting resolution.”
Cohl Katz is a hair stylist and makeup artist to the stars.
Her client list runs, literally, from A (Al Green, Al Pacino, Alec Baldwin, Arnold Schwarzenegger) to Z (Zelda Williams).
With Barbara Bush, Bob Dylan, Cal Ripken, Cindy Crawford, Ellen DeGeneres, Hillary Clinton, Hilary Swank, Jerry Seinfeld, John McEnroe, Johnny Depp, Leonardo DiCaprio, Mary Tyler Moore, Mel Gibson, Mick Jagger, Muhammad Ali, Nicole Kidman, Ray Charles, Robin Williams, Rod Stewart, Rosie O’Donnell, Sting and Tom Cruise in between.
Now, it can include you.
In your home.
Cohl is offering house calls throughout the area.
Haircuts, hair style, makeup, makeup lessons; for weddings, big moments, perhaps a TV appearance or speech — she’s ready for it all.
You don’t need a red carpet to welcome Cohl. Just a front door.
Text 917-848-9596 for an appointment, or more information.
Cohl Katz and a client …
… and now Cohl comes to you.
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The Staples High School Counseling Department helps students find the right college.
On March 5, they’re bringing in a big gun to help.
Higher education expert Jeff Selingo will speak on “Dream School: Finding The College That’s Right For You” (book signing 5:30 p.m., presentation 6 p.m., followed by Q-and-A).
Selingo’s previous book, “Who Gets In and Why,” explored decision-making by university admissions offices. His latest, “Dream School,” shifts the focus toward student agency. The presentation will encourage families to move beyond selectivity, and evaluate colleges through the lenses of fit, value, and long-term outcomes.
Our Public Works Department did the heavy lifting after Monday’s blizzard.
But there’s still work to be done — including 24 miles of sidewalks.
This was the scene yesterday, on Hillspoint Road.
(Photo) Tracy Porosoff)
They’re doing a great job.
But they sure wouldn’t mind if residents with shovels lent a hand outside their own homes, too.
PS: Speaking of snow removal, Billy Cohen sends great thanks to Westport Police Chief David Farrell, for making sure that mounds of snow have been removed from the main (southbound side) parking lot at the Saugatuck train station. (The Westport Police are in charge of parking lots at the Westport and Greens Farms stations.)
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Speaking of Monday’s snowfall: It kept attendance down on Tuesday, at a morning Westport Library event.
But Allan Siegert was there. And he wants “06880” readers to know what they missed. He writes:
“Can AI ever replicate the magic of human actors on a real set? That is what Westport’s own Stéphanie Szostak, who played fashion editor Jacqueline Follet opposite Meryl Streep in ‘The Devil Wears Prada,’ and starred in ‘Iron Man 3’ and ‘A Million Little Things,’ asked AI entrepreneur Eline van der Velden.
“Szostak is a working actress who has lived the experience. van der Velden is trying to recreate through AI, and she wanted to know if it’s even possible.
“Szostak said the finished product may look similar, but the process is fundamentally different. On a real set, she said, it’s the happy accidents, the unplanned collaboration, and the raw human energy between actors that create the magic. She said no prompt can engineer that.
“Van der Velden pushed back, saying filming motion capture for Tilly actually feels more raw and free than a traditional set, less choreographed, more like a rehearsal room, where the focus shifts entirely to craft and energy rather than appearance.
“But Van der Velden acknowledged there will always be a place for 100% human productions — just as filmmakers still shoot on film in a digital age.”
Stephanie Szostak, at the Westport Library. (Photo/Allan Siegert)
Siegert also reports: “Enslaved people in Revolutionary War-era Connecticut faced a choice with no good answer: fight for Patriots who offered no real promise of freedom, or flee to the British side and risk being sold to the brutal Caribbean slave trade if caught.
“That stark dilemma was brought to life yesterday morning by historian Ramin Ganeshram, speaking to the Y’s Men of Westport & Weston.
“Ganeshram — executive director of the Westport Museum for History & Culture, and a George Washington Presidential Library Fellow, noted that enslaved people first arrived in Connecticut in 1639. Many had roots here going back 3 or 4 generations by the time the war began.”
Ramin Ganeshram, at the Y’s Men meeting. (Photo/Ted Horowitz)
A celebration of the life of Jon Gailmor — the 1966 Staples High School graduate and beloved musician/educator/humanist who died November 30 — is set for May 23, from 1 to 6 p.m.
The setting is appropriate: the statehouse lawn in Montpelier, Vermont. He lived in the Green Mountain State for 40 years, and was named an official state treasure for his work with students, and his love for Vermont.
And finally … Eric von Schmidt was not just a very talented painter. He’s included in MoCA\CT’s “Art, Jazz + The Blues” exhibition as a blues and folk singer too, who made a big impact on a young Bob Dylan.
In fact, Dylan name-checks von Schmidt — and talks at length about him — on “Baby, Let Me Follow You Down,” in his debut album. Click here or below to listen.
(Another day, another Roundup, full of news, info and photos. If you like this daily dump of stuff — which takes a ton of time to produce! — please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
The Y’s Men of Westport and Weston have a number of sub-groups. They cover many interests, like technology, travel and food.
Plus music.
Last week, the Y’s Men’s Classical Society hosted the Staples Jazz Band, at the Westport Library.
The group, directed by Kevin Mazzarella, “displayed musicianship well beyond their years,” the Y’s Men newsletter says.
The concert was the second of 4 performances. Coming soon: the Staples Stradivarius Chamber Orchestra, and the Art Greenberg Memorial Olga Vinokur Piano.
But you don’t have to be a Y’s Man to enjoy the Jazz Band. Click here or below to watch and listen. (The concert starts at the 4:30 mark.)
Tommy Greenwald got more than he bargained for, when he watched the Harvard-Yale men’s basketball game on ESPNU.
Cooper Boardman was on the call.
The 2017 Staples High School and 2021 Syracuse University grad has broadcast Boston Red Sox games on the WEEI radio network. He also worked for Fox Sports and Westword One, doing college basketball, softball and lacrosse.
Boardman began his career at Staples. He called a number of sports, and won several John Drury Awards.
Speaking of sports: congratulations to Staples wrestlers.
Seamus Brannigan and Julian Rousseau finished first, at this weekend’s FCIAC (league) championships.
Damian Rousseau and Gavin Donaldson placed second, while Kai Schwartz was fourth.
Up next: the state and open meets. Go Wreckers:
From left: Head coach Jordan Marion, Gavin Donaldson, Damian Rousseau, Seamus Brannigan, Julian Rousseau, Kai Schwartz, Francesco Beccarra, Charlie Goldman, Amelia Guimond, coach Will Switzer. Not pictured: Jessiah Jones, Amere Miller, Grady McHugh, Kia Halper.
Speaking still of sports: Congratulations to Dylan Rosen!
The Coleytown Middle School 8th grader recently placed 3rd in Junior 3 Clone Class. It was his first full season of racing with the Norwalk Karting Association, at Calf Pasture Beach.
Dylan is coached by 66 year-old Hugh Gorman. They began a trackside friendship during repairs, and Hugh began offering tips to improve the kart and Dylan’s driving skills.
“He has a lot of patience to talk through things and share his knowledge.” said the 13-year-old racer.
When the season ended in November, Dylan’s 25-year-old Coyote Kart was beyond repair. He and his dad, Frank, called the company. They offered a steep discount on a 15-year-old frame, which they could transfer their working parts to.
Dylan did all the work on it himself. He plans to compete in regional races, beginning next month — with a goal of qualifying for Daytona kart week.
He is looking for local sponsors, to help with karting expenses. Email rosenfamilyracing@gmail.com for details.
(Hail to the chief! And hail to “06880”! Honor your favorite president, by clicking here to support your hyper-local blog. Let us know who he is. Democrats, Republicans, Whigs — all are welcome!)
Staples Orphenians are synonymous with the holiday season.
The high school’s elite a cappella group — fresh off performances at Radio City Music Hall and Westport’s Holiday Stroll — have added another date to their crowded calendar.
And it’s a chance to not only hear their great caroling, but to shop for gifts from local vendors too.
The Orphenians Holiday Market is next Tuesday (December 16, 6 to 8 p.m., Westport Woman’s Club).
Along with shopping and songs (including a sing-along, sponsored by Mitchells of Westport), enjoy seasonal treats and festive foods from The Granola Bar, Old Mill Grocery & Deli by Romanacci, and Ed’s Fusion.
Click here for tickets. Proceeds help fund performance and travel opportunities throughout the year.
Direct from Radio City and the “06880” Holiday Stroll: Staples Orphenians.
Vaccines are all over the news. The most recent headlines involve hepatitis B, for newborns.
Village Pediatrics strongly recommends protecting newborns, with the inoculation.
Dr. Nicole Gorman and her colleagues say:
“Hepatitis B is a virus that can cause lifelong liver disease, liver cancer, and even death. Newborns are especially vulnerable. If exposed, 9 out of 10 infants will develop chronic infection. The birth dose provides protection right away, before any potential exposures occur.
“It’s also important to know that a negative Hep B test in the mother does not guarantee a baby won’t be exposed. In fact, up to 50% of hepatitis B cases in children have no known source.
“This happens because the virus can survive on surfaces for up to 7 days, meaning exposure can occur in unexpected ways — from contact with caregivers, household items, or environments outside the hospital.
“This vaccine has been used safely for decades. It is recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics and all major medical organizations. Giving it shortly after birth is the most effective way to prevent infection.
“We encourage all families to include the Hep B birth dose in their baby’s routine care.”
Dr. Nikki notes, “I was always struck by the statistic that 50% of children who get Hep B can’t trace the source. Everyone should elect for this vaccine in the hospital at birth.”
Dr. Stephen Grevious adds, “Once someone has it, it can’t be eliminated.”
The Y’s Men of Westport and Weston have announced the winners of their photo contest. It was open to members, their wives, and Senior Center participants.
Here are the first place honorees, followed by the runners-up, in all 8 categories:
Architecture: Alan Zimbard, Holly Betts
Critter: Robert Pravder, Bob Weingarten
General: Lee Walther, Jean-Piere Montillier
Landscape: Jean-Piere Montillier, Ed Simek
Manipulated: Susan Garment, Jeffrey Rothman
Nature: Jeffrey Rothman, Greg Battersby
Portrait: Lee Walther, Karen Harman
Waterscape: Michael Hehenberger, Jeffrey Rothman.
Those images — and all others that were entered — are now on display at the Senior Center.
Susan Garment won 1st place in the “Manipulate” category for “Trafalgar Square in the Rain.”
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Check out the newest addition at Sherwood Mill Pond:
(Photo/Matt Murray)
No, it’s not new affordable housing.
It’s an office and storage area for workers on the tidal gates and pedestrian path renovation project.
But if it was housing — those are quite some water views.
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Everyone loves Christmas decorations.
Even those who don’t celebrate the holiday.
Celia Campbell-Mohn captured this cute image, for our daily “Westport … Naturally” feature:
And finally …on this date in 1864, Major General William Tecumseh Sherman’s Union Army troops reached the outer Confederate defenses of Savannah, Georgia.
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