Sp the Department of Public Works has launched a campaign to educate residents on proper practices.

Six days a week, residents and private haulers bring recyclables to the transfer station. The next stop is a waste recovery facility in Shelton, where it’s sorted, then sold as commodities to manufacturers for reuse.

Some materials arrive clean, dry and loose. Others don’t. Containers filled with leftover food and cardboard boxes still packed with Styrofoam are common issues.

Small changes can make a big difference.

The 3 major sources of contamination are easy to remember: “No Bags, No Food, No Foam.”

No Bags: Never place recyclables in plastic bags. Although it may seem convenient, all bagged recycling must be discarded at the Materials Recovery Facility due to OSHA safety regulations.

No Food: Empty and rinse all containers before recycling. Food and liquid residue can contaminate entire loads, causing them to be rejected.

No Foam: Styrofoam cannot be recycled in our area. Dispose of it in the trash, and remove packing materials from boxes before recycling them. Styrofoam easily breaks apart and spreads, contaminating other recyclables.

DPW director Pete Ratkiewich says, “Improper recycling creates additional processing costs for the town — costs that are ultimately passed on to residents. By following these simple guidelines, you can help keep Westport’s recycling program efficient and cost-effective.”

Rinse thoroughly before recycling!

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Yesterday’s item about tickets for Staples High School’s Pops Concert (Friday, June 5), included confusing information on the day tickets are available online.

You can order tickets beginning at 9 a.m. on Friday, May 22. Click here for the link. Remember: first-come, first-served!

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Kyle Martino is many things.

At Staples High School he was the 1999 Gatorade High School Soccer Player of the Year. He was MLS Rookie of the Year, and earned 8 caps with the US men’s national team. He’s one of the best soccer broadcasters around, and the inventor of Goalpher, an innovation that turns basketball courts into mini-pitches.

Oh, yeah: Kyle, who now lives back in Westport, also created Street FC. They host street-style pickup games in unexpected spaces, from basketball and tennis courts to rooftops and empty lots, making it easy for anyone to show up and play.

Who showed up the other day with Kyle, on a Bronx street?

Mayor Zohran Mamdani.

Wearing an Arsenal jersey, he joined Kyle — and a gang of kids — in an impromptu game.

Click here or below, to watch.

PS: Who has better skills: Kyle or the mayor?

It’s actually pretty close.

View this post on Instagram

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Former Tree Board chair Dick Fincher died in 2024. Over many decades he contributed greatly to Westport, in many ways.

One was as a driving force behind the Lillian Wadsworth Arboretum, adjacent to Earthplace and just a few steps from his Old Hill home.

Soon, the Tree Board will honor him with a plaque, celebrating his dedication and love in creating the 12-acre park, then maintaining and caring for it.

Volunteers will reclaim a small area overtaken by invasives. Fittingly, it’s a spot Dick often watered, tending to daffodils and jack-in-the-pulpits.

Dick Fincher, at the Wadsworth Arboretum. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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The “Shake It For Shea” online auction is now live.

Whether you’ll be at tomorrow’s 4th annual gala (Thursday, 7:30 p.m., The Knowlton, Bridgeport)  to raise money for Long QT Syndrome research at Mayo Clinic through Project Shea — Westporter Mark and Kira Greenfield’s great cause — or not, everyone can click here to bid.

Highlights include:

Golf: Grove XXIII, Winged Foot, Sleepy Hollow, Quaker Ridge, Philadelphia Cricket Club and more.

New York Knicks: First row seats at Madison Square Garden, a private shooting clinic at your home court with Allan Houston, a round of golf with John Starks and Larry, or watching a road game alongside Stephon Marbury.

Entertainment: A live taping of “Watch What Happens Live” with Andy Cohen, 2 tickets to “& Juliet” on Broadway, a “Dancing with the Stars” taping, or VIP access to a closed-door Broadway show reading.

Dining: Dinner for 4 at Carbone NYC, the tasting menu at Blue Hill at Stone Barns, an 8-person in-home dinner cooked by celebrity chef Chris Nirschel, and more.

Travel: A week in a brand-new 4-bedroom villa in Cap Cana with a private chef and staff, plus stays at Ocean House, Brazilian Court Palm Beach, Plaza Athenee, Commodore Perry Estate, and more.

Sports memorabilia: Authenticated autographed pieces from Eli Manning, Jalen Hurts, Saquon Barkley, Malik Nabers, Ray Lewis, Cal Raleigh, Paul Skenes and many more.

And those are just some of the great items.

Every dollar raised goes toward Long QT Syndrome research at Mayo Clinic through Project Shea.

The Shake It For Shea fundraiser.

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There’s plenty of purple in the photo above — and a ton of fuchsia in the “Westport … Naturally” image below:

(Photo/Niki van Praag)

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And finally … happy 76th birthday to the great (and ageless) Stevie Wonder!

We could have picked dozens of great songs. Here are just 3:

(It would be “wonder”-ful if every reader supported “06880.” Or just half! Or a quarter, even. Please click here to show some love for this hyper-local blog. Thank you!)

Or George M. White.

The street is off West Branch Road, which itself lies off Weston Road, in the far north of town.

The man served from 1971 to 1995 as Architect of the US Capitol. During that time — under 3 presidents — he created a master plan for the future development of the Capitol complex. Balancing conflicting demands of preservation, expansion and modernization. he oversaw major projects too, including the Library of Congress Madison, Hart Senate Office and Thurgood Marshall Federal Judiciary buildings, plus expansion of the Capitol Visitors Center.

He’s the one too who recommended that presidential inaugurations be moved from the east side of the Capitol to the more majestic western façade, overlooking the Washington Monument and Mall. Since Ronald Reagan’s in 1981, all inaugural ceremonies have taken place there. (Click here for a full biography.)

Thanks to George M. White, ever since 1981 (above), presidential inaugurations have taken place on the west side of the US Capitol.

Before all that though, White designed several Westport homes.

One was at 3 Cedar Pond Road. The architect created it specially as a replica of an early 1800s Connecticut Colonial.

The Westport Historic District Commission honored it for its authenticity and architectural significance.

Now it’s on the market. The listing price is $1.99 million.

3 Cedar Pond Road

Unlike many historic Westport homes, this one is not on a main road. It’s tucked away at the end of a long private drive, overlooking its small namesake Cedar Pond.

Built in 1967 — 4 years before White began his Washington work — the 4-bedroom, 2 1/2-bathroom, 3,046-square foot house on 2.19 acres has been well maintained (with, for example, marble countertops and modern appliances), while updated in keeping with its Colonial character. (Speaking of an 1800s replica: There are 4 fireplaces too.)

One of 4 working fireplaces.

At a time when faux farmhouses pop up all over town, 3 Cedar Pond Road is a reminder of a time when Colonial architecture was admired, and replicated.

Even if very few residents know it — or the street — exists.

Or just how famous its architect was.

Click here for the full listing of 3 Cedar Pond Road, by Shannon Manning and Jacque Haberstroh of the Riverside Realty Group.

(“06880” reports regularly on Westport real estate, interesting people — and, like today, their intersection. If you enjoy stories like this, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

In the Black Box, the audience surrounded the courtroom set on all 4 sides. I saw 3 productions. Each time, I sat in a different spot. Each time, the show felt completely different.

On May 28-31, Players will stage “12 Angry Men” for the third time. (They premiered it in 2009. As before, some of the “men” are females.)

The drama — a compelling exploration of human morals and values, and a sharp critique of the American legal system — is familiar. But directors David Roth and Kerry Long have made sure that, like the variety of views from each seat, this one will be quite different from previous productions.

For example, this — like the Sidney Lumet film starring Lee J. Cobb, Ed Begley and E.G. Marshall  — is set in the McCarthy-era 1950s. (Players’ 2 others were updated to the ’70s.)

For another, the set and costumes are all black and white. They pay homage to the 1957 movie.

From left: Brady Walker, Lilliana Gomez, Griffin Delmhorst.

For a third, it’s the first time that Staples actors have worked with a dramaturg. Former Player AnnaMaria Fernandez helps the ensemble understand the political, racial and social realities of the play’s era.

She brings plenty of insight into the role. She was a juror in the 2018 show.

Perhaps most interestingly, the show is double-cast — but the combinations will be different for every production. That makes each one unique, as actors play off each other in different ways.

“’12 Angry Men is great, for the cast and audiences,” Roth says. “It’s a real ensemble show, with everyone on stage all the time.

From left: Harper Iglehart, Denver Razza, Ari Sklar.

“It’s a fantastic script. It teaches everyone about the judicial process. The jury doesn’t have to believe the alleged murderer is innocent. They do have to agree 100% — all of them — that he is guilty, beyond a reasonable doubt.

“The stakes are high. There was a mandatory death sentence for the crime of murder.”‘

Long adds, “It really deals with the prejudices we have inherent in ourselves, while a group of strangers comes together, and figures out how to work as a team.”

“12 Angry Men” will be the last show for several Players, members of a strong senior class. Some will study theater in college.

From left: Blake Raho, Will McCrea, Sara Stanley. (Photos/Kerry Long)

ENCORE: Will McCrae plays Juror #8. That’s the same role his grandfather — the legendary Jack Lemmon — played in the 1997 Showtime film version of “12 Angry Men.”

Will — a familiar face for Players’ audiences over the past 4 years — says that when he learned he would share a role with his grandfather, “I was ecstatic. Realistically, I’m not going to get another chance like this.

“I’ve got some tremendous shoes to fill — and yes, I am a bit scared. But I am determined not to play the role as ‘well’ as he did. I want to bring my own interpretation to the part, and not try to mirror his choices simply because I feel an obligation by blood.

“My grandfather died several years before I was born. Playing this part is the closest I’ll ever get to meting him. I’m honored, terrified, and really, really excited.”

(“12 Angry Men” is set for 7:30 p.m. on May 28, 29 and 30; 5 p.m. on May 30, and 2 p.m. on May 31. Click here for tickets. Click here for each show’s cast.)

(“06880” regularly covers Staples High School, the arts — and politics, and more. We rely on reader support to help us do it all. Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thanks!)

Welcome to Longshore! (Photo/CC Nigro)

But the 1967 Tony Award-winning musical — set in Berlin as the Nazis rise to power, and which portrays hedonistic nightlife, an interreligious romance, and other adult themes — is a tremendous challenge for high school students.

Which is why Staples Players has produced it, several times.

Two shows were 20 years apart. But they’re tied together by a common thread.

In 1984, under director Al Pia, 12th grader David Roth played the sinister Kit Kat Club emcee. The role — made famous by Joel Grey and Alan Cumming — shifts frequently between playful, vulgar and menacing. It’s difficult for anyone to pull off — let alone a teenager. But Roth is superb.

Twenty years later, he was in his first years as Players co-director, at his alma mater. This time, Brandon Floch embraced the emcee role.

Former media teacher Jim Honeycutt filmed that 2004 production. He also unearthed a videotape of the previous one.

He went to work, editing both. He cut them exactly the same — same highlights, same length, everything.

The only thing different is 2 decades’ worth of technological advances. The ’84 show was shot with one camera, at the back of the auditorium. Audio was captured — not always well — by the microphone on top of the camera.

By ’04, technology had advanced considerably.

Now click here and click here — or below — to enjoy this double feature.

PS: Honeycutt even hunted down the casts of both shows. They included:

Fall, 1984

• Emcee – David Roth
• Sally Bowles – Marjorie Levine
• Fräulein Schneider – Traci Davis
• Herr Schultz – John Donovan
• Clifford Bradshaw – Micu Oprea
• Ernst Ludwig – Mark Donovan

Fall, 2004

• Emcee – Brandon Floch
• Sally Bowles – Mia Gentile
• Fräulein Schneider – Sally Eidman
• Herr Schultz – Zach Shornick
• Clifford Bradshaw – Steven Fuentes and Peter Stonbely
• Ernst Ludwig – Noah Schnoll and Clayton Morrell

(If you like these nutshells — or any other “06880” feature — please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

Winning this year’s Westport Transit District poetry contest was not.

But 7 people persevered, penning “double dactyl” poems to earn gift certificates to restaurants of their choice.

For those who skipped English class: Double dactyl is a rhythmic, humorous poetic form consisting of 2 stanzas of 4 lines each.

• The first 3 lines of each stanza must follow a DUM-da-da DUM-da-da rhythm. The 4th line of each stanza follows a DUM-da-da DUM rhythm.
• The last line of the 1st stanza must rhyme with the last line of the second stanza.
• The first line is often a nonsense phrase such as “Higgeldy piggeldy” or “Jiggery pokery.”
• Extra credit was given for using “Wheels2U” in the poem; an additional bonus if one line in the poem is a single 6-syllable word.

The contest’s goal (besides fun) was to remind Westport residents, employees and visitors that Wheels2U — the on-demand app service for rides to the train, downtown and other spots — is easy, convenient and ($2) cheap.

Wheels2U

First prize goes to Carter Teplica.

The two second-place winners are Melissa Chang and Harris Falk. Finishing third are Trace Burroughs, Elllie Ferraro and Joan Issacson.

Honorable Mention goes to Saniyah R., a student in Homes with Hope’s After School Academic Program. Inspired by local poet Sylvie Middleton, children in ASAP showed their creativity, and entered the contest.

So, without further ado (and minus any clever rhyming introduction), here are the winners.

1st place: Carter Teplica

Higgledy piggledy
Streetcars helped Westporters
Home from the Saugatuck
Station of yore;

Wheels2U Westport now
Hyperconveniently
Takes you direct from the
Train to your door.

2nd place: Melissa Chang

Honkity beepity
What’s with the traffic here?
Post Road is jammed and the
Parking lot too.

Responsibility’s
Not mine this time ‘cause my
Car’s in the garage;  I
Took Wheels2U.

2nd place: Harris Falk

Wiggly wallowing
Hankering halcyon
Easiest exodus
Elsewhere passport

Locally limitless
Speedily shuttleing
Transcendentality
Utmost Westport.

Third place: Trace Burroughs

Easily breezily
Riding low, riding high
Here’s Wheels2U Westport’s
Gift to us all.

Unconditionally
Easy to get on board
Westport Transit has
Answered the call.

Third place: Elyse Ferraro

Hippity hoppity
Wheels2U Westport is
So quick and easy
It wins the top spot.

No hassle, no gas fee,
No warming the car,
Satisfactorily skips
The car parking lot.

Third place: Joan Issacson

Waggity Westport
Wheels 2U riders
Heading to station
Coffee in hand

Unbelievably
So easy to book.
Nine rides completed,
Tenth’s free, it’s grand!

Honorable Mention: Saniyah R.

Jiggery pokery
Runaway spectacular
Spectacular galore
Glitter covered

Wheels2U comes for you
Bringing you to fashion
Automatically
Shimmer covered.

(For more information, and to download the Wheels2U app, click here. For more information about the Westport Transit District’s services for the elderly and people with disabilities, click here.) 

(All day, every day, “06880” brings you news, information, photos and more — all hyper-focused on Westport. We even do poetry contests! We’re reader-supported; please click here to help. Thanks!)

Herb Podel is this year’s grand marshal, for the May 25 event.

The 101-year-old longtime Westporter served in the Pacific Theater. He was attached to a Seabee unit as an aviation and electronics specialist. Their primary focus was preparation for the planned invasion of Japan.

A resident here since 1965, Herb spent decades contributing to the community through volunteerism, leadership and civic engagement. The father of 2 daughters, Alison Bricken and Jacqueline Podel, he owned a company that manufactured recreation equipment for many years.

Herb has received 2 awards from the town of Westport recognizing his volunteer efforts. He served for many years as president of the Saugatuck Senior Cooperative board. He founded and facilitated the longtime Cultural Salon discussion group in Westport, and held numerous roles at Temple Israel.

Herb now lives at The Residence at Westport. He continues to be an active member of the Westport Center for Senior Activities, where he regularly participates in classes, discussion groups, special events and community lunches.

In February of 2025, Herb Podel celebrated his 100th birthday at the Senior Center with director Wendy Petty (right) and then-2nd Selectwoman Andrea Moore.

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Speaking of the Memorial Day parade: Westport groups, civic organizations and businesses interested in participating in the community event should register here. The deadline is May 17.

(Photo/Kelly Freitag)

All ages, and all kind of groups, “march” in the Memorial Day parade.

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Hard to believe, but the Westport Pops Concert is now 10 years old.

From its first performance in 2016, the Staples High School-meets-Levitt Pavilion event became a beloved (and quickly sold-out) tradition.

This year’s show is Friday, June 5. Featured musicians include the nationally recognized Staples Symphonic Orchestra and Band, Jazz Ensemble One, Choralaires, Sonora, Orphenians, Stradivarius Chamber Orchestra, and small group ensembles.

James Naughton returns as emcee.

The Levitt lawn opens at 6 p.m. (BYO chair); the concert begins at 7. Tickets are free, but a donation of $15 per ticket is suggested to help offset production costs.

Tickets are available at wpsarts.org/staplesmusic on Friday, May 22 at 9 a.m.; first-come, first-served.

Westport Pops poster graphic inspired by senior Connor Yuan.

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Another great Westport tradition is also near. And it too celebrates a milestone.

The 20th annual Taste of Westport returns Wednesday, June 3 (6 p.m., Fairfield County Hunt Club). As they’ve done for 20 years, the area’s top restaurants and mixologists will host an evening of great food, drinks and community — all for a wonderful cause.

The fundraiser benefits CLASP Homes. All proceeds help provide group homes and 24/7/365 services for adults with autism and developmental disabilities.

Restaurants serving up their favorite dishes include Gabriele’s, The Bridge, Nômade, Massi Co, The Whelk, Artisan and Dandelion — and many others.

Guests will also enjoy signature cocktails, a Champagne and caviar bar, and a bourbon tasting experience. A silent auction adds to the fun.

A few tickets remain. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

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One more event of note: A few foursomes remain for the Westport Weston Family YMCA’s 10th annual Golf for Good tournament (May 18, Aspetuck Valley Country Club).

he Westport Weston Family YMCA is proud to announce its 10th Annual Golf for Good Charity Golf Tournament, taking place on Monday, May 18, 2026 at Aspetuck Valley Country Club.

Proceeds support the Y’s Financial Assistance Program, enabling individuals and families to participate in programs regardless of financial circumstances. Funds also support youth sports and camp, Parkinson’s wellness and independence programs, cancer survivorship support, and access for veterans.

For more details and to register, click here.

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We’re not sure how many Westporters follow the Library of Congress on Twitter (aka “X”).

But it’s a good thing for “06880” that Josh Berkowsky does.

A recent tweet celebrating National Cartoonist Day (May 5 — we all missed it) gave several examples of cartoons drawn on letters by soldiers in World War II.

Two very colorful ones were sent from a Sgt. Duquette in San Francisco, to Mrs. Gerald Duquette, on Sturges Highway here.

They are not the work of Sgt. Duquette. Josh says that the Library of Congress website credits the art to his friend, Technical Sgt. Samuel Lionel Boylston of South Carolina.

The recipient is Duquette’s wife, “Mrs. Gerald Duquette.”

One more local connection: Tom Duquette is a frequent “06880” commenter. He always adds “SHS ’75” (Staples Class of 1975).

Tom: If you’re reading this, please click “Comments” to let us know the connection!

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Four properties are on the agenda, for the Blight Prevention Board’s May 14 meeting (7 p.m., Zoom):

• 20 Center Street
• 5 Hiawatha Lane
• 7 Hiawatha Lane
• 20 Meeker Road

20 Center Street

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Norwalk’s Mike Camacho will not have far to travel Thursday.

The drummer headlines this week’s Jazz at the Post (May 14, VFW Post 399; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner from 7).

He’ll be joined by bassist Phil Bowler, pianist Steve Einorson, trumpeter Josh Bruneau and saxophonist Nathan Bellot. Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Spring foliage continues spectacularly, on Hillandale Road (and many other spots, all around town).

Today’s “Westport … Naturally” featured photo comes from Greens Farms resident Bob Weingarten.

(Photo/Bob Weingarten)

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And finally … in honor of 2 World War II stories today (Herb Podel and Sgt. Duquette, above):

(We don’t want to toot our horn, but since our first “06880” in 2009, we’ve posted over 20,000 stories — and haven’t missed a day. If you enjoy our 24/7/365 work, please click here to support us. Thanks!)

Those were some of the key “Phase I” recommendations for Westport’s Parks & Recreation Department, offered last night as part of the new Parks Master Plan.

The Town Hall event was the third public session for BL Companies, the consultants who have undertaken an independent review of the town’s beaches, parks and playing fields.

Thirty residents — including a number of elected officials — heard Dominick Celtruda offer a “10,000-foot” view of current facilities and operations, and 3 phases for the future.

Parks & Recreation director Erik Barbieri, last night at Town Hall. (Photo/Dan Woog)

Specifically, Phase I priorities involve:

• Infrastructure upgrades, including maintenance; a multi-purpose field at the Doubleday complex, and a minimum of 2 synthetic fields. BL Companies urges a balance between natural grass and artificial turf surfaces.
• The Community Garden at Burr Farms would share space with a 50 x 70 multi-purpose athletic field, as well as restroom facilities for gardeners and field users.
• Upgraded trails and a dedicated dog area at Winslow Park.
• At Compo Beach: Upgraded pickleball (site TBD), a relocated skate park, reconfigured internal circulation, and dune restoration.

Phase II would include Baron’s South — for example upgraded access, vegetation management, removal of invasives, and a small percentage of space dedicated to semi-active recreation.

Phase III would focus on Luciano Park, Jesup Green, other parks, and the Town Hall athletic fields.

Celtruda emphasized that these are recommendations only. Parks & Recreation director Erik Barbieri noted that while BL offers important insights, he “may not necessarily agree” with all of the recommendations, or their timing.

“Nothing is set in stone,” he noted. His department, and the Parks & Recreation Commission, will continue to assess the report.

Materials from last night’s meeting will be available soon on the Parks & Recreation Department website. The current draft of the Master Plan is available online here.

Cover of the Parks & Recreation Department Master Plan.

(“06880” covers the waterfront — and much more. Your support will help us continue our work. To make a tax-deductible contribution, please click here. Thank you!)

All year long, we’re celebrating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

America250 is a national project. It encompasses events big (collecting personal stories, oral histories and videos for the Library of Congress; a contest inviting students to share what this country means to them; passports featuring a portrait of President Trump on the inside cover. a UFC fight on the White House South Lawn) and small ( community block parties, parades and historical reenactments).

Our town is joining in too.

It hasn’t gotten much publicity. But we’ve got a website — Westport250 — which serves as a central hub.

Town operations director Tom Kiely is helping coordinate the project. Right now, just a few events are listed: a Tavern Cooking Class at Wakeman Town Farm, a Vintage Flag Day, ribbon-cutting at a new home for the Earthplace birds.

But there’s much more.

“06880” emailed Kiely. He sent a preliminary list of events — some confirmed, others possible.

The list includes:

• Declaring Independence: Why 1776 Matters — Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Edward J. Larson (past event)
• Team Westport Essay Contest — Theme: “The Declaration of Independence Challenge” (past event)
• Westport 250 Poem
• Memorial Day Parade: “250 Years of Honor & Service”
• Westport Garden Club Summer 2026 Campaign: Red, white and blue pop-up flowers at sites throughout the community
• Most Patriotic Dog
• Celebrate America Window Display Contest
• Fourth of July Community Décor Contest
• Westport Fireworks
• 1976 Time Capsule Reveal: 50 years later
• American Spirit 250 Flower Show
• Westport Permanent Art Collections Art Exhibit: Home in America
• A Day in the Life Photography Exhibit
• Field of Flags

Also in the works: a time capsule burial, to be opened in 2076.

The Westport Garden Club’s red, white and blue flowers on Main Street include the Westport250 logo.

Kiely adds, “Many local organizations are planning programs and activities tied to the 250th anniversary themes. I expect the events calendar to begin filling up quickly as we get closer.”

Organizations and individuals can submit ideas for Westport250 by email: tkiely@westportct.gov.

(Let’s celebrate America, Westport — and “06880”! Reader support keeps this hyper-local blog going. Please click here, and help us celebrate for the next 250 years. Or close to it. Thank you!)

Since last year, someone has been leaving acrylic pouring paintings at Grace Salmon Park (Photo/Amy Schneider)

Today, Ian O’Malley does it.

For good reason. He’s spent 36 years as a New York radio personality — first during a decade on legendary WNEW-FM, and for the past quarter-century at Q104.3.

He’s still going strong.

Ian also was a VJ at VH1, and had a stint on the CBS reality show “Big Brother.” He’s done voiceovers for national campaigns like Burger King and Saab, and appeared on “Law and Order” (“SVU” and “Criminal Intent”), and “School of Rock.”

Ian lives in Westport, where he donates tons of time to charities. He also “dabbles” (his words) in real estate.

The other day, Ian sat behind the mic on the Westport Library stage. We chatted about the past, present and future of radio, about music, and much, much more.

Click here or below to listen to — and watch — the multi-talented Ian O’Malley.

Two are near the water off Compo Road South; the others are on Saugatuck Shores.

All offer a good look into Westport — then and now.

Bermuda Road, February 2008 …

… and May 2026.

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Island Way, October 2018 …

… and May 2026.

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Vani Court, July 2014 …

… and May 2026.

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Manitou Road, June 2020 …

… and May 2026.

(“06880” regularly covers Westport real estate, history … and much more. If you enjoy features like this, please click here to support our work.)

(An Automated External Defibrillator is a portable device used to treat cardiac arrests. It analyzes the heart’s rhythm and, if necessary, delivers an electrical shock to restore a normal heartbeat. Voice prompts make it easy for anyone to use. There are multiple devices in schools and public buildings in Westport, as well as outdoors.)

Mark adds, “I hope the other AEDs around town have been serviced, charged up, and hopefully never needed too.”

If you know of other working AEDs around in outdoor spaces, click “Comments” below.

(Photo/Mark Mathias)

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Manresa Island is technically in Norwalk.

But it’s very visible from Compo Beach. You know: the smokestack.

Now it’s undergoing a radical — and exciting — transformation.

Philanthropists Austin and Allison McChord are spending $410 million to remake the abandoned coal-fired power plant into a stunning 125-acre public park.

It will include 28 acres of walking trails, 1 3/4 miles of Long Island Sound waterfront access, classrooms, a pool, indoor climbing, bird watching, and much more.

Though the first phase will not open until next spring, last week the dramatic event space hosted the co-founder of YouTube, for a special meeting.

Manresa Island is ecologically important. Undeveloped portons include a coastal forest and intertidal estuaries — some of the last remaining undisturbed marine habitats on the Fairfield County coast.

Wetlands serve as breeding grounds for migratory birds, and are home to 200 or so bird species. Waters around the island are essential habitats for many fish.

The model for the adaptive reuse of industrial sites and resilient waterfronts globally — with climbing walls, an indoor water park, food vendors and an environment educational center, will be completed by 2030.

The other day, Westport journalist Dave Briggs headed to Manresa Island. Click here or below for his report.

View this post on Instagram

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Every gas station in Westport is raising prices — except one.

Colin Livingston found it. He sends this photo:

(Photo/Colin Livingston)

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There are 2 ways of reacting to this sign:

(Photo/Jonathan Alloy)

I thought, “Cool! Very environmentally conscious!”

Jonathan Alloy — who spotted it, and took the photo — thought, “what a great a garden hack to get out of weeding!”

Your captions are welcome. Click “Comments” below.

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Triple Threat Academy’s 2 weekend performances of “Peace, Love, and Cupcakes” at Saugatuck Congregational Church raised over $1,000 for charity.

The 11-member cast of 3rd through 9th graders — all from Westport — was directed by Jill Jaysen.

The two oldest actors, Ellie Rockwell (seen recently as Little Sally in Staples Players’ “Urinetown”) and Jordan Minnich, spearheaded an initiative to donate ticket sales and proceeds from a bake sale after each performance. They researched and chose Rachel’s Challenge, an organization founded in honor of Rachel Joy Scott, who, in her short life before the Columbine shooting, embodied the kindness and compassion that is at the heart of the PLC musical. Rachel’s life was tragically lost in the Columbine shooting. Rachel’s Challenge addresses the root causes of school violence, bullying, prejudice and self-harm through student wellness programs.

The lead, 4th grader Sophie Goldberg, is already represented by a New York youth agent. Other Triple Threat actors are also repped.

Other cast members were Olive Boehm, Adanna Bolu, Ariana Goldman, Johanna Lawton, Siena McLoughlin, Lola Rockwell, Maddy Shemesh and Zia Stokvis.

The audience included Triple Threat Academy founder and Staples graduate Cynthia Gibb; Triple Threat and Players alum Jamie Mann, and his mother, Triple Threat co-director Jill Mann. Staples Player Griffin Delmhorst ran lights.

Jamie Mann (Broadway’s “Stranger Things,” Netflix’s “Country  Comfort”) will assist with Triple Threat’s summer acting camp and musical theater intensive program. They also offer an independent film project. Click here for details. 

The Triple Threat “Peace, Love and Cupcakes” cast.

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo shows a robin, alertly heeding the sign, while entertaining himself on a fine spring day.

(Photo/Paul Delano)

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And finally … happy 85th birthday to Eric Burdon.

Sixty years ago, he and his band, the Animals, performed at Staples High School. I was in junior high — and I was there.

(Don’t let me be misunderstood: “06880” is here for you 24/7/365. But we rely on reader support. If you enjoy this hyper-local blog, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

Sherwood Mill Pond (Photo/Matt Murray)

As a boy decades earlier, he’d watched from outside as men played pool in the Westport Hotel — the social (and, in a way, geographic) center of town, at the intersection of State Street and Main Street.

The Y served anchored that spot — and provided healthy, community activities for boys and men (and later, girls and women) — for the next 90 years.

It expanded north, on Church Lane. It weathered all the changes that 9 decades bring (including the renaming of State Street to the Post Road). Through it all, a large concrete logo announced what it was, to all.

In 2013, the Y — now called the Westport Weston Family YMCA — moved to land it owned off Wilton Road, next to its Mahackeno Outdoor Center.

Anthropologie — the new tenant of the original Bedford building — kept the old logo.

It’s not very prominent. It’s propped up against a wall, inside.

But it’s still there. It was the subject of last week’s Photo Challenge (click here to see). 

And Cat Malkin, Andrew Colabella, S. Jonas, Jonathan McClure, Seth Schachter, Lynn Untermeyer Miller, Tom Feeley, Sal Liccione, Katie Carmody, Richard Hyman and Matthew McGrath all knew exactly where it sits.

We’d give you a prize — like a free membership to the Y. Except:

We don’t give anything to Photo Challenge winners (beyond recognition), and

The Y is so popular, they’ve had to cap membership and start a wait list.

So instead, our winners — and everyone else — can turn their attention to this week’s Photo Challenge. (It’s more difficult.)

If you know where in Westport you’d see this, click “Comments” below.

(Photo/Ed Simek)

(Every Sunday, “06880” hosts this Photo Challenge. We challenge you too to support your hyper-local blog. Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

Best wishes from Jolantha, Weston’s favorite sow. (Photo/Hans Wilhelm)

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An update on the AWARE event May 30: The acronym stands for Assisting Women Through Action, Resources and Education. Each year the organization selects a women’s cause, then partners with a charity to benefit it. Through a fundraiser, hands-on activity and educational event, AWARE shines a light on a different meaningful women’s issue.

This year, they’re working with Susie’s House.

The 124 Compo Road North residence is run by Homes with Hope. Named for former director Susie Basler, it provides stable, affordable living for 6 young women ages 18 to 24 who are homeless, or at risk of homelessness.

Susie’s House helps resident get back on their feet through education and employment, eventually moving on to independent living. Each woman has a mentor, community support and case management.

The goal for this event is to raise $12,000 in educational scholarships — $2,000 for each of the 6 women. Grants go toward educational expenses such as 4-year or community college, driving classes or professional training.

Pop-Up Bagels and Granola Bar will provide brunch. Local experts will offer gardening tips. And 2 women graduating from college will be celebrated too.

Click here to buy tickets, and for more information.

The Clubhouse has everything: golf and other sports simulators. A bar and restaurant. Karaoke. A rooftop lounge.

Plus speed dating.

A special event is set for May 13, 7 to 9 p.m.). It includes a casual mixer kickoff, guided conversational ice-breakers, and a “simple matching system.” Mutual matches receive contact information the next day.

It’s advertised for singles ages 35-49. But, organizers — the private Sips & Sparks group — say, “it’s not a strict rule. If you feel like you’d vibe with this crowd, you’re welcome to join. Our goal is to create a well-balanced group where connections actually make sense.”

Click here for more information, and tickets.

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For its first 9 years, the Dog Festival has advertised itself with yard signs, a banner at the Winslow Park site, emails, and (of course) mentions on “06880.”

This year, the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce — the hard-working sponsors — add YouTube (and AI) into the mix.

The host Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce has produced a short, cute video starring “Wrex” (a play on Staples Wreckers, and a typical dog’s name).

Click here or below to view. But if you need another reminder: It’s next Sunday (May 17, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Winslow Park).

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Mother’s Day is all about flowers.

Today’s “Westport … Naturally” image comes, appropriately enough, from a very talented photographer with the happily apt name of June Rose Whittaker.

(Photo/June Rose Whittaker)

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And finally … our traditional Mother’s Day song:

(Like every good mama, “06880” is here for you, 24/7/365. If you appreciate all the work we put in — it’s a motherload, BTW — please click here to support this hyper-local blog. Thank you!)

Readers in Westport — and those who once lived here (some in the houses featured) — have opinions on residential architecture, “then and now.”

But tastes change. What’s new? What’s on the horizon?

We asked our friends at KMS Team at Compass. They say:

We are seeing a return to more warmth emerging over the last 1 1/2 to 2 years.  People want peace and quality, in a place that invites them to settle in and get comfortable.

Real estate staging can often look the same over time. Something more personal or unique stands out.

Now, in a sea of sameness — at almost every price  point – more interesting interiors and exteriors have emerged. People want homes and furnishings with a story or personality.

New construction, with old-fashioned front porch and shutters. (Photo/Michael Mombello)

There is a new leaning toward collecting over time with an eye toward enduring quality, not a price tag.

People seek out homes that do not feel similar or mass marketed. They want their residences to be more curated, like their travel and vacations.

New net-zero construction on Westport Avenue. It just came on the market.

There is always a mix. If we had to summarize, it feels a bit like Modern Farmhouse is giving way to a warmer, more earthy Modern Cottage vibe.

Things are moving away from stark minimalism. More natural materials and textures are being employed: natural stone, plaster, mixed woods and linen.

Natural look, with plenty of light.

Defined rooms are coming back in favor. There is a preference for fewer, better things, collected over time. Enduring quality and design integrity stand the test of time.

Exterior

• Shutters are back, and can offer “from the curb” distinction
• Dormers and shed dormers add roofline interest, and provide additional light on upper floors
• Patios and crushed stone areas are favored over decks

Patio on Katydid Lane, Weston (Photo/Estative Media)

• Outbuildings: for both work and play, they add “compound cool” to a parcel of property
• Porches: front, back or side, they are appreciated. Covered and open, they grant shade and protection from the sun or a summer storm.
• Ceiling fans keep the air moving, and the bugs away
• Raised, protected garden and vegetable beds

Raised bed and organic garden. (Photo/Borgatta Photography)

• Flower choices and gardens that respect the natural landscape
• Garden antiques: Well-worn pieces that appear to have been there forever give the yard a sense of history and timelessness

Interior

• Natural materials and textures
• Beams
• Wooden, unpainted casement openings in walnut and oak
• Mid-tone flooring, not too white or bleached, or too dark and lifeless
• Butcher block-topped islands and counters
• More color, but strategically used

Family room; darker shade on walls, planked wood ceiling. (Photo/Christian Vinan for 360 Virtual Photography)

• Vintage, tribal type oriental carpets and rugs
• Warm and earthy palettes, and more lived-in interiors.
• Softer whites — restaurant tones like butter yellow or light cream
• Small, behind-the-scenes service kitchens or butler’s pantries
• Dining rooms
• Antique finishes on contemporary forms, and the return of silver accents
• Free-standing showers that feel spa-like
• Natural wood kitchens, and wood in general

New kitchen. (Photo/Estative Media)

• Additional tile details in kitchens, bathrooms, mudrooms and entry halls
• Cast iron enameled sinks and tubs

One other trend to note: The first-time home-buying age has steadily increased over the last few years — dramatically. Depending upon what you read, the median age is now 40.

(“06880” covers Westport real estate — and much more. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

Compo Beach sky … (Photo/Nancy Axthelm)

… and not far away (Photo/June Rose Whittaker)

So it’s appropriate that — despite the weather — today’s (Saturday) Westport Garden Club Plant Sale is still on.

From 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Jesup Green, the sale features over 1,000 homegrown perennials, Connecticut native plants, herbs, tomatoes and Mother’s Day gifts, along with a “fancy bakeshop.” Proceeds support local civic beautification and environmental projects.

Garden Club members will advice on plant selection — and each plant is tagged with care information.

Plus: Sustainable Westport has a booth, Earthplace sponsors a children’s table with nature-inspired activities, and Book Sale Ventures offers garden-related books for sale.

The Westport Garden Club plant sale is on — rain or shine!

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Meanwhile, the Westport Parks & Recreation Tennis Festival scheduled for today has been postponed to June 6.

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The marketplace is tough for young professionals.

A networking mixer can  help.

The event (May 28, 6 to 8:30 p.m., Christ & Holy Trinity Church Branson Hall) can help post-high school, and current or graduated college students, build networking skills and learn job search strategies.

It’s hosted by Lisa Cukier and Katie Gervasio, co-founders of the Westport Professionals Network.

For more information and to register, email WPNMixer@gmail.com.

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Dozens of Little League players enjoyed Colony pizza — and a great game — at yesterday’s special Staples baseball days.

Down by 3 runs, the Wreckers scored 5 in the bottom half of the final inning — keyed by a Connor Brill’s 2-run homer — to down Fairfield Ludlowe, 11-9.

The young players chased foul balls — and autographs from their new heroes, after the game.

Little Leaguers line up at Staples. (Hat tip and photo/Beth Cody)

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Among the many great programs at the Westport Weston Family YMCA, the “Knock Parkinson’s Out” program stands near the top. Twice a week, 35 boxers work with 4 trainers and 7 volunteers, to gain strength, balance and confidence, and enjoy connection.

Bob Levy is a stalwart volunteer. Recently, he gave t-shirts to everyone. The Y made a great poster out of the photo. It was unveiled this week, and now hangs on the wall outside the boxing class.

Class members, trainers and volunteers — some wearing the blue t-shirts — pose by the photo outside the boxing room.

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Emmy, Grammy and 6-time Tony Award winner Audra McDonald returns to the Westport Country Playhouse May 19, for an encore evening of music

The singer/actor — a National Medal of Arts recipient, and one of Time’s 100 Most Influential People — last appeared here in February of 2024.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

Audra McDonald

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State legislature primaries are August 11.

Only voters registered in the Democratic or Republican parties can vote then. The deadline for changing party affiliation is this Monday (May 11). To switch parties, click here, then follow the instructions.

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Every month during the school year, longtime Westporter/Shakespeare scholar/former town poet laureate Diane Lowman visits Chris Cormier’s 3rd grade class at the Edison School in Bridgeport.

She teaches them a Shakespeare play. They love learning about the Bard.

But his plays were written to be seen, not read. So Diane and Chris discused how the students could see them performed.

Last year, Staples Players directors David Roth and Kerry Long, and members of the award-winning high school drama ensemble made it happen, performing scenes from “Macbeth.”

The tradition continued this week. Roth’s acting class presented scenes from “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.”

An added bonus: Max Samuels joined them. Earlier this year, the 2011 Players alum visited Edison. This time, he invited the 3rd graders to stand on stage to try their voices at some of the most famous lines from the play (“What fools these mortals be!”).

Afterward, the high schools and youngsters ate pizza and hung out together.

With generous contributions from Westporters, the program will continue for years to come.

Staples and Edison students. Drama teacher David Roth is in the top row, far left. Diane Lowman is in the middle row, far right. (Photo/Kerry Long)

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There’s always something going on at VFW Post 399.

Next Wednesday (May 13, 7 p.m.; doors open at 6), JB’s Deli & Pizza offers a full Italian men’s dinner. The menu includes antipasto, salad, sausage and peppers, penne vodka, chicken Francese, eggplant parm, traditional desserts and wine.

For reservations, call 203-984-9144

Dinner time!

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Westporters who donated to the care of Onyx, the retired Westport Police K-9 dog — and everyone else — will be glad to hear that the operation on her eye was successful.

And her tumor was not cancerous.

We wish Onyx a speedy recovery, and a frisky retirement. (Hat tip: Kevin Smith)

Onyx

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Josh Koskoff was the keynote speaker, at Connecticut Against Gun Violence‘s annual spring gala Wednesday.

The 1984 Staples High School graduate — an attorney who earned national attention by winning lawsuits for Sandy Hook families against Remington Arms  — explained the groundbreaking case that bankrupted the gun manufacture.

Senator Richard Blumenthal also spoke, praising CAGV for its grassroots, low-key but very effective advocacy work.

Josh Koskoff

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Candida Massimino Innaco — a Westport native and gifted musician who returned to her home town, and spent her professional life as a music teacher in the school district — died April 28 in Bridgeport. She was 65.

After Hillspoint Elementary, Long Lots Junior High and Staples High School, the Class of 1978 graduate earned a bachelor of arts in music education from the University of Dayton, and a master of music in saxophone performance from Kansas State University.

She played in bands outside of the university too, including Dixieland and the Fred Robinson Big Band.

Candi dedicated over 35 years to music education in the Westport Public Schools, retiring in 2021. She taught concert band at Bedford Middle School, served as assistant band director at Staples, and band director at Saugatuck Elementary School.

She also directed chamber music and provided private instruction at the high school in support of the concert band, jazz ensemble, and chamber groups. Additionally, she pioneered and coordinated the Westport Youth Arts Collaborative.

Teaching in her hometown was especially meaningful to Candi. She believed“You can’t teach the child until you reach the child,” a principle that shaped her approach to music and mentorship.

Outside of her career, Candida was active in fitness and wellness. She participated in Thrive, a nonprofit that provides supportive care to those facing cancer like herself.

She shared resources with others through her initiative, “Candi’s Corner.” She enjoyed cooking, gardening, publishing music, maintaining an active lifestyle, and caring for animals, especially cats.

Candi is survived by her husband, Curtis, and children Christopher, Olivia and Serena.

Friends are invited to a visitation on Tuesday (May 12, 5 to 8 p.m., Spadaccino & Leo P. Gallagher Funeral Home, 315 Monroe Turnpike, Monroe_). A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Wednesday, May 13 (10 a.m., St. Lawrence Parish,505 Shelton Ave, Shelton).

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Oncology Fund at Smilow Cancer Center.

Candida Innaco

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Most of our “Westport … Naturally” egret photos show them standing around on spindly legs, looking handsome but stationary. Occasionally they might wade.

But Gabriela Hayes spotted this egret in flight, making the most of a Compo Beach low tide.

The bird’s reflection makes this image twice as cool.

(Photo/Gabriela Hayes)

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And finally … yes, as we noted earlier, today’s Westport Garden Club plant sale is on — rain or shine. So …

(Rain or shine, day and night, “06880” is here for you. And any time — 24/7/365 — you can support our work. Just click here. There will be no sound of silence; instead, you’ll get a nice thank-you email!)

This week it’s an environmental one.

Of course, art can be many things. As always, “06880” showcases it all. Our online artists’ community is broad, creative, and very, very talented.

Remember: No matter your age; the style or subject you choose — and whether you’re a first-timer or old-timer — we want your submissions. Watercolors, oils, charcoal, pen-and-ink, acrylics, mixed media, digital, lithographs, collages, macramé, jewelry, sculpture, decoupage, needlepoint — we want whatever you’ve got.

Just email a JPG to 06880blog@gmail.com. And please include the medium you’re working in.

“Earth is a Dumpster” (Amy Schneider)

“Beach Daze” (Duane Cohen — Available for purchase; click here)

“Send in the Clouds” (Patricia McMahon — Available for purchase; click here)

“Awakening III” — photograph (Rowene Weems — Available for purchase; click here)

“Light Play” (Jordan Kuyper, acrylic painting; Jerry Kuyper, photo)

“Spring Has Sprung” — jewelry — encaustic wax collage embellished with birch tree, bark and beautifully dried tree (Dorothy Robertshaw — Available for purchase; click here)

“The Hershil Island” — 11″ x 14″ oil pastel (Angelina Wu)

“This and That” — collage (June Rose Whittaker — Available for purchase; click here)

“Swimming” (Tom Doran — Available for purchase; click here)

Untitled — watercolor (Lucy Johnson)

“The Owl” (James Shorten — age 9, One River Art student)

“Beautiful Mother and her Sweet Baby — Peace and Love!” (Mike Hibbard)

“Brinn” — 10″ x 7″ mixed media (Werner Liepolt)

“Taking a Break” (Lawrence Weisman)

“Zulu” (Martin Ripchick — Available for purchase; click here)

“Our Very Colorful Town” (Steve Stein)

(Entrance is free to our online art gallery –as it has been for 6 years. But please consider an anniversary donation! Just click here — and thank you!)

The initiative aims to reduce single-use plastics, and expand water-filling stations around town. The goal is to “turn shared intention into measurable, community-wide change.”

Once a month, we’ll help them highlight an area of daily life where single-use plastic is most common, along with practical ideas to use. This month, we focus on not a space, but a season: summer.

We’ve all reached for that bin in the garage — the one saying “Beach/Pool” — only to see a tangle of cracked plastic shovels, half-empty bottles of expired sunscreen, and a mountain of single-use waste from last August.

Beyond the clutter, there’s a hidden “scary” factor: leaching.

When plastic sits in a hot garage or 100-degree car, it begins to break down. Chemicals like BPA and phthalates are released into the same things we put on and in our bodies.

Sustainable Westport recommends a Great Summer Reset.

Everyone wants a “simple” summer. But we may start by buying a 24-pack of plastic water bottles, and a bag of disposable snacks.

This year, let’s try a different strategy. Let’s audit our summer gear not just to declutter, but to improve the health of our families and the planet.

The Sunscreen Audit (The “Goo” Factor)
The Friction: You find 3 half-used plastic bottles of sunscreen in your bag. One is leaking, one is expired, and all are destined for landfill because that specific plastic is a nightmare to recycle. Plus, heat and time cause the plastic packaging to leach endocrine-disrupting chemicals directly into the lotion you’re about to rub into your skin.

The Fix: Look for plastic-free packaging like Raw Elements, Little Hands Hawaii and All Good. Tins and cardboard sticks are becoming the new standard. They don’t leak in a hot car, they take up half the space in your “go bag,” and they use “non-nano” zinc, which is safer for your bloodstream and Long Island Sound.

Sunscreen comes in tins, too.

The Beverage “Buy-In-Bulk” Trap
The Friction: The urge to buy “flats” of Costco plastic water bottles is strong in May. It feels like “being prepared.” In reality, it means you’ll trip over plastic cases in the pantry all summer.

Meanwhile, single-use plastic bottles are often made of PET. Exposed to summer temperatures, these bottles can release chemicals and microplastics into your drinking water.

The Fix: This is the month to invest in a hydration kit. Ensure everyone in your house has a high-quality reusable bottle, and a stash of powdered mixes. It’s the preparedness of a 24-pack, without the storage headache or recycling bin overflow.

The Picnic Prep (Breaking the Zip-Top Habit)
The Friction: We spend May buying boxes of plastic baggies and pre-packaged snack packs, because they feel like the only way to survive a park play date.

The Fix: Before the schedule gets crazy, grab a few sets of stainless steel or sturdy glass containers. If you kit out your kitchen now, you’ll reach for the reusable option by habit in July when you’re too tired to think.

Convenient — but an environment-killer.

The Bottom Line: Future-You Will Thank You
May is about systems. By swapping out plastic “crutches” now, you set yourself up for a summer that’s cleaner, healthier and less cluttered.

Let’s leave single-use plastics in the past. Start this season with a bag that’s actually ready for the long haul.

(“06880” keeps an eye on Westport’s environment — and every other part of town. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

Burying Hill Beach (Photo/William Weiss)

But when Spinnaker Real Estate bought 2 of the properties that had been slated for development — the rectangle anchored by Minute Man Cleaners, and the private parking lot now filled with boats above Luciano Park — Westporters knew that new ideas would be proposed.

Today, we have our first look at Spinnaker’s plans.

The Norwalk-based firm has filed a pre-application with the Planning & Zoning Commission. It includes 157 units of rental apartments, with a mixed-use component, on the 1.5-acre parcel at the corner of Riverside Avenue and Charles Street (the current dry cleaners, locksmith and parking lot). Eighteen — a bit over 10% — of the units would be affordable, based on state definitions.

The view from Riverside Avenue. Charles Street is on the right.

Working with Beinfield Architecture — a firm that has designed many multi-family buildings (including The Mill on Richmondville Avenue), residential homes, restaurants and offices in the area — Spinnaker envisions buildings of varying heights.

Those facing Riverside Avenue would be 3 1/2 stories. Buildings behind it would be taller.

Two levels of screened parking would accommodate 283 vehicles.

The view looking at Railroad Place. The train station is at far left.

Spinnaker’ traffic engineers, AKRF, say that an initial review suggests the plan would generate “substantially fewer vehicle trips than earlier submittals.” A full analysis is underway now.

Construction staging would be done at Spinnaker’s other property, the lot on Franklin Street currently used for boat storage.

The plan also includes environmental remediation of the site (before its current use as a dry cleaners, it was a car dealership), along with right-of-way and pedestrian improvements.

Along with the P&Z pre-app, a preliminary presentation to the Architectural Review Board is planned for later this month.

Click here for a link to a complete summary of the pre-application. Spinnaker has set up a website – 606riverside.com — for the project, though it has no content yet. 

(“06880” is your hyper-local blog. If you appreciate our breaking news coverage — along with our features, human interest stories, photos and more — please click here to support our work. Thanks!)

We’ve posted many photos of past iterations — particularly when Ken Montgomery owned it. Here’s a rare photo of the man himself:

Here’s one of our favorites, from the very early days:

(Photos courtesy of Christopher Maroc)

It shows how much has changed on Compo Hill.

And how little has really changed, at one of Westport’s favorite institutions.

(Friday Flashback is one of “06880”‘s many regular features. If you enjoy this — or anything else on our website — please consider a tax-deductible contribution. Just click here. Thank you!)