All aboard! (Photo/Michael Chait)

His family offers this obituary.

John Gorman “Jack” Klinge Sr. died peacefully this morning, surrounded by his family. He was 87.

Jack Klinge

A gifted student and lifelong learner, Jack graduated from Cornell University with a degree in chemical engineering.

He served as a commissioned officer in the Navy aboard the USS Thetis Bay during the Cuban Missile Crisis. Following his military service, he earned an MBA from Harvard Business School.

Jack enjoyed a distinguished career in marketing, including leadership roles with General Foods, Arm & Hammer, Topps Chewing Gum Company and Score Baseball Cards. He combined creativity, strategic thinking, and a love of sports throughout his professional life.

Jack Klinge and his wife Jeanne.

While his professional accomplishments were many, Jack’s greatest impact was felt in the community he loved. A resident of Westport for more than 50 years, he devoted countless hours to public service and civic engagement.

He coached youth baseball and softball for many years, mentored students, served as a substitute teacher, and became the longest-serving member of Westport’s Representative Town Meeting. He was deeply involved in the development and growth of the Westport Center for Senior Activities, helping create a lasting resource that continues to enrich the lives of older residents.

Jack believed strongly in giving back. Whether delivering holiday meals to homebound seniors, mentoring young people, advocating for thoughtful public policy, or volunteering his time wherever it was needed, he approached every endeavor with integrity, humility, and optimism.

Jack Klinge at the Senior Center with former and current directors Sue Pfister (left) and Wendy Petty.

Above all else, Jack cherished his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, mentor and friend. His kindness, wisdom, humor, and unwavering support shaped the lives of those who knew him.

Jack’s legacy lives on through the family he loved, the community he served, and the countless lives he touched through his generosity and leadership.

He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Jeanne Bange Klinge; son John Gorman Klinge, Jr. of Lake Forest, Illinois; daughter, Courtney Klinge of San Francisco, California and her husband, Eric Prosnitz; son Jeff Klinge of Rumson, New Jersey and his wife, Stacey Klinge, and grandchildren Cassie Longo, John Gorman “Jack” Klinge III, and Will Klinge; Paulina, Eliana, and Alexa Prosnitz; and Logan and Davis Klinge.

Family and friends are invited to attend services at St. Luke Church this Friday (June 12, 12:30 p.m.).

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Westport Center for Senior Activities (21 Imperial Avenue, Westport, CT 06880).

Jack Klinge. When he spoke, people listened. 

Klinge and his wife Jeanne moved to Westport in 1966. They bought a home for $32,500 (“$100,000 got you a mansion,” he said), and raised 3 children. All are Staples High School graduates.

After a career commuting to General Foods and Topps — followed by a stint with Major League Marketing at The Mill on Richmondville Avenue — Klinge retired in 1997.

He mentored an 8-year-old boy. He substitute taught at Staples and the middle schools.

And the same year he retired — at the suggestion of his friend Marion Potter —  he ran for the RTM. That was a record 15 terms ago.

Jack Klinge and Addison Moore: the longest-serving and youngest RTM members  (Photo/Dan Woog)

Klinge learned about the town by talking with department heads, residents and fellow RTM members. Ever since, he enjoyed dealing with town issues, projects and problems. He also enjoyed speaking with constituents.

Among Klinge’s proudest achievements: advocating for schools, helping the Senior Center relocate to its current location at Baron’s South, and helping create workable policies for dogs on the beach.

His professional life is equally accomplished. Klinge invented stovetop stuffing mix at General Foods, then helped Arm & Hammer’s marketing team put baking soda in every refrigerator, and made his final name as a Topps sports cards marketing director.

In 1997, his business — Major League Marketing, headquartered on Richmondville Avenue — was bought out. The new owners moved it to Texas. Klinge retired.

Human Services director Barbara Butler suggested he join Westport’s mentor program. He remained in touch with mentees — including his first boy — for the rest of his life.

Jack Klinge was honored last month by the Senior Center. He served as president of the Friends of the Westport Center for Senior Activities.

Having taught night classes at Sacred Heart University for 7 years, Klinge joined the Westport Public Schools’ substitute list.

That’s when he first ran for the RTM too. He served on a variety of committees: Education, Finance, Parks & Recreation, Long Range Planning and others.

There was so much more to Jack Klinge’s life. A full obituary will be published soon.

In the meantime, you can read about Jack Klinge from the “06880” archives:

• Jack Klinge, Addison Moore: Old & New RTM Members Look Behind and Ahead (2025)
• Jack Klinge: Representing the RTM (2022)

Jack Klinge, during military service.

The singer/songwriter/ guitarist, with a unique style blending blues, R&B, rock and pop, headlines the Levitt Pavilion’s annual benefit show August 9 (7 p.m.).

The 13-time Grammy winner, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee, and Rolling Stone selection as one of both the 100 greatest singers and guitarists of all time joins a Who’s Who list of previous gala stars, including Cyndi Lauper, Peter Frampton, Frankie Valli, Smokey Robinson, Willie Nelson, Pat Benatar, Cheryl Crow, Nile Rodgers, Jose Feliciano Michael Bolton, Chuck Berry, Little Richard, and many more.

Most recently, Raitt was recognized for her 55-plus-year career as a Kennedy Center Honoree. In 2021 she received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award (2021).

Bonnie Raitt

Proceeds from the gala support over 50 nights of free concerts, from now through October. This summer’s lineup includes Son Little, Luke Tyler Shelton, Seth Sikes, Chris Pierce, Chaparelle, Joy Clark, King Stingray, Surfing for Daisy, Amelia Day, Jessie Altman, Residual Groove, The String Queens and others.

Tonight (Tuesday, 7 p.m.; free), the West Point Band offers an evening of patriotic music — including marches, Broadway classics, bluegrass and more.

Tickets for Bonnie Raitt go one sale to the public Friday, June 19 (10 a.m.; click here).

Audiences thrilled to the acting, music, staging, sets, costumes … it was all nearly Broadway-worthy.

Yet it was not the first time directors David Roth and Kerry Long produced the iconic show.

In 2008, they debuted “Les Mis” — in the summer.

Retired media instructor Jim Honeycutt — who spent 2 decades videotaping Roth and Long’s shows — marvels, “To this day, I cannot figure out how they could do a show of this extensive musical complexity in a summer!

“Even the sets with rotating barricades were extraordinary for a summer show. How Tyler Paul learned all of this music in a month or two is beyond me.”

Honeycutt has done something quite impressive himself. He has distilled the epic production into just under 30 minutes. Click here or below, to hear — and see — the people sing.

Very, very, very well.

Many cast members have made careers in entertainment. Honeycutt also offers these updates, on some of the performers from the 2008 “Les Mis”:

Tyler Paul (Jean Valjean) retired from acting and moved to the other side of the stage lights. He is now head of human resources at ANC.

David Ressler (Javert) is an actor and singer. He is currently performing in a Bay Area Opera Collaborative production of “Pirates of Penzance.”

Audrey Twitchell (Eponine) has appeared in numerous commercials, print ads and on television. In 2006, she originated the role of Lee Bouvier in the Broadway musical “Grey Gardens.”

Megan Watt (Eponine) is a voice actor and commercial artist based in West Hollywood. She specializes in commercial, animation and audiobook narration.

Brooke Benedetto (Fantine) has acted in many shows, including “Merrily We Roll Along” and “Godspell,” at Muhlenberg College and the Music Theater of Connecticut.

Britt Hennemuth (Thénardier) is a Los Angeles-based actor. He recently joined Universal Pictures as senior vice president of production development and special projects.

Nick Boak (Enjolras) is an entertainment executive, involved with “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice,” “Warcraft” and “American Hustle.”

Max Stampa-Brown (Grantaire) appeared in “The Third Man,” “FREUD” and “The Garret East,” after the University of North Carolina School of the Arts.

Chris McNiff (Feuilly) is an actor, singer, dancer and choreographer based in New York City. He has appeared in “White Christmas,” “Singin’ in the Rain” and “Hair.”

Matthew Van Gessel (Lesgles) is an actor, director and writer. He played Isaac Goodenow in the “The Sudbury Devil,” appeared in the film “Bookworm,” was featured as an actor in the project RedDrop, and was cast as Father Rand in “The Vampires of New Orleans.”

Charlie Greenwald is actor, voiceover artist, comedian, copywriter and children’s book author. He has appeared in the film “The Trial of the Chicago 7” and the TV special “Jesus Christ Superstar Live in Concert.”

Vinny Amaru (Joly) continued his interest in stage at Tufts, singing in the a cappella group Beelzebubs. He is now a global investment strategist at JP Morgan Asset and Wealth Management.

Matt Greenberg (Prouvair) is a tenure track assistant professor of theatre and dance at the University of Wyoming.

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

A design firm that works throughout Fairfield County, they’ve been involved in residential, commercial, retail, industrial, educational, religious, government and cultural projects, as well as waterfront, parks and open space.

Their imprint on Westport is substantial. The other day, Rick and I chatted on the Library stage. Our conversation focused on our town — including the affordable housing efforts that Rick is passionate about.

Click here or below, to learn all about a design firm’s impact on a town.

Tonight (Tuesday, 7 p.m., Zoom), 2 Representative Town Meeting committees — Environment, and Health & Human Services — meet jointly, to discuss the topic.

It is the first of at least one or two similar meetings.

Members will not present or vote on an ordinance. The focus tonight will be on artificial turf, but they will also hear from someone with success working with grass fields.

Click here for materials that are part of the official agenda.  And click here for the Zoom link.

Wakeman Field (center) is one of 3 synthetic turf fields in Westport. The other athletic fields surrounding it are grass.

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Speaking of sports: The FCIAC (league) champion Staples High School boys lacrosse team is aiming now at a state championship. That double has not been accomplished since Darien did it in 2017. It’s never been done by the Wreckers.

Tomorrow (Wednesday) they take on New Canaan, in the “LL” semifinals. The game begins at 5 p.m., at Fairfield University.

Staples’ opponent is Darien — a team they’ve beaten 3 times already this year, including a nail-biting 10-9 FCIAC championship win.

The Wreckers are ranked 5th in the state tournament. In an odd twist — thanks to power rankings and records — the Rams are 1st.

Tickets are $11.25, and must be purchased online in advance. Click here for the link.

The Staples game is the first of the double-headed. The 7:30 pits Darien against Fairfield Prep. So no matter who wins either contest, an all-Fairfield County final is assured.

Staples celebrates their FCIAC title. (Photo/Greg Raymond)

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From 1947 until fairly recently, the Pepperidge Farm property on the Westport/Norwalk line was a magical place.

Some of America’s best loved treats were made there. And if you drove by at the right time, the smell of fresh-baked bread was intoxicating.

These days, the scene is quite different.

One of the most beautifully maintained and recognizable landscapes in the area has fallen into a state of neglect.

It has not been maintened for months. Trash, debris, weeds and overgrown grass and plants have taken over the lot. A king mattress and box spring sat in the parking lot for months.

Neighbors are concerned about ticks, and rodents burrowing in the tall grass.

One view of the old Pepperidge Farms property …

The Campbell’s Company⁠ (formerly Campbell Soup Company) owned the property for over 60 years, after acquiring Pepperidge Farm in 1961.

Last year they sold the property to a New York developer, TVG Partners, through an entity called 595 Westport LLC, for approximately $11 million. The developer has proposed redeveloping the site, while retaining some office space.

Westport Auction leased the front of the property in January 2026. The back of the property remains vacant.

Meanwhile, instead of closing eyes to luxuriate in the aroma of just-baked bread, folks close their eyes to avoid an unsightly mess.

… and another.

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Last night’s Westport Country Playhouse Script in Hand reading of “A Tailor Near Me” featured the popular actor Jimmy Smits.

How popular?

Playhouse and “06880” photographer Dave Matlow reports that after shooting the play’s rehearsal yesterday afternoon, he met twin sisters on the WCP steps.

Sharon Lowe and Norma Leyden are a few days away from their 74th birthday. For years, they have traveled throughout the US — including California, Chicago, Washington and Broadway — to watch Smits perform.

Sharon Lowe (left) and Norma Leyden. (Photo/Dave Matlow)

They live in the Boston area, and were vacationing on Nantucket. That’s where they first met Smits, 20 years ago.

They drove to Westport yesterday, to watch their favorite actor in the script reading. They were there after the show too, waiting for him to leave.

From the reviews we’ve heard, the sisters — and everyone else in the audience — got their money’s worth.

Matlow reports the comedy was completely sold out. It was written by Michael Tucker, best known as an “L.A. Law” actor. He was part of the reading last night, joined by 2 others from that TV show: Smits and Tucker’s wife, Jill Eikenberry.

This was the last Script in Hand production of the spring. The series resumes September 14.

Curtain call (from left): Jimmy Smits, Michael Tucker, Jill Eikenberry. (Photo/Dave Matlow)

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Two of Westport’s most interesting people are on stage tonight, at the Westport Library.

Journalist Dave Briggs chats with former Navy SEAL commander and White House fellow Mike Hayes. They’ll explore how to navigate life’s transitions with purpose. The starting point is “Mission Driven: The Path to a Life of Purpose,” Hayes’ practical, inspiring guide to building a more meaningful life.

Click here for details on this sure-to-be insightful conversation.

Mike Hayes

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Also today (Tuesday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.): The Exchange Project presents a “Swap Day: Summer Edition.”  The host is Abby Jaramillo.

The Exchange Project “redefines luxury resale through thoughtful curation, conscious consumption, and timeless style. (They) extend the life of exceptional clothing by editing the best pieces already in circulation—creating a refined, sustainable marketplace where style never comes at the planet’s expense.”

Fresh pieces are updated hourly, including new arrivals from Balenciaga, Zara, Alo, Frame, L’Agence and more. Click here for tickets; address given upon purchase.

Carly Ridloff of The Exchange Project.

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The closure from June 18 through August of Cross Highway near the entrance to Wakeman Town Farm — for replacement of the Deadman Brook bridge — has already been announced.

But it will also be closed this Thursday and Friday (June 11 and 12) from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., for gas line and utility work. Cross Highway will be open, however, from Bayberry Lane to Wakeman Farm Drive.

To accommodate graduation ceremonies, the road and bridge will be open on June 15 and 16 for events at Staples High School and Bedford Middle School.

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Sara Caswell and Ike Sturm headline this Thursday’s Jazz at the Post (7:30 and 8:45 p.m. shows; dinner at 7 p.m.; VFW Post 399).

She is a Grammy-nominated, classically trained string player; he’s a noted bassist.

They’ll be joined by guitarist Jesse Lewis and drummer Michael W. Davis. Click here for tickets, and more information. 

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Longtime Westport resident Linda Volckmann died peacefully on June 6, surrounded by her family. She was 88.

A native of Yakima, Washington, she earned a bachelor’s in economics and a master’s in teaching, both from Stanford University.

She married Carl Volckmann in 1965. His career with IBM took the family throughout the Northeast. They settled in Westport in 1974.

Here Linda developed a love of sailing alongside her Navy husband, formed lifelong friendships, and devoted countless hours to supporting her children’s athletic, music and academic pursuits.

She attended many swim meets, tennis matches and horseback riding competitions. Later, she was on the sidelines for soccer, lacrosse games and wrestling competitions.

Linda loved to travel, and enjoyed adventures throughout Asia and Africa.

When their children were grown, Linda and Carl found a second home in Stuart, Florida, where many friends from graduate school had settled. For nearly 2 decades they enjoyed life as “snowbirds.”

After selling their Westport home of 43 years, they divided their time between Park City, Utah, and Florida.

Linda is survived by her  husband, Carl; daughter Karin Goodman (Nick) and their children Kendall, Hayden and Camden; her aughter Tina Perala (Matthew) and their children Kai and Teo; her son Eric and his children Evelyn and Emmett.

Linda is also survived by her brother and sister-in-law, Jim and Lynne Terril, and their children Christopher and Laura; sister, Lila Nielsen and her children Gretchen and Vicki, and nieces Kristen Doerrer, Eryn Cusic and Micheal Cusic .

Her family says, “Linda will be remembered for her intelligence, generosity, quiet strength, and unwavering devotion to family and friends. She had a remarkable gift for making people feel welcome, valued and loved.

A memorial service will take place at the end of the year. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Green’s Farms Congregational Church, CT, Mariner Sands Chapel Benevolence Fund, or Make-A-Wish of Seattle (Alaska & Washington chapter).

Linda Volckmann

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Great light makes today’s “Westport … Naturally” image — showing Sherwood Mill Pond — extra special.

(Photo/Judith Katz)

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And finally … speaking of the Pepperidge Farm property (story above), this seems like an apt song:

(Whether you remember Pepperidge Farm or not, “06880” is your hyper-local blog — a place to remember history, or learn about it. If you enjoy either activity, please click here to support us. Thanks!)

This month, Representative Town Meeting member Andrew Colabella filed a request with the Planning & Zoning Department for a text amendment change to the Dedicated Open Space and Recreation District Zone.

It would “provide a safe, controlled area for off-leash recreation, while preserving the park’s overall open space character and public accessibility.” The area would “enhance (Winslow Park) through responsible management, improved safety, and additional recreational opportunities for residents.”

Proposed location of the Winslow Park “Dogport.”

Mark Mathias — who lives near Winslow Park, and uses it frequently with his dog — tells “06880” that the proposed “Dogport” has elicited plenty of discussion at the 29-acre town-owned property.

He said a recent Zoom call with the Parks & Recreation Commission did not result in a recommendation. The conversation ended, Mathias says, with commissioner recommending that alternate locations — other than the proposed site along Compo Road North — be explored.

Proponents were urged to put a flyer at Winslow Park, with a link to their survey. A few days later, the flyer — with a QR code — was placed at the water fountain, and other spots (photo below). Click here for a link to that survey.

However, Mathias says, some Winslow Park regulars felt the survey did not address “fundamental issues,” or “adequately reflect the views of people who use Winslow Park.”

They created their own longer survey, and posted 3 signs in the park with links to it (photo below). Click here for a link to that survey.

(Photos/Mark Mathias)

Mathias urges residents to fill out either or both surveys — and/or contact the Planning & Zoning Commission directly. NOTE: The text amendment proposal has not yet been added as an agenda item.

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Burying Hill Beach view (Photo/Michael Chait)

As many of you know, Bedford Middle School received a threatening phone call at approximately 10:31 a.m., prompting an immediate lockdown of the school. Based on information provided by the Westport Police Department shortly thereafter, the district was informed that the call appeared to be part of a series of suspected swatting incidents reported across Connecticut today, including reported incidents in Killingly and Greenwich.

While early information suggested this was likely a hoax, Westport Public Schools and the Westport Police Department followed all established safety protocols, and responded as though the threat was real until proven otherwise.

A lockdown was immediately initiated at Bedford Middle School, and because Bedford and Staples High School share a campus, Staples High School was placed into a shelter-in-place as an added precaution.

Throughout the morning, we provided updates to the community as information became available:

• 10:31 a.m. – Threatening call received at Bedford Middle School; lockdown initiated.
• 10:57 a.m. – Initial communication (#1) sent to families informing the community of the Bedford lockdown and Staples shelter-in-place.
• 11:24 a.m. – Staples High School shelter-in-place lifted.
• 11:40 a.m. – Community update (#2) distributed regarding the lifting of the Staples shelter-in-place.
• 11:58 a.m. – Bedford Middle School lockdown lifted after law enforcement cleared the interior of the building.
• 12:09 p.m. – Community update (#3) distributed announcing the lifting of the Bedford lockdown.

Once the interior of the building was cleared, Bedford transitioned from a “lockdown” to “secure the school” status, while first responders completed their work outside the building.

For those unfamiliar with these terms:

• A Lockdown is used when there is a potential threat to safety. Students and staff immediately move into secured rooms, doors are locked, and students and staff are expected to remain silent until first responders or administrators provide direction.
• Secure the School status is used when there is no identified threat inside the building, but access to and from the building remains restricted while law enforcement continues to investigate or address activity outside the school. Teaching and learning activities may continue during this status.

I arrived at Bedford Middle School just before 11:00 a.m. I remained with the building administration and emergency response team for the duration of the incident.

After the lockdown was lifted, I walked throughout all 9 instructional pods. Along with the Bedford administrative team, I had the opportunity to observe classrooms, speak with staff, and interact with students across the building.

Students demonstrated resilience, maturity and cooperation throughout an extraordinarily stressful situation. Teachers and staff provided exactly what students needed: calm, reassurance, consistency and care.

Our mental health support team was available throughout the day to support students, recognizing that some were understandably affected by the events of the morning. These resources will remain available tomorrow and in the days ahead for any student who may need additional assistance processing today’s events. We encourage students and families to reach out if support would be helpful.

In accordance with our guidance to faculty, many classrooms shifted their focus toward community-building conversations, reflection, and relationship-building activities. The professionalism and compassion displayed by our staff helped restore a sense of normalcy and security for students.

At 3:30, Bedford faculty and administration met to conduct an initial debrief of the day’s events. In the coming days, Westport Public Schools and the Westport Police Department will conduct a more comprehensive after-action review to evaluate our response, identify lessons learned, and continue strengthening our emergency preparedness efforts.

I want to express my sincere gratitude to the Westport Police Department for their leadership and professionalism throughout the incident. We are also deeply appreciative of the support provided by emergency responders from Fairfield, Norwalk, Stamford, the State Police and our many regional partners who assisted today.

Most importantly, I want to thank our students, faculty, staff and families. While today’s events were unsettling, our school community responded with patience, trust, and cooperation. The effectiveness of any safety response depends upon people working together, and today that partnership was evident throughout our community.

The investigation into the source of the call remains active and is being handled by the Westport Police Department.

While we hope never to experience an incident such as this, today demonstrated the strength of our emergency procedures, the professionalism of our staff, the partnership of our law enforcement agencies.

Thank you for your continued support and trust.

A “swatting” incident disrupted Bedford Middle — and nearby Staples High School — this morning.

“Swatting” is a malicious hoax emergency call about a violent crime or explosive device. The fake report sends multiple first responders to a location. Sometimes it is an ill-advised prank; others times it is a diversionary tactic, diverting law enforcement from another crime.

The BMS call was received at 10:32 a.m. The caller said that explosive devices had been placed inside the school, and armed individuals were inside.

There were multiple swatting reports this morning, all across Connecticut.

The school was locked down. Parents were asked to not go there, so first responders could act efficiently and quickly.

Westport Police and the Westport Public Schools responded with all necessary precautions, to investigate and secure BMS. They were assisted by officers and canine units from Fairfield, Norwalk and the Connecticut State Police. The Stamford Police Department’s Bomb Squad conducted sweeps and searches of the premises.

Bedford Middle School. The Staples football field can be seen at the top right. (Drone photo/Brandon Malin)

A “shelter in place” order was issued for Staples, just down the hill from Bedford, out of an abundance of caution. Classes continued, but entering and exiting the building was prohibited.

The lockdown at Bedford was lifted at 11:57 a.m., after a thorough investigation of the building.

A modified schedule was adopted for the rest of the day

Superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice said, “While instruction may continue as appropriate, faculty are encouraged to prioritize activities that help students feel safe, connected and regulated.

“Community-building conversations, opportunities for reflection, stress-management strategies, relationship-building activities, and any activities that create space for students to process the day are encouraged.

“I want to thank our first responders team, led by the Westport Police Department, in addition to the support provided by police and emergency responders from Fairfield, Norwalk, Stamford and the State Police, for their actions in helping us resolve ”

He promised a more comprehensive report later today.

One of the town’s earliest post-war developments, off Bulkley Avenue North and behind Westfair Shopping Center, it’s a tight-knit neighborhood with smaller-than-Westport-average lots.

During its near-80-year history, it’s seen many generational turnovers. Today — once again — it’s filled with families with young children.

Three homes from that neighborhood are featured today. The fourth — Blue Coat Lane — is off North Avenue, near Bedford Middle School.

Hunting Lane, April 2017 …

… and June 2026.

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Westfair Drive, December 2012 …

… and June 2026.

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Dexter Road, January 2005 …

… and June 2026.

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Blue Coat Lane, February 2014 …

… and June 2026.

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

The coach of each varsity sport nominates one person, who also excels in the classroom. In a unique format at the ceremony, each answers one question about his or academic, athletic or extracurricular life. Individually, each is special. Taken together, they paint a robust picture of several dozen remarkable teenagers.

The scholar-athletes for the fall season are: Sofia Gomez (cheer), Harrison Sydor (boys cross country), Sarah Bogdan (girls cross country), Catherine Cirasuolo (field hockey), Justin Halky (football), Gus Palmer (boys golf), Gabe Hellmann (boy soccer), Isabelle Wasserman (girls soccer), Isabella Wasserman (girls swim & dive), Naalie Sipsma (girls volleyball), Brady Nahmias (boys water polo).

The winter scholar-athletes are: Oliver Vynerib (boys basketball), Emma Asiel (girls basketball), Katelynn Mitchell (cheer), Nathaniel Armstrong (fencing), Mia Cochran (gymnastics), Uzi Greenman (boys ice hockey), Jade Reejhsinghani (girls ice hockey), Rahan Sekhar (boys indoor track & field), Taylor Black (girls indoor track & Field), Chase Cammeyer (boys skiing), Alexis Robinson (girls skiing), Aiden Hill (boys squash), Olivia Cohn (girls squash), Nolan Franics (boys swim & dive). Kai Schwartz (wrestling).

Spring scholar-athletes are: Connor Brill (baseball), Riley Sklar (girls golf), Aidan Lapatine (boys lacrosse), Sadie Lowe (girls lacrosse), Gray McGuinness (boys outdoor track & field), Lila Boroujerdi (girls outdoor track & field), Michael Wang (boys rugby), Mia Chatterjee (girls rugby), Zach Gillman (sailing), Olivia Schwartz (softball), Robert Jacob (boys tennis), Devyn Peffer (girls tennis), Gabriel Schorer (boys volleyball), Olivia Kuliga (girls water polo).

Also honored were Oliver Samuel (Thomas DeHuff Award), Taylor Block (Jinny Parker Award) and Dylan Lehrer (Junior Leadership Award).

Taylor Block also earned the $10,000 Laddie Lawrence Scholarship, while Gabe Duque received the $10,000 Coleman Brothers and $2,000 Loeffler Scholarships.

Athletic director VJ Sarullo cited Bill Mitchell, the longtime Westporter and co-owner of Mitchells Stores, for his role in inaugurating the Scholar-Athlete dinner 25 years ago.

Bill Mitchell (left), who helped create Staples’ Scholar-Athlete dinner 25 years ago, is honored by athletic director VJ Sarullo. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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The Staples baseball team are winners — in many ways.

On Saturday they thrashed Norwalk 13-2, in the state tournament quarterfinal. They’ll face Fairfield Ludlowe tomorrow (Tuesday, 3:30 p.m., Municipal Field, Waterbury) in the “LL” (extra large schools) semifinal.

Yesterday — less than 24 hours after their big win, and just a few hours after the senior prom — the entire Wrecker squad headed to Meyer Field.

They buddied up with the Westport Winners — the Little League program for youngsters with disabilities. They enjoyed baseball, a barbecue — and a chance to hang out with some of their youngest, and most rabid, fans.

Play ball! Staples Wreckers, and Staples Winners. (Photo/Beth Cody)

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With primary elections near, and the general election just a few months away, the Westport League of Women Voters offers a program on our town’s electoral process.

On June 10 (2:30 to 3:30 p.m., Senior Center), registrars of voters Deborah Greenberg and Marie Signore provide the inside story on how they prepare for and run the process; results of the last election, including an election audit and recount results; how early voting is working, and the August primaries and fall elections.

Attendees can also learn what’s required to set up the polls, the training needed — and how to volunteer.

(Photo/Mark Mathias)

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Over 250 customers in the Juniper Road area lost power last night around 9:30 p.m., due to downed tree limbs.

Power was restored in the early morning hours. (Hat tip: Mark Mathias)

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Francoise Jaffe writes: “Westport has found its way into Ann Patchett’s new and (most probably future bestselling) novel ‘Whistler.’ 

“At one point, 2 of the characters go on a sailing jaunt out of Darien. The following dialogue ensues:

“‘Where did you go?’ Polly asked.

“‘Westport!’ Eddie said. ‘A pretty town to see from the sea.’

“‘Made all the better for not needing to find a parking space,’ Skip said.

“Polly agreed. ‘There is no parking in Westport.'”

“Ann Patchett hails from Nashville these days. But obviously, our town’s limitations have made quite the impression.

“I wonder if our town leaders will be moved enough now to proceed with a plan?”

Ann Patchett knows Westport.

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Westport Pride invites the Westport community — LGBTQ, allies and friends — to its annual Pride celebration this Sunday (June 14, 12 noon, Jesup Green).

The family-friendly event includes live music, food trucks, local artisan vendors and information booths. Let your colors shine!

Rainbow colors are encouraged, but not required. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Hot on the heels of the Staples Pops concert, the Levitt Pavilion offered a special ’80s show Saturday, with Rubix Kube.

The large crowd walked on sunshine — even when a sudden rain came through.

June features 13 free shows — part of the entire season’s 50+ freebies.

There are paid ticket shows too. And the word on that street is the very special guests will join Lucius on June 20. Click here for the full schedule, details, and ticket information.

A sampling of June acts at the Levitt Pavilion.

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The Museum of Contemporary Art\Connecticut closed out its “Art, Jazz + The Blues” exhibit Saturday night, in appropriate fashion.

A packed house enjoyed a jubilant performance by Grammy Award-winning bassist and bandleader Endea Owens + The Cookout.

Owens — famous for his “Late Show with Stephen Colbert” work — brought warmth and artistry to the stage, alongside with special guest powerhouse Brianna Thomas, and a jazzy backing band, The Cookout.

Endea Owens and The Cookout, at MoCA\CT. (Photo/Roger Young)

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We don’t keep count of how often any particular creature appears in our daily “Westport … Naturally” feature.

Deer and dogs must be right up there.

But egrets can’t be far behind. This graceful bird was spotted on Nyala Farms Road:

(Photo/Ed Simek)

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And finally … on this date in 1949, George Orwell published “1984.”

So, speaking of visions of the future:

(We’re not sure what will happen in 2525. But in 2026, we know: “06880” relies on reader support. Please click here, to make a tax-deductible donation. We thank you!)

My son is 11 years old, and requires round-the-clock support. He is greatly impacted by the adults who guide him.

Since he entered public education at age 3, his communication, socialization and learning skills declined significantly. At age 5, within just 2 months he came home with 2 ripped jackets, a torn backpack, and tears in his eyes.

We raised concerns, offered strategies, and asked for collaboration. Instead, we were dismissed or minimized. The dominant tone was, “You are a hot parent” (their actual language), “and we are the experts who know better.”

Namhee Stokvis

In 2021, without our agreement, the district moved our son to a different classroom and changed his program. When we discovered this, the response was simply “exercise your rights,” a phrase that made clear nothing would change unless we pursued legal action.

We were frightened and confused. We had worked collaboratively through COVID, and believed partnership was possible. But from that moment on, what we encountered was nonchalance, ignorance and deception.

We met other parents experiencing similar problems, but most were too afraid to confront the district directly. They feared retribution. They kept their struggles private. We felt completely alone. Every day became painful and unbearable.

We began searching for a better place — somewhere our son could be safe and supported. After years of comparing districts, we chose Westport. We sold our home, and left everything we had built.

When we arrived in the summer of 2024, the district contacted us within days. We took that as a good sign.

And when we met our son’s new child study team, we felt something we had not felt in years: relief. Every teacher, therapist, paraprofessional and administrator treated our son with care and professionalism.

For the first time in a long time, my husband and I could focus on our work without worrying whether our son was safe or respected. He adjusted quickly, something that surprised us given his history. Our gratitude for Westport grew with each passing month.

But as we approached the one year mark, my worries returned.

Once my son’s adjustment and well-being were established, I began advocating for his education. I noticed that most decisions were already made before I entered the room. My role was often to be informed, not to make decisions.

When I requested an expert observation, it was denied. When I asked to observe my son myself, I was allowed 30 minutes in an isolated room — nowhere near the environment where he learns, plays and struggles.

I found myself worrying: If I advocate more strongly, will we still be treated collaboratively? If I raise concerns about the academic program, will I be ignored or misled? Will the same patterns that traumatized us in New Jersey repeat themselves here?

I am too afraid to test that boundary.

This year, during a community discussion at the Westport Library, I met parents who described the exact problems I experienced in New Jersey: ignorance, defensiveness, and dismissive narratives about families who speak up.

Narratives like “those parents are crazy,” “we are perfectly professional,” and “sue us if you don’t like it.”

It feels like the nightmare is returning. Sleepless nights, financial strain, and the emotional toll of simply trying to do right by my child.

I ran from New Jersey, believing Westport would be a safe place. Are we safe here?

Screenshot from Westport Public Schools’ special education page.

When a district denies and minimizes issues to avoid accountability, we lose our space to have honest conversations. And when parents are pushed toward legal battles, we are at an inherent disadvantage.

No parent has more financial power than a school district (unless you are Elon Musk or Jeff Bezos). And even when parents “win,” children still lose. The critical time for intervention passes. Opportunities to learn and grow disappear while we fight.

So, what are we doing?

A story last month on “06880” (“Special Ed: Solicit Feedback; Prioritize Student Progress Over Legal Proceedings“) shows that Westport’s legal expenditures in special education far exceed those of surrounding towns.

That alarms us. It suggests that problems are being handled through conflict rather than collaboration, consuming time and resources that should be utilized for our children.

Some parents are scared. Others are already suffering, just as I once was.

We chose Westport because we believed it is a better place for our family. And in so many ways, it truly is. The dedication of teachers and professionals here is extraordinary. I bow to their daily devotion. The richness of this town, its food, art, music and people, has made us feel welcomed and grateful.

But we can do better in how we handle conflicts and communications in special education.

When we improve the way we resolve disagreements, everyone benefits.

Students gain stronger outcomes. Teachers feel supported and confident. The district’s reputation grows. And children who rely on us the most receive the timely interventions and education they desperately need.

This is not about blaming. It is about responsibility and courage. It is about refusing to let fear, defensiveness, or bureaucracy stand in the way of our children’s future.

Let’s do better together.

(Our “Opinion” page is open to all readers. Email submissions to 06880blog@gmail.com. To make a tax-deductible contribution to this hyper-local blog, click here.)

Rain approaches today, at Compo Beach … (Jonathan Rosenoer)

… and this afternoon’s surprise 5-minute cloudburst on Main Street (Photos/Jonathan Alloy)

One of them was the subject of last week’s Photo Challenge (click here to see).

It was an easy one. Seth Schachter, Diane Silfen, Brian Taylor, Jonathan McClure, Ed Creevy, Lynn Untermeyer Miller, Michael Szeto, John McKinney, Pat Saviano, Matt McGrath, Amy Schneider, Seth Braunstein, Andrew Colabella and Tom Feeley all checked in quickly with the right answer.

FUN FACT: For decades, a pair of small “foo dogs” (also known as “Chinese guardian lions”) sat behind the marble globes. How and why they go there were mysteries, but the few folks who noticed them always wondered.

In 2022 (or perhaps earlier), they disappeared. They’ve never been seen again. Click here for that “06880” story.

There’s no great back story behind today’s Photo Challenge. But if you know where in Westport you’d see this, click “Comments” below.

(Photo/Bruce McFadden)

(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!)

The event is this Saturday (June 13, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.). The family fun day includes food trucks, touch-a-truck, bounce houses, climbing walls, face painting, raffle prizes and more.

Parks & Rec officials will be on hand, with information about many programs and services.

In addition, the new mural — hung recently on the side wall of The Sandbar concession stand — will be unveiled (10 a.m.). Staples student Luke Bernier is the artist; the Westport Arts Advisory Committee and Artists Collective of Westport helped make it happen.

Attendees must have a beach sticker to park. Walk-ins are welcome! And of course: no dogs.

Fun at last year’s Kickoff to Summer. (Photo/Katherine Phelps)

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Speaking of kicking off summer: Staples High School’s annual Pops Concert did that Friday night, at the Levitt Pavilion.

Now the outdoor pavilion is in full swing. A host of free concerts come this month. They include:

• Jumaane Smith Quartet (tonight, June 7) 
• West Point Concert Band – America250 (June 9)
• Seth Sikes – Everything’s Coming Up Rainbows – A Broadway Pride Concert – with special guest Rose Levine (June 14)
• Isle of Klezbos – Pride Concert (June 16)
• Luke Tyler Shelton – Full Band Show (June 17)
• Children’s Series Launch: Dirty Sock Funtime Band! (June 18)
• Chris Pierce – Juneteenth Concert Celebration (June 19)
• Grammy Award winner Son Little — City Folk Tour (June 24)
• Children’s Series: Miss Tutti & The Fruity Band (June 25)
• Chaparelle (June 26)
• Circles Around the Sun (June 27)
• Comedy Night #1 – Pride Edition – June 30

Click any link above for free tickets, and more information.

Coming this month, to the Levitt Pavilion.

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Yesterday was quite successful, for 2 Staples High School sports teams.

Bruce Schlegelmilch’s grand slam keyed a 13-2 victory over Norwalk, in the baseball state tournament quarterfinal.

Coach Jack McFarland’s Wreckers, now 17-7, move on to the state semifinals. They’ll face Fairfield Ludlowe on Tuesday, at a site and time to be determined.

The boys lacrosse team downed Wilton 10-6, in their state tourney quarterfinal.

That vaults coach Will Koshansky’s squad into their 4th state semifinal in 5 years. Seeded 5th, they meet #1 seed New Canaan on Tuesday, at a site and time to be announced.

Both teams are 17-4. Although the Rams are ranked first, Staples has defeated them 3 times this year. The most recent win came in a nail-biting FCIAC final.

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Lachat Farm’s first Farmers Market is Friday, June 26 (4 to 8 p.m.).

The Weston spot offers a wide array of local vendors — and live music, with the Snake Skin Boots Band.

Many guests buy dinner from the tents and food trucks, plus beverages from the Barn Bar.

New vendors this year include Agape Premium (olive oils), Anchored Homestead (small batch seasonings) and  Celtic Cottage (organic breads, scones and treats).

Redding Knives returns too — for sharpening during shopping. 

Here is the full list of vendors:

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Craig Ferguson is nearly at the end of his Tartan Trek.

The Scotsman is walking over 3,200 miles across the US. He started in Los Angeles.

Over 100 days later, he’ll finish in Boston — just in time for  Scotland’s opening World Cup match. (Next Saturday, June 13, vs. Haiti. It’s actually in Foxboro, 29 miles away. That’s okay — there are buses and trains.)

Fellow Scot David Lyons — now a Westport resident — has been following online. But he did not know that Ferguson’s route would take him through Westport.

Or that they’d meet.

But Lyons was drinking beer with a friend at Little Barn around 5 p.m. Friday, when the intrepid walker walked past.

Lyons rushed out. They chatted. And he made a donation. (The trek is a fundraiser (and awareness-raiser) for Scottish Action for Mental Health.

“Tartan Trekker” Craig Ferguson (right, obviously) and David Lyons.

Ferguson had walked 25 miles that day, with another 9 to go. The day before, he’d met the “real” Craig Ferguson (former “Late Late Show” host) in Central Park.

Click here to learn more about Ferguson and the Tartan Trek — and to donate. Click here or below to watch a YouTube video.

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Another international-comes-to-Westport story: New York Times Pulitzer Prize-winning photographer (and 1988 Staples High School graduate) Tyler Hicks took a break from documenting the Ukraine war Thursday night.

He was at the Westport Library, for the opening reception of the Artists Collective of Westport’s summer exhibits, “American Journeys” and “Piece by Pieces.” His sister Darcy Hicks is a Collective member.

He posed (below) with artist Mark Yurkiw. The Westporter has been very active in Ukraine relief efforts.

Photo Mark Yurkiw and Tyler Hicks, NYT photogarapher, taking a break from documenting the Ukraine war To attend a Art fundraiser at Westport Library last night.

PS- There is a musical fundraiser for Ridgefield Responds & UAI this Sunday in Easton

Tyler Hicks (left) and Mark Yurkiw.

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Just in time for the 90-degree weekend, the crane involved in the Ned Dimes renovation project is gone. Much of the work has been completed.

Several readers asked “06880” what happened to the osprey nest, which the raptors built at the top of the crane.

We’re not sure. So we asked ChatGPT. It replied that ospreys are protected under the Migratory Bird Species Act.

Exactly 100 years ago yesterday, Agatha Christie published what the British Crime Writers’ Association called the greatest crime novel ever written: “The Murder of Roger Ackroyd.”

To celebrate — and promote their upcoming production of the show by the same name — the Westport Country Playhouse has a special anniversary offer.

From now through Friday (June 12), anyone making a $100 donation to the Playhouse will get a free ticket to the play. (Limit 10 tickets per household.)

“The Murder of Roger Ackroyd” — adapted and directed by WCP artistic director Mark Shanahan — runs July 14 through August 1. Click here for information on the promotion, and more.

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Westport’s 2 candidates running for statewide office — John Bolton (attorney general) and Jen Tooker (comptroller) joined fellow Republican Ryan Fazio (governor) in Stratford today.

The campaign season has begun. Bolton and Tooker are stumping — sometimes separately, sometimes together — around the state. (Hat tip: Sal Liccione)

From left in Stratford: John Bolton, Ryan Fazio, Troy Gargiulo (state representative candidate), Jen Tooker.

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If it’s beach season there must be … rabbits?

You won’t see this guy at Compo. But there he was the other day, enjoying the grass and scenery at Burying Hill.

He paused just long enough to pose for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature photo.

(Photo/Wendy Levy)

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And finally … of course, there is no better song to celebrate Colin Ferguson’s 3,200-mile walk than this, from his fellow Scots:

(Westport, Weston, Scotland, Ukraine … “06880” is definitely where Westport meets the world. Please click here, to help us continue on this great journey together. Thank you!)

Susan leads discussion groups focused on child development and parenting, providing guidance and insight to families navigating the challenges of raising healthy, resilient children. She specializes in sleep, nutrition, anxiety and discipline strategies in young children.

With summer near, she looks at the way children will spend their time — and parents’ expectations for it. Susan writes:

Every June, I start hearing the same worries from parents. They feel like they need to line up camps, classes, sports and activities so their kids have a “good” summer.

I understand that. But in my work, I also see how much some children need a break — not just from school, but from always being on the go.

Susan O’Brien

Of course, camps and organized activities can be wonderful, and many families need them. But when every hour is planned, kids do not always get much time to just be kids.

A little boredom is not a bad thing. It is often when children get creative, figure things out on their own, or learn how to make their own fun.

In Westport, it can be easy to feel like summer has to be packed and productive. But a good summer does not have to be impressive. Sometimes it is a slow morning, a bike ride, time at Compo Beach, or a stop at the library. Those simple moments can do more for a child than we realize, especially when they also give families time to slow down together.

I have seen kids who are exhausted by the end of the school year move right into a summer that feels just as busy. I have also seen how much children respond when life gets a little quieter.

They open up more. They seem less tense. And parents often tell me that the best parts of summer end up being the small, unplanned ones.

That said, a slower summer is not realistic for everyone. Many parents are working, and doing the best they can.

This is just a reminder that children do not need every minute filled. Even a few quieter moments, dinner together, a walk after work, sitting outside at the end of the day, can go a long way.

What kid doesn’t like climbing on the lifeguard stand? (Photo by Ashley Carcara; editing by Melody Stanger)

For many children, what matters most is not the big outing or the perfectly planned day. It is feeling noticed. A real conversation in the car, sitting together at the beach, making dinner, or just putting your phone down for a few minutes can help a child feel connected and valued. Those small moments often stay with them longer than we think.

Years from now, kids usually will not remember every camp, class or activity. They are more likely to remember the feeling of summer at home — lazy mornings, popsicles after the beach, catching fireflies, or having the time to simply hang around with the people they love. That is often what makes a summer feel full in the first place.

A lot of parents want to give their children more unstructured time, but honestly do not always know how. Summer can feel like something that has to be managed, especially when there is pressure to keep kids busy, off screens, and “making the most” of every week.

For many families, unstructured time sounds good in theory but feels uncomfortable in practice, because no one really taught parents how to leave space without feeling like they are falling short.

Sometimes it helps to think of unstructured time as leaving breathing room in the day instead of doing nothing at all. Parents can protect a few open hours with no planned activity. Keep simple things available, like art supplies, books, balls, or sidewalk chalk, and resist jumping in too quickly when a child says, “I’m bored.”

Let kids find books — then settle down to read.

A little guidance is fine. But children often do better when adults set the stage, and then step back.

The goal is not to create a perfect free-range summer. It is to make enough room for imagination, rest, and ordinary family life to happen.

We all want to give children what they need. Sometimes that means opportunities and structure.

But sometimes it also means letting them be bored, letting them slow down, and giving them more time with the people who make them feel safe.

That may end up being one of the most important parts of summer.

(Our “Opinion” pages are open to all. Send submissions to 06880blog@gmail.com. To support this hyper-local blog, please click here.)

One view of a Saugatuck River sunset … (Photo/Susan Garment)

… and another (Photo/Jeanne Esposito)

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 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 an important summer spot: your backyard.

June is finally here — meaning backyard barbecues, graduation parties, and more great outdoor gatherings.

But summer entertaining often includes an unwelcome guest: a mountain of single-use plastic waste.

Just in time, Sustainable Westport has released its “UnPlastic Your Backyard Guide.” Click here for practical advice on trading out cheap disposables for cleaner alternatives that protect local soil and waters.

Tips include using jute plant ties, bamboo plant stakes and markers, and what to do with all those nursery pots.

But local sustainability isn’t just theory. Westport’s youth are leading the charge.

The Staples High School Boys Varsity Lacrosse team stood out this spring, by completely rethinking their traditional team dinners.

Knowing how much waste those weekly events generate, the team created a reusable “Hospitality Kit.” Passed from host to host, it eliminate single-use plastics.

It includes:

• Swapping out flimsy plastic tablecloths and plastic forks for washable cloth linens and stainless steel cutlery.
• Utilizing large beverage dispensers and stainless steel cups, eliminating more than 50 plastic bottles per dinner.
• Setting up a dedicated sorting station for cutlery, cups, trash and food waste.

The result? Each team dinner generated less than one light, dry garbage bag of actual waste.

A sustainable Staples lacrosse team dinner.

The team’s sustainable success highlights a core tenet of the plastic-free movement: It doesn’t require a 100% waste-free event to make a massive impact.

Recognizing that replacing disposable plates with reusable ones put too much of a laundering burden on the host families, the team compromised. They opted for unlined paper plates instead of plastic or Styrofoam ones.

Feeding up to 50 hungry athletes every week throughout the spring season means the sheer volume of single-use plastic diverted from local landfills by just this one high school sports team is staggering.

(The Staples boys lacrosse team are winners on the field too. They’re FCIAC [league] champions. Right now [Saturday afternoon] they’re playing at Wilton, in the quarterfinals of the state tournament. Go Wreckers!)

Stainless steel cups, and large dispensers. Think of how many plastic water bottles were saved at this one dinner!

As outdoor party season swings into action this month — graduation! Father’s Day! block parties! — Sustainable Westport hopes the lacrosse team’s creativity inspires other Westporters to look at their own celebration setups.

(Don’t forget balloon-free decor! Ditching balloons is a huge plus for the environment.)

Small actions, multiplied across a community, can have a powerful impact.

Ready to commit to just one change this month? Join your neighbors by clicking here to sign the UnPlastic Pledge.

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

But superb talent, off-the-charts energy and the clear love of teenage musicians and their teachers for each other made the event — a beloved tradition, and a gift of the Staples High School music department to the town — a grand slam.

A jam-packed Levitt Pavilion crowd was thrilled by small ensembles, the Symphonic Band & Orchestra, Jazz 1, Choralaires, Sonora, Orphenians and the Stradivarius Chamber Orchestra.

It was hard to tell who enjoyed the evening more: the students, conductors, or the large audience.

As emcee James Naughton said at the end: “What a way to start the summer!”

Eight student-led ensembles offered pre-concert entertainment.

More pre-concert fun.

From left: Levitt Pavilion executive producer Carleigh Welsh, Staples principal Stafford Thomas, orchestra director Jeri Brima, choral director Lauren Pine, townwide arts coordinator Steve Zimmerman.

2-time Tony Award winner James Naughton served as emcee.

Owen Naughton — James’ grandson — on keyboard, with the Jazz 1 group.

Staples musicians applauded their friends.

Eva Slossberg sings “Sign of the Times” …

… and Will McCrea offers “Careless Whisper.”

The full house, in full swing.

Jeri Brima conducts the orchestra.

Lauren Pine, and her Orphenians.

One view of the full orchestra …

… and another.

Staples directors (from left): Jeri Brima, Caitlin Serpliss, Kevin Mazzarella, Lauren Pine, Carrie Mascaro. (All photos/Dan Woog)

He’s spent more than half his life — over 50 years — in Westport.

Yesterday, the pioneering financial firm executive was honored.

Allen grew up in Harlem, attended law school, earned a Fulbright Scholarship, then created the first Black-owned Wall Street firm. He has written 3 books, most recently “How I Pried Open Wall Street in 1962.”

Win Allen

The celebration, at The Bridge at Saugatuck, was organized by Westport 10.

That’s a misnomer. The networking and social group for Black men here now has nearly 70 members.

At least one in attendance yesterday works in financial services. “I’m where I am today because of Win Allen,” he said.

Yesterday’s celebration, at The Bridge. Win Allen is 2nd from right (red jacket). Westport 10 founder Jay Norris is next to him, on the right. (Photos/Dan Woog)

Allen — a longtime Westport Rotary Club member — and his late wife Ruby bought their Burritt’s Landing North home in 1975. Built in 1957, it was designed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe’s protégé Roy Binkley. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Happy birthday, Win Allen. And thank you for all you have given to our town, and the world.

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The Blondinit provided an incorrect day for next week’s “Stars, Stripes & Shawarma” event.

The correct date is Thursday, June 11. Click here for details.

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And … don’t believe everything you see on the internet. (Duh.)

Yesterday, we linked to a Threads post about Shonda Rhimes’ donation of the Oval Office set from “Scandal,” to the Obama Presidential Center Museum.

Except, it didn’t happen.

Our Westport neighbor clarified — also on Threads — that her donation to the museum was funds to make a replica of Obama’s office.

“And I was proud to do it,” she added.

Erroneous screenshot.

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Sure, there might have been a little traffic jam on the Post Road yesterday.

But it was for a great cause. Westport Police officers carried the Flame of Hope through town, in support of Special Olympics of Connecticut.

They received it from Norwalk Police. After running with the torch through town, officers passed it along to Fairfield Police, at the town line.

(Photo/Carrie Kuhn)

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The Yankee Doodle Fair is a century old.

But there will be a new look June 18, when the beloved Westport Woman’s Club event opens its 4-day run.

The Imperial Avenue parking lot — site of the rides and games, just down the hill from the WWC clubhouse — is being paved this week.

It will look great.

Even after thousands of kids smush popcorn, cotton candy and other goodies into it.

(Photo/Amy Schneider)

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Happy retirement, Eileen Lavigne!

The assistant town attorney’s last day was yesterday. Her colleagues at Town Hall gave her a well-deserved send-off.

Click here for a story about her long service to Westport — and what’s ahead.

(Photo/Matthew Mandell)

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For years, the Westport Library has challenged children and adults to read — and sweetened the offer with prizes for minutes spent reading, and number of books read.

Now they’re doing the same for teenagers.

“Plant a Seed, Read: Summer Reading for Teens” runs now through September 6.

For every 60 minutes of reading, participants will receive a digital ticket to enter for a chance to win a basket of gift cards.

300 minutes earns an ice cream from Van Leeuwen. 600 minutes gets a free advance copy of a soon-to-be-published book from the teen librarian.

The Library is also open tomorrow (Sunday, June 7), from 5 to 8 p.m. for a lock-in for high school students only, to study for finals.

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Speaking of the Library: If you’re wondering whether AI can help doctors detect cancer earlier — and how to separate genuine AI/cancer care breakthroughs from headlines and hype — head there this Thursday (June 11, 7 p.m.).

Dr. Sanjay Aneja speaks about artificial intelligence’s role in cancer diagnosis treatment today — and tomorrow. For more information, click here.

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We’ve featured a number of spring flowers in our “Westport … Naturally” series. Today it’s a stunningly colorful iris.

(Photo/Judith Katz)

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And finally … today is the 82nd anniversary of D-Day.

The Allied invasion of Normandy was the largest waterborne invasion in history. Nearly 160,000 troops cross the English Channel, with 5,000 landing and assault craft, 289 escort vessels, and 277 minesweepers participating. They landed on 5 beaches, and gained a treacherous foothold that helped lead to the eventual conquest of Germany.

(Every day, “06880” brings you stories about interesting Westporters, news of the day, upcoming events — and connects you to the world. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

We’ve got 2 works that show familiar Westport scenes. Two focusing on wooden structures. Two with “Waiting” in the title. Two watercolors; 2 acrylics; 2 collages. And (well, it was close) 3 artists showing their works here for the first time.

All are — as always — welcome. 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.

“The Aqua Entry” (Patricia McMahon — Available for purchase; click here)

“Big Changes in Society Affect the Window Glass We See Through” (Eric Bosch)

“Victory” (Rowene Weems — Available for purchase; click here)

Untitled (Duane Cohen — Available for purchase; click here)

“Lady in Waiting” — watercolor (Lucy Johnson)

“Spiderman” — screen print canvas with acrylic paint, 32″ x 32″, #35 of 35, also signed by Stan Lee (Steve Kaufman — Available for purchase; click here)

Untitled — acrylic and pastels, 36″ x 36″ (Melissa Benedek)

“African Mixup” — digital collage (Tom Doran — Available for purchase; click here)

Untitled — collaged landscape (Amelia Kessler — age 9, One River Art student)

“Waiting” (Nancy Breakstone — Available for purchase; click here)

“The Fog Comes on Little Cat Feet” — watercolor (Steve Stein)

Untitled (Martin Ripchick — Available for purchase; click here)

“Sittin’ on the Dock of the Bay” (Lawrence Weisman) 

(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!)

He’s led quite a life, and has the stories to prove it. But this may be his best ever. With the first match of the 2026 World Cup just 5 days away, Joe writes: 

In December 1991, while preparations were underway for the 1994 FIFA World Cup in the US, New York hosted the preliminary qualifying draw at Madison Square Garden.

That event set the stage for one of the most unlikely small-town soccer stories Weston, Connecticut, can ever claim.

At the time I was part of the 1994 New York Bid Committee. I also helped host the qualifying draw in New York. FIFA brought the World Cup trophy to the city for that event.

Then came an unexpected request. Rather than leave the trophy in a hotel, FIFA asked me to look after it for a couple of days.

So, for a brief stretch, the most famous prize in world sport made its way from Manhattan to my home in Weston.

The World Cup trophy is no ordinary object. The current one — introduced in 1974 — stands 1 foot 2 inches tall, weighs 13.6 pounds, and is made of 18-carat gold with malachite bands on its base.

FIFA keeps the original trophy under its control. Winners receive a replica.

That is what makes the memory so striking. Today, the trophy is handled under tight security, and is surrounded by layers of ceremony.

In 1991 though, there was still enough trust and informality for it to spend a couple of quiet days in suburban Connecticut.

Joe Pierce in Weston, with the World Cup trophy.

I decided to share the moment in the best possible way. I invited my 8-year-old son’s Weston youth soccer team over for a photograph with the real World Cup trophy.

Somewhere, those pictures still exist.

The children in them are adults now, scattered all around the world and living their own lives.

But each photograph preserves a story that would be almost impossible today: a group of local kids in Weston, Connecticut, standing with the real FIFA World Cup trophy.

Then and now, they are able to say that for one unforgettable moment, the World Cup came to their town.

(“06880” is where Westport meets the world — and Weston meets the World Cup. If you enjoy this story — or anything else on our hyper-local blog — please click here to support our work. Thanks!)

Saugatuck Congregational Church (Photo/John Maloney)