I would like to nominate Jon Janik — the head pro at the Longshore golf course — for this week’s Unsung Hero Award.
Tee time reservations opened this morning at 6:30. The team migrated to a new booking system yesterday afternoon.
It’s been a challenging transition. But Jon’s patience and persistence have been truly appreciated.
He emailed back and forth with me for several hours yesterday. He did not stop until he was able to get both my husband’s and son’s accounts functioning properly. He worked well past regular hours — until almost 9 p.m., in fact.
Joe Janik
Thank you, Jon, for going above and beyond to help ensure opening weekend runs smoothly, and is filled with happy memories.
PS: Thank you to “068800” too, for highlighting Unsung Heroes. The writeups are a great reminder of how fortunate we are to live in a community that recognizes the selfless efforts of others.
Thanks, Lindsay. In the grand scheme of things, a golf pro who goes the extra mile is a little thing. But, as you note, the little things add up to a big part of what makes Westport special. So thank you too, Jon Janik, for all that you and your staff at the Longshore golf course do, for so many.
(“06880” is proud to honor Unsung Heroes — and tell many other tales of town too. Please click here to support your hyper-local blog.)
Yesterday’s announcement of the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce’s “Your State, Your Business” event with Governor Ned Lamont (April 13, 11 a.m., Westport Library) did not include the registration link.
Saturday’s “Hero to Hero” event drew a large, passionate crowd to the Saugatuck Rowing Club.
“Hero” is a non-profit that help highly qualified military members transition to first responder careers. It’s a win-win-win — for the servicemembers, their employers, and the entire community.
Locally, 5 Westport Fire Department members are graduates of the program.
This weekend’s event raised awareness of “Hero to Hero” — and raised funds for an independent film, which will raise even more funds for the organization.
The “Blue Bunny” film project is led by Rita Marcocci, a Westport resident and award-winning producer. She says:
“Our community came together in a powerful way — united by purpose, storytelling, and a shared commitment to those who have served our country.
“The fundraiser was a reminder of what’s possible when community, creativity and compassion align. From heartfelt remarks by veterans to the overwhelming generosity in the room, and the passion behind Senator Blumenthal’s speech, the evening reflected the very mission we stand behind: supporting our veterans as they transition from active duty into meaningful roles as first responders, while using storytelling to shine a light on the realities of veteran mental health.
“For those who couldn’t attend, but believe in supporting our veterans and the mission of Hero To Hero as well as independent filmmaking that will hire veterans for on screen and behind the scenes roles, we invite you to donate. Great auction items are still available too. Click here to help.
Westport Fire Chief Nick Marsan (far right) and Deputy Chief Matt Cohen (far left) with (from left): Clayton Janssen (Navy), Cody Ruschmeyer (Army), Liam Chrzanowski (Marines) and Zach Oullette (Marines). Not pictured: Kyle Sanzo (Marines.)
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Everyone who has heard the Bedford Middle School Jazz Band knows they’re special.
Now music educators all over the state know too.
The group performed as a “showcase ensemble” for the Connecticut Music Educators Association All-State conference, at the Connecticut Convention Center.
Gregg Winters’ 25 student musicians’ set included “Front Burner,” “Take the ‘A’ Train,” “The Girl from Ipanema” and “On Broadway,” a mix of swing, Latin and contemporary styles. All students also performed improvised solos.
Bedford Middle School Jazz Band.
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This may be a first, in Staples’ long sports history:
For 3 consecutive years, a Manchester sibling served as captain of the Staples High School ski team.
And … all 3 received the Coaches’ Award at the end of their senior year, for their contributions to the program.
Congratulations, Logan (2024), Max (2025) and Ella (2026)!
PS: Their father, Jeff Manchester, earned plenty of awards too, as a Staples wrestler back in the day.
Three Manchesters: From left: Logan (now a sophomore at Bentley College), Ella (headed to the University of Colorado) and Max (Bentley freshman).
Speaking of teenagers: The Westport Senior Center is looking for high school students to volunteer in their Tech Hub on Thursdays (3 to 4:30 p.m.).
It’s a flexible opportunity. Weekly emails are sent to check availability.
This is a great chance for tech-savvy youngsters to show what they know — and give back to their community. Most probably have experience already, helping their grandparents (and parents).
For more information or to sign up, email Diana Andrews: dandrews@westportct.gov.
Tech help, at the Senior Center.
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The stairs from the Westport Library’s main entrance to the Riverwalk below have been in disrepair for a while.
The Riverwalk — stretching from the Taylor parking lot all the way behind the Levitt Pavilion, ending at Deadman Brook — is one of Westport’s hidden jewels.
Soon, we’ll have one more way to access it — again.
Melissa Newman — a longtime Westporter, and Jazz at the Post favorite — kicks off the series’ first-ever Voices of Spring festival, this Thursday (VFW Post 399; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner from 7).
And finally … on this date in 1930, the Motion Picture Production Code began. It imposed strict guidelines on sex, crime, religion and violence in film, until it was replaced in 1968 with 4 ratings: G(eneral), M(ature), R(estricted to under 16, unless accompanied by an adult) and X (no one under 16 admitted).
(There are no restrictions on “06880.” Anyone can read anything we post — and anyone can click here too, to support our work. Thank you for your patronage!)
Speaking of seasonal activities: These days, many Westporters are busy with spring cleaning.
Nine Rotary Club members took time out of their own yards, gardens and garages yesterday to spiff up the Sherwood Island Connector commuter parking lot, and nearby areas.
Led by Peter Helt and Rick Benson, they collected 25 bulging bags of trash.
“This is our town. Please keep it clean!” says Benson.
Ani DiFranco drew a large crowd last night, to the Westport Library.
The musician, folk-rock legend and cultural icon kicked off 4 days of VersoFest ’26 in a conversation with Westport TV journalist Lindsay Czarniak about her new book, “The Spirit of Ani: Reflections on Spirituality, Feminism, Music, and Freedom.”
Tonight’s headliner is another musical legend: Wyclef Jean. Very few tickets remain for his 8 p.m. performance (click here to purchase).
Downtown traffic may be a little tougher than usual tomorrow.
Two events — the weekly 11 a.m., Ruth Steinkraus Bridge anti-Trump protest, and a “No Kings” 12 noon rally on Jesup Green — could cause delays, along with possible road closures.
Traffic moves slowly when downtown is crowded. (Photo/Jim Honeycutt)
MoCA\CT invites all area teenagers to an open “Mic at the Museum Night” (April 30, 6 to 8 p.m.).
Organized by MoCA’s Teen Council, it’s free — and for teens only. Participants can perform in any medium they choose: music (solo or group), comedy, storytelling, rap, dance or whatever. Click here to sign up.
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Speaking of entertainment: Morningside — a local indie-rock band made up of local dads, who just released their debut album of original music — headlines Stage One at FTC next Friday (April 3).
The band — including Westporters Nick Huber, Sean Spillman and Bobby Schlesinger; Westonite Matt Stine, and Ian Walters of Fairfield — opened for John Oates last summer at the Levitt Pavilion. More recently, they played at Mohegan Sun’s Wolf Den Theater.
MyTeamTriumph — the great organization that pairs volunteer “angels” with “captain” athletes with disabilities, so that both can compete in running and bike races, and triathlons — hosts a pre-season warm-up short, friendly run and picnic on April 12 (11:30 a.m., Compo Beach).
They invite anyone interested — captain or angel — to check them out.
Upcoming events include the Women’s League of Westport Minute Man Race 5K and 10K (April 26), Boys & Girls Club of Stamford Corporate 5K (May 14), and Bloomin’ Metric Bike Ride (May 17).
A good-sized group of Representative Town Meeting (RTM) members enjoyed their semi-annual lunch this week, at The Clubhouse.
They time this one for the yearly Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce food contest. (This year’s — for the best sandwiches in town — runs through Tuesday, March 31.)
The other lunch takes place during Restaurant Week.
RTM members (plus former moderator Velma Heller, 2nd from right), at The Clubhouse. Owners Tim and Emily Zobl are in back.
Last year, the Gillespie Center and Hoskins Place — Westport’s men’s and women’s shelters — reopened, after extensive renovations.
This year, they’ve added something else new: an American flag. Peter Jennings installed it Wednesday.
The flag now flies proudly outside Homes with Hope’s Jesup Road building — which also houses a food pantry, and meeting space — in the heart of downtown.
(Photo/Helen McAlinden)
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This winter has been tough on local roads.
The Public Works Department is patching potholes as best they can. The entrance road at Burying Hill Beach has a particularly deep one.
Earlier this week the Y’s Women learned about “the power of the Red Cross,” from 2 women who know it well.
Susan Shansky retired from a career in budget management and communications at MIT. She is now a “blood donor ambassador,” having donated 10 gallons (in small increments) to the Red Cross.
Natalie Sustache is an American Red Cross senior recruiter.
The pair described how they bring talented people, to deliver hope and relief every day.
Susan Shansky and Natalie Sustache. (Photo/Vera DeStefano)
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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo is one more in our continuing insistence that yes, spring really is just around the corner.
Though tomorrow’s high will only be around 39, temperatures could reach the 70s on Tuesday and Wednesday. Fingers crossed …
And finally … Chip Taylor, who wrote songs as diverse as the Troggs’ “Wild Thing” and Merrilee Rush’s “Angel of the Morning,” died Monday in New York. He was 86.
A few days after Staples High School’s triple-overtime loss to West Haven in the state boys basketball Division I championship, emotions — excitement, heartbreak, pride — still linger.
The season was memorable in so many ways. The Wreckers went 26-1; they won their 2nd straight FCIAC (league) crown; they inspired our entire town.
Young fans, up late at Mohegan Sun. (Photo/Amanda Thaw)
A number of photographers were at Mohegan Sun Arena Saturday, capturing all the joy and agony of the title game.
Dave Dellinger shares the highs and lows of the back-and-forth contest:
The Staples junior has an outstanding eye, for both the physical drama and the emotional intensity of sports. Here are a few of his images:
Staples senior Demeil Betfarhad offered a stirring rendition of the national anthem.
Sam Clachko earned a spot as one of the best basketball players in Staples history. He played in Mohegan Sun as a freshman, when the Wreckers reached the final of the Division II state tournament.
Dhilan Lowman fires.
Wrecker fans are all in.
“Oh yeah!” says Matty Corrigan.
Mason Tobias
Coach Dave Goldshore
The Wreckers gave it their all. (Photos/Ryan Allen)
Three “wow”s don’t do justice to the triple-overtime loss the Staples boys basketball team endured Saturday night, in the Division I state championship game at Mohegan Sun.
The defeat — the first 3-OT contest in Connecticut final history — ended the Wreckers’ quest for a perfect (27-0) season.
And for their first state hoops crown since 1937, when Franklin D. Roosevelt was in the White House. (Also, 9 years before the founding of the National Basketball Association.)
(Graphic courtesy of @Staplesboysbasketball Instagram)
But the sting of that loss — a game in which Staples camethisclose near the end of regulation time, and all 3 overtimes — should not take away from what coach Dave Goldshore’s squad accomplished, all year long.
They inspired our entire town. The stands were packed with classmates, many of whom stood inches from the sideline, cheering on the gritty Wreckers.
On the other side of the gym were dozens of younger players. They cheered raucously, stomped their feet, and asked their heroes for autographs.
Cheering Staples on, all season long. (Photo courtesy of @Staplessuperfans Instagram)
At the end of the marathon at Mohegan Sun, they — like those heroes — were in tears.
It was a bitter, Hollywood-style ending, for a Hollywood-esque year.
I had the privilege of serving as the team’s PA announcer. I had a front-row, courtside seat as the squad enjoyed a season unlike any other in the century that Staples has had a basketball team.
Over the past 4 years, Goldshore molded the team in his image. They battled for everything: every tipoff, every loose ball, every pass.
They played smothering defense. They shot the lights out.
Most importantly, they did it together.
One of the top scorers in Staples history, Sam Clachko, regularly dished off assists to teammates. All 5 starters scored in nearly equal measure; each game, it seemed, someone different had the most.
When a sub took the floor, support from teammates was as loud as if — well, a triple-overtime title was on the line.
And wow, were they resilient. That quality was apparent to all at Mohegan Sun Saturday. Four times — at the end of regulation time, and in all 3 overtimes — Staples battled back from deficits, with talent, grit, composure, and a palpable belief in themselves, and each other.
When it was all over — when the last shots did not go in, when the final buzzer sounded, when the Blue Devils celebrated their hard-earned victory — the feeling of emptiness must have been brutal.
Anyone who has been in a game like that — in any sport, at any level — knows what it’s like.
The boys — “young men” is a better term — on the Staples basketball team dedicated everything to their quest.
For some, it began even before their 4 years in high school. For all, it was an all-consuming journey, beginning the moment last season ended, continuing through the spring, summer and fall, and roaring into high gear the day tryouts began in November.
It will take a while for the sting to ease. It will be tough to hear well-meaning parents and friends say, “What a tough loss.”
What will be toughest is knowing that — from the moment West Haven celebrated wildly — never again will this group share practices, shootarounds, games, bus rides, pregame meals, and everything else that makes a sports season special — with their best friends in the world.
That’s the essence of sports. It makes the joy even sweeter when you win, and more agonizing when you lose.
Coach Dave Goldshore, and the Wreckers.
The Staples boys basketball team lost Saturday night.
But that was only on the scoreboard.
What they’ve won — in memories, in life lessons learned, in the magic they brought the town, all season long — will live on long after they leave the gym.
Thank you, coach Goldshore.
Thank you, Jared Sale, Austin Heyer, Mason Tobias, Jack Jacob, Dhilan Lowman, Sam Clachko, Henry Veislid, Matty Corrigan, Drew Hill and Oliver Vynerib, Gavin Mayr, Aaron Schorr, Ryan Marcus, Declan Jandora and Declan Mayr.
You won our hearts, with your heart.
You are our champions.
Celebrating, after a second straight FCIAC (league) championship. (All photos courtesy of Staples boys basketball, unless otherwise noted)
OVERTIME: Coach Dave Goldshore told The Ruden Report: “Being part of one of the greatest high school basketball games in the state of Connecticut history is special.
“The kids just battled. They battled and sometimes things don’t go your way. The world judges you sometimes on results, but I judge this team on their process. I judge this team on their heart. I judge this team on their ability to be resilient. That’s what the heart of a champion is.”
“Tonight was my favorite part of the season Under incredible pressure and incredible adversity, they showered incredible commitment. Sometimes the results don’t go your way, but the toughness never goes away.”
Staples (far side, white uniforms). The thrill and memories of playing at Mohegan Sun will last a lifetime. (Photo/Diane Lowman)
DOUBLE OVERTIME: Click here or below for highlights from the game. It begins with a short clip of Staples senior Demeil Betfarhad, who gave a stirring rendition of the national anthem.
(“06880” covers high school sports — and much, much more — and often goes behind the scenes to tell our stories. If you appreciate posts like this, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
The Staples boys basketball team fell 1 game — and 3 overtimes, and just 7 points — short of a perfect season.
But the Wreckers’ battle last night will be remembered for decades.
In what may be the most dramatic state championship game in Connecticut history, coach Dave Goldshore’s top-seeded squad lost 79-72 to #2 West Haven, in the Division I final at the Mohegan Sun Arena.
It took triple overtime for the Blue Devils to deny the Wreckers their first state crown since 1937.
The contest — which drew a raucous crowd from Westport — had a Hollywood-style string of dramatic moments.
Staples had chances to win — with 3-pointers and foul shots — near the end of regulation, and all 3 overtimes.
Instead, they were left with a runner-up plaque, a 26-1 season (including their second straight FCIAC league championship), and memories of a spectacular season that inspired the school, legions of younger children, and the entire town of Westport.
Congratulations, men. The scoreboard may not show it. But you are true champions.
Congratulations to Corporal Shawn Wong Won: Westport Police Department’s 2025 Officer of the Year.
He joined the force nearly 13 years ago, after reaching the rank of lieutenant in the Norwalk Police Department.
The WPD says, “From the first day Corporal Wong Won walked through the Westport Police doors, he has been an exemplary officer. Every member of the department can attest to the positive achievements, acute knowledge and refined skills he brings to Westport.
“As a corporal and field training officer, Corporal Wong Won brings new officers into the fold while offering steady, solid advice. He has proven to be a model officer for all to look to in both the way he conducts himself within the department and with the public alike. Further, Corporal Wong Won has a wealth of experience to offer his peers and supervisors.
“No task is too great for Corporal Wong Won. There is no task he does not give his complete effort to, while always maintaining a positive attitude. Corporal Wong Won is capable, driven, and most importantly, willing to help his fellow officers whenever the need arises.
“Corporal Wong Won has proven throughout his career that he routinely goes above and beyond the call of duty. His attitude, work ethic, intelligence, physical capabilities, empathy, leadership, and genuine character are the divine qualities of a noteworthy and commendable officer.”
Corporal Shawn Wong Won (center) with (from left) 1st Selectman Kevin Christie and Police Chief David Farrell.
Yesterday’s Roundup noted the correct date — Sunday, March 29 — for the soccer clinic for youngsters in kindergarten through 6th grade (10:30 a.m. to noon, Wakeman Field). However, we said “tomorrow,” rather than “next week.”
It’s organized by Bedford Middle School 8th grader Allyson Post. Donations ($25 per player) support the soccer program at Bridgeport’s Columbus School, for grades K-8.
To register through Full Court Peace, click here. Click “Donate,” and note “Soccer Clinic” in the notes. Then click here, so organizers can plan for each age group.
Lauri Weiser calls today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo “the first lights of spring,” at the Lansdowne condos.
(Photo/Lauri Weiser)
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And finally … on this date in 1963, the Beatles released their debut album, “Please Please Me,” in the UK.
It took another year for Beatlemania to reach the US.
But we’ve never been the same.
(If we please you every day with our “06880” Roundup — and everything else — please please us with a tax-deductible donation. Please click here. Thank you!)
Tonight is the boys basketball state championship. Staples High School — ranked #1 in Division I — meets #2 West Haven. Tipoff is 8:30 p.m., at Mohegan Sun.
But hey — you don’t have to drive clear across Connecticut.
In the wake of Thursday’s state Department of Transportation public meeting about the Cribari Bridge, several residents contacted “06880.” They want to know how to urge town officials — particularly 1st Selectman Kevin Christie and the Representative Town Meeting — to get involved.
For example, Robbie Guimond writes: “RTM! It’s time to answer the call. Are you ready?
“After the CTDOT hearing, one thing was clear: Fear about increased truck traffic is widespread across town. While other issues came up, the need to address truck traffic stood out.
“I believe the RTM should begin the process of creating a ‘no through truck’ ordinance immediately.
“This is public shout-out for the appropriate RTM committees to take this on — or form a new committee if needed. It would make sense to include people like Andrew Colabella and Jennifer Johnson, who have consistently raised this issue, along with others who can help move it forward.
“We also know that during reconstruction, a temporary span will allow all legal loads to cross for 3+ years. Even a bridge rehab would bring increased truck traffic back. We should be ready with a plan to act, if and when the trucks show up.
“RTM: It’s time to get to work. Are you ready? Your constituents are.”
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Mark Yurkiw — the Westport artist who has been very involved in relief efforts for his native Ukraine — shares an item about Westport’s sister city Lyman, from the Ukrainian National News Agency. It reports:
“The main and most relevant objective for the enemy is Lyman. Lyman has long been a target because (Russia’s) long-term goal is to reach the northern outskirts of the Sloviansk-Kramatorsk agglomeration.
“To do this, they need to capture Lyman and then advance further toward Raihorodok. From there, they would directly move on to the Sloviansk-Kramatorsk agglomeration, but for years the enemy has failed to achieve this.”
Westport Board of Education “community conversations” are wide-ranging affairs.
Residents are invited to raise any topic related to the schools.
And they do.
The next session is Tuesday (March 31, 12 p.m., Westport Library). Former Representative Town Meeting moderator Velma Heller will facilitate the conversation.
Connecticut’s secretary of the state has a lot on her plate.
At the Westport Library on Thursday, Stephanie Thomas described some of her many roles. She was the second in a 3-part “Your State — Your Business” series, sponsored by the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce.
Among the topics: scams targeting business owners and individuals, how businesses and residents can get involved civically, and human trafficking. She also answered questions, including about election policy.
The series continues April 2 (11 a.m., Westport Library), with Connecticut Attorney General William Tong, Click here for more information.
Secretary of the State Stephanie Thomas and Matthew Mandell, Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce director.
The Chicago Dawgs play, starting at 7:30. Bar food (pizza slices and hot dogs) are available, along with early bird bar specials. Click here for tickets.
Chicago Dawgs
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All soccer players in kindergarten through 6th grade are invited to a fun clinic and fundraiser next weekend (Sunday, March 29, 10:30 a.m. to noon, Wakeman Field). Westport travel coaches and Staples players will run the event.
It’s been organized by Bedford Middle School 8th grader Allyson Post. Donations ($25 per player) support the soccer program at Bridgeport’s Columbus School, for grades K-8.
Allyson started working with the Columbus program last year. It was so meaningful, she has continued her involvement.
To register through Full Court Peace, click here. Click “Donate,” and note “Soccer Clinic” in the notes. Then click here, so organizers can plan for each age group.
The Weston History & Culture Center opens for the season on March 29 (1 to 4 p.m.).
Visitors can enjoy a new “Weston at Work ”interactive exhibit in the Coley barn, take a guided tour of the Coley House (circa 1940s), learn about the forgotten village of Valley Forge, and explore the Weston Meteorite. For more information, click here.
Looking at the Lockwood Loom, at the Weston History & Culture Center.
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Is that spring we see, sprouting in Molly Alger’s yard?
We can’t imagine a better “Westport … Naturally” photo for today!
If you’re a teen — or ever were — this one’s for you.
(Hey, teens! And everyone else! If you enjoy “06880” — and appreciate the work that goes into posting 3 to 6 times a day — please click here, to support our work. Thank you all!)
Perrin Delorey was a 10-year-old Westport Little Leaguer, ice hockey player and Cub Scout. He died in June of 2018. following a car accident after visiting the Baseball Hall of Fame.
Perrin’s memory has been kept alive by his family, friends, Little League and Staples Tuition Grants. On Wednesday, his father James posted on Facebook:
Today is our son Perrin’s 18th birthday.
Perrin was a thoughtful young man with a great future ahead of him. Angela and I talk about him all the time, as do his little sisters, Mireille and Elodie. He truly is present in our family of 5.
Perrin Delorey earned a Little League game ball in May 2018.
Perrin’s friends and classmates are now high school seniors, making plans for career, public service, university. It is both difficult and wonderful to see all of their accomplishments these last 8 years – performing in school plays, excelling at athletics, making music, volunteering in our community, climbing mountains, becoming Eagle Scouts, becoming adults.
These dreams and hopes are like those we had for Perrin, and what we have now for Mireille and Elodie.
Perrin at McGill University.
This year Perrin’s classmates, led by his “identical cousin” Philip, have created the Perrin Ryan Delorey “Do Your Best” Award, a Staples Tuition Grant that – because of the generosity of so many – will be given in perpetuity to help students pursue their dreams of higher education.
The award is modeled, in part, on Westport Little League’s Perrin Ryan Delorey Sportsmanship Award, presented not to the “best” player, but to the player who works the hardest to improve and help their teammates.
Perrin Delorey at the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, with Ted Williams. He was a big Boston Red Sox fan.
We are so inspired by all the recipients of this award, and look forward to the continued adventures of Perrin’s peers as they enter adulthood.
What will they teach us? Where will they take us? What will they teach others? What kind of families will they build? How many people will they help? Who will they love?
We had all these questions and great expectations for Perrin, and now have them for his little sisters.
Perrin in a Princeton shirt, from his aunt Francesca Ryan.
Today, on Perrin’s 18th birthday, please, if you can, take a deep breath, say Perrin’s name out loud, and do your best to help someone else’s dreams come true.
(To donate to Perrin’s Staples Tuition Grants award, click here. Then choose “The Perrin Delorey ‘Do Your Best’ Award,” from the drop-down menu — it’s near the bottom of that list.)
Perrin, with his Cub Scout Eclipse Award.
Perrin at the Westport PAL Rink at Longshore …
… and at his mother Angela’s Hamilton College hockey rink.
Perrin with his godfather, Professor Triadafilos Triadafilopoulos, at the University of Toronto.
With temperatures in the 20s this morning, few people were thinking about the beach.
Except for non-residents hoping to buy one of the 450 beach stickers available to anyone living outside of Westport and Weston.
They went on sale at 9 a.m. today. By 7:15, a small crowd had already formed outside the Parks & Recreation Department office at Longshore.
(Photo/Carm Roda)
Sales to Westport and Weston residents — with no limit — begin tomorrow (Thursday), at 9 a.m. Click here for fees.
If you bought emblems or registered for programs in previous seasons, your online account is already set up. Click here to log in. Then select “Memberships,” and follow the prompts.
If you have not bought emblems or registered for programs previously, click here. Then click the “Purchase Now” icon on the right.
Emblems will be mailed in 14-21 days. They are not required until May 1.
The Board of Finance’s next “office hours” — open times at which residents can chat with a member about questions or concerns — are tomorrow (Thursday).
There are 2 sessions — 10 to 11 a.m., and 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. — at the Westport Library’s Room 213.
Last month’s office hours drew a diverse crowd — including 2 Staples High School students, doing a civics project.
“We had very productive conversations,” says BOF member Allyson Stollenwerck.
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Also tomorrow: Secretary of the State Stephanie Thomas continues the “Your State, Your Business” speaker series.
She’ll speak at the Westport Library (Thursday, 11 a.m.). Thomas will describe her wide-ranging job, followed by a discussion and Q-and-A.
The 3-part series — sponsored by the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce — kicked off with state comptroller Sean Scanlon. It concludes April 2, with Attorney General William Tong.
Secretary of the State Stephanie Thomas
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A reader writes: “I attended Coleytown Elementary School during the 1976 bicentennial year. We buried time capsules there, but I don’t know exactly where (I recall a ceremony by a flagpole in front of the school).
“I’m guessing they’re still buried. I reached out to the school, and am waiting to hear back.
“It would be interesting to see these time capsules opened and shared, if at all feasible.”
So, “06880” has 2 thoughts:
Does anyone remember the Coleytown El time capsules — specifically, where they were buried?
How about any other time capsules in town?
The 250th anniversary of our nation seems like a good time to unearth them.
If you have any ideas, now is the “time” to share them. Please click “Comments” below.
Coleytown Elementary School. Is there a time capsule there?
The Staples High School girls basketball fell 5 points short of the state championship game last night.
The #3-seeded Wreckers fell 67-62 to #10 Bristol Central, at Bethel High.
Staples finishes 23-4. Two of those losses were to Greenwich, including the FCIAC championship.
Staples coach Tommy Sparks told The Ruden Report, “We’re obviously proud of the fight. We were down a few times in the game where it looked like it could have been over, but the girls continued to execute, the girls continued to defend. It was a pleasure just to watch the resilience and the growth from these girls throughout the season. Obviously, it was a special season for us.” Click here for the full Ruden Report story (paywall).
On Monday, the Wrecker boys basketball team advanced to their final. Ranked first in Division I, they’ll seek their first state crown since 1937 this Saturday, 8:30 p.m. at Mohegan Sun, against #2 West Haven.
Staples 2026 girls basketball team.
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MoCA\CT’s celebration of “Art, Jazz + the Blues” — the title of their current exhibition — continues with a “community conversation” March 26 (5:30 p.m.).
Exhibit co-curator Ive Covaci leads a panel of noted musicians, artists, educators and scholars in an exploration of how jazz and blues continue to inspire creativity across art forms — and within our own community.
Panelists include: Brian Torff (bassist, composer and Fairfield University music professor; Dr. Richard Epstein (vice president, Jazz Society of Fairfield County and longtime WPKN host); Kevin Mazzarella (Staples High School band director and trumpeter), and Caitlin von Schmidt (musician, graphic designer, and daughter of artist Eric von Schmidt, whose works are the foundation of the “Art, Jazz + the Blues” exhibition.
Three generations of Westport Pardons — former Fordham University Gaelic Society president Ed, son Chris and grandson Conor — enjoyed yesterday’s parade in New York.
And we’re sure Conor’s teacher will “pardon” him for taking an afternoon off to salute his heritage!
Staples High School Class of 1994 graduate Lisa Bastoni was featured at First Folk Sunday in 2024. She returns October 4.
In the meantime, she’s written “There Are No Kings in America.” Suzanne Sheridan — founder of First Folk Sunday — will perform Lisa’s song at the “No Kings” rally on Jesup Green (March 28). Suzanne Sheridan at the NO KINGS Rally at Jesup Green on Saturday March 28.
PS: Creativity runs in Lisa’s family. She’s the granddaughter of noted Westport artists Walter and Naiad Einsel.
Faherty honors World Down Syndrome Day this Saturday (March 21) with a special Sweet P Bakery pop-up event.
From noon to 2 p.m. at the Main Street store, Sweet P founder Andrea Pecoriello and baker Charlie Biondo will serve some of their favorite goods, for purchase.
The bakery’s mission is to provide training and employment for adults with disabilities.
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Westporters know Frank Murgalo as “Santa Claus” at our annual Holiday Stroll (Shhhh … don’t tell the kids!)
He’s also a Marine Corps veteran, who donates time and energy to many excellent causes.
Now — at 82 — he’s written a memoir.
“My Mid-Life Crisis at 82: A Life of Mischief, Mayhem and Making It Work…” chronicles his wild, adventurous life. He’s been an auditor, fishmonger, actor and stand-up comedian. He writes about stopping Super Bowl XVII, being tackled by the FBI, and outwitting the State Department — all with an inspiring message of resilience, risk and laughter.
On April 7 (2:45 p.m.), Frank gives a book talk at the Senior Center. It’s free, but register for a seat: 203-341-5099.
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On Sunday business owners, building managers and tenants of Riverside Corners Westport gathered at Arezzo Ristorante to honor the life of Alon Panovka.
The longtime building owner and supporter of the arts died recently.
Although Alon lived in Atlanta, he spent significant time in the area. In addition to the property at Post Road West and Riverside Avenue, he owned the former post office building on Post Road East, which he redeveloped.
Known by many tenants for his thoughtful stewardship and quiet generosity, Alon also helped launch The Norwalk Art Space, which offers free art and music education to underserved youth.
Alon Panovka gathering, at Arezzo. (Hat tip and photo/Ken Warren)
Longtime Westport resident Dominick Boccanfuso died Saturday. He was 86.
The New York native moved here with his family in 1949. A proud Merchant Marine officer, Dominick was licensed to pilot vessels up to 100 gross tons. He had a lifelong passion for boating and fishing, and shared that love with family and friends.
An entrepreneur from a young age, Dominick began his career at 18, opening his first gas station with his brothers, Giuseppe Jr. and Crescienzo.
Their drive extended beyond business, ultimately leading them to build one of the fastest race cars in its class. Dominick led this effort, designing and rebuilding the car’s power plant each week to ensure it consistently ran down the track with fresh power — a testament to his ambition and mechanical skill.
In 1970 Dominick and his brothers founded Boccanfuso Bros., which quickly became a staple in the Westport community. It reflected their honesty, fairness, dedication, work ethic and strong family values.
Dominick was deeply committed to giving back. For over a decade, he sponsored Westport boys and girls Little League baseball teams. He served as a volunteer firefighter from the mid-1970s to the mid-1980s, and was a dedicated usher at Assumption Church during holidays. He and his nephew Giuseppe also supported the Swim Across the Sound cancer benefit by escorting participants on their boat.
Beginning in 1982, Dominick spent winters in Hallandale, Florida, with his mother Anna, participating in fundraising efforts at St. Matthew’s Church. He continued this tradition until 2006, following her passing.
He is survived by Giuseppe A. Boccanfuso III, Zhanna Boccanfuso, Giuseppe A. Boccanfuso IV, Victoria I. Boccanfuso, and Valerie I. Boccanfuso; his sister Sophia Freitag; nieces Mary, Anna, Angel, Ann Marie, Jo-Anne, Roselyn, Annie, Pamela Jo, Anna Maria, and their spouses; nephews Giuseppe D. and Crescienzo J., Billy and Joseph Oboy, Vincent and Joseph DiMeglio, and many grandnieces and grandnephews. He was predeceased by his parents, brothers Giuseppe Jr. and Crescienzo, and sisters Carmela B. Oboy and Mary DiMeglio.
Visitation will be held this Friday (March 20, 4-8 p.m. Harding Funeral Home). Funeral services will take place Saturday (March 21, 9 a.m., Assumption Church), followed by interment at Assumption Cemetery on Greens Farms Road.
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