“06880” Blog Night: The Best of Westport

The idea is simple: I choose a date. I get a permit from the Department of Parks and Recreation. I announce it a few times on the blog

And our “06880” community does the rest.

It is an organic event. Everyone brings food, drinks and lounge chairs.

A small part of the approximately 150 guests. The table on the right contained loot for guests (with our thanks to Savvy + Grace, the Main Street gift shop).

People who have lived here for 70 years and others who have been here for 7 weeks (literally), mix and mingle. (A big thank you to Tom Lowrie, 93!)

A small part of the big crowd. (Photo/Dennis Jackson)

Politicians (of both parties) chat with people who want to tell them a thing or two – and others who have no idea who they are.

Ann Sheffer and Bill Scheffler live much of the year in California and New York. But they also came to the “06880” party. And yes, that’s 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker on the left, photobombing the photo.

The police chief speaks with an old friend from Staples.

Police Chief Foti Koskinas (right) and 1979 Staples High School classmate Terry Brannigan.

Partygoers introduce themselves to strangers, then recognize the names of frequent commentators and frequent photographers. Jack Backiel – one of the most frequent commentators of all – took a special trip from Maryland, just to see the town he lived in decades ago (and still feels connected).

Jack Backiel (right) and his Staples High classmate Dennis Jackson in 1964.

It was the 9th annual evening of the “06880” blog. If you were there last night, you already know all that.

If you missed it: See you in 2023!

Dylan Curran, 2020 Staples High School graduate.

PS: Hats off “06880” to Parks & Rec for helping the event go so well. Special thanks to Luke in guest services, for transporting tables and going out of his way to help.