MoCA\CT appreciates Robin Chung’s thoughtful engagement with “Looking for History,” and the recognition of the exhibition’s complexity and ambition. It’s unfortunate that she found it “stressful.” However, that might be a result of her missing the larger point of the show.
Ellen Harvey’s “The Disappointed Tourist” is not a critique of nostalgia as something exclusionary or manipulative. Rather, it is grounded in the idea that nostalgia can be a shared, unifying human experience — one that connects people through collective memory, loss and longing. By inviting contributions from individuals across diverse backgrounds, the project expands whose memories are preserved and honored, emphasizing inclusion rather than division.
In the story, after a quote from Ms. Harvey, Ms. Chung notes, “The happy memories of a privileged few is [sic] harmful when propagandized to a larger society.”
Ellen Harvey, with her work …
Ms. Harvey responds: “I’d ask that it be made clear that this is her interpretation. I would never make such a sweeping generalization.” Ms. Harvey emphasizes that “The Disappointed Tourist” isn’t a polemic show, but one that celebrates everyone, and is intended to bring people with different histories and opinions together.
We would also like to note that while Ellen Harvey was born in England, as Ms. Chung pointed out, she is an American citizen whose practice deeply engages with American and international cultural narratives that also happen to be universal human experiences that defy borders and boundaries. Her perspective is both personal and participatory, shaped by years of dialogue with communities across the world.
Beyond questioning Harvey’s citizenship, Ms. Chung further queries, “Should it matter that Shaefer grew up in Europe?” In reality, Mr. Shaefer’s formative years abroad resulted from his father’s dedicated service as a United States Army Officer stationed in Europe.
Rick Shaefer’s charcoal drawings on synthetic vellum are not “canvas monuments to industry and power” as suggested by Ms. Chung, but instead allegorical depictions critical of impenetrable barriers that prioritize self-glorification and ambition over endeavors to achieve unity. Unfortunately, the medium is not the only error the writer makes in her interpretation of Shaefer’s work.
… and Rick Shaefer, with his. (Photos/Hanyue Wang)
“Without polemics, the beauty of Mr. Shaefer’s intricate line work invites viewers to contemplate the distance between our founding ideals and our current reality–and how the choices made today will shape our future,” explains Robin Jaffee Frank, executive director of MoCA\CT.
“Looking for History” is intended to spark nuanced conversations, and we welcome a range of interpretations. That’s the nature of great art.
At the same time, we believe it is important to recognize the exhibition’s underlying commitment to broadening representation, supporting the integrity of the artists, and fostering shared understanding.
(“06880” regularly reports on Westport’s cultural scene — and much, much more. If you enjoy our coverage, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
Before the fireworks fade too far into memory, let’s light up the sky for all those who made Westport’s best party in town possible. Jonathan Alloy offers thanks to:
The teens and traffic pros who made arriving and departing Compo so smooth. They nailed it.
The team at The Sandbar who were fast and tasty, especially with their outdoor grill. The days of waiting 40 minutes for a burger are over. Now it’s 40 seconds.
The Sandbar added an outdoor grill for the fireworks.
The residents and guests of Westport who were a delight to celebrate with all across the beach.
Hanging out, with 10,000 friends.
We’ll add a few more:
The entire Parks & Recreation Department, led by director Erik Barbieri. It was all hands on deck — and we hand it to them, for their hard work, energy, enthusiasm, and all-around smiles. The entire beach staff,, lifeguards, maintenance crew — all were on top of everythng.
A special shout-out to everyone who worked all night. By dawn, there was no sign that just a few hours earlier, 10,000 people packed the place.
Our Police, Fire and Emergency Medical Service departments. There were officers, motorcycles, firefighters, fire trucks, EMTs, ambulances everywhere. Thankfully, they were not called upon. But seeing them on the scene — along with a SWAT team, mutual aid forces aid more — was both impressive and comforting.
1st Selectman Kevin Christie, with Emergency Medical Services crew. (Photo/Jonathan Alloy)
Every other town department that helped. Public Works was involved, and I’m sure others too. You rock!
And of course the couple who made it happen, with their generous sponsorship: Melissa and Doug Bernstein. They helped Westport PAL raise much-needed funds, for programs and scholarships that impact thousands of kids.
(From right): Doug and Melissa Bernstein, with fellow longtime Westporter Miggs Burroughs. (All photos/Dan Woog unless noted)
You are all Unsung Heroes. And if Jonathan or I have missed anyone (or any group), please click “Comments” below.
(Do you know an Unsung Hero? Email 06880blog@gmail.com. “06880” is proud to honor them — and tell many other tales of town too. Please click here to help us do that, by supporting this hyper-local blog.)
In January, 1st Selectman Kevin Christie removed Randy Herbertson from his position as chair.
Christie told “06880”: “I have not yet named a new chair for DPIC. Regarding the website, we’re aware of the issue and are looking into it.”
DPIC had spent a long time working on parking plans, including lot renovations, changes to time limits, an app to track open spots, and the possibilities of meters and a deck. Member Matthew Mandell says, “A lot of work has been done. A lot of work is still on the table. We’d like to be able to move forward.”
Part of the DPIC Master Plan, when it was live on the town website.
He won’t be in concert. But it will be a very entertaining evening nonetheless.
The internationally acclaimed Italian pop artist will be at the Westport Library’s Trefz Forum (Thursday, July 9, 4 p.m.). He and Connoisseur Medi radio host Jon Kamal will talk about music, the creative process, and the story behind his Falling in Love Tour.
It’s a different stage for the son of tenor Andrea Bocelli. Matteo made his live debut at 18, in Rome’s Colosseum, and has performed all over the world since.
Tomorrow, he receives the inaugural Rock the Walls Award. The non-profit brings musicians and artists together to support survivors and end the silence around domestic abuse.
At mid-afternoon yesterday, Bob Weingarten sent this update on Saturday’s powerful storm, which left hundreds of residents without power:
“Our electric came on this morning, along with others on Hillandale Road and Morningside Drive South.
“I’m not sure of Hillandale and Center Street. The intersection is blocked off because of tree parts with wires (hopefully not electric) — embedded within the logs and branches.”
At 7 a.m. today, Eversource reported only 570 outages in the entire state of Connecticut. Power has been restored to all Westport and Weston customers.
Wakeman Town Farm’s biggest event of the summer — their annual Family Fun Day — takes place Saturday, July 18 (11 a.m. to 2 p.m.).
The day includes hands-on activities (crafts, story time, hair tinsel, garden planting, bubble show, and more) entertainment, farm fun, and food.
The day is dedicated to longtime WTF supporter Pete Romano. His generosity and enthusiasm were legendary — as was his smile while serving ice cream. In his memory, sponsors Al’s Angels, LandTech, Gault and Saugatuck Sweets will provide free ice cream for all.
Curious about polo? And/or about the Fairfield County Hunt Club?
You’re invited to a day-long exhibition on Saturday, July 26 (gates open at 11 a.m.).
In addition to matches, there are vendors, food and drinks. Tickets are $15, at the gate. VIP tickets are available by Venmo: @fchcpolo.
Questions? Email HuntClubPolo@gmail.com.
Polo comes to Westport.
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Local author Lori Miller Kase (“The Accident”) leads a 2-part fiction writing workshop for teens (July 20 and 22, 4 to 5:30 p.m., Westport Library).
The free sessions help both experienced and aspiring writers generate ideas for new work, and offer inspiration to those with short stories or novels in progress.
Faded is the Crimson — a Grateful Dead tribute band — takes the stage next, in the Weston History & Cultural Center’s “Music at the Barn” summer concert series.
The show — reprising the Dead’s 1981 live acoustic double album “Reckoning” — is July 26 (5:30 p.m.). Guests are invited to bring a lawn chair, picnic, and bottle of wine,
Tickets ($15 members, $20 non-members; children 12 and under free) are available at the door or online.
The “Career Coach” will be in the Westport Library parking lot on Thursday, July 16 for a session on “Intro to AI: Job Seeker Strategies.”
It returns August 20, with Tips for Resume and Cover Letter.
There are 2 sessions ( 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.) each day; both are 2 hours long. Registrants can choose one.
The service is available to people who are exploring career opportunities, actively looking for a job, or seeking additional part-time employment. Click here to reserve a spot.
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Westport resident Isabel Moskowitz — a founder and past president of TCS — died Monday. She was 74.
A pioneer in the financial services industry, Isabel built a distinguished career at a time when few women held leadership roles in the field. She led her own brokerage firm, advocated fiercely for her clients, and helped open doors for women who followed.
In addition to her other roles at TCS, she served for decades on the board of directors, chaired many committees, and supported the synagogue in ways both visible and quiet. She also held leadership roles with Federation, ORT and other Jewish organizations, working to strengthen Jewish life locally and beyond.
Her obituary says, “She was happiest when bringing people together, especially around the holiday table, where she welcomed family and friends with extraordinary food, warmth and care. She gave generously of herself through her love, advice, support, guidance, thoughtfulness and steady presence. She had a sharp wit, a beautiful spirit, and a strength and resolve that made her a true force — in her family, her work, and her community.”
Isabel is survived by her husband Steve; her daughter and son-in-law, Alyssa and Josh Gold; her brother Michael Price; her stepchildren Alan (Michelle) Moskowitz and Dana Moskowitz, and her granddaughters Abigail Gold, and Naomi, Zoe, and Dafne Moskowitz.
Funeral services will be held tomorrow (Thursday, July 9, 11 a.m., TCS).
Donations in Isabel’s memory may be made to TCS or the Whittingham Cancer Center at Norwalk Hospital.
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Sherwood Island State Park punches way above its weight, in our daily “Westport … Naturally” series.
Today we feature a sharp-looking black swallowtail butterfly, courtesy of Clarence Hayes:
And finally … in honor of our “Westport … Naturally” image above:
(“06880” is where Westport meets the world — and where you get the full version of this beautiful song. What a blog! If you enjoy our 24/7/365 service, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
Longtime Westport resident Ina Chadwick is a journalist and playwright. She also founded The A Chronicles, which stages theatrical events around the topic of reproductive rights. Ina writes:
In 1968, at 23, I was raising 3 babies under 3 in suburban New Rochelle, looking for meaning beyond housework, commuter husbands and disposable diapers.
I was also a poet, still hoping to change the world using my Smith Corona typewriter after the children were asleep.
In that upscale neighborhood, without any obvious survival struggles, I hungered for purpose. I joined a consciousness raising group where a few liberal women gathered to discussed daily life, marriage and work, to find shared struggles.
At one touchy-feely gathering, the strong advice was simple: “Don’t let any man control you—and if he does, leave.”
I left that group after disagreeing about “leaving,” without making sure you had a plan. After all, in 1968 married women couldn’t get a checking account on their own.
Perhaps I learned I was a pragmatist, rather than a seeker of ideological clarity?
Looking back from 2026, I see that moment as an early sign of the escalating alienation between men and women.
A New York news story about Ina Chadwick …
The gap between feminist slogans and women’s actual lives became further clear to me when I began to do volunteer work at Columbia Presbyterian Hospital. I interviewed new mothers for Dr. Christopher Tietze’s World Population Council’s Intrauterine Device contraception research, and also spent time chaperoning male doctors examining women in the antepartum clinic.
One afternoon, a tired looking, middle-aged woman with a thick Irish brogue brought her Down syndrome 12-year-old daughter to the clinic. When the doctor confirmed the girl was 4 months pregnant, the mother said, “This can’t be. She goes everywhere with her father, the building superintendent.” I still remember the silence when the recognition of reality settled in.
When she asked about “that operation” for her young, innocent daughter, the doctor warned her about the law. I followed her to the elevator and gave her the name of a doctor on Central Park West — knowledge I had, I knew, because of my privilege.
She desperately needed to know what I knew. Many of the upper-middle class girls I knew were savvy enough in how to activate networks for the illegal procedure. Several had used abortionists, and reported about their experiences. I drove one friend to her procedure. Another friend picked her up when it was over.
That afternoon stayed with me. It turned reproductive rights from an abstract political argument into a matter of immediate danger, secrecy and access.
… and another.
Months later, I crafted with other women a data-credible survey to take door to door in New Rochelle to reveal religious and political beliefs, as well as income levels.
We tallied the results, and were able to go back with a petition to show that their senator wasn’t representing their beliefs, just his own. I was no longer arguing theory; I was arguing from what I had seen.
Our local senator had labeled us “angry feminists.” He was vocally anti-abortion, an issue that was high on the list that year of what might be constitutionally wrong for women. He was out of sync with his constituents.
During that year, the 1969 New York legislative battles and the subsequent successful push to legalize abortion in the state as well as birth control, safe pregnancies and safe abortions, our data prevailed and was presented.
In 1978 I moved to Westport. My poetry was well underway, and I had let my Planned Parenthood membership lapse. I moved from poetry into journalism, editorial work, and eventually playwriting.
By this time Roe v. Wade had been law for 5 years, and my crusader work felt complete.
Ina Chadwick
I, like many of us, assumed Roe was settled law. I was wrong. For years I mistook legal victory for permanence. As reproductive rights were quietly eroded, I wasn’t paying attention.
Lost in my own entitlement, I almost forgot the next generation. Am I still a poet, still an artist? Could I make art and trouble again, as reproductive rights were undermined by funding cuts, state-by-state restrictions, and misinformation aimed at vulnerable girls?
Fortunately, the old impulse to agitate found a new form: theater. My door-to-door activism became a platform for The A Chronicles: bold theatrical events about reproductive rights, meant to disrupt stale narratives and spark conversation.
Our work was discovered and embraced by Reproductive Equity Now. They are bringing our bold, carefully curated, professionally produced 10-minute plays to the Westport Country Playhouse’s Lucille Lortel Rehearsal Barn on Sunday July12.
Each of the 4 short plays reveals a different aspect of reproductive health care. “R Rated: Reproductive Rights and Resistance On Stage” is directed by Keria Naughton.
The performances will be followed by an open conversation exploring reproductive rights, bodily autonomy, and the realities facing today’s patients and providers. (Click here for tickets, and more information.)
We are confident the program will appeal to Westport’s greater sense of fairness. We are privileged to have local talent — including Keira Naughton and Max Samuels — to help keep us from sliding backward
The work must continue — not only in the political realm, but rendered and shared in stories that remind us what was won, what was lost, and whom we are still responsible to protect.
Staples Players’ fall 2013 production of “A Chorus Line” was a singular sensation.
David Roth and Kerry Long directed 2 casts. Jim Honeycutt — the former video teacher who filmed and created this highlight reel — notes where each begins. Click here or below to see this remarkable, superbly choreographed production.
Here’s a 2026 update on several cast members:
Michelle Pauker (Diana) is a singer and actor. She has appeared in “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” (Idaho Shakespeare Festival), “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” (Great Lakes Theatre Company), and “Into The Woods (Forestburgh Playhouse). On Sunday, her band Back to the Garden 1969 performed at the Levitt Pavilion.
Clay Singer (Al) has extensive theater credits including “Masquerade” (New York), “Fiddler On the Roof” (St. Louis), “Perchik” (Westport), “The Band’s Visit” (North American tour), “Into the Woods” (Pittsfield, Massachusetts), “Next to Normal” (Vero Beach, Florida), “Man of La Mancha” (Westport), “Romeo and Juliet” and “Ragtime” and “The Full Monty” (both Pittsburgh).
Cara McNiff(Sheila) graduated from Elon University with a degree in musical theater. She is still involved in theater. as a regional booking manager.
Sylvie Lexow (Lizzie – Zach’s Assistant) is a senior marketing operations and program manager.
Will Haskell(Mark) served in the Connecticut State Senate from 2019 to 2023. He then attended law school.
Joe Badion (Paul) is a graduate of Northwestern University’s Bienen School of Music. He teaches upper school music at the Town School in New York.
Caroline Didelot (Judy) appeared in “Kinky Boots” at Baldwin Wallace University, “42nd Street” at New London Barn Playhouse, and “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” for Prime Video.
Julia Mandelbaum (Lois) has performed in a number of shows since leaving Staples.
Caroline Rossi(now McCluskey) (Judy Turner) is working in public relations and marketing. She lives in New York City with her husband.
No one yet knows which 2 nations will face off in the World Cup final on Sunday, July 19.*
We do know where to watch it though, on perhaps the largest screen in town: the Westport Library’s Trefz Forum.
If the championship match is anything like the tournament so far, it will be a sizzling, scintillating affair.
But the 3 p.m. final is not the only action that afternoon.
The Library has planned a full, family-friendly soccer afternoon.
At 1:30, Westport soccer personalities including former Staples High School coaches Dan Woog and Chris O’Dell, national champion Paddy Donovan, soccer filmmaker Joe Pierce and others will tell stories about their lives in the Beautiful Game.
Staples graduate Mike Noonan — coach of Clemson University’s 2-time national champs — will appear on video.
From 1 to 3 p.m., fans can exchange Panini brand stickers.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or only recently caught World Cup fever, this is a chance to spend an afternoon with soccer people — and watch what is sure to be a memorable match surrounded by many others.
It’s not MetLife Stadium.
But it’s the next best thing to being there.
And you can’t beat the admission price. It’s free!
(“Westport Meets the World Cup” is supported by the Westport Soccer Association, Mickey Kydes Soccer Enterprises and “06880.”)
Eversource is slowly returning power to our towns.
As of 7:30 a.m. today — 58 hours after storms ripped through the area — 110 Westport customers remain without electricity. That’s 0.9% of all customers here.
There are many ways for Westporters to enjoy Sunday evenings at Compo Beach.
Some people wind down from the weekend, and pause before work begins again, with cookouts. Others walk, fish, or watch the sunset.
Now there’s another choice: yoga.
Alexa Moro — a 2018 Staples graduate, who captained both her high school and Villanova lacrosse teams — was introduced to the practice for physical recovery, as teenager. In college, she realized it changed her mental outlook too.
After working as an accountant and financial analyst, she pivoted to teaching full-time. Saltwater Yoga was born.
Her Compo “Sunday Sunset Sessions” begin at 6 p.m. near the cannons, and run through August 16. They’re beginner-friendly, and include open-level yoga, sound, and an optional saltwater plunge.
They begin as the sun starts to set. “We build some heat, then cool down,” Alexa says.
“What started as my personal search for a little bit of space in my fast-paced life and mind slowly became something I realized is worth sharing.”
A new partnership between the Westport Country Playhouse and The Clubhouse promises an evening of mystery, interactive fun and theatrical intrigue.
The “Pick Your Poison” collaboration is set for tomorrow (Wednesday, July 8, 6 p.m.) at The Clubhouse (1620 Post Road East).
Inspired by the Playhouse’s upcoming production of “Agatha Christie’s The Murder of Roger Ackroyd,” the event immerses guests in the world of the Queen of Crime.
Local student actors will perform scenes from the stage adaptation of the classic whodunit. Attendees can test their detective skills by solving a series of fast-paced, 30-second mysteries.
Guests will also receive discounted tickets and concession vouchers for the “Ackroyd,” show (running July 14 through August 1 at the Playhouse).
Keeping with the theme, guests can “Pick Your Poison” from a selection of beverages and food, available for purchase at The Clubhouse.
Admission is free, but space is limited. Advance reservations are required; click here.
Rick Shaefer’s exhibit “Colossi” — part of MoCA\CT’s new show “Looking for History” — is earning raves.
On Thursday (July 9, 6 p.m.), the artist offers personal insights and behind-the-scenes perspectives.
He’ll guide visitors through the works on view, sharing the inspirations, historical references and creative processes that shape his practice.
It’s $25 general admission, $15 for seniors and students, free for MoCA members. Click here to register.
Rick Shaefer, with his work.
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Another artist here this Thursday: Joel Mesler (July 9, 7:30 p.m., Chabad of Westport).
Known for colorful, expressive paintings and playful use of language, he’ll share stories about works that blend humor, memory, hope and Jewish identity.
Try the VFW. Crossfire Hurricane — the Rolling Stones tribute band named for the “Jumpin’ Jack Flash” lyrics — bring their energy and electricity to Post 399 this Friday (July 10).
Doors open at 6 p.m.; the show kicks off at 7. A light bar food menu is available, with drink specials.
Speaking of the VFW: Vocalist Abena Koomson-Davis — who has performed with Stevie Wonder and recorded with Natalie Merchant — returns to Jazz at the Post this Thursday, for an encore performance (July 9, shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner at 7).
She’s joined by her husband, trombonist Steve Davis, and pianist Jeb Patton, bassist Phil Bowler, drummer Jason Tiemann and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall. Click here for tickets, and more information.
This summer, young basketball players looking to reach the top level can learn from 2 slightly older athletes who are already there.
Sam Clachko and Mason Tobias — recently Staples High graduates, who led the Wreckers to the FCIAC championship, and a legendary state tournament final that went to 3 overtimes — are running a week-long camp next month.
From August 3 to 7 (9 a.m. to noon, Staples High School fieldhouse), they’ll work with rising 2nd through 8th graders. Groups will be split by age.
They’ll teach “what it takes to become Staples varsity captains” — while providing an enjoyable, memorable experience.
Jan Winston of Westport died Sunday at home, after a long battle with multiple myeloma. He recently celebrated his 90th birthday and 64th wedding anniversary.
Born to Russian and Romanian immigrants, he grew up in South Orange, New Jersey and made life-long friends.
He graduated from Princeton University, where he worked at the campus radio station and earned a political science degree.
Jan had a 35-year career at IBM, in Boca Raton, Florida, Atlanta and Somers, New York. In the early 1980s he helped lead the planning and development of the first personal computer, the IBM PC. His last role at IBM, in the mid-1990s, was leading the speech and pen technology business.
In retirement Jan embraced exercise. He worked out with a trainer for over 30 years. He returned to an executive role, serving as board chair for Inrad, an optics technology company, and for more than two decades as president of the board at Lansdowne condominiums, where he lived for more than 40 years.
Jan is survived by his wife Gail; 3 children Karen Winston (Bruce Nohe), Lauren MacNeill (Neil), and Andrew Winston (Christine); grandchildren Daniel Norman (Maddie Anthony), Julia Norman (Kyle Solomon), Joshua Winston, Jacob Winston and Benjamin MacNeill; nieces Robin and Alyse Winston, and childhood friends Walter, Lenny, Howard and Marty. He was pre-deceased by his brother Donald and niece Mona Winston.
A funeral is set for today (Tuesday, July 7, 11 a.m., Abraham L. Green & Son Funeral Home, 88 Beach Road, Fairfield. Interment follows at Willowbrook Cemetery.
But as exciting as the growth of the financial planning firm — which in the past 2 years has doubled in size, in an office with a spectacular 4th-floor view of the Saugatuck River — they’re more eager to talk about their commitment to giving back, to Westport and the world.
Founding partners Justin and Christy Charise could do that for hours. And still not cover Saugatuck Financial’s philanthropic reach.
But first, the couple’s own back story. He grew up in Norwalk; she in a small town in New York State.
They met at Cornell’s business school, then went to work in New York: He for Goldman Sachs, she for Bain Capital.
Justin and Christy Charise.
Seventeen years ago, when their son Austin was 1 and they wanted more space. they moved here. At the same time they took a leap of faith, and started their own firm.
Saugatuck Financial handles financial, retirement, insurance, income distribution and estate and legacy planning. For the first years, Justin spent 3 to 5 days a week in New York.
When COVID caused clients to disperse and remote work zoomed, he had more time for Westport.
The Charises had long been enamored with the town. They loved living and working on the river, and Westport’s many other amenities. From his corner office, Justin can watch his kids — members of the Saugatuck Rowing Club team — as they glide past.
Five years ago, driving home from a charitable event for the West Point lacrosse program — Justin captained the team in 2000 — he and Christy talked about their company’s charitable efforts.
While they said “yes” to most requests, they realized they were reactive — not proactive. They were in a position to do more. They vowed to change their approach.
Have they ever.
In the past few years, Saugatuck Financial has helped:
Fund 2 water projects in India, and a community pump in Malawi
Support dozens of veterans, as a lead sponsor of Catch a Lift Fund’s Connecticut events
Develop young leaders, through West Point and FFA programs
Build a garden at Wakeman Town Farm
Revitalize the Earthplace Birds of Prey exhibit, as a lead sponsor
Contribute to the Westport Weston Family YMCA’s 100th celebration; Westport Library’s “Booked for the Evening” event; Staples’ soccer, football, lacrosse, music and drama programs
Work with projects like Boston University’s walk for the homeless, Soundwaters, Filling in the Blanks, Westport PAL and Norwalk Little League, Lustgarden Foundation, Al’s Angels, Wreaths Across America, A Better Chance of Westport … and more.
The Saugatuck Financial team, at a Catch a Lift event.
They’ve ramped up their long involvement with the Westport Uniformed Firefighters Charitable Foundation annual Santa visits, including shopping and wrapping for gifts for families that need help, and hosting a party at the Senior Center.
New ideas come from clients and Saugatuck Financial team members. “We try not to say no,” Justin says.
The Charises think about the opportunities they’ve been given. Both their mothers were nurses. Their fathers were a mechanic and insurance agent. Scholarships helped pay for school.
“We’re lucky enough to be in a position to have an impact on this and other communities, and people less fortunate” Christy adds. “We’re grateful to be able to take advantage of it.
“Hands reached out to help us. We’re holding out our hands to others. They’ll drive their own destiny.
“We have a deep gratitude for the opportunity to serve wherever we can, whenever we can: clients, team, community, and like-minded folks who value community and look to leave things better than they find them.”
Some of the many organizations aided by Saugatuck Financial.
Westport is blessed with generous businesses. The couple hope even more will follow their leads.
Meanwhile, Saugatuck Financial continues to grow. And grow closer.
Nearly all team members live no more than 10 minutes away. They’re in the office 4 days a week. There are plenty of team activities.
“We are committed to treating our team like our #1 client, and creating a culture that attracts and keeps top talent,” Christy says. She notes proudly that director of investments Luke Andriuk — a Staples High graduate — was recently recognized with a Westfair Business Journal “40 Under 40” award.
“We’re very deliberate about who we bring in,” Justin says. “How people are built matters most. We look for someone who is hard-wired to over-deliver, but also wants to know: How can I be a better worker, spouse, parent? We’re training the next generation.”
And — from a modern office, with a killer view of the Saugatuck River — providing a wealth of resources for this town, our neighbors, and communities halfway around the world.
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At 1:30, Westport soccer personalities including former Staples High School coaches Dan Woog and Chris O’Dell, national champion Paddy Donovan, soccer filmmaker Joe Pierce and others will tell stories about their lives in the Beautiful Game.
