Amanda Doyle and her daughter Niamh are probably not the only 2 Westporters at the Winter Olympics in Italy.
Amanda and Niamh Doyle, at the Olympics.
But Amanda is probably the only one who posted a video that went viral.
Her clip from the US-Switzerland women’s ice hockey game — of the entire arena singing John Lennon’s “Imagine” — racked up over a million views and 71,000-plus likes, in just one day.
It looks like a great moment. And Amanda’s comment about the true spirit of the Olympics — uniting “beyond borders, languages and differences” — is pure gold.
PS: The hockey game was especially fun for Niamh. She goes to Coleytown Middle School, and plays for the Shoreline Sharks.
PPS: The US won, 5-0.
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Dominique Johnson is running for re-election.
The 143rd District state representative — serving parts of Westport and Norwalk — and deputy majority leader says she is not taking donations from lobbyists.
The veteran theater educator and director, Staples High School graduate, Emergency Medical Service leader and all-around good guy will be honored May 17.
Schoke Jewish Family Service will present him with its Community Service Award.
JFS says, “With more than 30 years of experience across the arts and public safety, he brings a powerful blend of creativity, leadership, and service to every role he undertakes.
Frimmer is deputy chief of Weston Volunteer EMS, and a tactical emergency casualty care and EMS Instructor.
He served on the board of Temple Israel, and is on its Security Committee. During the pandemic, he was the congregation’s COVID response point person.
Frimmer was a producer of “John Proctor Is the Villain,” and is on the producing team for “The Hunger Games” in London. He has earned kudos for his work as director of Coleytown Middle School’s Company drama program.
He serves on the board of the Westport Country Playhouse, and co-chairs its Development Committee. He holds master’s degrees in teaching and educational theatre from NYU.
A reminder: WestportREADS’ keystone conversation is this Thursday (February 19, 7 p.m.)
Eiren Caffall — author of this year’s selection, “All the Water in the World” — chats with Catherine Shen, host of Connecticut Public Radio’s morning talk show and podcast, Where We Live, about Caffall’s thriller about a flooded future, and a family fighting not to be drowned by a changing world. Click here for more information.
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We’ve posted photos of horses at Sherwood Island State Park before, in our “Westport … Naturally” series.
But the images never get old. Here’s a shot from yesterday:
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Last weekend, curious residents headed over to Beachside Common, to see #11 for themselves.
An estate sale drew them to the home of biotech entrepreneur/investor/scientist Alan Walton and his wife Elenor.
They bought the 1970s contemporary overlooking Burying Hill Beach in 2000, for $6.3 million. It was expanded and “reimagined” in the 1990s — for $13 million.
One view of he exterior …
With its floating staircase, periscope skylights, rainbow glazing purple carpet — and a 150-foot multicolored tile pathway that “meanders” through the house — it was not for everyone.
Alan died in 2015. Elenor died last February. The couple was a much-admired part of their tight-knit neighborhood.
In her will, Elenor told her children to sell the property.
They did. Now it’s slated for demolition.
,,, and another …
The other day, an anonymous Westporter — calling him or herself “Concerned Quirky Citizen” — emailed the Planning & Zoning Commission, Westport Downtown Association, and various other town and state officials. The writer urged “the Town of Westport and any relevant boards, commissions, and elected officials to reconsider” the teardown.
That’s a heavy lift. The Historic District Commission can only vote to delay demolition of a structure older than 50 years, for 180 days. In theory, that buys time to find a way to save a home.
In nearly every case, the owner — who presumably brought the property intending to tear it down — waits out the delay, then brings in the wrecking ball.
That will probably happen to 11 Beachside Common. But here is the anonymous resident’s plea:
“From everything that has been shared publicly, this home is not only an extraordinary piece of residential architecture, but also a physical record of technological, cultural, and artistic history.
“This property appears to represent a rare convergence of design, innovation and local heritage.
… with one view of the interior …
“The house underwent an extensive and highly considered transformation by a noted architect, resulting in a structure that functions more like a livable gallery than a conventional home. It stands out for its unconventional forms, light-filled interior spaces, and the way it integrates with its coastal setting.
“Many visitors and community members have described it as unlike anything else in the area, which suggests it may be eligible for recognition as a historically or architecturally significant resource.
“In addition to its architectural value, the home is closely associated with individuals whose work shaped modern science and technology, including contributions connected to NASA’s Apollo program and to early MRI development.
“When a building has direct ties to people whose work has had a global impact, and when that building has been consciously designed and redesigned with that legacy in mind, demolition is not just a private decision with private consequences. It is the permanent erasure of a cultural asset that could otherwise benefit the town, the state, and the broader public.
… and another …
“I fully recognize that the property is privately owned and that owners have important rights. At the same time, towns routinely treat certain structures and landscapes as part of the public good and subject them to additional review or protection when they meet criteria for historic, architectural, or cultural significance.
“I am asking that Westport, in coordination with its relevant boards and commissions, explore all available mechanisms to:
Evaluate whether 11 Beachside Common meets local, state, or national criteria for historic or architectural significance.
Consider interim measures (such as a temporary delay of demolition) to allow proper study and public input.
Engage with the current owner and any interested preservation organizations to explore alternatives to total demolition, such as adaptive reuse, partial preservation, sale to a preservation-minded buyer, or creative public–private partnerships.
“Preserving this structure, or even a substantial portion of it, could provide Westport with a unique cultural and educational asset. Possibilities might include limited public tours, curated events, collaborations with architectural schools or design programs, or partnerships with arts and science institutions that could interpret the technology and innovation stories embedded in the home.
… and a third …
“Many communities have successfully turned singular private properties into sources of civic pride, tourism, and long-term economic and cultural value while still respecting ownership and neighborhood character.
“Respectfully, it is hard to understand how a town benefits from losing a one‑of‑a‑kind coastal landmark that has captured the imagination of so many residents and visitors. Once demolished, it cannot be recreated. Even a modest pause, serious assessment, and transparent public conversation would be far better than allowing such an asset to vanish without a full understanding of what is being lost.
” want to be clear that I am not accusing any individual or entity of wrongdoing, and I recognize that the property may be proceeding through the standard approval and permitting channels.
“My concern is that, even when all legal requirements are followed, the loss of a culturally and architecturally significant home can still be a preventable tragedy, and I am asking that every available option be explored before an irreversible decision is carried out.
… and one more.
“At minimum, I ask that the town publicly communicate what steps, if any, have been taken to evaluate 11 Beachside Common for historic or architectural protection, and what opportunities exist for public participation in any remaining processes.
“Thank you for your attention to this matter and for your service to the community. I would be grateful for a response describing whether there are any upcoming meetings, hearings, or procedures related to this property, and how members of the public can best participate constructively.”
(Our “Opinion” pages are open to all. Please email submissions to 06880blog@gmail.com.)
(“06880” regularly covers Westport’s broad, always interesting real estate market — and every other part of local life. If you enjoy stories like this, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
An overflow crowd filled Assumption Church yesterday, to say goodbye to Pete Romano. He was a lifelong parishioner of the church around the corner from his Saugatuck roots.
The Staples High School graduate, generous philanthropist, and avid volunteer with organizations ranging from Westport PAL and Al’s Angels to Festival Italiano and Wakeman Town Farm was remembered for his willingness to help everyone, his strong friendships, and his ability to own any room he walked into.
Saugatuck and Westport were common themes at the service. Pete’s LandTech civil engineering firm is located just down the street from Assumption.
If you don’t — but would like to, in 2027 — check out “Sips & Sparks.”
The speed dating event is set for Thursday (February 19, 7 p.m., The Clubhouse). It includes a casual mixer kickoff, guided conversational ice-breakers, and a “simple matching system.” Mutual matches receive contact information the next day.
It’s advertised for singles in their 30s and 40s. But, organizers say, “if you’re slightly outside this range but feel you’d connect well with this group, you’re welcome to join.”
Another social event is geared to the LGBTQ (and allies!)
Westport Pride hosts their second Happy Hour of the year on March 5 (6 p.m., The Boathouse at Saugatuck Rowing Club).
Organizers say, “We believe Pride isn’t just a month — it’s a year-round movement rooted in visibility, connection and care.” Click here for more information.
Volunteers will score submitted manuscripts. The best-reviewed books advance to a panel of judges, who will select the winner.
Click here for more information. (Westport residents only, please!)
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Speaking of the Library: Memoirist/essayist/critic Claire Dederer is the lastest addition to VersoFest.
She takes the Westport Library Saturday stage Saturday, March 28 (1 p.m.), chatting with journalist Hilarie M. Sheets.
Dederer’s most recent book — “Monsters: A Fan’s Dilemma” — examines what happens when good art (writing, painting, film) is made by bad people.
Click here for information on Dederer’s talk. Click here for full details on VersoFest 2026, including appearances by Ani DiFranco, Wyclef Jean, Susanna Hoffs, The Thing and more.
Speaking of music: Jazz pianist (and Westport native) Jeff Franzel has toured with legends like Les Brown and The Hues Corporation, and accompanied Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr. and Mel Tormé. He’s a Grammy-nominated star.
Jeff’s new trio has performed at clubs like The Bitter End. On February 28 (2 p.m.), they’ll be live — and free — at the Pequot Library.
Also appearing: Eva Slossberg, the Staples High School senior who has who has just been accepted into the Clive Davis School at NYU Tisch. Click here for more information.
Jeff Franzel
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It’s a longtime Westport question: How dressed up should I get for a fundraiser?
Here’s one you don’t have to worry about.
Rach’s Hope PJ Gala returns for a 7th year on March 28 (7 p.m., Fairfield Theater Company).
As the many attendees at the popular event have learned: It’s all about pajama chic.
Rach’s Hope hich honors Rachel Doran, a Staples High School graduate and rising Cornell University senior who died after developing a rare reaction to common medications. A Staples Players costume designer, she had already founded a pajama company. (That’s the PJ connection!)
The evening includes live music by Michael Cantor of Frog Salon and Fairfield’s favorite band Ellis Island, great appetizers and desserts by AMG Catering, an open bar, and live and silent auction experiences.
Funds raised support families with children facing extended ICU stays.
This pajama-chic evening blends cocktails, music, and meaning to raise critical funds for families with children facing extended ICU stays — a lasting legacy, created lovingly Rachel’s family and friends. Click here for tickets, and more information.
Rachel Doran
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Temperatures are slowly rising.
But the effects of the recent 2-week freeze remain.
This boat — at a private dock on Harbor Road, in Saugatuck Shores — did not make it. All that can be seen now is the flying bridge.
(Photo/Rob Jackson)
The good news: Temperatures will be in the mid-40s today, the high 30s tomorrow. Nighttime lows will be just below freezing.
Break out the sunscreen!
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“06880” gives a V-Day shout-out to the Learning Community Day School.
The pre-school staff began yesterday’s professional development day by creating valentines for folks at Homes with Hope’s Gillespie Center, and the Westport Center for Senior Activities.
Nineteen artists are featured in today’s online art gallery.
As always, their works span mediums and themes. And their ages, backgrounds and geographic locations are all over the map too. Most artists live in Westport — but some grew up here, and now live and work around the world.
As always, we invite you to be part of next week’s exhibition. No matter your age; the style or subject you choose — and whether you’re a first-timer or old-timer — we welcome 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 — art lovers want to know.
“Echoes of Passion” — digital oil painting (Ken Runkel)
“As We Sometimes See Ourselves” — oil on canvas (Mary Madelyn Attanasio)
“Mia” — 10 x 10 acrylic on canvas (Missy Greenberg)
“Cooper” — pencil on paper (Bill Fellah — Available for sale; click here)
“Swimming Upstream” — acrylic and resin (Patricia McMahon — Available for purchase; click here)
“Art Buds” — 30 x 30 acrylic impasto (Dorothy Robertshaw — Available for purchase — click here)
“Off the Wall” (Nancy Breakstone — Available for purchase; click here)
Untitled (June Rose Whittaker — Available for purchase; click here)
“SnowFrame” (Jerry Kuyper)
Untitled (Marina Drasnin)
“Ice Image” (Cohl Katz)
“What Path Will You Take in 2026? All A-BOARD! Go For It!” (Mike Hibbard)
“Cuban Tree Frog” (Werner Liepolt — Available for purchase; click here)
“World’s First Immigrant Alien” (Mark Yurkiw — Available for purchase; click here)
“Me on the Saxophone” — watercolor (Eric Bosch)
“Hail to the Chief” (Martin Ripchick — Available for purchase; click here)
“Every Dancer Has an Aura!” (Steve Stein)
” Cage Free Soul Intention Seeking Peeps” — Hand-drawn clothing culture construction design art processes (Megan Grace Greenlee)
“Lost in Thought” (Lawrence Weisman)
(Entrance is free to our online art gallery. But please consider a donation! Just click here — and thank you!)
In this strong real estate market — with many properties selling above the asking price — we hear a lot about “all-cash offers.”
Is that true? Are they really all cash? Or are buyers seeking financing, but waiving any mortgage contingencies? What does it mean for multiple-offer scenarios, which are common with most new listings?
In a competitive market like Westport, cash offers can provide a distinct advantage. Sellers often prefer the certainty and speed of cash transactions, which can bypass the delays and contingencies tied to traditional mortgages.
According to SmartMLS, 56.5% of Westport’s 2025 buyers paid all cash.
But for most buyers, paying all cash upfront doesn’t mean they have the cash sitting idle. After all, the average price of Westport’s 2025 sales reported as cash purchases was $3.11 million.
This 5-bedroom, 7-bathroom, 6,050-square foot new construction on Owenoke is listed for $11.795 million. Will the buyer pay all cash?
So how does one come by all cash for a purchase?
While the KMS Team at Compass cannot provide investment advice, tax guidance or determine appropriate financing options for clients, we have seen many strategies in practice. These may be ideas to discuss with your financial advisor.
For those with significant assets in stocks and other investments, margin loans can be an intriguing option. By borrowing against the value of a portfolio without liquidating holdings, you may avoid triggering capital gains and preserve the potential for further market gains.
However, margin loans come with risk — the possibility of a margin call if the value of the portfolio declines. It’s a strategy that requires careful planning, and a strong stomach for market fluctuations.
The stock market rose in 2025. But that’s not always the case.
Another tactic is to “borrow” retirement resources. Presently, the IRS does not consider a withdrawal of funds taxable if the total amount withdrawn is replaced in the account within 60 days.
With proper timing and planning, funds can be repaid with proceeds from the sale of an existing home, or with money borrowed after closing.
After closing, buyers can access the equity in their home using several methods.
● Delayed financing: This requires purchasing the home with cash, and applying for a cash-out refinance immediately or within a few months.
● Home equity loan: A lump-sum loan, with fixed payments over time.
● Home equity line of credit (HELOC): A revolving line of credit, allowing you to borrow and repay as needed, similar to a credit card.
Others borrow, or are gifted, funds from relatives to purchase their home
So purchasing with “all cash” does not mean buyers tie up their capital indefinitely in real property. For some, it opens the door to strategic financing after the deal is done.
Many affluent buyers take a different approach to traditional 30-year fixed-rate mortgages. They may opt for interest-only loans,or other products that allow them to borrow at lower rates and keep their cash working, at a higher return, elsewhere. With the interest potentially deductible, the strategy becomes even more attractive.
Approximately 37% of Connecticut homeowners own their homes outright, with the percentage dropping to 23.6% for those homeowners of working age.
So yes: More than half of buyers strongly position their offers without financing contingencies to secure a home.
However, “cash” does not always mean cash.
And for those who can’t quite get there, many lenders have products that complete the underwriting process in advance and can present an actual loan commitment, subject only to property appraisal (if necessary) and homeowners insurance. This is as close to a cash offer as you can get.
(Speaking of which … you can support “06880” by credit card, check, PayPal, Venmo, or dropping off a bag of cash. Click here for the first 4 options; email us at 06880blog@gmail.com for the 5th!)
As Westport continues to debate the future over the lot behind Main Street stores — created on landfill, near the start of the post-war suburban boom — it’s instructive to look back at what has changed over the years.
And what hasn’t.
(Photo courtesy of Christopher Maroc)
The design has been tweaked a bit — but not much.
Cars no longer park directly along the river. The phone booth is gone. So is the house on Gorham Island (replaced by an office building).
What else do you notice?
Here’s another view:
(Photo courtesy of Jean Whitehead)
Besides the outfits and cars, you hardly see a difference today.
And even back then, the lot was pretty full.
(Friday Flashback is one of “06880”‘s many regular features. If you enjoy this — or anything else on our website — please consider a tax-deductible contribution. Just click here. Thank you!)
Old Mill Grocery & Deli thrives in the spring, summer and early fall. Its location across from one beach, and on the way to another, draws a throng of folks — families, kids, walkers, joggers, bicyclists, and many others.
Winter is tougher. And OMG — the Romanaccis, who operate it, and the Soundview Empowerment Alliance, which owns the property — are battling lawsuits, from a couple of neighbors who object to the gelato card and liquor license.
This week, the deli hosted a couple of events. They welcomed neighbors and friends for light bites, to keep OMG front of mind, and hear ideas on how to make this community (beach and beyond) gem even better.
So, “06880” readers: Don’t forget Old Mill Grocery & Deli. They’ve got a great big table to eat at, and a great, varied menu for takeout.
Online registration for Westport Parks & Recreation Department spring and summer programs begins March 10 (9 a.m.; Camp Compo and RECing Crew only) and March 11 (9 a.m.; all others). Click here to see all activities.
To update your profile, select “Manage Family Member.” Be sure each child’s grade is correct (as of September 2025).
Questions? Email recreation@westportct.gov, or call 203-341-5152.
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The Westport Library is a town gem. The only 5-star library in the state offers an astonishing array of events, programs, services — even a state-of-the-art recording studio.
But it doesn’t just happen. A board of trustees provides guidance and oversight.
As upcoming vacancies loom, they’re looking for qualified, eager candidates.
Responsibilities include governance and fiduciary duties, strategic oversight, collaboration with leadership, financial stewardship and support, and more.
Candidates must be Westport residents. Fundraising experience and strong community connections are key. Skills in strategic planning, finance, law, nonprofit operations or areas supporting innovation and digital strategy are valued but not required.
Trustee appointments are for 4 years, this year beginning July 1. Interested candidates should email a resume and letter of interest to spresutto@westportlibrary.org by March 20.
Speaking of the Library: The “Career Coach” returns February 19 and March 19. There are 2 sessions ( 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.) each day; both are 2 hours long.
The service is available to people who are exploring career opportunities, actively looking for a job, or seeking additional part-time employment.
Executive director Amee Borys and staff members gave the 1st selectman a tour of the nature center, and explained the work of each department.
Christie got a good look at the preschool classrooms, the Animal Hall (including renovation of the birds of prey area), Eco Lab, and Harbor Watch lab.
From left: Earthplace preschool director Amanda Ciardi, Harbor Watch director Nikki Spiller, nature education and conservation director Veronica Swain, 1st Selectman Kevin Christie, executive director Amee Borys.
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For more than 72 years, STAR Lighting the Way has provided critical services and support to people of all ages impacted by intellectual and developmental disabilities across Fairfield County.
For many years too, their annual Speaker’s Luncheon has welcomed great guests, and provided inspiration to attendees, including Mia Farrow, Barbara Bush, Jenna Bush Hager, Norah O’Donnell and Brandi Chastain.
This year’s event is April 9. The “star” is Stacy Waldman Bass. A native Westporter, her work celebrates beauty, connection, and shared humanity.
Her new book, “Lightkeeper: A Memoir Through the Lens of Love and Loss,” is a powerful reflection on family, grief and healing. told through evocative images and heartfelt words.
The afternoon includes a gourmet lunch, curated shopping boutique, special guest experiences, and a Q&A.
When Gunnar Eklund and Graysen Peters headed to the Senior Center last Friday to meet with members, they figured there would be a generation gap.
After all, they’re a very different type of senior: 12th graders.
But instead of trying to explain their lives to a bunch of older people, they settled into an easy conversation. Amid banter and laughter, both sides asked questions, and offered honest responses.
The Senior Center seniors surprised the Staples seniors with their knowledge of AI. The teenagers surprised the Baby Boomers and Silent Generation by not reflexively opposing the high school cellphone ban.
And when their time was up, they all stayed for another hour, chatting and listening and learning from each other.
Gunnar Eklund and Graysen Peters (standing), at the Senior Center.
The “Seniors Meet Seniors” event began with an invitation from the Center, to Steven Greenberg’s Friday morning chat group. Staples assistant principal Christine Cincotta recommended Gunnar and Graysen.
Through their activities — he’s on the debate team; she’s in Model UN; both competed nationally with Staples’ We the People class — they know how to communicate.
Still, they wondered how well they could connect with a much older group.
Yet barriers quickly fell. What they thought would be a “presentation” turned into, Gunnar says, “a Socratic seminar.”
Gunnar Eklund
The Senior Center attendees wanted to know, for example, the best way to communicate with their grandchildren. Together, they agreed that phone calls — scheduled consistently, if possible — have much more impact than texts. Actual written letters are important too.
That resonated with the teens, They knew their own grandparents enjoyed connecting with them. But the conversation reinforced how important that is.
The men and women had heard about Staples’ cellphone ban. They were surprised — and pleased — to hear Gunnar and Graysen say they both feel more connected to others now, at lunch.
The older seniors were curious whether cursive writing is still taught. Graysen feels fortunate that her parents taught her how to sign her name; she and her friends struggle though to read cursive. Gunnar, meanwhile, learned it in a previous private school.
The Stapleites were surprised — and impressed — that the Senior Center members know a lot about artificial intelligence. Many use it.
Graysen Peters
When asked whether AI affects critical thinking, the teens offered personal perspectives.
Graysen said her teachers have taught her to use it in a good way. She knows how to fact-check. She does see some students use it as a shortcut.
Gunnar and his friends don’t really want to use it, he said; it takes away from critical thinking. He thinks many Staples teachers are too lenient about AI use.
Both explained about the technology to supposedly detect if students use artificial intelligence to write papers — and the harm that has come from false accusations.
Near the end, Gunnar asked what advice the seniors had for young people.
The main idea was simple: “Be kind!” (“Be kind on the road, too!” one joked.)
They’ve learned that being kind pays off in the long run, they told the teens.
“They said being kind makes you feel better,” Gunnar noted. “It gives you more positive experiences in life.”
Like, say, the experience of chatting about the world as it was, is, and will be one day, when today’s high school seniors are senior citizens.
Gunnar Eklund and Graysen Peters (middle row, 2nd and 4th from left), and the 2025 We the People team in Washington, DC.
(“06880” regularly covers Staples High School, the Senior Center — and everyone of every other age in Westport too. If you enjoy stories like this, please click here to support our work. Thanks!)
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