That’s because they know tomorrow is October 1. And that means dogs are allowed back on Compo Beach!
The next 6 months belong to the dogs. But remember:
Dogs are prohibited from the pavilion, playground and walkways.
All dogs must be leashed, except for the off-leash area south of the pavilion (including South Beach).
Pick up your pup’s poop. It’s the law! (With a $77 fine.)
Remember too: dogs are not permitted on town athletic fields or playgrounds at any time.
Happy (dog) days are here again! (Photo/Mark Mathias)
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After months of debate, lights on the Wakeman and PJ Romano athletic fields will come to a vote on Monday.
The Planning & Zoning Commission meets (October 5, 6 p.m., Zoom) to render a decision. The public portion of the meetings has ended; this will be a work session.
The public can weigh in, however, on a separate agenda item: a text and map amendment that would permit outdoor eating areas, and the sale of alcohol for on-premises consumption, in districts like the one that includes Old Mill Grocery & Deli).
For meeting materials click here, then scroll down to 222 Hillspoint Road and Food and Beverage Planned Development District.
Wakeman, one of 2 fields considered for permanent lighting.
Speaking of Old Mill Grocery & Deli: Romanacci’s — operators of the business — said goodbye to the community last night. Dozens of friends and customers — from the neighborhood, and far beyond — enjoyed food and drinks, courtesy of owners Graziano and Maurizio Ricci.
They opted not to renew their lease of the iconic market. They enjoyed their time, and did not lose money. But they’re turning their attention to a new restaurant, opening soon in Darien.
The last night at OMG.
Soundview Empowerment Alliance — owners of the 107-year-old building — are in talks with potential new operators. Though OMG is now closed, they hope for a fairly quick reopening.
They hope too for a positive vote from the Planning & Zoning Commission on Monday, on a text amendment that would permit outdoor dining, and the sale of alcohol (see item above).
Catching up at Old Mill Grocery & Deli (from left): Representative Town Meeting member Jimmy Izzo, former 2nd selectwoman Andrea Moore, former 1st selectwoman Jen Tooker. (Photos/Dan Woog)
Does our beloved American flag unite us today? Or does it divide us?
That’s the question explored by a wide variety of citizens in “Flagged,” a documentary co-written and directed by a woman who lost her firefighter husband on 9/11.
It will be screened October 7 (5:30 p.m., Earthplace amphitheater). The event includes snacks and beverages, a guided conversation after the film, and an appearance by singer Suzanne Sheridan.
Dr. Christina Cipriano is earning notice with her latest book: “Be Unapologetically Impatient: The Mindset Required to Change the Way We Do Things.” It is a guide for creating meaningful, urgent change in the lives of children and families.
On October 20 (7 p.m., Westport Library), Westport Together hosts her, for a talk. Her work advances inclusive and equitable social and emotional learning research, practice and policy worldwide.
Parents are invited to an “interactive, neuro-affirming conversation focused on helping neuro-divergent children build self-understanding and self-advocacy, while also fostering healthy communication, connection, and understanding among siblings.”
The event (October 22, 7:30 p.m., Pizza Lyfe) is sponsored by NeuroMind Services x UniquelyMothering.
Mah jongg is the star of local author Marsha Temlock’s latest novel.
“Monday’s MahJongg is a Mystery” will be published this month. Like her previous work, it features 4 women who bond and support each other while playing the popular game.
Anna — one of the Monday players — is desperate for a family after multiple failures to carry to term. Her husband is unwilling to donate his sperm, so she appeals to her fellow players to help her find a donor.
To what degree are her friends willing to violate their conscience to help Anna realize her dream of motherhood? What secret is Bert harboring that makes him opposed to helping the wife he adores? Can the weekly mah jongg game withstand the revelation of secrets that shatter and tumble when play begins?
And finally … the item about a flag documentary (above) got us thinking about flags.
Then of course there is this classic, for every flag, all over the world:
(Does our flag unite or divide us? The jury’s out. But it’s clear that “06880” brings Westport together. If you like being part of our online community, please click here to support our work. Thanks!)
After one rain bomb and one nor’easter this month, beach resiliency is an important topic.
This Thursday (October 1, 6:30 p.m., Town Hall auditorium), the Parks & Recreation Department hosts their 2nd forum on RACE Coastal Engineering’s Comprehensive Beach Resiliency Planning Studies.
The studies — involving Compo, Old Mill, Burying Hill and Canal Beaches — cover existing site conditions, potential beach profiles, and anticipated regulatory requirements.
This forum follows one on July 13. Residents can learn more, and ask questions about beach resiliency.
How resilient are our beaches? We’re about to find out. (Photo/Andrew Colabella)
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Congratulations to Tom Scarice!
Westport’s superintendent of schools is a finalist for not one, but two awards from the National Association of School Superintendents: Superintendent of the Year, and the Technology and AI Award.
The Superintendent of the Year honor recognizes extraordinary leadership and contributions to public education. Board of Education chair Lee Goldstein says his nomination “reflects his leadership of Westport Public Schools, and his focus on creating robust opportunities and stellar outcomes for our students.”
The Technology and AI Award honors his “thoughtful work to help our schools use artificial intelligence intentionally and responsibly, while keeping students and educators at the center of teaching and learning.
Recipients will be announced October 7.
Superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice. (Photo/Dan Woog)
At 11:45 a.m., they’ll host of a free outdoor Pilates class with Sarah Sadie Newett. All levels are welcome. Mats and props are provided.
At noon, the Pink Aid flag will be raised (with snacks from The Granola Bar).
The heart of Westport is an appropriate spot. Pink Aid started right here in town, 16 years ago.
It’s grown into a national organization providing compassionate support and rapid emergency financial assistance to patients in treatment, supporting them and their families during a critical time.
A reminder: The first event in “06880”‘s newest venture — community celebrations of local businesses — comes up soon. Everyone is invited.
On October 10 (5 to 7 p.m), “06880” and Kiin Sauna host “Community, Connection and Contrast.” KiiN is at 1555 Post Road East, next to Sherpa, Longevity, Zion and CT Sports Recovery — all wellness businesses too.
You’ll see friends and neighbors. Enjoy complimentary beverages. Meet KiiN founder Ginger Richardson, who will tell you all about the benefits of a sauna and cold plunge.
Ginger Richardson
If you feel adventurous, you can try a sauna and cold plunge yourself. (Sauna and plunge space is limited; click here to sign up.)
Ginger and her crew are great hosts. It’s a fun way to learn about a new spot in town.
Dave Briggs and I will host more events soon, all over town. We look forward to this new series. If your business would like to collaborate with us, email us: 06880blog@gmail.com.
Security continues to be a major concern for the local Jewish community.
On October 6 (7:30 p.m., TCS Westport). the Jewish Federation of Greater Fairfield hosts “The State of Security in the Jewish Community.”
Featured speaker Michael Masters is national director and CEO of Secure Community Network, the official safety and security organization for the Jewish community in North America.
An expert on homeland and national security, terrorism, law enforcement, antisemitism and targeted violence, he has testified before Congress and appeared regularly in national media.
Masters will discuss lessons learned since October 7, the current threat landscape, and the work being done locally to help keep the Jewish community safe.
Westport elections are always fair — and transparent.
For example: When the registrars of voters begin flash media stick and tabulator testing on October 7 (10 a.m., Town Hall room 212D), the public is invited to observe. Residents can watch until testing is complete.
Questions about anything voting related? Contact the registrars: Deborah Greenberg (Democrat), dgreenberg@westportct.gov (203-341-1116); Maria Louise Signore (Republican) msignore@westportct.gov (203-341-1117).
The popular Thursday series now kicks off 30 minutes earlier: 7 and 8:15 p.m.. The venue is still VFW Post 399. Dinner service begins half an hour sooner too: 6:30 p.m.
Westport’s own Melissa Newman headlines this week. She’s joined by 3 regulars: guitarist Tony Lombardozzi, bassist Phil Bowler and drummer Bobby Leonard.
Melissa Newman
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Girls are on the run!
Girls on the Run is an after-school program. It’s part of a national positive youth development project for grades 3 to 7.
Twice a week, girls learn about and practice skills and positive mindsets, including positive self-talk, friendship, and the importance of individuality.
Each session includes running. Girls build endurance, culminating in that celebratory 5K.
This fall, the program “runs” at Kings Highway Elementary School. It runs for 8 weeks, beginning October 7. Wednesdays, it’s 3:45 to 5 p.m.; on Fridays it’s 7:45 to 9 a.m. The team is led for the 3rd yearby Todd Suchotliff,
One of the Girls on the Run highlights is a 5K at the end of the season. Girls recognize their growth, celebrate their accomplishments and experience the power of working toward a goal together.
Westport resident Kathleen Weiss died peacefully on Thursday, with her family at her side. She was 84.
The New Jersey native graduated from nursing school at Saint Francis Medical Center. She moved to Westport in 1975 and worked as a nurse at Norwalk Hospital, the Westport public school system, and for several home healthcare companies.
She returned to school to earn her bachelor’s and master’s degrees at Sacred Heart University. She later taught home healthcare at Western Connecticut State University, retiring recently.
Kathleen was a devout parishioner at Saint Luke Church for 51 years. She taught catechism, was a lector, assisted with charitable efforts, and attended Mass without fail until she was physically unable.
Kathleen married Timothy Weiss in 1965. They enjoyed dancing at the Fairfield County Cotillion Club, Gaelic American Club, and wherever else the spirit moved. They traveled widely, and especially enjoyed their time in Ireland and Italy.
Kathleen is survived by her husband; sons Timothy Jr. (Laura Barron-Weiss), David (Tracy Karlbergs) and Matthew Weiss; grandchildren Adele, Watson and Kathryn; step-grandchildren Thomas Barron and Gabrielle Barron; sister Ann and brother-in-law Thomas Weiss; brother Joseph and sister-in-law Virginia Smith, and brother Leo and sister-in-law Kathleen Smith. She was predeceased by her sisters Mary Woodrum and Susan Ingersoll, and several nieces and nephews.
A funeral mass is set for Friday (October 2, 11 a.m., St. Luke Church). Burial will be private.
Donations may be made to the Regional Hospice of Danbury. Kathleen’s family is grateful to the staff and volunteers for their wonderful care during her final days.
Kathleen Weiss
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What do bobcats do when they think no one is watching?
Play around — just like any other cats.
This pair — our featured photo for today’s “Westport … Naturally” series — frolicked off Long Lots Road.
(Pour yourself a hot coffee. Enjoy the morning. Read “06880.” Learn all about Westport. Then remember that we rely on readers’ support — so please click here, then go about your day. Thank you!)
What does the town look like? Here are a few images from today.
Compo Beach, near Hillspoint Road and Compo Road South …. (Photo copyright Ted Horowitz)
… and not far away, off Hillspoint Road. (Photo/Marie Gross)
Not making it down Canal Road in Saugatuck Shores … (Photo/Amy Buckman)
… and here’s why. (Photo/Amy Buckman)
Burying Hill Beach (Kat Palmer)
Hillandale Road (Bob Weingarten)
(As always during severe weather, “06880” is your hyper-local source for news, information and dramatic photos. If you appreciate our coverage, please click here to support us. Thanks!)
With significant storm impacts expected to continue through today, Westport’s Parks & Recreation Department has closed all town parks, athletic fields, beaches and racquet facilities.
Staff will assess conditions, and provide an update regarding Monday operations.
Residents are urged to exercise caution and avoid unnecessary outdoor activities. Remain alert for downed trees, falling branches, flooding and potential power outages.
Do not drive through flooded roadways, or drive around barricades or road closures. Barricades are in place for your safety. Turn around and use an alternate route.
For additional storm information and preparedness guidance, click here.
One reason Compo Beach will remain closed today. (Photo/Eric Bosch)
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Meanwhile: It’s tough to see in this photo, but there was one surfer on Long Island Sound yesterday afternoon.
(Photo/Shelley Lowenstein)
Let’s hope he made it to shore safely.
And did not endanger any rescuers in the process.
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Congratulations to this year’s inductees in the Staples High School football program’s Wall of Fame.
Honored earlier this season were:
Ryan Bohling: In 2004 and ’05 as a running back, he helped lead Staples to 2 state championship. A 2-time All-FCIAC pick, he was a 4-year varsity player at Middlebury College. He now lives in Westchester County with his wife and 2 sons.
Ryan Bohling
Scott Clukies; Co-captain of the 1996 team that posted the first winning season in 12 yeas; 2-year All-FCIAC pick, playing fullback and outside linebacker. After playing at Bates College, Scott now lives in London with his wife and 2 daughters.
Scott Clukies
Doron Stember: Co-captain of the 1991 team; running back and special teams star; Block “S” MVP. Doron played at Tufts University, and is a urologist. He livs in New York with his family.
Bill Kashetta: One of the greatest athletes in Staples history (football, basketball, baseball). First team All-State in football; earned a Division I scholarship to the University of Idaho. A stalwart Staples sports fan who died in 2020, his 2ons David and Daniel also played for the Wreckers.
Bill Kashetta
Jack McFarland: Joined the football staff in 1994; with coach Marce Petroccio, their teams won 3 state championships and 5 FCIAC titles. As head baseball coach since 2005, he has won 3 state and 4 FCIAC crowns. A grade level assistant at Staples, he lives in Monroe with his wife and 4 daughters.
Jack McFarland
Jesse McCray: Joined the football staff in 1993; with coach Marce Petroccio, their teams won 3 state championships and 5 FCIAC titles. Now the head girls track and field coach, his teams have won 3 state and 4 FCIAC championships. A grate level assistant at Staples, he lives in Hamden with his wife and 2 sons.
Save the date: CraftWestport returns to the Staples High School fieldhouse November 7 and 8.
Over 165 artists and makers will be there, for “handmade holiday shopping.”
It’s a major fundraiser for the Women’s League of Westport, which provides financial support to area non-profits.
One of over 165 booths at CraftWestport.
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Longtime Westport resident Fausto Carusone died peacefully. surrounded by his family. He was 78.
Born in Italy, in 1969 he married Stefana.
For more than 30 years, Fausto was a Connecticut state marshal. He was respected for his strong work ethic, professionalism, and dedication to public service.
He is survived by his sons Salvatore (Sarah), Fausto Jr. (Rachel) and Steven (Athena), and grandchildren Madeline, Eugenio, Lia, Isa and Christian.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Wednesday (September 30, 10 a.m., Assumption Church). Entombment will follow at Willowbrook Cemetery.
Calling hours will be held on Tuesday (September 29, 4 to 7 p.m., Harding Funeral Home).
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Heart Association.
Fausto Carusone
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Many Westporters hunkered down in yesterday’s storm.
Diane Lowman was out — and spotted this creature by the Cribari Bridge, posing for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.
And finally … on this date in 1825, the world’s first public railway to use steam locomotives — the Stockton and Darlington — was opened. The engine “Locomotion” pulled wagons with coal and passengers from Shildon to Darlington to Stockton.
Conditions are expected to intensify overnight, with stronger winds, periods of heavy rain and continued coastal flooding.
Another high tide is expected around midnight tonight. Residents in low-lying and coastal areas should remain alert for flooding. Moderate coastal flooding is also expected around Sunday’s noon high tide.
With saturated ground and winds increasing overnight, downed trees, limbs and power lines are possible.
Please avoid unnecessary travel overnight. Never drive through flooded roadways or around barricades. Treat all downed wires as live and stay well away.
Conditions are expected to gradually improve Sunday afternoon. Please continue to monitor official town updates.
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