1st Selectman Kevin Christie’s administration will seek “upwards of $5 million” in federal tax credits for the geothermal energy system being installed at the new Long Lots Elementary School.
On Wednesday, the Board of Selectmen unanimously approved hiring a consulting firm to help obtain “the geothermal investment tax credit under the Inflation Reduction Act.” The credit would be requested through the town’s tax filings “to offset the cost of geothermal and ancillary energy related construction,” according to the request submitted by Westport finance director Gary Conrad. The request was presented at the meeting by LLS project manager Susan Chipouras.
The town is currently building a new elementary school at the site of the existing school. The total appropriation as approved in June 2025 is $110 million, plus interest costs. The new consulting contract with CliftonAllenLarson LLP would be paid under the original appropriation; no new funds were requested.
Construction is underway on the new Long Lots Elementary School. (Drone photo/Brandon Malin)
A state grant totaling about $12 million has been approved, and is included in the current state budget. The town says more state funding may also be on its way because the state legislature approved a space standards waiver, allowing for a greater proportion of the total cost to be reimbursed.
The total cost of the consulting contract was not known, and is dependent on the firm’s hours spent to research and develop the tax credit application. The multi-tiered agreement includes a $65,000 base fee, plus $10,000 in other fees for memo preparation and the like, and “ongoing project services” to be billed at variable professional hourly rates.
1st Selectman Kevin Christie questioned how the firm’s billed hours will be managed. Chipouras said she and the construction management firm would monitor the hours billed.
Chipouras said “all costs” related to the geothermal system would be included in the calculation, and that “30 percent of all these costs … could be substantial.” She declined to provide a more specific estimate.
The total amount of eligible costs was not provided to the Board of Selectmen and will be calculated by the consultants. Costs are eligible if they meet various wage, domestic content, function and timing criteria, among others.
In the publicly available cost documents for the Long Lots project, the HVAC systems total cost estimate is $12.74 million. A 30 percent tax credit would be $3.7 million if all those costs are eligible. In order to reach a $5 million or more credit, about $16.7 million in eligible costs, all at a 30 percent credit rate, would have to be submitted.
Third Selectman Don O’Day, who is also a member of the Long Lots Building Committee, stated that hiring the consultant at $75,000-plus “was an easy decision.”
“These substantial reimbursements … will go back into taxpayers’ pockets,” he said.
A response to a question regarding use of the tax credit funds is pending regarding whether proceeds received would go to the general fund or be used for an earmarked purpose.
Homeowners bordering the northern property line are not pleased.
Edith and Samuel Anderson have filed a lawsuit against the town, in Bridgeport Superior Court.
As reported by CT Insider, they allege that excavation work “resulted in the repeated and continuing alteration of the natural flow, volume, direction and concentration of surface stormwater and ground water.”
Soil, mud and silt have been deposited on their Hyde Lane property, including wetlands.
The Andersons call this a violation of the Connecticut Environmental Protection Act. They are also suing for trespassing, and public and private nuisance.
The Andersons’ property is just to the right (north) of the construction. (Drone photo/Brandon Malin)
the arts and real estate in fairfield county
Non-profit arts and culture generates nearly $1 billion in economic activity in Connecticut: $600 million spent by organizations, and another $350 million by audiences on dining, parking
and lodging.
On November 17 (8 a.m., SoNo Collection in Norwalk), FLB Law’s 9th annual Real Estate Outlook explores how the arts give Fairfield County properties a second life, while enriching community culture, attracting foot traffic and increasing real estate values.
Panelists for “Second Acts: Real Estate and the Arts in Fairfield County” — including Carleigh Walsh (Levitt Pavilion), Darcy Hicks (Norwalk Art Space), Eric Bernheim (FLB Law), Danny Loftus George (Norwalk Conservatory of the Arts), Jessica Vonashek (Manresa Island — will discuss the artistic uses of these properties, and why they matter to the real estate market, local businesses and community members.
The Levitt Pavilion is more than an entertainment venue. It’s also an economic engine. (Photo/Susan Garment)
KARAOKE TONIGHT AT THE CLUBHOUSE
Karaoke is alive and well at The Clubhouse.
So far though, it’s been confined to 2 special, dedicated rooms.
Tonight (Friday, 9 to 11 p.m.), the event space on the Post Road near Southport brings karaoke into the bar. In addition to song, they promise drinks, food and fun. To learn more about The Clubhouse, click here.
FOOD HISTORIAN LAUNCHES PEQUOT LIBRARY SERIES
The Pequot Library is launching “The Common Table: A Conversation Series on Culture, Place, and Food.” The talks will feature historians. and food and beverage industry leaders.
The first speaker (November 19, 7 p.m.) is Westport culinary historian, author and journalist Ramin Ganeshram.
A press release says her work “traces the hidden histories of American food. A Pequot Library Fellow, she draws on the library’s Special Collections for her research, including her forthcoming biography of Hercules Posey, the enslaved cook of George Washington and one of the most accomplished culinary figures of his era.
“Her writing has appeared in The New York Times, Saveur, and Food & Wine, and her books include ‘Stir It Up!’ and ‘Sweet Hands: Island Cooking from Trinidad & Tobago.'”
Jay Walshon reports: “Last night, just before sunset, 2 guy friends set this up in the sand at Compo Beach, for their friend to surprise his girlfriend with a ring and the question. Then they hid.”
(Photo/Caroline Walshon)
“15 minutes later the couple arrived. He had her stand in the center, and on bended knee presented her with a ring and asked the question. Two hidden friends filmed with their cell phones.”
After that: How could she say no?
jolantha’s halloween
If there’s a holiday, Jolantha celebrates it.
This Halloween, Hans Wilhelm — the popular Weston pig’s keeper — says, “With so much horror, war and suffering in the world and politics, Jolantha does not believe we need more skeletons, skulls, monsters or fear. Rrather, the wisdom of women (witches) and owls.”
(Photo/Hans Wilhelm)
STAPLES GRAD MARKETS WORLDHOTELS
Best Western is bringing more than 4,000 properties, across 18 brands, under one global umbrella: WorldHotels.
The woman telling the story is chief marketing officer — and 1996 Staples High School graduate — Joelle Heise Park
She’s helping oversee a redesigned website, new app and unified loyalty program, connecting 70 million members.
“Best Western is not getting replaced, and I want to be really clear about that,” Chief Marketing Officer of WorldHotels Joelle Park told USA TODAY. “It remains a core foundational brand.”
Thomas Dean died on Sunday at Stamford Hospital, after a brief battle with cancer. He was 55, and lived in Old Greenwich.
The youngest of 8 children, he was raised in Westport, Connecticut. As his mother’s last child, Janice doted on Tom. She threw him a grand 50th birthday celebration, unique among her children.
Though quiet by nature, he was the first to answer “I’ll be there” whenever the family came together.
After college Tom worked for Xerox and Chesebrough-Pond’s before joining Glencore, where he spent 27 years on the office services team.
During the pandemic he was one of the few employees considered essential, going into an empty office to keep things running for his colleagues working from home.
Tom met Andrea Orbanowski at Norwalk Community College. They shared 30 years together, 22 as husband and wife.
Their life centered on walks with their 4 dachshunds, time at Old Greenwich Tennis Academy and days at the beach.
The couple set sail on cruises each year. This past summer they traveled to Italy and the Mediterranean.
Tom is survived by his wife, Andrea; siblings Mark (Jaime), Christopher (Carline), Jayne Albani (Gaetano), Eric, Mary Ann Lindwall (Mark) and David (Alison Campbell); 19 nieces and nephews, and his dachshunds.
He was predeceased by his parents, Evan and Janice Dean, and his sister Jennifer Burke.
Funeral services will be held November 3 (9 a.m. Church of the Assumption). In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Tom’s memory to Lucky Dog Refuge, 36 Pulaski Street, Stamford, CT 06902.
Tom Dean
“westport … naturally” & SONG OF THE DAY
Yesterday morning, Dave Wilson headed to Sherwood Island.
Curious to see 20 or so people — many with telephoto lens cameras — crowded around a tree, he asked what was happening.
A knowledgeable birdwatcher told him: a vermilion flycatcher.
But not just any one. This was the first time such a bird has been seen in Connecticut.
The Connecticut Ornithological Association was on the case, Dave reports.
Dave checked a “Rare Bird Alert” social media page.
Sure enough, they confirmed the sighting.
“Wowzers!” one birdwatcher wrote. “No mistaking that for anything else.”
Vermilion flycatcher at Sherwood Island. (Photo/Jo Fasciolo)
(Good times never seemed so good … as when you clicked here to support “06880.” Well, maybe a slight exaggeration, but you get the point. Thank you for whatever you do to help!)
After years of planning — and controversy — a new Long Lots Elementary School is rising on Hyde Lane.
The site is the former baseball field, adjacent to the oldest section of the 70-year-old building.
Construction walls hide much of the activity from students, staff and passersby. But the other day, “06880” photographer Brandon Malin flew his drone over the work.
These bird’s-eye photos show how much progress has already been made. And how close it is to the school that will be demolished this summer.
The new Long Lots Elementary School and Stepping Stones Preschool are scheduled to open in January 2028.
Superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice offers this update:
While we soak up another gorgeous fall day, I want to express my gratitude for all of the generous notes and kind words following my recognition as National Superintendent of the Year.
Thomas Scarice
It means a great deal to me, and I consider myself most fortunate to serve a community that cares so deeply about its schools and children.
As I have said multiple times, this recognition truly reflects the work of our faculty, support staff, administrators, students, parents and community, whose contributions I have the privilege of seeing every day.
Helping Our Children Fall in Love with Reading
If there is one gift we can impart to our children, it is fostering a love of reading.
Of all the things I miss about having young children, nighttime reading together might be at the top of my list. “The Little Mouse, the Red Ripe Strawberry and the Big Hungry Bear,” “Ella the Elegant Elephant” and “Goodnight, Goodnight Construction Site” still have a place on our family bookshelf.
Looking back, I appreciate how much those moments offered, the closeness, the shared attention and the conversations that began with the story but found a way to wander somewhere entirely unexpected.
Those years pass quickly. Now, those moments feel like water through my hands.
Nurturing that love of reading is an important focus in our schools, particularly at the elementary level. Alongside the elemental work of teaching children “how” to read, we want them to discover the pleasure of becoming absorbed in a story, following a question, or seeing the world through someone else’s eyes.
Ideally, in a world fighting for every second of our attention, we want reading to become something they choose.
Of all the partnerships we enjoy with our families, the support of pleasure reading is among the most meaningful that can last a lifetime. Families have a powerful role to play. Read to your children, read with them, and let them see you enjoying a book. Follow their interests. Leave room for the conversation that a story invites, even if it means taking a little longer to finish the page.
Trust me, that connection only continues to grow. Reading the same book as your teen (looking at you, 8th grade parents — another read of “Animal Farm” is worth the investment!), trading book recommendations, or talking about something each of you has read can open a conversation you might otherwise never have had. Especially in those years when it is challenging to talk to your teen.
Family schedules are already full. A few enjoyable minutes together can be enough. Your efforts, dovetailing with ours, will help our children come to associate reading with curiosity, discovery, and time with someone who loves them.
Safety Through Partnership and Preparation
Thursday’s incident offered another example of the close coordination between our schools and the Westport Police Department. I’m deeply appreciative of this exemplary partnership and the preparation behind it. This does not happen by accident, but by design.
The communication, processes and protocols we have developed together add an invaluable layer to our efforts to keep students and staff safe. In addition, the School Safety Officers assigned to our campuses significantly increase our ability to speed up response times in the event of an emergency.
Westport’s school security officers (red shirts) were honored at this year’s opening convocation. (Photo/Dan Woog)
This year, we modernized our emergency response protocols using the “I Love U Guys” Foundation’s Standard Response Protocol. The framework establishes common language and actions for responding to emergencies, helping faculty and the school community understand the response as a situation unfolds. All staff have been trained in our updated protocols.
We also implemented the Campus Shield Emergency Communications System at Staples High School this year. This unfailing radio-frequency-based communication system is an additional investment in strengthening our emergency communication capabilities in a 500,000 square foot facility and exterior campus.
These improvements support the people responsible for responding when concerns arise. Our ongoing work with the WPD remains central to that preparation. I’m especially grateful for the care and professionalism our WPS security team (the team in red shirts) and building administration bring to our schools.
Investing in Our School Facilities
The Board of Education has adopted our capital improvement request, which now moves to the Board of Finance for consideration on November 4. Final funding approval remains ahead with the Board of Finance and RTM.
A significant focus is replacing aging mechanical, heating, cooling and ventilation systems that have exceeded their useful lives, as well as a new roof for Greens Farms School. These investments may attract less attention than a new building, but they matter every day to the comfort of our classrooms and the dependable operation of our schools.
Please see the funding requests made to the Board of Finance from Elio Longo, Chief Financial Officer on behalf of the Board of Education. The full request and project descriptions are available here on pages 10-82.
We are also developing an ambitious vision for transforming athletic facilities at Staples High School. This work encompasses both outdoor fields and related indoor athletic facilities. As recommendations are finalized, the administration will share this vision with the Board of Education’s Finance and Facilities Committee in the next month or so. Once reviewed, the plan will go to the full Board of Education for final approval, before advancing to the Board of Finance and RTM for funding approval.
This 20-year-old sign still hangs in the Staples girls locker room.
Faculty Written “White Paper”- Preparing for the Future, Preserving Student Thinking: Staples faculty members Jacob Brewer, Amy Parent and Edward Grillo have written a thoughtful white paper, AI: Past, Present, and Economic Future for the school community. The paper provides an academic framework examining the history, future trajectory, economic impacts, and educational imperatives of artificial intelligence.
Jacob, Amy and Ed have brought profound intellectual leadership to this work. For parents wondering what these developments might mean for their children, the paper offers context and an invitation to think alongside us. It contributes to an informed community conversation. The full plan can be found here.
Thank You to an Anonymous GFS Mom
Last Thursday morning before a visit to Greens Farms Elementary School, I made my way up the sidewalk at 9:01 a.m. The school doors had closed as the final drop offs rushed up the driveway. In 4 fleeting seconds I watched an SUV pull to a stop and a young girl exit, while hearing the voice of a mom yell “Love you!” just before the door closed.
The girl looked up and gave a smile that only a parent could feel. It said so many things, but above all her eyes said “Love you!” right back.
Perhaps this mom’s morning was like so many of mine over the years, with those precious minutes relentlessly ticking away. You drive away or watch your child board the bus, promising yourself that tomorrow will be a little less hurried.
But in those few seconds, something important had made it through the rush. I hope that mom knows it.
Small moment has big impact.
As a parent on the other side of those years, I know how much I miss the everyday moments that once seemed so ordinary.
Read with, and to, your child. Make room for those slow moments. You won’t get those years back, but you’ll never regret the time you chose to spend together.
Thank you to that anonymous GFS mom for the reminder. And thank you to her daughter for those eyes that show how much those words matter.
Thank you too for the trust you place in our schools, and for your continued partnership. I hope you and your families enjoy a wonderful fall weekend.
(“06880” regularly reports on all our schools — and students, staff, administrators and Board of Education. But we can’t do it without reader support. Please click here to donate. Thank you!)
Superintendent of Schools Thomas Scarice sent this note today to the Westport School Community:
I am writing to provide an update regarding police activity along Long Lots Road this morning that led Staples High School and Bedford Middle School to activate the district’s security protocol and place both buildings in temporary holds.
Shortly before 8 a.m., the Westport Police Department received reports of a man acting erratically and yelling at vehicles in the area of Long Lots Road. In response, police officers, including multiple members of the department’s School Security Unit, acted quickly to assess the situation and identify the individual.
Through their coordinated efforts and ongoing communication with school administrators, the situation was addressed, and both schools were able to return to normal operations.
We understand that any situation requiring the activation of our school security protocols can be concerning for students, staff, and families. Please know that these protocols are in place to help protect our school communities, and decisions to implement them are made with careful consideration of the information available at the time.
This morning’s response demonstrated the importance of our strong partnership with the Westport Police Department and the constant communication between law enforcement and school administrators. That coordination allowed us to respond promptly, take appropriate precautions, and return both schools to normal operations as quickly as possible.
The safety and well-being of our students and staff remain our highest priorities. We are grateful to the Westport Police Department and our school security personnel for their swift response and continued partnership in keeping our schools safe.
Buoyed by support from his parents and sister, and many others — including eye doctors and occupational, speech and physical therapists — he survived.
And thrived.
At Staples High School he ran cross country, and competed in indoor and outdoor track. He graduated in 2017.
That was only the start.
Daniel ran 4 marathons. He got his undergraduate degree in human services from Beacon College; he’s now an adaptive special needs master trainer and special education paraeducator. His passions are physical activity and wellness science.
Triumphant Daniel Maya, after the New York City Marathon.
He earned Red Cross certification as a lifeguard and water safety instructor. He’s also a certified personal trainer, with master certification in adaptive special needs.
He works with special needs children and adults. Most satisfying, he says, is training and mentoring autistic young adults, as well as helping young adults with disabilities perform aquatic exercises. (Particularly satisfying: teaching a boy with cerebral palsy how to swim).
Oh, yeah: Daniel also serves on Westport’s Commission on People with Disabilities.
Two years ago, he helped start a social club for people between the ages of 18 and 30. They meet for lunch or dinner, and take walks around Compo Beach and Longshore.
He is grateful for all that he has — including his vision. (One eye is better than the other.)
He never had a mindset of “I can’t do this,” he says. It’s always been, “I can do it!”
Daniel’s athletic career began early, accompanying his mother on runs throughout Westport.
Running in the rain …
It was work. But as he got faster, he enjoyed it more. Training for Staples — and then for 5 and 10Ks, half-marathons and marathons (including New York City) — were a satisfying break from school (and life).
Running remains a way to stay in shape, and “clear my head.”
His latest project: starting a fitness group — Miles4Smiles — for neurodiverse individuals.
“Fitness is about more than exercise,” Daniel says.
“It can be an opportunity to build confidence, make friends, develop social skills, and discover what you are capable of.”
Miles4Smiles would include group fitness classes, walking, jogging and other activities.
His goal is simple: to “create a place where everyone feels welcome, supported, and encouraged to participate at their own level.
“You don’t have to be an athlete. You don’t have to be an experienced exerciser. You simply have to be willing to take that first step.
“Every mile matters,” Daniel adds. “Every smile matters. Every person matters.”
Right now, he is looking for feedback on interest and activities. Email danielimaya@gmail.com, or text 203-644-6877. Click here for Daniel’s website.
… and better weather.
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But it’s hard to recall a buzzier beginning than hi’Amba.
Bill Taibe’s new Mediterranean-and-more spot in the former Basso/Matsu Sushi/Fine Arts III theater space on Jesup Road has drawn huge crowds — and great raves.
CTBites took notice too. Click here for their take on Westport’s newest hot spot.
Bill Taibe greets the first-day crowd. (Photo/Dan Woog)
board of ed talks special ed
The Board of Education has 2 discussion items on its agenda for tomorrow’s meeting (Thursday, 7 p.m., Staples High School cafeteria and Zoom).
They are the recommendation by superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice of the firm to conduct a review of special education, and the results of the K-12 school climate survey.
The Board is likely to recommend Four Point Education Partners for the special education review. Six companies submitted proposals to the Board of Education.
A group of parents continues to push the BOE to select a firm that will conduct a comprehensive, independent and transparent review of the entire special education program. Click here for their petition.
P&Z: LIGHTS, OLD MILL GROCERY
Different town board, different agenda: Lights on the Wakeman and PJ Romano athletic fields are back on the docket, for the Planning & Zoning Commission meeting next Monday (October 19, 6 p.m., Zoom).
Also planned: a public hearing on text and map amendments, to permit outdoor eating and the sale of alcohol at establishments like Old Mill Grocery & Deli.
To see all background materials: Click here, then scroll down to 70 North Avenue (Wakeman Field), 170 Riverside Avenue (PJ Romano Field) and 222 Hillspoint Road (Old Mill Grocery).
Lights have been proposed for the Wakeman turf field (center).
$10,000 GRANTS AVAILABLE FOR NON-PROFITS
Does your organization want $10,000?
The Westport Woman’s Club is once again offer funding of up to 10 grand to non-profits, for a project during 2026-27 that benefits social services, health, safety, arts or education in Westport.
The Ruegg Grant was founded from an endowment by former WWC member Lea Ruegg. Over $200,000 in Ruegg Grants have been awarded by the WWC since 1995.
But Westport’s VFW Post 399 has become Westport’s go-to comedy stopo.
This Friday (doors at 7 p.m., show at 8), “NYC Comedy Night” features favorite Joe Pontillo, and a new cast of comedians: Rich Shultis, Michael Agunbiade and Trish Bradbury Gernert.
Speaking of entertainment: When opera and musical theater professional Wendy Morgan-Hunter moved here with her family from the Bay Area 15 years ago, she was particularly excited to explore our cultural life.
Wendy is the founder and CEO of High Octave Productions. Working with fellow Westporters Tami Benanav (partner and COO) and documentarian Chris Bolan (producer), they find unheard voices in theater, TV and film, and create opportunities for powerful connections with audiences.
The team’s latest project brings Westport to the London stage with “The Radium Girls: A New Musical.” The cast of 16 — including 12 female roles — is a powerful exploration of the young women who worked the line at radium watch dial factories across North America in the 1920s.
The show is set for the Southwark Playhouse in March, at the exact same theater that launched “Operation Mincemeat” and “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button.”
Motherhood is not easy. For mothers with ADHD, shifting identity, emotional regulation, executive functioning challenges, and the constant pressure to keep everything moving can make this stage of life especially complicated.
Many women navigate these experiences quietly, feeling unseen or believing they should manage it all better. On November 12 (9 a.m., Beyond Yoga, 136 Main Street) host “Sharing the Invisible Load: ADHD, Motherhood & Identity.”
The morning combines movement, conversation, support, and connection with other women who understand the experience. In addition to coffee and light bites, Beyond Yoga will offer attendees 20% off in-store shopping after the event.
This event is for mothers with a formal ADHD diagnosis, as well as those who identify with ADHD-related experiences and want to better understand themselves during this demanding phase of life.
One of the biggest charity walks — the one to end Alzheimer’s — is at Sherwood Island State Park on October 25 (10:30 a.m.).
In a ceremony that begins at 10, walkers carry flowers of various colors, each representing their personal connection to the disease.
Right now, 80,000 people in Connecticut live with Alzheimer’s. Anyone with a connection to the disease, or another form of dementia — and anyone concerned about their own brain health — is invited to join. For more information and to register, click here.
JOHANNA PAGANI LAUNCHES NEW BOOK
Local author Johanna Pagani launches her new book, “Violent Hill,” at Westport Book Shop October 30 (6 p.m.). The evening includes food and drinks, a reading, Q-and-A, and a signing.
Her thriller is about an asylum with terrifying secrets.
Johanna Pagani
obituary: charlie Mcbride
Westport resident Charles “Charlie” McBride died peacefully at Norwalk Hospital on Friday. He was 77.
Charlie lived a full and active life until this June. He walked 10,000 steps a day, spent Memorial Day weekend in Kennebunkport, Maine, and traveled last year to Europe.
Charlie grew up on Wilson Point in Norwalk, where he developed a lifelong love of boating, tennis and being on the water.
He graduated from Fairfield Prep in 1967 and Boston College in 1971. He earned an MBA from Iona College in 1982. He was a certified public accountant and chartered global management accountant.
Charlie served 6 years in the Connecticut Army National Guard, rising to staff sergeant. In 1972 he began a 44-year career at Pitney Bowes, retiring as vice president of investor relations. He also served for many years as board chair of Pitney Bowes Employees Federal Credit Union.
Charlie met his wife of 48 years, Judy, through a bowling team. They married in 1978. He is survived by her; daughter Meredith Frances McBride (Jonathan Hack) of Westpor; his son, Charles McBride II (Hannah Elizabeth) of Needham, Massachusetts; grandchildren Xavier Jonathan Hack-McBride, Quintin, Lily, Owen and Dylan; sisters Theresa (Chris) Levy and Eileen (John) Margherio of Charleston, South Carolina, and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. He was predeceased by his sister Mary McBride Konrad, and his beloved black labs Bogart, Char and Digger.
Relatives and friends may call on Friday (October 23, 4 to 7:30 p.m., Harding Funeral Home). A funeral Mass will be held Saturday (October 24, 11 a.m., St. Thomas Aquinas Church, Fairfield).
And finally … in honor of the VFW’s new role as comedy club central (item above):
(You laugh. You cry. You’re inspired. You’re surprised. You’re disbelieving. You’re an “06880” reader. We deliver all that, every day — but we can’t do it without your help. Please click here. TYVM!)
Longtime Westport school administrator Edward Bludnicki died peacefully on Sunday, surrounded by his family. He was 92.
The proud Ansonia native was active in Ansonia High student council and played baseball, graduating in 1951.
A veteran of the Korean conflict, he graduated from the US. Army Guided Missile School, where he trained and served as an electronics specialist. Ed continued his education at Southern Connecticut State University, earning both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in general and biological Sciences. He later pursued advanced studies in educational administration at Fairfield University.
Ed Bludnicki
Edward’s career in education began as an adjunct faculty member in the Science Department at Housatonic Community College. He then taught science at Bedford and Coleytown Junior Highs. He introduced a new biology course, and was a highly regarded instructor.
Moving into school administration, Ed served as vice principal and principal at Bedford Junior High. He played an important role as Bedford and Coleytown Junior Highs transitioned into middle schools.
During his tenure Ed introduced a faculty-student committee, a parent ombudsman group, and Saturday School, for additional academic and recreational opportunities.
He strengthened Bedford’s Honor Society, expanded student club activities, and supported the PTA’s cultural arts assemblies.
One of Ed’s most memorable contributions to education came through his lifelong fascination with science and space exploration. Drawing upon connections he made during his Army service, he helped bring NASA personnel and space shuttle astronauts into the Westport school system.
Students communicated with astronauts while the shuttle orbited overhead.
Ed later served as director of Westport Adult Education, overseeing programs that included English as a Second Language and GED courses. He also served as a summer school principal.
He applied for and received a multi-year state of Connecticut grant to establish a regional space camp, continuing his enthusiasm for scientific discovery with young learners.
His activities extended beyond the classroom. Ed was a board member and treasurer of the Westport Rotary Club. He was also treasurer of the Tri-Town Teachers Federal Credit Union, and co-president of the Intermediate School Administrators Association.
A talented model builder, he had a passion for radio-controlled airplanes. Over the years he constructed many aircraft and model rockets. He served as president of the Connecticut State Model Building Society, and participated in model aircraft and rocket competitions throughout the state.
Edward also loved automobiles, particularly his Mazda Miata, which he owned and maintained for nearly 4 decades.
Among his fondest golfing memories was a hole-in-one at Homewood Acres Golf Course.
Edward is survived by his children Edward (Catherine), Laura (Michael) Binkowski, and Karen Pernaselci; grandchildren Michael (Jocelyn) Binkowski, Chelsea (Michael) Sevigny; Emily, Claire. Mitchell and Hannah Bludnicki; Troy, Luke, Kyra and Chloe Pernaselci; great-grandchildren Spencer Binkowski, and Stella and Cameron Sevigny, and many nieces and nephews, including Mary Bludnicki of Trumbull.
Ed was predeceased by his wife of 65 years, Lorraine (Niezelski) Bludnicki; brother Benjamin and sister, Jean Gesek.
Family and friends may call on Friday (October 16, 4 to 7 p.m., Wakelee Funeral Home, Ansonia). Funeral services will take place from the Wakelee Funeral Home on Saturday (October 17, 9 a.m.). A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. in St. Joseph Church, Ansonia. Interment with full military honors will follow in St. Michael Cemetery, Derby. Online condolences may be made at www.wakeleememorial.com.
But plenty of Westporters knew. hi’Amba — Bill Taibe’s new eastern Mediterranean restaurant and market, in the space recently vacated by Basso — was packed all day yesterday.
Customers loved the ground floor bakery; the dips, salads, shawarma, skewers and more, and the indoor and outdoor dining.
hi’Amba is not yet open for dinner. In fact, after this weekend it will close for a couple of days, to prepare for the actual non-soft opening.
But judging by yesterday, one of Westport’s most creative and favorite restaurateurs has another smash.
Thursday’s Roundup included information that 3 Westport school bus drivers had been given citations for driving while using handheld phones.
That information was provided in error. Westport Police Lieutenant Anthony Prezioso explains:
“On October 1, the state of Connecticut made changes to the cellphone statutes for Utilizing a Handheld Mobile Device in a Motor Vehicle. The statute number was changed. This caused the physical order of the statutes in the mobile systems utilized by our officer to be shuffled.
“The new statute now appears in a list below the statutes that were not changed. This change came without advertisement and led to some initial confusion when officers could not find the appropriate (original) charge within our system. In all three cases, the arresting officer selected the wrong statute number when issuing/processing the citation.
“The Westport Police Department did not issue any citations to school bus operators. All 3 were standard cell phone violations without special circumstances. I have also since been in touch with our Board of Education to clarify this matter.”
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The League of Women voters has canceled its Tuesday’s debate at Earthplace. It
Republican candidate Alma Sarelli’s campaign told organizers that she would not participate in the event, for voters in the 26th State Senate District. Democrat Sam Nestor had already agreed to appear.
LWV rules mandate that at least 2 candidates must be involved for a League-sponsored debate.
Nestor told local media that Sarelli also failed to respond to invitations from the Wilton, Redding and Ridgefield Leagues of Women Voters, causing those groups to cancel debates as well.
The 26th Senate district covers 8 towns, including Westport and Weston.
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As Staples High School seniors work on their college applications, their parents are working to figure out how to pay for the next 4 years.
Even in Westport, financial factors play a role in selecting schools. 26% of Staples students qualify for financial aid.
Since 1941, Staples Tuition Grants has helped close the funding gap. Last spring:
81 students qualified for a need-based STG grant
Recipients received an average grant of $5,186, with a maximum grant of $7,500
Over 90 individuals, families and organizations privately funded named awards
More than 500 community members donated to STG
Yet with tuition rising, STG met only 13% of the financial gap
Staples Tuition Grants is asking Westporters and alumni to continue helping. For example:
Donate to one of over named award (the SLOBs Award, the STG Fun Run, Perrin Delorey the Max Harper Award, and many more)
Establish a new named award with a pledge of $2,000 a year, for at least four years ($8,000). Email donation@staplestuitiongrants.org
Gifts of $25,000 or more create an endow and permanent named awards, changing lives for generations.
Speaking of education: Westport resident Brian Rutter works with Higher Heights.
The New Haven-based non-profit empowers, equips and encourages college-bound students as they pursue post-secondary education.
From November 2 to 6, they need volunteers to help high school seniors in Bridgeport and New Haven with their college applications. That week, the state of Connecticut will waive application fees for seniors applying to a state college or university.
Students can also complete the Common Application to apply to HBCUs.
Rutter says, “this is a great volunteer project for Westporters. Many people possess the experience and skills to help these students.”
Specifically, Rutter seeks volunteers for Bridgeport’s Bassick, Central and Harding Highs, on November 5 and 6.
“It would be just a couple of hours of commitment for a life-changing moment for these students who need guidance and help,” he says.
Aspetuck Land Trust is hosting Joan Maloof — author of “Forty Ways to Know a Tree: Exploring Trees to Understand Nature” — for this year’s Haskins Lecture.
Despite the subject and the name — the Haskins family donated a 22-acre preserve on Green Acre Lane to the ALT — the event will be held indoors.
It’s set for the Westport Library (October 22, 7 p.m.).
Maloff will discuss the incredible life of trees, and how people today perceive ancient, undisturbed ecosystems.
A reminder: The first event in “06880”‘s newest venture — community celebrations of local businesses — is today (Saturday).
And everyone is invited.
From 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.
Kevin Flynn knows the Westport Country Playhouse well. Each summer, he hosts an education program that teaches youngsters life skills, through stand-up comedy.
On October 26 (7 p.m.), Flynn — a stand-up comedian, professional soccer player, actor, television host, and founder/executive director of the Nantucket Comedy Festival — returns to the Playhouse, with “Fear of Heights.”
The show — part of the Barnstormer series — examines the American experience through the lens of his Irish-American family, including his father and grandfather (both steelworkers ).
In this very funny biographical work, he’ll explore what it means to be a man, and how one generation measures success relative to their forebears. Click here for tickets, and more information.
“Belles of Steel” — a new book by Jeanette Vaughan — features strong, resilient women who have changed their corner of the world.
They include military members, nurses, and more.
One is Mary-Lou Weisman.
The longtime Westporter is one of 30 women portrayed in the book. Her son Peter was diagnosed at age 2 1/2 with a fatal disease, Duchene muscular dystrophy. He died at 15, in 1980.
Purple Martins are the largest swallows in North America. They are also nearly totally dependent on humans for housing.
Sherwood Island is doing its part. These birdhouses have stood for a long time at our state park. Today, they’re featured in our “Westport … Naturally” series.
(Photo/Eric Bosch)
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And finally … on this date in 1845, the Naval School opened in Annapolis, Maryland with 50 students. Today it is known as the US Naval Academy.
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