A few weeks ago, I was unloading garbage bags at the transfer station when I tripped over a car stop cement bar. I fell flat on my face.
Two women (I didn’t get their names but would like to thank them also) asked if I was OK. I was bleeding profusely from my nose and lip, with injuries to my arm and side.
They helped me into my car, and offered to finish putting my garbage in the bin. One of them said she had also tripped over a car stop at the transfer station.
After a while I drove home.
I was about to send a note to our first selectman, to ask that the town review the car stop cement bars, because of those two accidents.
(There were only a few, near the garbage bin. I assume they were there to prevent vehicles, which are required to back into the parking spaces, from striking people walking to the bin.)
The danger.
But before I sent the note, I was back at the transfer station. I saw that all the car stop bars were removed.
An attendant told me that recently another Westport resident tripped over a car stop bar, and EMS was called.
Not knowing who had decided to remove the car stop bars, I asked the first selectman. Kevin Christie responded: “I checked with our Department of Public Works director, Larry Roberts. He and Joe Izzo reviewed the issue, and Joe recommended removing the car stop bars to prevent additional injuries.”
That’s a great decision. Larry Roberts and especially Joe Izzo should be complimented for their research and recommendation to remove the car stop bars.
Done! Great work — and great idea to recommend them, Bob.
(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.)
Of course, that’s not the only online concern. Fraud prevention is another.
Jeff Schwartz is a longtime Westport resident. He has an engineering degree, and spent his career in software.
Four years ago, a friend lost his life savings. Now, Jeff sounds the alarm about fraud prevention.
He started by warning the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston. Now he’s reaching out further.
He’s developed an easy-to-use app. CYA (Cover Your Assets) looks at the content of a email. It can check a link or a phone number, and help a user determine whether a message is safe or not. It also restarts your phone, to kick out any bad guys.
He’s testing it now, with the Y’s Men and others.
Jeff is not looking to make money. He just wants to do something for so many people, who are so vulnerable to scams.
It’s not every water bottle refill station that has a dedication ceremony.
But it’s not every town that had an environmental advocate like Sherry Jagerson.
This Sunday (1 p.m.), Winslow Park’s new station will be dedicated in the memory of the longtime Westport resident and community leader, who died in 2024.
The station is part of UnPlastic Westport. The Sustainable Westport initiative reduces single-use plastic by installing water refill stations in parks and public spaces.
Earth Animal joins the event, bringing earth-themed treats and gifts for dogs. Sustainable Westport and the Westport Parks & Recreation Department will also provide reusable water bottles to attendees.
Westporters — human and canine — are invited to Sunday’s celebration.
Sherry Jagerson, at the Sherwood Mill Pond Preserve.
Allium — the small restaurant with the devoted following that closed in May, after 4 1/2 years on Railroad Place — will reopen soon, in a new location.
“06880” has reported recently on the local (and national) mahjong craze.
Today, we introduce a small Westport company that could grow big.
Verdant Mahjong is a woman-led business creates and sells a mahjong tile design highlighting New England ecology.
“We loved that mahjong created community, but we also wanted to connect the community to their local environment,” says Merritt Juliano.
The flower tiles feature native plants, which build resilience against flooding and other climate issues. Verdant’s first line, Winter Solstice, highlights native plants that thrive in winter here.
They’re open for presales, with delivery expected in early 2027. For details, click here. Their Instagram is @VerdantMahjong.
As Breast Cancer Awareness Month continues, here is one more way to make a mark.
Westporters Amanda Meltzer and Kaylee Rutchik have organized an event with Fred and Monarch market. This Thursday (October 15, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.), both will donate 15% of sales to Pink Aid.
The national organization — founded in Westport — offers compassionate support, critical resources and emergency financial assistance to underserved breast cancer patients and their families.
Amanda and Kaylee were both diagnosed in their 30s. They became fast friends, and after receiving support from many friends and strangers, now pay it forward.
Westport Farmers’ Market recently concluded the first summer of its weekly partnership with the Norwalk Art Space and Art Space Café.
The program continues this fall.
“Fueling Creativity” began with a simple but powerful belief: Every young person deserves access to nourishing food, meaningful education, and a space where their creativity is celebrated.
Each week, the Farmers’ Market purchases and provides fresh, locally sourced ingredients directly from its farmers. Then chef Caitlin McGowan and Café baker and manager Kelly Clement transform them into healthy, delicious meals.
Students gather in an environment built around learning, expression and wellness. They share a meal prepared with real, whole ingredients, while onsite tutors provide academic support and art classes bring their creativity to life.
To learn more about Fueling Creativity or support the Westport Farmers Market’s mission, click here.
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Yesterday’s Roundup noted that the Sunrise Rotary Club’s 35th annual “Westport Uncorked” returns to the newly renovated Inn at Longshore November 5 (6 to 9 p.m.).
The evening — with special wine, great food, and very interesting guests — features 100 sustainable and organic wines, curated by Cory D’Addario of The Fine Wine Company.
We noted that it’s a “fundraiser.” But the proceeds do not stay with the Rotarians.
Funds from the wine tasting — along with Sunrise’s Great Duck Race — are donated to charities and local organizations. Last year, Westport Sunrise Rotary donated $150,000 to charities. The goal this year: even more.
Following the footsteps of historic saxophone duos like Johnny Griffin and Eddie “Lockjaw” Davis, Al Cohn and Zoot Sims, and Dexter Gordon and Wardell Gray, a pair of powerhouse horn players — Andy Farber and Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall will push each other to creative heights at this Thursday’s Jazz at the Post (VFW Post 399; shows at 7 and 8:15 p.m.; dinner begins at 6:15).
And finally … on this day in 1903, the Boston Red Sox won the first modern World Series. They won the best of 9 event, defeating the Pittsburgh Pirates 5 games to 3.
Many Westporters think of Lux Bond & Green as a great jewelry store that’s been in Westport for years.
That’s true. But there is much more to the story.
It is a actually a 128-year-old, 5th generation, family-owned and operated business. Besides Westport, there are locations in West Hartford, Glastonbury, Mohegan Sun, Wellesley (Massachusetts), and soon, Mystic.
Lux Bond & Green has been in Westport for 30 years, anchoring what used to be called Brooks Corner at the Main Street/Elm Street intersection.
To celebrate 3 decades in town, all month long they’ll donate proceeds from all watch batteries, sizing and jewelry cleaning to Swim Across The Sound.
For customers making a purchase who mention Swim Across the Sound, a percentage of that sale will also benefit the non-profit.
LBG partner Roberto Coin also turns 30 this year. The store celebrates with 2 trunk shows. A percentage sales will benefit Connecticut Food Share.
On November 1, Lux Bond & Green will donate another month of watch sizing, batteries and jewelry cleaning to the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation. Mentioning the non-profit during any purchase will generate a donation too.
Meanwhile, every Saturday from October 24 through November 14, there will be surprises like candy and cannoli trucks, and Bridgewater Chocolates.
Old and new customers are invited to stop by and share Lux Bond & Green stories. For more information on LBG, click here.
The Planning & Zoning Commission meeting set for October 19 (6 p.m., Zoom) does not include a controversial item, postponed from last session: lights on Wakeman and PJ Romano athletic fields.
It may be a technical matter. A new 8-24 plan may need to be filed.
If the item is added, “06880” will announce it.
Temporary lights at PJ Romano Field may — or may not — be replaced by permanent ones. (Photo/Tara Welch)
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Westport Country Playhouse kicks off its 2026-27 season in a big way: with a world premiere.
“Ken Ludwig’s Pride and Prejudice, Part 2: Napoleon at Pemberley” — a stage sequel to Jane Austen’s novel “Pride and Prejudice” — runs October 20 through November 7.
Playhouse artistic director calls the show “smart, romantic, wildly funny, and full of surprises.”
Click here for the performance schedule, and ticket information. Special events include Taste of Tuesdays (Oct. 20), Pride Night (Oct. 22), Opening Night (Oct. 24), Sunday Symposium (Oct. 25), Backstage Pass (Oct. 28), Open Captions (Nov. 1) and Thursday TalkBack (Nov. 5).
Tickets start at $50, with discounts for students, senior citizens, educators, military, first responders, Indigenous peoples, professional playwrights and groups, as well as options for pay-what-you-will and library passes. Click here for details.
The cast of “Pride & Prejudice: Part II.” (Photo/Kelsey McFarlan)
The Green’s Farms post office — one of Westport’s true, hidden gems (IYKYK) — has been closed a month. It sustained heavy damage during the September 13 “rain bomb.”
The future does not look good.
A handwritten sign reads: “Temporarily Closed!!! Due to flood damage we will be closed until further notice. No transactions.’
(Photo/Alan Phillips)
Fingers crossed that “temporarily” does not become “permanently.”
Many folks rely on the neighborhood, neighborly PO.
And as someone who lives behind the main post office in Playhouse Square, the last thing this town needs is one less post office.
Comedian Kevin Nealon (“Saturday Night Live” and much more) headlined Friday’s “Stand Up For Homes with Hope.”
The annual fundraiser for Westport’s supportive housing and food pantry non-profit filled Fairfield University’s Quick Center.
It was a homecoming of sorts for Nealon. He grew up in Bridgeport, and graduated from St. Joseph High School and Sacred Heart University.
Kevin Nealon, at Fairfield University. (Photo/JC Martin)
Yesterday, the comic visited the Gillespie Center and pantry, on Jesup Road.
What Homes with Hope does is no laughing matter. But it’s great that folks like Kevin Nealon — and the full house at his show — stand up for the work they do.
Kevin Nealon (center) at the Homes with Hope food pantry. He’s joined by staffers and volunteers (from left) Grayson Orr, Sarah Carusone, Katharine Murray and Thomas Samaranayake.
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“06880” held our first-ever Business Buzz last night.
It was a hot event — and very cool.
Ginger Richardson hosted a diverse group of Westporters (and blog readers) at her new sauna-and-cold plunge spot on Post Road East, next to Sherpa Fitness.
Guests enjoyed both extremes — along with drinks from Tuck Gin, and plenty of community spirit.
Dave Briggs is partnering with “06880,” to make Business Buzzes regular events. If your business wants to play host, email 06880blog@gmail.com.
Dave Briggs and Ginger Richardson, at Kiin Sauna. (Photo/Dan Woog)
The Campaign School at Yale’s 1-day “Basics” class for women of all parties who are thinking of running for political office is set for October 24 (10 a.m. to 3 p.m.) The session is open to men who support those women, too.
Participants learn speaking techniques and networking strategies, and hear from successful alumi.
Fairfield County’s Community Foundation has made a donation, so county residents pay only $25. The cost for people outside the county is $100.
The Connecticut League of Conservation Voters honored Westport’s state representative on Friday, with a Lifetime Achievement Award.
The CLCV said: “Rep. Steinberg has been a leading voice in the Connecticut General Assembly on clean energy, environmental protection, and public health for more than 15 years. He has played a key role in major environmental efforts, including the plastic bag ban, fracking waste moratorium, GMO labeling, and microplastics legislation, while consistently advancing renewable energy, solar power, and utility accountability.
“As House chair of both the Public Health committee and the Energy & Technology Committee, Jonathan helped shape modern energy policy and led the charge on the State Water Plan to ensure Connecticut’s waters remain protected. His leadership has been instrumental in advancing sustainability, energy affordability, and long-term environmental resilience across the state.”
The 13th annual Air Cooled Classic Car Show takes over Veterans Green (Sunday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.).
Dozens of very cool (ho ho) autos will be on display. Their owners are happy to answer questions, and show off their vehicles.
It’s sponsored by Westport-based Small Car Company. The club for air-cool aficionados is loosely connected to the car dealership of the same name. It was located on Post Road West, diagonally across from Kings Highway Elementary School. Most recently, it was the site of Carvana.
Air-cooled cars, on Veterans Green. (Photo/Sarathi Roy)
The very compelling “This is Your Life” series continues October 23 at the Senior Center.
Internationally renowned pianist Frederkic Chiu and world-class artist and sculptor Jeanine Esposito will be interviewed by Rozanne Gates, of the Legacy Project USA.
The couple founded Beechwood Arts, a non-profit community that changes the way the arts are experienced and created. They’ll talk about their multi-cultural, multi-faceted and arts-oriented marriage, and how they improve the artistic life of this community.
“This is Your Life” interviews are free, and open to the public. To register, call 203-341-5099.
Jeanine Esposito and Frederic Chiu (Photo/Jane Beiles for the New York Times)
And finally … today is National Coming Out Day. It’s a celebration of people who identify publicly as LGBTQ+ — and a time to encourage those who have been in the closet to embrace their honest, authentic selves.
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.
This morning, “06880” posted a story about Kevin Nealon’s appearance at this Friday’s “Stand Up For Homes with Hope” benefit at Fairfield University. The event is now sold out.
Great news for the non-profit that addresses homelessness and food insecurity. Bad news for the comedian’s many fans who missed out on tickets!
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Most Westporters seldom think about our water.
We turn on the tap. We drink it. We cook with it. We shower in it.
Ignacy Nieweglowski think about our water, though.
He’s not a hydrologist. He doesn’t work for Aquarion, or the town.
He’s a senior at Staples High School. He and classmate Sahil Vora co-founded the Health Tech Initiative. The entirely student-run public research organization tracks the state of lead contamination in Connecticut. Recently, they won a President’s Environmental Youth Award.
This Saturday (October 10, 9 a.m. to noon), the group will host a free Water Drive. It’s in the main lobby of Staples High.
Residents can bring water samples from their homes. Ignacy, Sahil and their club will screen it — free — for lead and heavy metals.
The results come back in just 3 minutes. They are then added to the Health Tech Initiative Lead Watch database.
For the most accurate results, do not run any water in the house for 8 hours (usually that’s overnight). Then collect a sample, after that stagnation period.
Along with the testing, the Health Tech Initiative will raffle off an automatic flushing system on behalf of their partner, Noah Systems. It automatically clears lead from home pipes.
Any money raised or donated will help fund the group’s project: testing every Westport public school and many public facilities for lead.
Sahil Vora and Ignacy Nieweglowski, with the Presidential awards.
A reminder: The first event in “06880”‘s newest venture — community celebrations of local businesses — is set for this Saturday.
And 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.
This year’s event — the 4th annual fundraiser, supporting Westport’s first responders and veteran community — is Saturday, October 17 (6 to 8 p.m. VFW Post 399).
Greg Gunter of the Westport Police Department is the defending 3-time champion. Can he make it 4 straight?
Attendees vote for their favorite, among a wide variety of homemade recipes. There’s plenty of other great food, a 50/50 raffle, and a healthy heaping of community spirit.
Tickets are $25, at the VFW in advance or at the door. Proceeds benefit the VFW, Fire Department, Police Department and Volunteer Emergency Medical Services.
Questions? Email vfw399ct@gmail.com, or call 203-227-6796.
Here in District 4, it’s been a low-key race for US Congress.
On October 19 (7 p.m., Westport Library), the Lower Fairfield County Leagues of Women hosts a debate. The 3 candidates — Democratic incumbent Jim Himes, Republican Michael Ted Goldstein and Independent Benjamin Wesley — will participate.
Paula Morgan is the Westport Book Shop’s guest exhibitor for October.
She works primarily in oils, exploring the quiet moments and enduring light of coastal New England.
Paula has been a visual arts educator for over 2 decades. She is a member of The Artists Collective of Westport, and her work is exhibited in galleries throughout New England.
A reception is set for this Thursday (October 8, 6 to 7:30 p.m.
Paula’s work will be on display all month, and available for purchase.
Marc Lemcke is a Westport resident, and a close observer of Aquarion. He writes:
On Tuesday (October 6), the Representative Town Meeting will vote on Jonathan Steinberg’s appointment as Westport’s representative to the new Aquarion Water Authority.
It should vote yes — but that should be the beginning, not the end, of the decision.
The first selectman should give Steinberg a broader mandate: become Westport’s water czar and build, for the first time, a comprehensive strategy for
drinking water, fire protection, flooding, land use, water quality, conservation — and the costs residents will increasingly be asked to bear.
Jonathan Steinberg
The recent flood was not the first selectman’s fault. But it exposed what his administration has failed to address: Westport still manages water as a collection of disconnected problems.
Flooding goes to one board, sewers to another, land use rules somewhere else, while drinking water and fire protection are left to Aquarion.
For too long, Westport has treated water as someone else’s problem: Aquarion’s, the state’s, or the next storm’s.
But the water flooding our streets and the water in our pipes are part of one system, and the town’s own choices affect both.
Flooding last month at Pumpkin Hill and Colony Roads. (Photo/Kimberly Paris)
Development standards that increase impervious surfaces, zoning decisions that fill flood-prone land, and public assets managed without regard to drainage (including the Longshore golf course, which draws heavily on public water at
subsidized rates), all belong in the same conversation.
The consequences are no longer abstract: rapidly increasing costs, Westport’s PFAS remaining above the contamination threshold beyond Connecticut’s 2029 compliance deadline, and an intolerable public safety risk from inadequate
fire flow.
Westport needs a water czar: one official, answerable to residents, responsible for every part of the problem.
No one holds that job today. The first task would be simple and overdue: put
the town’s water records, spending and plans where residents can see them.
That opportunity arrived when the new public Aquarion Water Authority completed its acquisition at a cost to ratepayers — including transaction fees — of $2.6 billion.
Westport went from being a customer of a private monopoly to one of 59 communities represented in the governance of a public authority.
But Aquarion’s equity investors have been replaced by debt investors with even stronger contractual rights, and public ownership is no guarantee of public
benefit.
Westport holds only one seat among 59. Unless Steinberg enters with a clear mandate and builds coalitions before voting blocs harden, the authority could repeat the failures of what it replaced — under a public seal.
Fire protection shows what deferred accountability looks like. In 2008, the Westport Fire Department warned Aquarion about inadequate fire flow, meaning not enough water reaching hydrants to fight a serious fire, in the Rayfield Road and Turkey Hill Road areas.
On September 9, 2008, the company replied. It had replaced pressure regulators but “only realized a minor increase” in fire flow. Meeting the requirements of the town’s recent Insurance Services Office evaluation, it said, would take improvements “more extensive than a retrofit of existing infrastructure.”
In 2014, six years later, the ISO, which rates towns’ fire protection for insurers, tested 15 hydrants across Westport. Fourteen fell short of Aquarion’s own
standard.
As far as the public record shows, no one has retested since. This is what it looks likewhen everyone is responsible, and no one is accountable.
Fire hydrant, Parker Harding Plaza.
PFAS presents the same failure, but its consequences are harder to see. In a regulatory filing, Aquarion disclosed that Westport’s wells exceed the federal limit for PFAS. and that treatment will not be ready by the 2029 state deadline.
Yet residents have no way to tell which source reaches their homes, or what their own exposure might be. Westporters have been left to piece together the risk on their own.
A lawsuit now in Waterbury Superior Court goes further. The amended complaint in Vincent v. Aquarion Water Company alleges that the company knew about the contamination and pushed treatment spending into”later capital-plan periods.”
These are allegations, not findings. No court has ruled on them.
But one thing is not in dispute. By Aquarion’s own account, Westport’s water will not be in compliance when the state deadline arrives.
The formal Aquarion position for Jonathan Steinberg comes with only an honorarium. The expanded role proposed here does not.
Building coalitions across 59 communities, overseeing a comprehensive town plan, and challenging a powerful utility will require serious time, expertise,
and access to technical assistance.
Jonathan Steinberg has spent many years dealing with this state regulatory agency.
Westport should compensate its water czar accordingly and provide a modest operating budget. Becoming a model town for 21st-century water management
may be the smartest investment Westport can make.
Mr. Steinberg is unusually qualified. During 16 years in Hartford — and as House chair of the Energy and Technology Committee — he has dealt directly with utilities, regulators, and the lawyers surrounding them.
He understands that Aquarion has often behaved like a law firm with a water business attached, and he is not naïve about the resistance meaningful reform will encounter.
He also knows how to build coalitions, which will be essential if Westport is to turn 1 seat among 59 into real influence.
Inside the authority, Steinberg should organize communities with shared interests. He should demand a strategic review of Aquarion’s service territories, built under an entirely different assumptions, and capital priorities — asking whether ratepayers can afford golden tanks and silver pipes while basic risks remain unresolved — and press for a credible PFAS compliance schedule, reliable fire flow, and affordable rates.
Aquarion has a large presence in Westport — including the North Avenue storage facility. (Photo/Richard Fogel)
He must also prepare Westport for Aquarion’s steadily declining payment in lieu of taxes before it becomes another surprise.
In Westport, his mandate must connect that work with everything the town has kept separate: drinking water, fire flow, PFAS, flooding, stormwater, land use regulation, conservation, and public assets.
Longshore alone warrants a review: its irrigation demands, rain capture, drainage footprint and flood exposure make it a test case for what 21st-century management of a public waterfront asset should look like.
He should convene responsible officials and civic groups, establish shared priorities, and produce Westport’s first comprehensive water plan — one that
assigns responsibility, sets deadlines, and measures results.
That requires transparency the town has long withheld. Steinberg should press the authority to end unnecessary redactions, and disclose rate and capital decisions before they become irreversible.
In Westport, he should establish a public water dashboard — tracking PFAS
progress, fire-flow testing, infrastructure investment, flood initiatives, and Aquarion’s declining tax contribution — and hold an annual public reckoning.
After years of hidden filings and decisions made beyond public view, residents should not have to investigate their own government to learn whether they are safe.
On October 6, the RTM should confirm Jonathan Steinberg. The first selectman must then give him the mandate, authority and resources to do the job properly.
Steinberg, in turn, should accept the challenge and tell residents what he will demand from Aquarion and from the town itself.
Last year, Earth Animal’s customers, neighbors and community partners raised $100,834.64 for their 19th annual Mitten Project.
The 6-figure funds addressed a major issue: food insecurity in the region.
This year’s goal is even more audacious: $115,000.
There are many ways to help.
Pumpkins for Good: From now through October 31, buy a pumpkin at Earth Animal. All proceeds benefit Connecticut Foodshare. Pumpkins come courtesy of Izzo’s Garden Center.
Pies for Good:From October 14 through November 19, order pies donated by Wakeman Town Farm ($25), plus Lindsay’s Handmade Ice Cream ($10/pint). Pickup is November 23, 4 to 7 p.m. at Earth Animal.
$5 Mitten Pin-up Fundraiser:Ongoing at Earth Animal.
Wreaths for Good & Santa: On December 5 (11 a.m. to 2 p.m.), stop in buy a holiday wreath, to support Connecticut Foodshare. Wreaths are courtesy of Izzo’s Garden Center. Santa will be on hand too!
Holiday Gifts that Give Back:Proceeds from shopping help too.
Shop & Give Community Events: From November 1 through December 24, local businesses choose a day to donate a portion of sales to The Mitten Project.
There’s a lot going on tomorrow in Westport: Westoberfest. Slice of Saugatuck. Earthplace’s Fall Festival. The Westport Country Playhouse Gala.
But you should make time on Saturday too, between noon and 4 p.m., to check out Compass’ new office. The hosts are KMS Team and Origin Point.
This is not just any space. They’ve moved into the iconic downtown building at the Post Road East/Church Lane merge most recently occupied by Patagonia. For decades before that, it was Westport Bank & Trust.
They’ve done a spectacular redesign. And they’ve saved the historic WPA murals that originally hung throughout the interior.
Enjoy season refreshments. And if you can, bring a non-perishable item for the Homes with Hope food pantry.
Family Fun Day(Saturday, October 10, 10 a.m. to noon): Free morning of music, movement, artmaking and gallery adventures for the whole family. Sing and dance with Jackie Jacobs, then get creative with artist and illustrator Erwin Ong. Click here to register, and for more information.
Indigenous Peoples’ Day Recess Camp(Monday, October 12, 9 a.m. to noon; $75): On their day off from school, children ages 5–10 can make art, explore the galleries, and connect with creativity, nature, and storytelling.Click here to register, and for more information.
Flash media stick and tabulator testing by the registrars of voters has been postponed from October 7. The new date is October 14 (10 a.m., Town Hall room 212D). The public is invited to observe 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).
Westport resident Hedda Goldman died Sunday at home. She was 92.
She was a proud graduate of Bronx High School of Science and Clark University.
Hedda is survived by her daughters Melissa Goldman of New York City, and Amy Goldman of Novato, California; her son and daughter-in-law David Goldman and Margo Freedman of Santa Monica, Californi); grandchildren Morgan Chapman, Andrew Goldman and Alexa Goldman, and her great-granddaughter Willow Riley.
(We don’t need fields of gold. Just a check, PayPal or Zelle of whatever you think “06880” is worth — and whatever you can afford. Please click here. And thanks for thinking of us!)
There’s been a change to tonight’s (Thursday) Parks & Recreation Department forum on beach resiliency.
The 6:30 p.m. event — to discuss existing site conditions, potential beach profiles, and anticipated regulatory requirements — had been scheduled for Town Hall.
Sunny weather is predicted for this Saturday’s Slice of Saugatuck.
The event — postponed by last weekend’s nor’easter — runs from 2 to 5 p.m.
The family friendly event features food tastings, retail experiences, 7 bands, 4 bouncy houses, a balloon bender, face painter, antique fire truck as well 2 beer/wine gardens and more.
The price is $15 per adult, kids under 13 remains $5, with age 5 and under free. Only credit card or electronic payment will be accepted. All tickets are sold on site.
If it’s October, it’s time for a … Halloween story.
The Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce’s annual Halloween Window Painting Contest is set for Saturday, October 24 (9 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
Merchants offer their windows for painting. Kids paint them. There are prizes (gift certificates), and everyone enjoys the kids’ work. There’s no trick — what a treat!
Youngsters can request a window, or have one assigned to them. Painters supply their own water-based paint, drop clothes and brushes (and clean up when they’re done).
There are different age groups, for elementary and middle schoolers. Prizes are awarded for:
Two more great entertainers have been added to the lineup for Saturday’s Westport Country Playhouse gala.
Tamar Greene — Broadway’s longest-running George Washington in “Hamilton” — and Patty McCormack (“The Bad Seed”) join Santino Fontana, Dan Lauria, Wendie Malick, Javier Muñoz, James Naughton, Kelli O’Hara, and NaTasha Yvette Williams.
All will salute productions that have gone “from the page to the stage” at the Playhouse, since its founding in 1931.
A free “PopShop Market” pops up Saturday (October 3, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Westport Museum for History & Culture).
Independent boutiques, makers, designers and artisans offer women’s fashion, jewelry, accessories, vintage finds, home goods, gifts and more. See below for a full vendors’ list.
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Westport Police made 1 custodial arrest between September 23 and 29.
A 38-year-old Brooklyn man was charged with larceny and identity theft, following an investigation into a 2025 complaint of a fraudulent wire transfer of $89,000.He was held on a $100,000 bond.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Traveling unreasonably fast: 9 citations
Failure to obey state traffic commission regulations: 6
Failure to renew registration: 5
Texting while driving: 3
Unreadable plates: 1
Failure to obey stop sign: 1
Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
Failure to obey traffic control signals: 1
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There was plenty of food in the bird feeder.
But this guy couldn’t get it. So he’s looking elsewhere for a meal. Or to stock up for winter.
We’re impressed with 2 things, in today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature: His agility.
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!)
Eleish Van Breems celebrates books, design and “The Rooms with a View Class of 2026” on Monday (6 p.m.). The public is invited.
The authors of 4 new design books will be on hand, to sign books: Cathy Kincaid (“Memorable Rooms”), Douglas Wright (“From Hand to Home”), Isabel Molster (“Beyond Color”) and Patrick Sutton (“Tailored Interiors”).
Got design books to donate? Bring them in!
A portion of the evening’s book sales will be donated to Rooms with a View.
And finally … in honor of the happy (and lucky) couple married last night (item above):
(Stay dry! Stay safe! And if you get a chance, take a minute to click here to support “06880.” It will help us continue our coverage of this storm — and everything else we do, 24/7/365. Thank you!)
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