Category Archives: Environment

Roundup: Shadow Candidate, Teen Parties, Public Dock …

Posted on September 24, 2026 | 14 comments

For months, rumors have circulated that Douglas Ouellette’s name as the Republican candidate for Westport’s 136th District state House of Representatives seat was a placeholder.

His name was filed with Secretary of the State on May 28.

On July 31, “06880” reported, “There’s been no sign of activity, online or in real life. Ouellette has not run for office before. His LinkedIn profile identifies him as CEO of Westport-based Home Choice Senior Care.

“No official announcement has been made. Westport Republican Town Committee chair Patrizia Zucaro did not respond to an email request for comment.”

Tuesday was the deadline for the Westport RTC to replace him with a different candidate, according to Town Clerk Jeff Dunkerton and Registrar of Voters Deb Greenberg.

So it appears Democrat Lee Goldstein is running against Douglas Ouellette.

But there has still been no press release or other announcement from the Republicans.

And no one has heard from Ouellette himself.

Screenshot of Ballotpedia courtesy of, and hat tip to, Tom Price.

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“06880” has reported on recent weekend parties, attended by large groups at the beach. The Westport Police Department says:

“Through both formal and informal complaints received from Westport Parks & Recreation staff as well as neighbors, the WPD has recently observed multiple instances of extremely large gatherings of predominantly high school aged youths at Compo Beach. In most cases these incidents have been reported on weekends. and after the 10 p.m. closing time of the beach.

“Complaints have included allegations of disturbances, underage drinking, marijuana usage, littering and damage to property, with numbers of youth observed by the responding officers estimated to be in the 200 to 300 person range or greater.”

Last Friday and Saturday “officers encountered, and subsequently needed to disperse, gatherings of this size at Compo Beach. These gatherings have been comprised of both area youth as well as groups from out of state.

“The Westport Police Department in partnership with the Westport Prevention Coalition and the Office of the 1st Selectman would like to again take this opportunity to remind both youth and their parents of the town’s zero-tolerance policy on underage drinking and cannabis use.

“Additionally, crimes against persons and property perpetrated by youth will not be tolerated. Area patrols have been increased to monitor this situation going forward, and officers will issue citations for observed violations.

“Despite that, these are not the outcomes we wish to see, so we ask parents to closely monitor their children’s activity and please help to do their part to discourage participation in these gatherings.”

Recent Compo Beach weekend scene.

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Those large freshman parties at Compo Beach also caught the attention of the Westport Prevention Coalition.

The organization asks Westport parents of middle and high school students: “Concerned about our kids’ drinking and substance abuse?”

Parents are invited to an event on October 7 (10 to 11:30 a.m., Toquet Hall, 59 Post Road East — entrance through the alley).

They’ll discuss underage drinking at the beach, safe youth gatherings and other parenting concerns.

Attendees can pick up prevention and parenting resources. Positive Directions and Westport Together are part of the Westport Prevention Coalition.

Questions? Call 203-227-7644.

Not Westport students. But they could be.

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Yesterday’s Roundup included a photo of the Saugatuck River railroad bridge, open to allow a barge with a large crane to pass through.

Where was it headed?

Upriver.

(Photo/Eric Bosch)

Its destination was Arezzo.

The restaurant recently received approval to construct Westport’s first public access dock.

We hope it’s completed soon.

And we’re really looking forward to next spring and summer.

One more little amenity that makes living here extra-special. (Hat tip: Robbie Guimond)

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Yesterday’s Roundup also noted that the Flood & Erosion Control Board meets October 7, to discuss a proposed 250-unit apartment complex at 55 Greens Farms Road.

The story said that meeting materials had not yet been posted on the town website.

Town engineer Ted Gill responded quickly. He said:

“All WPLO applications that come in front of the F&ECB also need to go to the Conservation Commission. So there is only 1 set of documents for the one application, which then goes to both bodies.

“The documents for all F&ECB WPLO applications are on the Town website, attached to the Conservation Commission meeting link for the corresponding application.”

All the materials — and we do mean all — are available here. After clicking on, scroll down.

Thank you, Ted!

This building would be torn down, and replaced by a larger one.

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A reader writes: “We’re expecting another storm this weekend. In the past, the town of Westport provided sand and sandbags for downtown businesses, particularly those of us who are vulnerable to flooding during high-tide storms.

“I just got off the phone with Public Works, and was told the town no longer provides either the bags or the sand. We can certainly order the bags ourselves, but obtaining and transporting sand individually may be more challenging for small businesses.

“From my experience, sandbags can make a real difference in helping minimize water damage. I wanted to see whether there may be any way for the town to assist downtown businesses with access to sand, even if we are responsible for purchasing our own bags.”

“06880” contacted Public Works director Larry Roberts. He responded promptly: “Until about 8 years ago, the town provided sand and bags to residents. Residents could drive up to the highway garage and fill bags themselves, and our staff helped those who were unable to. Downtown businesses could participate as well.

“The program was discontinued mainly because of the logistics involved: storing clean sand and staffing the site to fill bags on demand.

“At the same time, as buildings on Main Street were renovated, many owners installed flood gate systems in place of sandbags. These gates offer better protection and are easier to store when not in use. Since those renovations, commercial demand for sandbags has been negligible.”

Sandbags on Main Street during Hurricane Sandy, 2012.

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Families, friends, neighbors and individuals are invited to “Give Back Together” — and help Homes with Hope.

This Saturday (September 26, 8 to 11 a.m., 10 Church Lane), volunteers will pack essential item bags — filled with household items, snacks and personal hygiene products — for people served by Westport’s supportive housing non-profit.

A $25 contribution covers the cost of 2 bags. All items will be provided. Click here to register. The event is sponsored by the Westport Downtown Association, FLB Law, David Adam Realty and Willo.

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Westport Police made 5 custodial arrests between September 16 and 22.

A 38-year-old Fairfield woman was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol/drugs and failure to yield right of way, following a Sunday accident at Saugatuck Avenue and Ferry Lane, with injuries. She was released on a $500 bond.

A 25-year-old Manhattan man and 24-year-old Bronx man were charged with larceny of a motor vehicle, and conspiracy to commit larceny, following an investigation into the February theft of a car from Volvo of Westport. Both were held on $150,000 bonds.

A 55-yar-old Bridgeport man was charged with larceny of a motor vehicle, following the theft of a Jeep from the Saugatuck train station. The key had been hidden within the exterior mounted spare tire. He was held on a $100,000 bond.

A 59-year-old Philadelphia woman was charged with larceny, conspiracy to commit larceny, charging greater than $500 on a revoked payment card, conspiracy to commit that crime, identity theft, and conspiracy to commit identity theft, following an investigation into the theft of a woman’s wallet at HomeGoods. She was released on a $10,000 bond.

A 36-year-old woman was charged with failure to appear. She was released on a $5,000 bond.

Westport Police also issued these citations:

  • Failure to renew registration: 10 citations
  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 9
  • Distracted driving: 4
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 4
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 2
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 2
  • Texting while driving: 2
  • Speeding: 1
  • Passing a standing school bus: 1
  • School zone violation: 1
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 1
  • Failure to carry registration: 1
  • Improper turn: 1
  • Improper passing: 1
  • Failure to drive in the proper lane: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
  • Articles obstructing view: 1
  • Unreadable plates: 1

All license plates must be readable!

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Sometimes you look at one of nature’s creatures and say, “Wow!”

Sometimes you see one, and you just laugh.

Today’s “Westport … Naturally” featured photo elicits both responses.

(Photo/Nancy Diamond)

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And finally … Happy Punctuation Day!

(So: Do you enjoy “06880”? If so, great! And now: Please click here, to support our work; we’d really appreciate it. PS — Do you like the way this paragraph is supporting Punctuation Day?)

 

14 Comments

Posted in Beach, Downtown, Environment, Local politics, Police, Teenagers, Weather

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Roundup: Flood & Erosion Board, Historic Homes Tour, Home Heating Help …

Posted on September 23, 2026 | Leave a comment

When the Flood & Erosion Control Board meets October 7 (7:30 p.m., Zoom), the first agenda item will be the biggest.

Both physically. and in terms of town impact.

Members will hear an application to subdivide the property at 55-57 Greens Farms Road, to demolish an existing office building and replace it with a 250-unit housing development. The proposed activity is within the waterway protection line area of Pussy Willow Brook.

Meeting materials have not yet been posted on the town website.

Plan for “The Fitzgerald” (lower center, which would replace an existing office building. A pond, fountain and other waterways are shown in blue.

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The “06880” Historic Homes Tour is back — and bigger than ever.

By which we mean: This year, we’re adding a 5th home to the annual look-at-Westport’s-amazing-heritage event.

With our friends from KMS Team at Compass, we’ve put together 5 amazing homes.

All have been around for decades — even centuries.

All have been lovingly maintained.

And all are as remarkable inside as out.

We’ll roll out the big reveal next week. But right now, save the date: Sunday, November 1, from 1 to 4 p.m.

See you on the tour!

This house was on a previous “06880” Historic Homes tour. This year, we’ve got 5 very intriguing new — as in “old” — ones.

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Worried about paying for this winter’s heat?

Applications for the Connecticut Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) open October 1.

Westport residents can apply through the Department of Human Services by confidential appointment only. Calll 203-341-1050 or email humansrv@westportct.gov. Home visits are available for homebound residents. Returning applicants will receive instructions by mail.

Eligibility may be established if your household receives SNAP, TANF, SSI, qualifying means-tested Veteran’s benefits or other qualifying benefits, or if your gross annual household income is at or below 60% of Connecticut’s State Median Income (SMI).

The maximum annual income ranges from $48,714 for a 1-person household, to $129,279 for 8.

Residents who heat with oil or propane are encouraged to apply early in the heating season to help ensure they receive the full benefit for which they qualify.

For more information, click here.

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Put money in the pot.

Gat a pot.

That’s the idea of Pippa Bell Ader’s 2nd annual fundraiser.

Set for a week from tomorrow (Thursday, October 1, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.), it’s a chance for Westport Farmers’ Market shoppers to donate to the Green Village Initiative. The Bridgeport-based (and Westport-born) gardening, farming, sustainability, education and advocacy non-profit

Donors receive in return a homemade pot. Perfect for — of course — growing something, and keeping the circle of life alive.

Last year’s Pippa’s (and Friends) Pots event raised over $1,600. Let’s blow past that this year!

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Planning on getting married?

Not so fast!

Sal Liccione — a Westport justice of the peace — notes that as of October 1, there will be a minimum 48-hour waiting period from a time the couple completes their marriage license application in the Town Clerk’s office where the marriage ceremony will take place, until they can be issued their license.

In addition, the marriage license will now be valid for 65 days from the date it is handled to the couple.

Longshore is a popular spot for Westport weddings. The rainbow is extra. (Photo/David Dellinger)

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It happens a lot more rarely than a Cribari Bridge opening.

But when the railroad bridge over the Saugatuck River, a few yards south, opens for maintenance, it’s always an impressive sight.

It tilted upward yesterday, to allow a barge with a large crane underneath. Jonathan Alloy caught the action.

(Photo/Jonathan Alloy)

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he Westport Rotary Club had 2 featured speakers yesterday.

Dr. Scott Kellermann, founder of the Bwindi Hospital in Buhoma, Uganda described its growth to become one of the best hospitals in East Africa. Westport Rotarians have provided substantial assistance since 2009.

Sara Kempner, director of creative campaigns and collaborations at the US Vote Foundation, spoke about her nonpartisan organization that educates people on the logistics of voting in every state. A recent campaign involved placing a QR code linked to voter registration on pizza boxes.

Dr. Scott Kellermann shows Westport Rotarians in Uganda. (Photo/Alec Foege)

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Nature can be both beautiful and vicious. Today’s “Westport … Naturally” image shows both. Photographer Jamie Walsh calls it “the web of life.”

(Photo/Jamie Walsh)

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And finally … in honor of Connecticut’s new wedding laws (item above):

(If you’re not getting married — and have, say 20 seconds to spare – please click here to support this hyper-local blog. And you don’t even have to get us a present. Thank you!)

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Posted in Environment, Local business, Real estate, Transportation

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[OPINION] Better Protection Needed From New Construction Water Runoff

Posted on September 22, 2026 | 17 comments

Dr. Daryl Styner and her husband have lived in Westport for over 42 years. She was a professor in a doctoral program in dentistry before retiring. She writes:

After the September 13 deluge, concerns have been heightened for residents who live near new builds all over town.

Demolished homes are being replaced with much larger structures. Many are at maximum coverage on lots both small and large.

Neighbors who up to now have not had water problems now incur significant water run-off from these new structures. In many neighborhoods (like mine in the Long Lots area),we are paying for expensive “fixes,” because builders and town engineers under-estimate the drainage needs for these new builds.

With changes in our weather patterns, and the volume of water hitting our area, maybe it is time for building officials to re-think the formulas used to determine how much drainage and what kind of land grading is needed to adequately redirect water run-off, and what types of drainage systems are being used.

Long after the rain ended.

In 2017, an original 1950’s house on Long Lots Road was demolished and replaced with a new home, whose structure is easily 3-4 times the size of its predecessor.

The front to back pitch/slope of the property is significant, and an underground stream runs in this area between this house and the neighboring property on Long Lots Road.

During and very shortly after construction was finished, there were indications to both the house below (at the back of the property), and to the adjacent neighbor that water run-off was an issue, especially after any significant rain.

The adjacent neighbor eventually needed rubber boots to walk on the property. It became increasingly unusable for children to be able to play because of the “new” grading redirecting water run-off to their backyard.

Long after rain stops, water remains.

They got no accountability from the town, nor the builder, or the homeowners who purchased this new build. These neighbors had to lay out significant dollars to remedy this problem with additional drainage, regrading and plantings, just to get back the use of their own backyard.

The other house below them, a new build in 2004-5, had major beefed-up drainage systems built-in to this structure, but has eventually seen increasingly overwhelming water run-off into their driveway after big rains.

A building site near Daryl Styner’s home. The weight of the contents are pushing against a barrier that is not supposed to cross onto her property. In a big rain, mud will course onto her land and driveway, washing out all the aeration, topsoiling and reseeding they’ve done.

Significant water pools at the back end like a lake, which during heavy rain then overflows through mature Norway spruce trees into the driveway of the house below them, and sometimes overwhelming the storm drain as well.

This same torrent of water spills onto our property, flowing like a river through an entire line of mature Norway spruces.

My new neighbors (here a little over a year), are in the process of working with contractors on additional drainage solutions.

Many others have experienced this themselves, are now going through it, or know friends in nearby neighborhoods who have all experienced it as well. The consensus is that they all feel that existing owners — taxpayers — are not being protected at all.

Debris from runoff clogs storm drains.

Our town officials should have an equal responsibility to protect the adjacent properties of every new building project that comes before them. For many residents, that’s just not happening.

Drainage system plans for new builds need to be scrutinized more closely, beefed up, and closely monitored. Regrading on properties need to be scrutinized more closely and monitored.

Many builders (not all) cut corners for their bottom line. There has to be more accountability. Owners and families are being forced to  pay dearly for the aftermath of their projects.

This should not be happening. This is not right.

(“06880” Opinion pages are open to all. Send submissions to 06880blog@gmail.com. To support this hyperlocal blog, please click here.)

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Posted in Environment, Local politics, Real estate

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Roundup: Marina, Westoberfest, Monarch Butterfly …

Posted on September 20, 2026 | 4 comments

Yesterday — based on inaccurate information — our “06880” Roundup reported that the Board of Finance turned down a Public Works Department request for equipment for the Ned Dimes Marina renovation project.

Public Works director Larry Roberts clarifies: “We brought an appropriation request to the Board of Finance, but it was withdrawn due to inaccuracies in the accompanying materials.

“In any event, the work was not anticipated to begin until after the summer boating season.”

Ned Dimes Marina (Photo/DinkinESH Fotografix)

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Speaking of last Sunday’s flood: In 2021, the Westport Arts Advisory Committee partnered with landowner David Waldman. They installed 5 mini-murals in the alley behind Anthropologie.

This one depicts what Westport artist Rebecca Ross thought Westport would look like in 50 years.

As Miggs Burroughs notes: “She was off by only 45.”

Westoberfest is less than 2 weeks away.

The 9th annual craft beer and family fall event returns Saturday, October 3 (1 to 5 p.m., Elm Street. Among the highlights: craft beer, music, food, art, shopping, and family-fun activities.

Admission is free. Guests who want to sample more than 50 local and regional beers, from over 20 breweries, can purchase a tasting pass.

This year, Westoberfest introduces a collaboration with 3 local arts organizations for hands-on creativity in the family area.

MoCA\CT invites families to design tote bags using colorful stamps, patterns and doodles, then take them home. One River School of Art + Design offers a fall-inspired mandala activity, while Whimsy Works Atelier brings parent-child creative play.

The family area, sponsored by Gault Family Companies, will feature carnival games from Chris and Pete Amusements, pumpkin decorating, and more.

For friendly competition, the annual stein-holding competition, hosted by CBS News weather anchor and Westport resident Lonnie Quinn, will once again challenge participants to show off their strength and stamina.

One Bad Oyster takes the stage with their energetic ska-surf sound.

Food and treats will be served by Blind Rhino, Freshko by Krisia, Fryborg, LemoNate’s, Lovely Chocolate by Talita Dupin, Paradise Island Food, and Van Leeuwen Ice Cream.

Elm Street will also feature a shopping and services vendor area

A beer tasting pass is $50 now, $55 on-site.  Click here to purchase. Beer tasting participants receive a Westoberfest tasting glass and koozie.

Westoberfest is produced by the Westport Downtown Association, in collaboration with The Grapevine and Castle Wine & Spirits. For more information, click here.

A portion of the proceeds support downtown beautification projects, local nonprofit organizations, and events that strengthen the Westport community.

Westoberfest returns October 3.

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Wakeman Town Farm’s “Fantastic Farmhands” welcomed a special guest last week: monarch watch conservation specialist Alice Ely.

She helped the youngsters release Petey, a monarch butterfly, and provided a fascinating peek into the science behind monarch migration.

Before Petey took off, Alice attached a tiny radio tag to his back using eyelash adhesive. The transmitter weighs no more than a grain of rice, so it’s light enough for Petey to fly freely.

Petey wasted no time.

In 2 days, the feisty butterfly traveled 109 miles, heading southwest toward Mexico.

To follow his journey, download the Project Monarch app, then search for Petey2026. You can track his migration in real time as he flies south.

Once they arrive in Mexico, the butterflies stay there until late winter. As temperatures warm and the days get longer, they receive their cue to head north, where they mate and lay eggs on the first milkweed they find — often in Texas.

The tiny tags are powered by solar cells, so Petey may occasionally disappear from the radar while his tag recharges. The WTF butterfly — the first monarch ever released from Connecticut with this type of radio tag — could make it all the way to Mexico.

Alice Ely, with monarch butterfly and Wakeman Town Farm “farmhands.”

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Sure, it’s another Sunday with rain in the forecast. (Though nowhere near as much as last week … knock wood.)

But the Staples High School girls swim and dive team is washing cars today, rain or (fingers crossed) shine.

They’ll be at 176 Post Road West — the old Carvana spot, opposite Kings Highway Elementary School — from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

A suggested donation is $20. Stop in for a wash. If these girls can spend hours a day in the pool, the least you can do is get wet, while supporting the squad.

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For years, couples have gotten married at Compo Beach.

But this may be the first wedding ever at Westport’s newest park: Riverside.

We don’t know the lucky bride and groom, or anything else about yesterday’s ceremony.

But if their marriage will be anything like the weather on the they chose — and the stunning site — they’ll be smiling for years to come.

(Photo/Susan Garment)

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Also yesterday: a Garden Conservancy tour.

This was the scene at an old sea captain’s home, on Sylvan Routh South:

(Photo/Susan Garment)

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Actors have to flexible.

So does their entire company.

Westport Community Theatre had an unexpected change in their season lineup just a few weeks before opening.

“Vintage Hitchcock: A Live Radio Play” moved into the first slot.

It showcases a talented cast of Fairfield County actors, as well as Fairfield playwright Joe Landry.

The show — featuring suspense, intrigue, murder and touch of dark humor — runs through October 4, in the basement level of Town Hall.

Landry transforms 3 Hitchcock thrillers – “The Lodger,” “Sabotage” and “The 39 Steps” – into a 1940s-style radio broadcast performed before a live audience.

The 7-member cast moves among multiple roles, voices and characters as the stories unfold, creating the world of Hitchcock with microphones, scripts, music, and an elaborate soundscape.

Remaining performances are at 2 p.m. Sundays (today, and September 27 and October 4), and 7:30 p.m. on September 24, 25, 26, and October 2 and 3.

Tickets are $35 ($30 for seniors.Click here to reserve, or call 203-226-1983.

A 6-play subscription for the year is available for $140. WCT’s 69th season includes “Betrayal” by Harold Pinter; “Summer, 1976” by David Auburn; “What the Constitution Means to Me” by Heidi Schreck; “Catch-22” by Joseph Heller, and “Happy Days” by Samuel Beckett.

Tom Rusen and John Bachelder in “Vintage Hitchcock.”

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Looking for a fun afternoon, with competition, food, camaraderie — and a chance to help support a new initiative?

A Better Chance of Westport’s inaugural Cornhole Tournament is set for Saturday, October 3 (11:30 to 3 p.m., Longshore’s Evan Harding Point).

Proceeds will help launch ABC’s College Scholarship Fund. It’s a way to expand their commitment to the scholars they sponsor and support during their time at Staples High School, as they move on to the next chapter of their educational journeys.

Spectators are welcome. Click here for more information, and to register. You can donate to the scholarship fund without attending too, at the same link. To learn more about A Better Chance of Westport, click here. 

 

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo shows a fish out of water.

Literally.

This poor guy was left behind last Sunday, after Muddy Brook overflowed its banks, then receded.

(Photo/Paul Liistro)

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And finally …  on this day in 1973, Jim Croce and 5 others died when their light plane crashed shortly after takeoff from Natchitoches Airport in Louisiana.

 

(It’s been a week since a huge “rain bomb” hit Westport. “06880” reported that story all day, and every day since. If you appreciate our coverage, please click here to support this blog. Thanks!)

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Posted in Beach, Downtown, Entertainment, Environment, Sports, Staples HS

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[OPINION] Flood Unleashes Concerns About Greens Farms Apartment Plan

Posted on September 19, 2026 | 6 comments

After Sunday’s 7-inch “rain bomb,” a neighbor of the proposed redevelopment of 55 Greens Farms Road — which would replace 1 of 2 office buildings next to Assumption Cemetery with 250 apartments, 30% of them affordable under state formulas — writes:

During Wednesday’s Conservation Commission hearing, members prudently chose to continue the review until October rather than vote on the application, for which the surrounding community is grateful.

A proposal of this scale and sensitivity deserves a dedicated hearing. It is difficult for both the Commission and the public to adequately consider such a complex application after hours of reviewing important but perhaps less consequential matters.

Wednesday evening’s presentation by the applicant’s team of professionals was impressive, visually compelling, and optimistic.

However, it also appeared to lack details that warrant further examination.

Aerial view of Greens Farms Road office buildings. The southern one (bottom) would be demolished, for 250 apartment units.

Several aspects of the proposal were presented, including but not limited to green spaces, walkways, plantings, water management and maintenance plans.

But it failed to elaborate on the true scale of the proposal in more detail — for example, number of units, coverage comparison and parking, under the rationale that they fall outside the Conservation Commission’s purview.

While that may be technically correct, some of these issues have significant implications for stormwater management, impervious coverage, and environmental impacts, all of which are directly relevant to conservation concerns and fall under the Commission’s oversight, in addition to the Commission’s request for a side-by-side comparison.

During the presentation, a consulting engineer stated that the property did not experience what was characterized as complete flooding during the recent 200-year storm event, contrary to the image below with a vehicle partially submerged in floodwaters.

Respectfully, it begs the question of what standard is used to define complete flooding. By any reasonable measure, substantial portions of the property, both above and below grade, were underwater.

The parking garage appeared to have flooded, roadways providing access to and from the property were inundated, and adjacent wetlands overflowed significantly, breaching abutting properties.

This was one for the record books — but will it be the last one?

Last Sunday’s flood, at 55-57 Greens Farms Road.

Equally concerning are the effects on neighboring properties. At least one concerned resident bordering the wetlands observed water levels extending well beyond that area. One would argue that these conditions constitute extensive flooding, and should be acknowledged when evaluating future development impacts.

Although parking may not fall directly under the Conservation Commission’s jurisdiction, impervious coverage and land disturbance certainly do. The proposal contemplates accommodating all required parking beneath the building footprint, rather than in traditional surface lots.

On paper, this is an attractive concept. However, can the required parking be fully accommodated under the building footprint as proposed? It doesn’t take long to understand the true scale of the proposal.

On the site plan provided by the developing team, as part of the meeting materials, you can see the existing back building that is planned to remain, at least for now, next to the new proposed larger building, shown in beige with pale green donut holes representing courtyards within the building. The 2 existing buildings are identical in size; the proposal is far from it.

The new building (bottom) would be substantially larger than the current one.

The question is not what’s under the Commission’s purview, but whether safeguards should be established now as the proposal is further detailed. Should the final site plan design deviate from the proposal as it moves through other agency approvals, no modifications should be granted without a comprehensive public review process, including notice and hearing requirements.

Too often, substantial project modifications occur later in the approval process when public scrutiny has diminished. If or when the development proceeds, all of Westport deserves assurance that future changes will not undermine the environmental commitments being presented today.

The broader environmental impacts of this development also deserve careful consideration. The proposal includes extensive native plantings, pollinator habitats, and attractive landscape features. While these elements are commendable, they do not eliminate the significant ecological disruption associated with large-scale construction.

Construction activity remains a major source of environmental disturbance through habitat fragmentation, waste generation, erosion, sedimentation, and impacts to surrounding ecosystems, particularly where wetlands are involved, even with protections in place.

Could the Sherwood Mill Pond watershed basin also be impacted, as it is connected through smaller waterways? Adaptive reuse rather than a redevelopment may not be appropriate here, but it provides many lessons not to be ignored.

Sherwood Mill Pond is not far from 55 Greens Farms Road. 

The development team also referenced future maintenance plans intended to preserve the property’s environmental performance. Such plans are encouraging in theory, but they ultimately rely on consistent implementation and enforcement.

Who will ensure compliance years after approvals have been granted, construction has been completed, and the dust has settled?

Another voiced concern during the hearing: The town’s resources for monitoring private properties are limited. The site’s existing office park likely had maintenance obligations, yet residents have witnessed years of neglect, including recurring litter and debris entering the watershed from adjacent roadways and highways, using the roadway as a trash conveyor belt.

Another point articulated at the hearing: Many times, it is the residents who volunteer to go up and down this stretch of road and collect the garbage. A high-density development will only add to the problem.

A redevelopment could be inevitable; the owners have made a substantial financial investment and intend to seek a reasonable return, but at what expense?

The objective is not to prevent development (although it would be ideal), but to ensure that it receives even more rigorous scrutiny such a consequential project deserves.

We have not even touched on the traffic this will create on an already overwhelmed road, not to mention the everlasting debate about what will happen to the beloved Cribari Bridge once it’s further overwhelmed and likely becomes structurally inadequate.

This section of Westport may appear as the forgotten land, but it is home to families, many of whom have lived here for generations. They have repeatedly dealt with flooding due to poor upkeep of the waterways, never-ending traffic, and are bracing for additional impact. But they are hopeful for some reprieve.

Perhaps the new development will, in fact, improve the water management capability of the property and be a positive addition to the community.

But at the moment, the facts and scale are not feeding much confidence or conviction to those who will be impacted the most. Rest assured, the ripple effects of this not-so-small pebble in the pond will be felt far beyond the adjoining properties.

(“06880” Opinion pages are open to all. Send submissions to 06880blog@gmail.com. To make a tax-deductible contribution supporting our work, please click here. Thank you!

 

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Posted in Environment, Local politics, Real estate, Weston

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Roundup: Green’s Farms PO, Beach Flooding, Sepsis …

Posted on September 18, 2026 | 4 comments

Closure of the Green’s Farms post office after Sunday’s storm has been an inconvenience to patrons.

And not just because it’s an easy-to-park-it, always-uncrowded alternative to the always-busy Playhouse Square location.

Locked doors meant people with PO boxes could not access them.

Now, a note alerts all box holders to knock on the side door. Postmaster Suzannie Swaine will hand you your mail.

The building suffered serious damage. At the height of the storm, the interior was inundated with up to 5 inches of water. In nearly 25 years at Green’s Farms, Swaine had never seen that.

She and a fellow postal worker spent Monday and Tuesday cleaning up, and throwing away water-damaged materials. Not a single piece of mail was lost.

A postal technician was scheduled to reset or replace the server that works the computerized mail and postage equipment. Until that is done, the branch is closed to walk-in traffic.

Box holders may get their mail weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

Green’s Farms post office, in dryer days.(Photo/Bobbie Herman)

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Yesterday, Department of Public Works director Larry Roberts addressed concerns of Compo Beach neighborhood residents that check valves and pumps might not have worked as intendent, during Sunday’s 7-inch “rain bomb.”

He said that DPW is also reviewing reports of lingering standing water near Bradley Street and Fairfield Avenue, and debris in nearby drainage structures.

A homeowner on nearby Norwalk Avenue — one of 4 roads between Soundview Drive and Bradley Street — wants to make sure that town officials know about their plight too.

He writes: “The drains in front of 6 Norwalk have backed up several times this summer, even before this most recent storm.

“I’ve been in contact with the town engineer. He assured me everything operated as intended, but I want to be sure the right town officials are aware that the marina pump situation responsible for the drains on our street should be evaluated as well.”

Here are 2 photos of the flooding on Sunday, after the rain ended.

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Westport resident Meredith Gerard is a sepsis survivor.

She has worked hard to bring more awareness to the life-threatening medical emergency: knowing the signs, understanding how quickly it can happen, and the importance of getting treatment fast.

Her advocacy to get the state to recognize September as Sepsis Awareness Month has paid off.

Locally, Westport declared September 14 Sepsis Awareness Day. 1st Selectman Kevin Christie presented the proclamation to Meredith and and her family at Town Hall.

The effects of sepsis did not end when she left the hospital. It has had a lasting impact on me and my family over the past several years. She is proud that her children see that when something difficult happens, it can turn into an experience that helps others.

Among the signs of sepsis:

  • Fever above 100.4°F, or body temperature below 96.5°F.
  • Signs or symptoms of a current infection (like a cough, painful urination, or a red wound).
  • Mental Decline: Extreme confusion, sleepiness, or trouble waking up.
  • Extremely Ill: Severe pain, shortness of breath, or a feeling like you might die.

Meredith Gerard (2nd from right), 1st Selectman Kevin Christie (holding proclamation), and family and friends.

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Ruff to Radiant is a mobile pet grooming service in Fairfield and New Haven Counties.

The other day Katie, the owner, was working with a dog named Stella. When Katie was done, Stella ran into her back yard.

She fell into a pool, and was drowning.

When the owner jumped in and got her out, she was not breathing. Katie laid her on the driveway, and performed chest compressions and “mouth to snout” CPR.

Within a minute, she regained her pulse.

Stella was taken to the vet. She went home that day, with oxygen and a heating blanket.

Earth Animal has asked Katie to teach a class on dog CPR. We’ll provide more details when we get them. (Hat tip: Jann Colabella) 

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Speaking of dogs: The Parks & Recreation Department reminds everyone  that they are prohibited from town beaches through September 30.

In less than 2 weeks, dogs will be allowed back.

They’ll romp for 6 months. On April 1, they’ll be banned again.

Yogi can’t “bear” it. (Photo/Cat Malkin)

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Mark Mathias writes: “A big, noisy, yellow truck came down Juniper Road this morning.

“It was cleaning and filling cracks in the road with tar. Then another worker put some sand or other abrasive on top of the tar to give it some traction.

“Hopefully, this will keep water from getting into the roads, freezing (and expanding), and then cracking the roads during the winter.

“Thanks to our Public Works department for making this investment in our roads!”

Road work, on Juniper. (Photo/Mark Mathias)

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Three Indigenous grandmothers lead a day of conversation and learning tomorrow (Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport).

The event — called “Lighting the Fire in Our Hearts” — is free. Donations are accepted. Click here to register. For more information, click here.

Indigenous grandmothers: Nana Williams (Mayan spiritual guide), Marsha Forest (Wisdom Keeper of Mohawk ancestry), and Nancy Andry (Algonquin and French heritage).

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Aspetuck Land Trust has a new preserve.

The Weston Wilton Forest Reserve encompasses 750 acres of interior forest land, on the Weston/Wilton border.

This Sunday (September 20, 9 to 11 a.m.), ALT executive director David Brant leads a hike of its newest addition: the 15-acre Plummer property, formerly owned by actor Christopher Plummer and his wife Elaine. The hike is of intermediate difficulty. Click here for more information.

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The next Staples High School sports team fundraising car wash is tomorrow (Saturday, September 19, 12 to 4 p.m., 176 Post Road West — former Carvana property opposite Kings Highway School)

The suggested donation is $20.

  Staples High School girls soccer.

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Clarendon Fine Art’s next exhibit features Brian Keith Stephens.

His paintings use familiar creatures to explore human emotion and behavior. His work has appeared in more than 100 exhibitions internationally since 1996.

Stephens will be at the opening reception (October 3, 6 to 8 p.m.).

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Barboletta — a Santana tribute band — brought their powerhouse music to the Levitt Pavilion last night.

They’ve become a Levitt tradition. The band includes local musicians from different national and international touring acts, including Lotus, Twiddle, The Machine, Deep Banana Blackout and Kung Fu.

Special guest Jason L Terry was an added attraction.

The final event listed on the Levitt calendar is this coming Wednesday (September 23, 7:30 p.m.; free). King Stingray plays “Yoluu surf rock” — with indie and funk influences — that has captivated all of Australia. (Hat tip: Matthew Mandell)

Barboletta rocks the Levitt. (Photo/Susan Garment)

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The renovation of the Inn at Longshore is complete.

Guests are back. Weddings are on.

And that means many more visitors can enjoy scenes like today’s “Westport … naturally” featured photo,

(Photo/Patricia McMahon)

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And finally … in honor of Katie, who saved a dog using CPR (story above)

(I’ll be watching you. And I’ll be especially glad if you click here, to support “06880” with a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

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What Do You Love About Westport?

Posted on September 17, 2026 | 10 comments

Cub Scout leader James Delorey writes:

At this year’s Soundview Stroll, Westport Cub Scout Pack 39 asked strollers: “What do you love about Westport?”

If a stroller took a moment to talk with a Cub Scout or Scouter, we asked them to help us discover the places that make Westport special.

We brought them over to a huge map, from the town’s Engineering Department. It includes every road, street, property lot, park, school and geographic feature in town.

Offering 6 different colored markers, we asked people to share: Green for your favorite place to explore nature. Blue for your favorite place to play. Yellow for your favorite place to eat. Purple for a favorite place to walk, bike, or hike. Orange for a place to have fun with your friends. And draw a red heart over “a place that makes you proud of Westport.”

Cub Scouts and strollers at the Soundview Stroll, with their map.

Soundview Strollers of all ages took a moment to orient themselves on the map. In this age of Waze and GPS navigation, we learned that there are many young Westporters who have never looked at a paper map of their town.

Then there were directionally gifted people who thrilled at their fluency with maps, and the chance to help the lost find their way to their favorite places.

Our map came alive with color – dots and red hearts. Runners and bicyclists drew long purple lines for their regular routes. Students drew hearts over their pre-schools and elementary schools, and orange and blue dots over the playgrounds where they play and have fun with their friends.

The Cub Scout map.

Dots for “favorite place” to eat were hungrily drawn for Old Mill Grocery, Bartaco, Casa Me and the Black Duck (one of the most fun spots to find on the map – tracing the Saugatuck River until you’re just under “Interstate 95”).

Longshore, Old Mill Beach (with dots and hearts going all the way out to the sandbar!), Sherwood Island State Park and Burying Hill Beach – Westporters love to get outside.

Intrepid explorers put green dots on the Caryl & Edna Haskins Preserve and the Children’s Natural Playground at Schine Preserve – a couple of Westport’s hidden gems (great places to explore nature).

On our map, Compo Beach is chaotic with color. Multiple blue dots – favorite place to play – were turned into a smiley face by one clever contributor. Red hearts are all over the place (“A place that makes you proud of Westport”).

The Westport Rotary Club’s lobster — aka Rick Benson — chose Compo Beach as his favorite spot, presumably for LobsterFest. The annual event — a favorite of many residents — takes place Saturday.

Our Soundview Stroll map station was really a bit of intelligence gathering. What lights up people’s faces?

Kids love thinking about the places they play, explore nature, and have fun with their friends. Parents loved seeing the places their kids chose, and how they talked about them. The whole exercise was really about starting a conversation.

And we were listening!

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Tomorrow (Friday, September 18) is “Scouting Day in Westport.” Cub Scouts Pack 39 invites all boys and girls from kindergarten to 5th grade (along with parents and siblings) to join us at Compo’s South Beach (the far end), starting at 5 p.m.

Meet new friends, make s’mores, enjoy a campfire, hunt for crabs.

And, if we’re lucky take in a well-earned sunset!

We’ll try to answer any questions you have about Scouting in Westport. But we want to hear about what you’ve discovered too.

Cub Scout Pack 39 makes s’mores at Compo, last year.

We’ll have our giant town map and our markers. Let’s share what we love about Westport, and the wider world.

Cub Scouts explore nature, play, eat, walk, bike, hike, and have fun with friends. We hope you’ll join us.

(Westport Cub Scout Pack 39 is celebrating its 75th year of Scouting. We welcome all boys and girls, kindergarten through 5th grade. To learn more, click here.

(“06880” regularly covers youth activities in Westport — and all the places mentioned here. If you share our love for this town — and this blog — please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Storm, Sculpture, Sauna …

Posted on September 16, 2026 | 6 comments

This morning’s “06880” lead story — about Sunday’s flooding at Compo Beach — noted that 1st Selectman Kevin Christie had not responded to a request for comment.

Shortly after 6:30 a.m. today, he emailed: “I saw this email from Sunday evening, but did not get back to you while we were still in active emergency response mode.

“We recognize the significant impact the flooding has had on residents and businesses throughout town. We have been looking into this as part of our broader post-flood assessment, and we’ll follow up when we have more complete information.”

Compo Beach floodwaters.

More details on Sunday’s storm: Westport emergency responders handled 130 flood-related calls, rescued 13 people from vehicles, and evacuated 5 residents from a care facility.

Town officials continue working to document the extent of the damage to residences, businesses and public infrastructure.

“We recognize the disruption and damage this event has caused and sincerely thank Westport residents and businesses for their patience, cooperation and understanding,” says 1st Selectman Kevin Christie.

“We are incredibly grateful to our first responders, Public Works crews, emergency dispatchers, utility workers, volunteers and everyone who worked tirelessly to protect our community and begin the recovery process.”

Flood waters have receded. Damage assessments continue.

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We talk a great deal about what it takes to make a democracy work, and how one participates.

Next week, we have an opportunity to hear from leaders who wrestle with the question — and are doing something about it.

Michael Roth, president of Wesleyan University; Rajiv Vinnakota, president of Citizens & Scholars, and Daniel Lugo, president of Trinity College, are part of a national effort, involving more than 140 college leaders. They focus on preparing the next generation for active participation in our democracy.

The event — “Civics and the Next Generation of Changemakers” — is September 23, Westport). A reception begins at 6 p.m.; the panel follows at 7.

The event is co-sponsored by the League of Women Voters of Westport. It’s free, but registration is required. Click here to sign up, and for more information.

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Speaking of the Library: Monday marked the dedication of its newest sculpture.

“Circle of Peace” has been drawing plenty of attention, outside the upper level entrance.

The work was donated to Westport’s Public Art Collections by an anonymous donor. It was installed at Save the Children headquarters, until the organization left Westport in 2014.

Triple Threat Academy students Sophie Goldman, Carlos Velasquez Escamilla and Camilo Velasquez Escamilla cut the ribbon. The brief ceremony ended with children singing “Song of Peace.”

1st Selectman Kevin Christie (left), Westport Arts Advisory co-chair Nancy Diamond (rear), former Save the Children CEO Carolyn Miles and Westport Library director Bill Harmer with children, at the sculpture dedication.

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Speaking still of the Library: You can’t always get what you want.

But if you want to learn about the Rolling Stones, that was the place to be last night.

Former Rolling Stone (the magazine) writer Alec Foege and author Bob Spits talked about Spitz’s boo “The Rolling Stones: The Biography.”

They discussed music, fame, and the world’s greatest rock ‘n’ roll band.

The only bummer: Keith Richards did not wander down from Weston to offer his thoughts.

As we said, you can’t always …

Bob Spitz (left) and Alec Foege. (Photo/Thomas Samaranayake)

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And … the “Career Coach” will be in the Westport Library parking lot tomorrow (Thursday, September 17), for a session on “Tips for Resumés and Cover Letters.”

There are 2 sessions ( 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.) each day; both are 2 hours long. Registrants can choose one.

The service is available to people who are exploring career opportunities, actively looking for a job, or seeking additional part-time employment. Click here to reserve a spot.

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Among the casualties of Sunday’s 7 inches of rain: the Green’s Farms post office.

A sign on the door yesterday said they were closed, due to a power outage. Patrons were advised to use the Westport, Southport or Fairfield post offices.

If you have a PO box there though, you were out of luck.

And there’s no information either on how long the much-loved branch will be shut.

Green’s Farms post office door. (Photo and hat tip: Dick Lowenstein)

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KiiN Sauna — Westport’s favorite mobile sauna company — is settling down.

They’ve opened a local location, at 1555 Post Road East. That’s right next to Sherpa, Longevity, and Zion Physical Therapy + CT Sports Recovery.

This Saturday (September 19, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.), they’re throwing an open house.

Guests can see the new home; have a sweat and/or plunge, and enjoy the wellness community that KiiN has joined.

The event includes a DJ, fitness and movement experiences, prizes, food, drinks and wellness vendors.

“We bring diagnostics, movement, recovery and wellness together, all in one place,” says owner Ginger Richardson.

Kiin Sauna.

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It’s been a looooong time.

How long? The expected completion date was Memorial Day.

But it looks like the renovation of the Sherwood Mill Pond tidal gates and seawall is finally nearing completion.

At least, the massive crane is moving out.

(Photo/Matt Murray)

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LobsterFest is still 3 days away.

But preparing for the annual Westport Rotary Club fundraiser takes time.

This was the scene yesterday, at Compo Beach:

(Photo/Ed Simek)

If you’ve got tickets: See you there.

If you don’t: You’re out of luck.

The event sold out — as it always does — almost instantly.

In that case, we’ll see you in 2027.

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Seen — but not seeing well — at the Post Road/Sylvan Road intersection:

(Photo/Jonathan Alloy)

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Last year, Zhu Wang and Ye-Eun Hyun took top honors at the Heida Hermanns International Music Competition, held right here at MoCA\CT.

They embarked on a worldwide tour.

Now, ln Friday (September 18, 7 p.m.) the 2 young pianists return to Westport, for a special laureate concert. Their program includes Beethoven, Brahms and Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue.”

Click here for tickets, and more information. 

Zhu Wang and Ye-Eun Huan.

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Nature is wonderful.

Especially when we can see it in larger-than-life form.

Jerry Kuyper captured today’s “Westport … Naturally” featured photo.

And enlarged it, for all to enjoy.

(Photo/Jerry Kuyper)

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And finally … in honor of Kiin Sauna’s open house (item above):

(Hey, hot stuff! If you enjoy these daily Roundups — or anything else on “06880” — please click here to support this hyper-local blog. Thank you!)

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[OPINION] During Storm, Was Town Asleep At The Switch?

Posted on September 16, 2026 | 10 comments

On Sunday, 7 inches of rain inundated Westport. All over town, businesses and homes were flooded.

Among the hardest hit neighborhoods: Compo Beach. Homeowners on Soundview Drive, the 4 side roads and Bradley Street are used to storms. Many have recently raised their structures.

But this time was different. The drains that typically overflow — but eventually carry water away — may not have worked.

As water coursed through his home, a resident emailed 2 of his Representative Town Meeting members, Kristin Mott Purcell and Chris Tait. He copied “06880.” He wrote:

High tide was nearly 4 hours ago. The flood waters have receded exactly 2 inches since then.

I know, because it is very easy to mark the water levels on our (and our neighbors’) garage doors.

Two inches of receding water, as we approach low tide.

Flooded street near Compo Beach, a few hours after the rain ended.

When storm drains are clear, and the drain pipe “flaps” and pumps are working at Compo Basin, water pours into the storm drains with a vengeance after a flood event like this.

It is easy to see the “vortex funnels” above every storm drain, even if the water is 2 or 3 feet deep. And the water dissipates very quickly.

There is no vortex above the storm drains tonight. The water has nowhere to go.

I will give you 10-to-1 odds we will find out the town did not open the floodgates at the marina or Gray’s Creek. They probably also did not turn on the pump that helps move out the water.

Fairfield Avenue, after the storm passed. Water at one point was 3 feet deep, a neighbor says.

The town is not responsible for freakish, heavy rainfalls or the sudden accumulation that results from them. But we surely should have a drainage system that suits one of the wealthiest towns in the country, and that has experienced this problem time and again over the past few decades.

I want to work with both of you to get to the bottom of this issue this week. We have sustained a massive amount of damage, much of which could have been avoided or minimized, if we could have gotten the water out of our house quickly.

Instead, it has been nearly 9 hours that we have had more than a foot of water inside our living spaces. That is unacceptable.

“06880” spoke with RTM member Chris Tait yesterday. He says:

“I talked to (Public Works director) Larry Roberts. He told me the pumps were running, but the rain backed up the system. They’re 12-inch pumps, that work over a 24-hour period. Not right away.”

Tait says Roberts told him that standing water on Bradley Street — visible Monday — was caused by debris clogging the pipes.

The RTM member will meet with DPW engineers, to see whether a drain by the Minute Man monument — broken several years ago — was fixed properly.

Flooding on Bradley Street at Fairfield Avenue, Monday afternoon.

Compo Beach resident Jim Hood insists, “It doesn’t add up.”

He says he stood on top of a storm drain during the storm, and could not see “even a ripple. If water was going down even slowly, I’d see it. For 7 or 8 hours, there was nothing.

“Then suddenly, it went down quickly. It defies the laws of physics.”

“06880” reached out to 1st Selectman Kevin Christie for comment. As of last night, he had not responded.

(“06880” Opinion pages are open to all. Please email submissions to 06880blog@gmail.com. To help support our work, please click here.)

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Roundup: Cleaning, Lighting, Fiddling …

Posted on September 15, 2026 | 3 comments

Sunday brought an epic flood.

Monday was spent cleaning up.

And learning that one damaged bridge may disrupt downtown traffic for up to 18 months.

The small, almost unnoticed, span on Jesup Road linking Imperial Avenue with the police station, Jesup Green, the Westport Library, Levitt Pavilion and Taylor parking lot — and a way to avoid the parallel Post Road — was severely damaged.

It’s early in the process. Further study is needed. But repairs — if necessary — could take up to a year and a half.

More information will be available as the process unfolds.

Small bridge on Jesup Road, at Imperial Avenue.

 

Off Church Lane, plenty of work remained.

And in Deadman Brook by Myrtle Avenue, a dumpster remained stuck.

(Photos/Sal Liccione)

While the rest of the town had dried out, however, significant standing water remained at Bradley Street and Fairfield Avenue.

Here’s a shot from yesterday afternoon, 24 hours after the rain ended:

As a reminder: Town officials ask residents affected by Sunday’s weather to report flood-related damage through the Connecticut Division of Emergency Management & Homeland Security Damage Self-Report.

This is a survey only. Submitting it is not a claim or request for assistance, and does not guarantee that disaster relief or other recovery assistance will be available.

Information collected will help state and local emergency management officials document the extent of the damage, and determine whether the State of Connecticut may be eligible for post-disaster programs through FEMA and/or the Small Business Administration.

Finally: CBS News sent a reporter to Westport, to document the cleanup effort. Interviewees included Sal Liccione and Morley Boyd — and a photo from our “06880” blog. (Hat tip: Jeff Mitchell)

Click here to see the CBS clip.

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After nearly 3 hours of debate, the issue of lights on athletic fields came into clearer focus last night.

Planning & Zoning Commission members discussed — in detail, with civility and plenty of back and forth — applications for 70-foot poles at PJ Romano and Wakeman Fields.

PJ Romano came first. The site behind Saugatuck Elementary School has elicited little public comment, because there are already temporary lights, and it is on well-traveled Riverside Avenue.

Traffic was more of a concern than noise. Commissioners insisted on a 9 p.m. weekend cutoff; no multi-team tournaments, and use restricted to Westport sports and Parks & Recreation Department activities. A straw vote showed 5 of the P&Z members in favor of the application.

Those and other restrictions will be clarified in writing by P&Z staff, and presented to the Commission on October 5 for a vote.

Temporary lights are currently used at PJ Romano Field. Here, a Westport PAL football team practices. (Photo/James Kingsley)

Wakeman — adjacent to Bedford Middle School — has elicited greater concern by neighbors.

Commissioners discussed the need for low-level lighting to ensure safety of players and parents once the lights are off; for audio limited to varsity games only (no practices), and to end once the game begins; a prohibition on multi-team tournaments; limited hours of usage, and the addition of several trees along the perimeter.

Another straw poll showed a majority in favor of the proposal, with those conditions. P&Z staff will clarify those conditions, and it too will be presented for an October 5 vote.

The Wakeman B turf field (left-center, above) is the only one that would be lit. (Drone photo/David Pogue)

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If you liked “Fiddler on the Roof,” you’ll love tonight’s (Tuesday) Westport Country Playhouse show.

It’s not “Fiddler” itself. Instead, Ari Axelrod offers a warm, witty and moving journey through the songs and stories of that classic production.

It’s called “My Year in Anatevka.” Click here or below for a preview.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Speaking of the Playhouse: Last night marked the first Script in Hand play reading of the season, with the premiere of “The Next Best Thing.”

The cast and crew. Front row (from left): Mia Dillon, Ayla Kopp, Tina Johnson, Hauako Stepper, Cindy Cheung, Grant Shaud, Alicia Thompson. Rear: Director Mark Shanahan, playwright Matt Hoverman. (Photo/Kelsey McFarland)

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This year — as every year — LobsterFest is sold out.

So this is not a plug for tickets. It’s just an interesting update.

On Saturday, Compo Beach will welcome 1,500 guests for Westport Rotary Club’s annual event.

In celebration of its 15th year, Rotarians recently presented 1st Selectman Kevin Christie with an official LobsterFest hat.

From left: 1st Selectman Kevin Christie, LobsterFest chair Denise Thomas, Rotarian extraordinaire Rick Benson (in lobster suit), president Ron Henkoff, and LobsterFest entertainment chair Robert Augustyn. (Photo/Dave Matlow)

As the afternoon nears, Rotary offers heartfelt thanks to the Westport community for its overwhelming support.

LobsterFest’s sponsors have been exceptionally generous. This year’s event will raise over $400,000.

Special help comes from the Westport Fire and Police Departments and Emergency Medical Services, and many children’s entertainers (some work gratis).

The success of LobsterFest depends on over 200 volunteers. A few spots remain. Click here to sign up.

In other Rotary news, they’ve announced the winner of their lobster-naming contest.

It’s … Clawdia!

Congratulations to Vienna Tranquillo of Oxford. She earns a $25 gift certificate to The Sandbar at Compo Beach.

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There’s always something cookin’ at Wakeman Town Farm.

And not just in the kitchen.

Coming up this fall:

  • Trick or Treat + Eat: A Spooky Halloween One-off Special Kids’ Cooking Class (October 16)
  • Session 2: Flavors of Winter, Kids’ Cooking Series for Grades 3-7 (Starts October 28)
  • Beer Garden (October 18)
  • Pies for Good: Thanksgiving Pie & Ice Cream Sale for charity (November 3-21).
  • Late Fall Farm Dinner with Chef Genee Habansky, Herbaceous Catering (November 5)
  • Fall Session 2: 6-week Cooking Series for Minis (Grades K-2) (Starts November 9)

Click here for details and registration.

And don’t forget: The WTF farm stand is open every Saturday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., through October.

Looking ahead, at Wakeman Town Farm.

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For 27 years, “Booked for the Evening” BOOKED for the evening has served as
the Westport Library’s signature celebration of ideas, achievement and community.

What began as a fundraising event has evolved into a cherished tradition that reflects the heart of the Library’s mission: fostering a love of learning, inspiring curiosity, and expanding our understanding of the world.

Each year, BOOKED brings together Library supporters, town leaders, cultural advocates and others for a night honoring a man or woman whose work has
made a lasting impact on society.

Tom Brokaw, E.L. Doctorow, Billie Jean King, Calvin Trillin, Wendy Wasserstein, Pete Hamill, Martin Scorsese, Doris Kearns Goodwin, David Halberstam, Patti Smith, Nile Rodgers, Lynsey Addario, Ron Chernow, Alan Alda, Justin Paul and Itzhak Perlman are just some of the honorees over the past quarter century.

This year, the Westport Library honors award-winning director, actress, choreographer, producer and cultural icon Debbie Allen. The event is Wednesday, October 28.

She is perhaps best known as dance instructor Lydia Grant in the 1982 series “Fame.” She was also the show’s principal choreographer.

Allen has earned 3 Emmys, a Golden Globe, 5 NAACP Image Awards, a Drama Desk honor, the first-ever Astaire Award for Best Dancer, 4 honorary doctorates, and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

She has choreographed the Academy Awards 10 times, directed and produced episodes of “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Scandal” and “A Different World,” and was the creative force behind Steven Spielberg’s “Amistad.”

Appointed by President George W. Bush as a Cultural Ambassador of Dance, Allen spent more than 15 years as an artist-in-residence at the Kennedy Center.

She’ll be in conversation with Shonda Rhimes. The noted TV creator, producer, author, CEO of global media company Shondaland — and a Westporter — was the 2022 “Booked” honoree.

Click here for tickets, and more information on this year’s “Booked for the Evening” celebration.

Debbie Allen (Photo/Marvin Joseph for the Washington Post)

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Business leaders, professionals and community members are invited to he next Executive Network Series event.

VTB Financial Group and Prestige Cabinetry & Design host the September 29 gathering (6 to 9 p.m., Rizzuto’s). It’s a benefit for Ann’s Place, a non-profit providing support and resources for individuals and families impacted by cancer.

Click here for details and registration.

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Pianist Marc Copland headlines this week’s Jazz at the Post (Thursday, 7:30 and 8:45 p.m., VFW Post 399; dinner service at 6:45). Bassist Yuriy Galkin, pianist Steve Johns and saxophonist Greg Wall join in.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Maryssa Miller sends today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo, and writes: “Every sunny afternoon, this little guy comes out of his home and perches in the same exact spot on the stone wall in my backyard to get some sun.

“Then he goes right back to wherever he lives. He’s been doing this since early August.

“I’m going to be moving in town soon. I’ll miss seeing him every day!”

(Photo/Maryssa Miller)

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And finally … in honor of tonight’s Westport Country Playhouse “Year in Anatevka” (story above):

(If I were a rich man … I wouldn’t have to suggest that readers help support this blog they read every day. But I’m not, so I do. Here goes: Please click here. And thank you!)

 

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