Though he grew up in Southern California, this town gave him “a comfort level like a favorite sweater,” he says. He was “smitten by Westport from my first day.” And he still calls this “my adopted home town.”
In his 6 years here — when not freelancing in New York as a graphic designer — David took many photos in Westport and Weston.
Along the way, he met “some really wonderful people.” Photographer Alan Fontaine became a close friend, and convinced him to start his own portrait studio. In 1995, he did. He quickly got plenty of work, thanks to his signature black and white style.
At 81 years old — and a cancer survivor — he wants to share some of his photos with “the lovely people of Westport who welcomed me, and nurtured our friendships so unconditionally.”
Here are a few of those images. Though 3 decades old, they are timeless.
Well … except for the first two.
Remarkable Book Shop, Main Stree
Allen’s Clam House, Hillspoint Road
Sherwood Mill Pond
Compo Beach boardwalk
Compo Beach pavilion
Compo Beach in fog
Longshore cemetery
Saugatuck Rowing Club
Saugatuck River, downtown (All photos/David Ohman)
For decades, suburban families have been stereotyped as a dad, mom and kids, in a house with a picket fence.
The picket fence has been replaced by a faux stone wall. Dad and mom may now live next door to a single parent, dad and dad, or mom and mom.
There are other configurations too, like multi-generational housing. Today, our friends at KMS Team at Compass — where at least one associate lives with her own parent — explore the trend.
We hear increasingly common requests these days about the need for multi-generational housing. This includes ADUs (accessory dwelling units), and homes with ample space within for privacy and independence.
The trend began during COVID. It continues for a variety of reasons, including the desire of grandparents to be part of grandchildrens’ lives (and the help they can provide for working parents); the difficulty young buyers face in finding homes in their budget, and more.
Two substantial multi-generational transactions were recently recorded in Westport.
Several Beachside Avenue properties (#120-122, 124-128 and 26) were purchased by an undisclosed buyer for their extended family.
128 Beachside Avenue: plenty of room for generations to share.
And the Kowalsky farm property at 109 Morningside Drive South was purchased by Marc Lasry, who may build homes for a few of his children on the property.
On a more standard level, we recently guided a mother, daughter and grandchildren into a new home in Westport. The search took us along many paths.
From the outset, we knew the property would need to offer an existing accessory dwelling unit (ADU), the ability to build one, or an in-law suite with enough separation to provide privacy for everyone.
This significantly narrowed the field, but we explored every viable option.
We even considered a new construction opportunity. While the home itself had potential, the location was not ideal, and the many decisions required when designing a home from the ground up quickly became overwhelming.
Our search refocused on homes that were complete, and ready to enjoy.
A new opportunity came on the market. We toured it that day. The home checked nearly every box.
It had been completely remodeled by the owner, meaning the property required no cosmetic updates or improvements.
Location was another key factor. The home is just minutes from the Westport train station, making commuting into the city convenient for her daughter.
It is also part of a small enclave of homes that share access to a pool, private dock and beach.
Having owned a home with a pool previously, the mother loved the idea of having pool access, without the responsibility of its maintenance.
Sitting on just over an acre, the property was another plus. There was room for the grandchildren to play, and it could easily accommodate an ADU. The builder had even drafted plans for one while considering it for his own use.
An ADU, designed by architect John Rountree.
Particularly intriguing was the space above the garage. The large, fully finished bedroomand bathroom provided an excellent foundation for a private living area.
Rather than building a separate ADU on the property, our client plans to expand this space to create a larger suite with its own living area and kitchen.
Westport is no longer a town filled almost only with parents and children. Multi-generational housing is one more piece of our changing demographics.
(“06880” regularly covers real estate trends — and everything else in town. If you enjoy stories like this, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
Maida Webster and her husband (right) added a full addition to the home their adult children (left, with their own children) in 2017. The 3 generations enjoy proximity, but also privacy.
One month after a court ruling put the future Old Mill Grocery in jeopardy — and still several weeks before their busy season begins — the historic Hillspoint Road deli/market/neighborhood institution is turning to the community for support.
Soundview Empowerment Alliance — the non-profit with a dual mission of preserving history and “serving good,” which owns the 107-year-old property — is asking 150 residents, customers and friends to make a pledge to support OMG.
The goal is to help the small business operated by the Romanacci Restaurant Group make it through the quieter months of the year, stabilizing operations and protecting its long-term future.
Old Mill Grocery & Deli. (Photo/Dave Dellinger)
“Our community stepped forward once before to save the Old Mill deli from demolition,” says SEA co-founder Ian Warburg.
“Now we’re asking people to step forward again to help ensure this place continues to thrive, as part of the life and rhythm of Compo Beach. It’s an important cultural resource for the neighborhood, and all of Westport.”
Old Mill Grocery & Deli was preserved in 2022, when hundreds of residents contributed to an effort to purchase the property and prevent its potential redevelopment.
Romanacci now provides a full menu, ranging from breakfast sandwiches and coffee to salads, sandwiches, pizza, entrees an prepared foods. There is seating at a communal table inside, and outdoors too.
Saturday morning, at OMG. (Photo/Jim Hood)
Many customers purchase items to go.
With its beachside location, OMG thrives during the summer. But it faces a significant challenge from mid-September through mid-June, when fewer people are in the neighborhood.
As a result — and during a protracted legal battle, with a few people opposing the deli’s alcohol sales, gelato cart and outdoor seating — SEA is asking 150 residents to shift $125 per month in spending to Old Mill Grocery & Deli.
The money can be spent on coffee, breakfast, lunch, dinner, takeout, catering, or special gatherings.
That would generate about $18,000 in additional monthly off-season revenue.
Community members can “Make the Pledge” by opening a house account, committing to spend $125 each month.
“This is about protecting something much bigger than a store,” says SEA co-founder Jim Hood.
“Old Mill is one of the few true ‘third places’ left in our town. It’s where neighbors see each other, conversations happen, and community life unfolds. If we want that spirit to continue for another 100 years, we need people to make Old Mill part of their weekly routine.”
“Never do we want to hear someone say, ‘I can’t believe we lost the Old Mill. That is not who we are as a community. When Westport cares about something, we show up.”
To partcipate, visit Old Mill Grocery & Deli, create a house account and “Make the Pledge.”
A grateful “06880” reader — who asks to remain anonymous — writes:
My family would like to nominate Frank Calise from Westport Plumbing for the 06880 “Unsung Hero” award.
Our hot water heater started leaking recently. Frank — the owner — immediately sprang into action, answering our questions and guiding us by phone throughout the ordeal.
Then he came over, to pump water from the heater to the outside to prevent flooding in our basement. We loved the personal touch.
This is quality customer service that is rare these days.
The replacement work the next day was quick and seamless.
We were very impressed, and very satisfied.
Congratulations, Frank! You are our Unsung Hero — today, and every day.
(“06880” is proud to honor Unsung Heroes — and tell many other tales of town too. Please click here to support your hyper-local blog.)
There was an added mystery to last week’s Photo Challenge.
In addition to guessing where in Westport the image was — the date “1806,” carved in concrete set in a red brick building — readers tried to figure out why it was there.
The structure — the Bank of America branch on Post Road East, next to Design Within Reach (the old post office) — clearly does not date from the early 19th century. (Click here to see.)
Ed Davis — one of 5 readers who correctly guessed the site — has what sounds like a plausible answer:
Didn’t that building used to house Connecticut National Bank in the 1960s-1970s? According to Google, CNB used to the the Bridgeport Bank, which was founded in 1806. Maybe it is to commemorate the founding of the bank (and not the building).
Mystery solved! (Perhaps.)
Congrats to historical sleuth Ed, along with Pat Saviano, Morley Boyd, Lynn Untermeyer Miller and Seth Schachter. You can bank on them to know many answers.
This week’s Photo Challenge doubles as a really nice image of Westport.
If you know where you’d see this, click “Comments” below.
(Photo/John Maloney)
(Every Sunday, “06880” hosts this Photo Challenge. We challenge you too to support your hyper-local blog. Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)
Tonight’s main event — a public meeting about next steps for the Cribari Bridge, with representatives of the state Department of Transportation — begins at 6 p.m., in the Town Hall auditorium.
Can’t be there? It will be livestreamed at www.westportct.gov, and aired on Optimum channel 79.
The Cribari Bridge leads from Saugatuck (above) to Greens Farms. (Photo/John Videler for VidelerPhotography.com)
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Meanwhile, Saturday’s main event will be the state high school basketball championship.
The Staples boys team — already 2-time FCIAC champions — competes for their first Connecticut crown since 1937.
Tip-off is 8:30 p.m., at Mohegan Sun.
Sure, it’s late — and at the other end of the state. But it’s been nearly a century since Westporters have been able to cheer the Wreckers on in a state boys basketball final.
Go Wreckers! And go Westporters — see you Saturday night at Mohegan Sun!
The Staples boys basketball team. (Photo/Diane Lowman)
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Looking ahead: The theme for the Memorial Day parade float contest has been announced.
And — looking back — it’s a great one: “250 Years of Honor and Service.
Certificates will be awarded in 6 categories: Best Development of Theme, Best Youth Organization Float, Most Creative, Best Community Organization, Most Colorful, and Best Overall Float.
Of course, we already know the winner in the Overall category.
It’s the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston.
After all, they’ve won for the last 250 years.
Another Y’s Men Memorial Day parade float winner. This one won in 2021. (Photo/Dan Woog)
In their continuing effort to UnPlastic Westport, Sustainable Westport will show “Plastic People: The Hidden Crisis of Microplastics.” The documentary explores the alarming spread of microplastics throughout our planet — and our bodies.
The event — following a sold-out showing at SXSW — is April 9 (6:30 p.m., Greens Farms Academy). A panel discussion will follow the screening.
Westport Professionals Network co-founders Lisa Fedorchak and Katie Gervasio, analyzed the current job market, at Tuesday’s Westport Rotary Club meeting.
The WPN connects local college students and young professionals with job and networking opportunities. Volunteers offer mentorship and advice, in person and online.
“Right now, this is a tough time,” said Fedorchak. “The young professional unemployment rate is 10.5%.”
Lisa Fedorchak (speaking) and Katie Gervasio, at the Westport Rotary Club. (Hat tip and photo/Dave Matlow)
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Westport resident Vivek Kanthan wants to end the drought of Americans ascending to the top of Formula 1.
“06880” last checked in just over a year ago, when he signed with the Formula 4 team Griffin Core by Campos — the top-ranked team in that division.
Since then, Kanthan won his first F4 race, captured Rookie of the Year honors, and set several records, including the single lap speed mark in Mexico City.
Last weekend, the 15-year-old placed 1st at the Spanish Winter Championship.
For more than 4 decades, The Susan Fund has provided college scholarships to Fairfield Country residents who have been diagnosed with cancer at some time in their life, and attend (or plan to) enroll in an institution of higher learning.
The Fund was established in 1980 in memory of her Susan Lloyd, a Staples High School graduate who lost her battle with cancer. Since its founding, the organization has provided over $2 million in scholarships to more than 300 students.
The deadline is near — April 1 — for applications for the 2026 school year. To apply or to learn more about the Susan Fund, click here.
On May 2, the Nolan Team at Compass is sponsoring a town-wide tag sale. It will likely be Westport’s biggest ever.
Residents can participate by hosting a sale at their own home.
It’s a great way to get plenty of publicity. The Nolan Team handles all promotion (including a sign for your lawn or driveway). Your address will be included on a map, and all publicity.
Shoppers can plan their own route, and visit multiple sales all day.
To participate, and for more information, click here.
300 years of passageways in Weston is the topic of an April 19 book talk at the Weston History & Culture Center.
Artist Julie O’Connor will discuss her 2008 book, “Doors of Weston.”
The lecture is free, but registration is required. Click here.
doors are accessible “portals” to understanding the evolution of Weston and its people over the last three centuries, as we celebrate America and Weston since the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
The Center says, “doors are accessible ‘portals’ to understanding the evolution of Weston and its people over the last 3 centuries, as we celebrate America and Weston since the signing of the Declaration of Independence.”
Westport Police made 3 custodial arrests between March 11 and 17.
A 44-year-old Woodside, New York man was charged with 2 counts of larceny, following 2 shoplifting incidents at Walgreens. Both involved allergy medications. One was of $2,659 worth of merchandise; the other was $1,964. He was extradited after being incarcerated for an unrelated matter in New York.He was held on a $40,000 bond.
A 50-year-old Redding man was charged with sexual assault, after a complaint by a restaurant employee that a customer had used his hand to pinch the victim’s buttocks.
A 44-year-old Plymouth, Massachusetts man was charged with failure to appear. He was held on a $25,000 bond.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Texting while driving: 9 citations
Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 6
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 5
Failure to obey stop sign: 5
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 4
Failure to renew registration: 4
Failure to obey traffic commission regulations: 4
Distracted driving: 3
Operating a motor vehicle without tint inspection: 2
With temperatures in the 20s this morning, few people were thinking about the beach.
Except for non-residents hoping to buy one of the 450 beach stickers available to anyone living outside of Westport and Weston.
They went on sale at 9 a.m. today. By 7:15, a small crowd had already formed outside the Parks & Recreation Department office at Longshore.
(Photo/Carm Roda)
Sales to Westport and Weston residents — with no limit — begin tomorrow (Thursday), at 9 a.m. Click here for fees.
If you bought emblems or registered for programs in previous seasons, your online account is already set up. Click here to log in. Then select “Memberships,” and follow the prompts.
If you have not bought emblems or registered for programs previously, click here. Then click the “Purchase Now” icon on the right.
Emblems will be mailed in 14-21 days. They are not required until May 1.
The Board of Finance’s next “office hours” — open times at which residents can chat with a member about questions or concerns — are tomorrow (Thursday).
There are 2 sessions — 10 to 11 a.m., and 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. — at the Westport Library’s Room 213.
Last month’s office hours drew a diverse crowd — including 2 Staples High School students, doing a civics project.
“We had very productive conversations,” says BOF member Allyson Stollenwerck.
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Also tomorrow: Secretary of the State Stephanie Thomas continues the “Your State, Your Business” speaker series.
She’ll speak at the Westport Library (Thursday, 11 a.m.). Thomas will describe her wide-ranging job, followed by a discussion and Q-and-A.
The 3-part series — sponsored by the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce — kicked off with state comptroller Sean Scanlon. It concludes April 2, with Attorney General William Tong.
Secretary of the State Stephanie Thomas
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A reader writes: “I attended Coleytown Elementary School during the 1976 bicentennial year. We buried time capsules there, but I don’t know exactly where (I recall a ceremony by a flagpole in front of the school).
“I’m guessing they’re still buried. I reached out to the school, and am waiting to hear back.
“It would be interesting to see these time capsules opened and shared, if at all feasible.”
So, “06880” has 2 thoughts:
Does anyone remember the Coleytown El time capsules — specifically, where they were buried?
How about any other time capsules in town?
The 250th anniversary of our nation seems like a good time to unearth them.
If you have any ideas, now is the “time” to share them. Please click “Comments” below.
Coleytown Elementary School. Is there a time capsule there?
The Staples High School girls basketball fell 5 points short of the state championship game last night.
The #3-seeded Wreckers fell 67-62 to #10 Bristol Central, at Bethel High.
Staples finishes 23-4. Two of those losses were to Greenwich, including the FCIAC championship.
Staples coach Tommy Sparks told The Ruden Report, “We’re obviously proud of the fight. We were down a few times in the game where it looked like it could have been over, but the girls continued to execute, the girls continued to defend. It was a pleasure just to watch the resilience and the growth from these girls throughout the season. Obviously, it was a special season for us.” Click here for the full Ruden Report story (paywall).
On Monday, the Wrecker boys basketball team advanced to their final. Ranked first in Division I, they’ll seek their first state crown since 1937 this Saturday, 8:30 p.m. at Mohegan Sun, against #2 West Haven.
Staples 2026 girls basketball team.
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MoCA\CT’s celebration of “Art, Jazz + the Blues” — the title of their current exhibition — continues with a “community conversation” March 26 (5:30 p.m.).
Exhibit co-curator Ive Covaci leads a panel of noted musicians, artists, educators and scholars in an exploration of how jazz and blues continue to inspire creativity across art forms — and within our own community.
Panelists include: Brian Torff (bassist, composer and Fairfield University music professor; Dr. Richard Epstein (vice president, Jazz Society of Fairfield County and longtime WPKN host); Kevin Mazzarella (Staples High School band director and trumpeter), and Caitlin von Schmidt (musician, graphic designer, and daughter of artist Eric von Schmidt, whose works are the foundation of the “Art, Jazz + the Blues” exhibition.
Three generations of Westport Pardons — former Fordham University Gaelic Society president Ed, son Chris and grandson Conor — enjoyed yesterday’s parade in New York.
And we’re sure Conor’s teacher will “pardon” him for taking an afternoon off to salute his heritage!
Staples High School Class of 1994 graduate Lisa Bastoni was featured at First Folk Sunday in 2024. She returns October 4.
In the meantime, she’s written “There Are No Kings in America.” Suzanne Sheridan — founder of First Folk Sunday — will perform Lisa’s song at the “No Kings” rally on Jesup Green (March 28). Suzanne Sheridan at the NO KINGS Rally at Jesup Green on Saturday March 28.
PS: Creativity runs in Lisa’s family. She’s the granddaughter of noted Westport artists Walter and Naiad Einsel.
Faherty honors World Down Syndrome Day this Saturday (March 21) with a special Sweet P Bakery pop-up event.
From noon to 2 p.m. at the Main Street store, Sweet P founder Andrea Pecoriello and baker Charlie Biondo will serve some of their favorite goods, for purchase.
The bakery’s mission is to provide training and employment for adults with disabilities.
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Westporters know Frank Murgalo as “Santa Claus” at our annual Holiday Stroll (Shhhh … don’t tell the kids!)
He’s also a Marine Corps veteran, who donates time and energy to many excellent causes.
Now — at 82 — he’s written a memoir.
“My Mid-Life Crisis at 82: A Life of Mischief, Mayhem and Making It Work…” chronicles his wild, adventurous life. He’s been an auditor, fishmonger, actor and stand-up comedian. He writes about stopping Super Bowl XVII, being tackled by the FBI, and outwitting the State Department — all with an inspiring message of resilience, risk and laughter.
On April 7 (2:45 p.m.), Frank gives a book talk at the Senior Center. It’s free, but register for a seat: 203-341-5099.
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On Sunday business owners, building managers and tenants of Riverside Corners Westport gathered at Arezzo Ristorante to honor the life of Alon Panovka.
The longtime building owner and supporter of the arts died recently.
Although Alon lived in Atlanta, he spent significant time in the area. In addition to the property at Post Road West and Riverside Avenue, he owned the former post office building on Post Road East, which he redeveloped.
Known by many tenants for his thoughtful stewardship and quiet generosity, Alon also helped launch The Norwalk Art Space, which offers free art and music education to underserved youth.
Alon Panovka gathering, at Arezzo. (Hat tip and photo/Ken Warren)
Longtime Westport resident Dominick Boccanfuso died Saturday. He was 86.
The New York native moved here with his family in 1949. A proud Merchant Marine officer, Dominick was licensed to pilot vessels up to 100 gross tons. He had a lifelong passion for boating and fishing, and shared that love with family and friends.
An entrepreneur from a young age, Dominick began his career at 18, opening his first gas station with his brothers, Giuseppe Jr. and Crescienzo.
Their drive extended beyond business, ultimately leading them to build one of the fastest race cars in its class. Dominick led this effort, designing and rebuilding the car’s power plant each week to ensure it consistently ran down the track with fresh power — a testament to his ambition and mechanical skill.
In 1970 Dominick and his brothers founded Boccanfuso Bros., which quickly became a staple in the Westport community. It reflected their honesty, fairness, dedication, work ethic and strong family values.
Dominick was deeply committed to giving back. For over a decade, he sponsored Westport boys and girls Little League baseball teams. He served as a volunteer firefighter from the mid-1970s to the mid-1980s, and was a dedicated usher at Assumption Church during holidays. He and his nephew Giuseppe also supported the Swim Across the Sound cancer benefit by escorting participants on their boat.
Beginning in 1982, Dominick spent winters in Hallandale, Florida, with his mother Anna, participating in fundraising efforts at St. Matthew’s Church. He continued this tradition until 2006, following her passing.
He is survived by Giuseppe A. Boccanfuso III, Zhanna Boccanfuso, Giuseppe A. Boccanfuso IV, Victoria I. Boccanfuso, and Valerie I. Boccanfuso; his sister Sophia Freitag; nieces Mary, Anna, Angel, Ann Marie, Jo-Anne, Roselyn, Annie, Pamela Jo, Anna Maria, and their spouses; nephews Giuseppe D. and Crescienzo J., Billy and Joseph Oboy, Vincent and Joseph DiMeglio, and many grandnieces and grandnephews. He was predeceased by his parents, brothers Giuseppe Jr. and Crescienzo, and sisters Carmela B. Oboy and Mary DiMeglio.
Visitation will be held this Friday (March 20, 4-8 p.m. Harding Funeral Home). Funeral services will take place Saturday (March 21, 9 a.m., Assumption Church), followed by interment at Assumption Cemetery on Greens Farms Road.
Well, at least, beach parking emblems (oldtimers call them “stickers”) are available for purchase — online and in the Parks & Recreation Department office —for Westport and Weston residents starting this Thursday (March 19), at 9 a.m. There is no limit for Westport and Weston residents. Click here for fees.
Beach parking emblem sales for non-residents begin tomorrow (Wednesday, March 18), at 9 a.m. The fee is $545, plus sales tax. There is a limit of 450 for the season — first come, first served.
If you bought emblems or registered for programs in previous seasons, your online account is already set up. Click here to log in. Then select “Memberships,” and follow the prompts.
If you have not bought emblems or registered for programs previously, click here. Then click the “Purchase Now” icon on the right.
Emblems will be mailed in 14-21 days. They are not required until May 1.
If you forget your login or password, do not create another account. Select the proper “forget” button on the login page. For further help, email recreation@westportct.gov.
Office hours are 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays.
Beach stickers go on sale this week. (Photo/Mark Marcus)
The Staples High School boys basketball team is one game away from a historic accomplishment.
The Wreckers — ranked #1 in Division I — downed Notre Dame Prep 67-61 last night at Fairfield Warde, in a state tournament semifinal contest that was nowhere near as close as the score seems.
That lifts the Westporters into the state championship against #2 West Haven.
The game — to be played Saturday or Sunday, on a date and time to be determined at Mohegan Sun — will be their first state championship since 2023. Three years ago, they fell short in their quest for the Division II crown.
If the Wreckers win this weekend, it will be their first state title since — are you ready? — 1937.
That’s right. Staples’ last Connecticut championship came when Franklin Roosevelt was in the White House. And 9 years before the founding of the NBA.
Go Wreckers!
There could be another historic moment this weekend too.
The boys could be joined by the Staples girls basketball team.
The Wreckers’ girls state tournament semifinal game tips off at 6 p.m. tonight (Tuesday), at Bethel High School.
The Wreckers — seeded #3 in Division II — take on #10 Bristol Central.
Speaking of sports: Sports Business Journal just unveiled the nominees for their 2026 Sports Business Awards Executive of the Year.
Astonishingly, 3 of the 5 are from Westport.
They are NBC Sports president Rick Cordella, ESPN president Jimmy Pitaro, and TKO Group Holdings president and COO Mark Shapiro. (The 2 non-Westport nominees are 23XI Racing co-owner Michael Jordan, and TWG Global CEO Mark Walter.
Cordella — who would be the first NBC Sports leader to win the award since Dick Ebersol in 2009 — oversaw the NBA’s return to NBC, the Super Bowl and the Winter Olympics in Milan Cortina, and negotiated a 3-year deal for MLB to return to the network this season.
Pitaro won the award in 2020. He led the re-launch of the DTC-focused ESPN app, the acquisition of key assets within NFL Media and a renegotiated MLB media deal, and was selected to the Broadcasting + Cable Hall of Fame.
Shapiro presided over TKO (the parent company of UFC, WWE, PBR, On Location and IMG). UFC agreed to a $7.7 billion, 7-year deal with Paramount Skydance, while WWE agreed to a $1.625 billion, 5-year deal with ESPN.
The 19th annual Sports Business Awards ceremony — including 14 other categories — will be presented May 20 at the New York Marriott Marquis Times Square.
Good luck to all 3 local nominees. Looks like there’s a 60% chance that the Sports Business Executive of the Year will be one of our neighbors.
Will they share an Uber to the event? (Or — more importantly — home?)
With 74 power outages in Westport (0.58% of customers), and a much more substantial 1,128 in Weston (29%), it’s a good time to remind readers that Office Evolution is a great option.
The co-working space opposite Westport fire headquarters on Post Road East offers free day passes to new customers, and discounts on hourly private office space.
It’s a great way to get work done, charge devices, and enjoy hi-speed Wi-fi.
Call (203-635-8770) or email (WestportCT@OfficeEvolution.com) — if you can!
Probate Judge Lisa Wexler is running for re-election, in the Westport-Weston district. She says:
“Being your probate judge for the last 13 years has been a great privilege. I have loved being able to help so many people in our community. I remain committed to fulfilling the responsibilities of probate judge with the utmost integrity, transparency and fairness. I hope that I have earned your trust and confidence for another term.
“Most people think that probate courts are only for wills, trusts and estates. But over half of our work involves people with special needs, including the elderly and those suffering from mental illness. As your probate judge, I use the tools available to me to try as best as I can to help those in our community who are the most vulnerable.”
Wexler has opened the court on Tuesday nights for public lectures, writes an email newsletter, appears at the Westport and Weston senior centers, and speaks before gatherings of trusts and estates professionals. She also made probate hearings available for the first time, via CDs.
A graduate of the New York University School of Law and Johns Hopkins University, she is a member of the Weston Kiwanis and Hadassah, and advisory board member to Jane Doe No More, and is a board member of The Jeffrey Modell Foundation.
Judge Lisa Wexler
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Last month, “06880” reported on Westport’s first-ever Mini Moguls Marketplace. The youth business fair — founded and organized by Staples High School junior Aanya Gandhi — drew (very) young vendors in grades 5–8, and plenty of shoppers, to the Westport Library.
Long Lots Elementary School students Leo Rubin and Luke Capolupo made and sold personalized necklaces. Their first sale was to an important customer: superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice.
The event jump-started their business. Since then, they’ve expanded sales at school. Leo then pitched the idea to ASF. The popular Post Road East store now carries their product.
An Instagram post says: “LL Creations’ beaded necklaces are made for players and true sports fans alike. Rep your passion, support young entrepreneurs, and give back — 10% of proceeds go to the Boys & Girls Club.”
David Berkman has been a major jazz voice for decades. Since his first visit to the Jazz at the Post — a soldout performance a few years ago with Antonio Hart — he has become a favorite at VFW Post 399.
This week, as the featured artist of JazzFC’s March Jazz Madness, he presents his own writing for quintet.
Berkman will be accompanied by saxophonists Billy Drewes and Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall, bassist David Ambrosio and drummer Jay Sawyer.
And finally … to all who celebrate today (and who doesn’t?):
(And on that note, may we ask for a bit o’ green today? If you’d like to support “06880” — and, ahem, this Danny Boy — please click here. Thanks — and may the luck of the Irish be with you!)
Maybe not “lonely.” But — as they so often did — the Beatles nailed the past few months.
We’ve had a classic New England winter.
Big snowfalls. Frigid temperatures. Gray days, one after another after another.
Pretty gross. (Photo/Dan Woog)
Yet — as it always does — spring beckons.
It arrives Friday, meteorologically.
It comes early next month, religiously. Once again, Passover and Easter share the same week.
The holidays — one celebrating freedom and redemption, the other renewal and resurrection — are annual reminders that life goes on, stronger than ever, as the world reawakens with colors and warmth.
Spring is a glorious time, whatever God you follow. Or none.
So — as Westporters spend more time outdoors, in the garden, at the beach, on playing fields, and everywhere else in town — what’s ahead?
The Cribari Bridge will continue to dominate many discussions. The road upon which the can has been kicked down for decades may finally reach a fork.
There’s still no clear direction for the future of the 143-year-old span, whose impact on the town is far broader than its 2 narrow lanes might seem.
We may know a lot more after Thursday’s 6 p.m. Town Hall meeting, when the state Department of Transportation meets the public.
Whatever follows will be the first big test of 1st Selectman Kevin Christie’s tenure. He’s been quiet so far. Let’s hope he’s assessed his options, spoken behind the scenes with all the players, and is ready to lead.
Springtime at the Cribari Bridge. (Photo/Fred Cantor)
Soon, the budget — actually 2; the town’s, and the larger Board of Education’s — heads to the Representative Town Meeting (RTM) for approval.
Last week, the Board of Finance voted unanimously in favor of the BOE’s $157.9 million request. But they vowed to keep a “sharper eye” on next year’s request.
That’s nothing like the situation in the 1970s and early ’80s, when budget battles were annual affairs. Sides were clearly drawn: one claiming every penny was necessary for education, the other (including an actual “Taxwatchers Party”) demanding deep cuts.
There has been great cooperation recently between the BOF and BOE. Several drivers of the budget increase — especially healthcare costs — are largely out of the town’s control.
Renovation of Coleytown Elementary School will be an upcoming budget item.
But events both local (like the recent revaluation) and national (the war in Iran, gas prices, inflation) may impact Westport in the year to come.
We’re not yet talking much about those issues (though the Board of Assessment Appeals is plowing through a number of re-revaluation requests).
We soon may be.
I feel that ice is slowly melting …
We’re all ready to head outdoors.
Al fresco dining returns soon, all over town. Once again, Church Lane will be closed to cars. A tradition begun 6 years ago, in the very dark days of the pandemic, will continue, bringing the community together around food and music.
A new concessionaire may take over at Compo Beach and Longshore (if not, there will be food trucks).
At Longshore too, work continues on the Inn. The renovation is on schedule; it will reopen soon, as a wonderful, newly improved sparkle in one of our town’s true jewels.
Artist’s rendering of the renovated Inn at Longshore.
Old Mill Grocery will pulse with energy too. A couple of NIMBY neighbors are trying to stop the sale of alcohol, and the use of outdoor tables and a gelato cart. The existence of the 107-year-old beloved neighborhood spot remains in doubt. But for now, it’s lived to serve us for another season.
Spring returns soon to Westport.
All is not right with our town, or the world.
But after a long, cold, lonely winter, we’ll take what we can get.
Here comes the sun … it’s all right.
(“06880” covers everything under the Westport sun. If you enjoy stories like this — or anything else on our hyper-local blog — please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
Among the items on tomorrow’s Planning & Zoning Commission meeting (Monday, March 16, 6 p.m., Zoom): a pre-application submitted by Richard Redniss, to “discuss some of the ways for Westport to positively respond to the requirements of 8002 prior to 7/1/2026.”
“8022” is the legislation that — among other things — incentivizes towns to take steps to allow more housing, requires towns to create housing growth plans, and eliminates most off-street parking requirements for developments of less than 12 units.
Redniss — principal of Redniss & Mead land use consultants — tells “06880” that the new regulation gives towns .25 of a moratorium point (toward meeting the 10% threshold for affordable housing units) for any new multi-family housing of between 2 and 9 units.
“It’s a carrot by the state” to help solve the broader housing crisis, regardless of cost.
At the P&Z session, Redniss will describe 3 projects he’s working on now. One involves either 17 units (3 of them deemed “affordable,” by state formula), or 9 (with none affordable).
Another — in a “beautiful downtown location” — could have 15 units; by current regulations to earn moratorium points, 2 would have to be affordable. However, Redniss says, because of the cost of land on the river, and with floodplain and slope issues, the economics with 2 affordable units would be “very difficult.”
8002 is “a big learning curve for everyone” — developers and town officials alike, Redniss notes. “How do we deal with this in a practical way?”
The bill — whose initial provisions take effect July 1 — is “very complicated. It’s 100 pages long.”
He and the P&Z begin discussing the implications — for only those projects with between 2 and 9 units — on Monday.
Rick Redniss
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The Westport Fire Department is filled with heroes.
But 5 are official “Hero to Heroes.”
They’re graduates of “Hero to Hero,” a non-profit that help highly qualified military members transition to first responder careers. It’s a win-win-win — for the servicemembers, their employers, and the entire community.
On March 28 (5:30 p.m., Saugatuck Rowing Club), a special event will raise awareness of “Hero to Hero” — and raise funds for an independent film, which will raise even more funds for the organization.
The “Blue Bunny” film project is led by Rita Marcocci, a Westport resident and award-winning producer.
It’s a moving story of sacrifice and friendship, weaving between Operation Iraqi Freedom, and the present-day bond between a former commander and his soldier.
Speaking of heroes: Congratulations to Dave Farrell!
Westport’s police chief was inducted Thursday into Notre Dame Prep’s Alumni Hall of Fame.
The recognition highlights his leadership, dedication to service, and lasting impact within the Westport Police Department, and the broader community too.
Westport Police Chief Dave Farrell
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Brubeck comes to Mo\CT.
Not Dave — but close.
The Brubeck Brothers Quartet — led by brothers Chris and Dan — headline “A Speakeasy Jazz Night” April 12 (6 p.m.).
Concert-goers will be surrounded by the art of MoCA’s current exhibition, Art, Jazz + The Blues.”
VIP tickets ($150 per person; tables and lounges for 4 and 6) include a meet-and-greet with the musicians; a special edition t-shirt by Westport artist Miggs Burroughs; preferred seating; personal bar service. and signature cocktails and light bites by A&S Westport.
General admission ($50) includes drinks and light bites.
As St. Patrick’s Day looms — with Passover and Easter not far behind — Dave Briggs spent yesterday taking down his Christmas lights.
But he has neighbors whose lights are still up. And every night, they’re on.
The TV journalist/social media master asks: “What’s the latest date you’ve taken your holiday decorations down? At some point, is it okay just to leave them up for next year?”
Click here or below to see his Instagram on these important questions — and to answer them.
Much of March is usually pretty gross, weather-wise.
It’s windy. The skies are often gray. There are a couple of tantalizingly nice spring days, then we snap back to a reminder that it’s still a few weeks away.
But this March, things are even grosser.
Enormous piles of snow — calcified into a hard, brown mass by tons of sand that froze in January, and shows no signs of thawing any time soon — loom in parking lots and on roadsides all around town.
They’re ugly. They’re depressing. And — not for nothing — they take up valuable parking spots.
This is the scene at a medical office complex on Riverside:
(Photo/Dan Woog)
Others — at the YMCA and Staples, on Imperial Avenue and nearly everywhere else — are bigger, darker, even uglier.
So what’s ahead?
Today’s high will be 44. Tomorrow it will reach 58 — with a chance of thunderstorms.
The rest of the week, look for 30s and 40s.
With partly cloudy skies, every day.
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Speaking of which: Is this (below) just a pile of all sand?
Or sand covering snow?
Whatever. Today’s “Westport … Naturally” image is a reminder that — whatever is going on in the rest of town, and no matter what the season — this place is always there for us.
(Photo/Mary Lou Roels)
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And finally … in honor of Dave Brubeck, whose sons will be playing soon at MoCA\CT (story above):
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