Jack Thompson is a senior at Greens Farms Academy, and co-chairs the Westport Youth Commission. He helped produce last year’s 1st selectman candidate debate at Toquet Hall, and looked forward to a similar role with this year’s election. Jack writes:
I joined the Westport Youth Commission because student engagement in local government is rare, and being part of this organization would let me be heard.
I put that to the test last year, when I helped organize a first selectman forum as a lead-up to the election. It was a great learning experience, and opened a lot of eyes on how students can be engaged in the political process.
Jack Thompson (left) and Jake Shufro, at last year’s Westport Youth Commission 1st selectman candidates’ debate.
This year, a candidate running for the 136th state House of Representatives approached the WYC about holding a similar forum.
We did some research, and learned that the League of Women Voters has been unable to hold candidate events due to their “empty chair” policy. Due to their nonpartisan position (us too!), they can’t hold events with only one candidate.
We felt that both the town and candidates were losing out, as these events provide important, symbiotic context: We as citizens learn our candidates’ positions, and they learn what’s important to us.
With that in mind, we wanted to see what we could do. We started planning a candidate event for October 29. We invited both Democrat Lee Goldstein and Republican Douglas Ouellette, with the stipulation that both needed to agree for us to host the event.
Screenshot from Ballotpedia, a site that offers “unbiased information to educate and inform American voters.”
We only heard from Lee Goldstein, who responded “yes,” so, in accordance with LWV policy, we canceled the event. This was extremely unfortunate, as it would have provided all of Westport’s citizens and youth an opportunity to hear from the candidates running to represent them in Hartford.
So what do we do now? As a group, we debated next steps and decided not to be deterred.
We are exploring an event after the election that would be sponsored by the LWV, and moderated by Dan Woog and students.
There are two reasons we arrived at this decision: We want to raise student political engagement and awareness, and it provides an opportunity for our new state representatives to hear from us, about what’s important and how we want to be represented.
It will also give students a chance to share their stance on issues we care about, like AI, social media and local transportation.
We plan to make it technology-interactive, with a live polling system so representatives can see how Westport citizens feel about key issues.
My fellow WYC members and I are excited to plan this event, and look forward to sharing more details after the election.
(“Students Speak” is a forum for all students, who live in or attend school in Westport and Weston. Email submissions to 06880blog@gmail.net. To support this hyper-local blog, click here. Thank you!)
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Meanwhile, the Leagues of Women Voters of Lower Fairfield County are sponsoring a debate with the 3 candidates for Congress from Connecticut’s 4th District: Democratic Jim Himes, Republican Michael Goldstein and independent Benjamin Wesley.
Tickets are going fast for the 4th annual “Historic Homes of 06880” house tour.
The Sunday, November 1 event — produced in collaboration with the great KMS Team at Compass crew — is our biggest yet.
There are 5 homes — one more than usual — and we’ve added an extra hour (12 to 4 p.m.).
This year’s homes are spectacular. Each is historic, and retains its original look and feel; all have been adapted thoughtfully and beautifully, for today’s lifestyle.
They include:
The 100-year-old stone residence, with renovated gardens, ponds and fountains, at 50 Sylvan Road North (former home of actor Frank Gorshin, The Riddler on “Batman”)
“9 Hearths” (actually 11), owned by former 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker nearby, at 56 Sylvan Road North
50 Turkey Hill North, the much-admired former inn and tavern across from St. Luke Church, owned for over a century by the Burr and Banks families
311 Greens Farms Road, one of the oldest homes in Westport; featuring original flooring and beams, with a complementary addition
217 Compo Road South, an 1855 Victorian farmhouse and carriage house that epitomize thoughtful renovation, with history at the forefront.
One of the town’s tastiest and most fun fundraisers is set for next month.
Sunrise Rotary’s 35th annual “Westport Uncorked” returns to the newly renovated Inn at Longshore November 5 (6 to 9 p.m.).
The evening — with special wine, great food, and very interesting guests — features 100 sustainable and organic wines, curated by Cory D’Addario of The Fine Wine Company. Distributors are on hand too, to describe the back story of each.
Guests also enjoy hors d’oeuvres, a creative charcuterie and carving station, all complementing the many wines. Knipschildt will also provide samples of their handmade chocolate.
Speaking of spirits: Wakeman Town Farm’s annual Beer Garden is on tap (ho ho) next Sunday (October 18, noon to 4 p.m.).
And — because it’s a family-friendly event — everyone is invited.
Highlights include live music, lawn games, bubbles, animal encounters and seasonal crafts.
There are tons of lunch options and goodies for purchase, including Pizza by Tony Napolitano, the Food Truck Refinery and baked treats.
Greens Farms Spirit Shop is providing the suds, from nearly a dozen local breweries.
Tickets are $15 for adults; kids go free. Food, beverage and craft purchases are a la carte. Proceeds benefit WTF educational programs. Click here for tickets, and more information.
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A host of Boldface Names were on hand Friday at the Natural History Museum in London, for the 5th annual awards ceremony and benefit for the Clooney Foundation for Justice.
The New York Times says, “The Albies, as the black-tie gala is known, focus on ‘brave individuals and groups from around the globe who, at great personal risk, have devoted their lives to fighting for justice.'”
Among the honorees: Lynsey Addario. The 1991 Staples High School graduate is a Pulitzer Prize- and MacArthur Fellow-winning photojournalist and author.
“The need for pointing out people who are justice warriors just never seems to subside,” George Clooney — whose father was a journalist — said.
“We’re under a huge amount of pressure,” Christiane Amanpour added. “There’s a whole scope of dangers.”
Speaking of notable Westporters: At the end of Dennis House’s interview with Governor Ned Lamont, the WTNH host asked, “Who plays Ryan Fazio in your debate prep?”
After first not providing a name, Lamont singled out Will Haskell as offering “youthful energy” while playing the Republican state senator from Greenwich, who hopes to unseat the 2-term incumbent.
House mistakenly identified Haskell as being from Greenwich. As Westporters know, he is the 2014 Staples High School graduate who served 2 terms as a very young state senator (2019-2023).
After writing a book about his experience, Haskell headed to law school. He has now graduated. He remains active in politics — much to Governor Lamont’s debate prep delight. (Hat tip: Neil Brickley)
Governor Ned Lamont and Dennis House, discussing Will Haskell.
With Halloween near, Westporters are getting in the ghostly spirit.
This house on Bradley Street is a particularly creative example. If you’d like to show off your home — or a neighbor’s, or stranger’s — email 06880blog@gmail. com.
The business — originally Knitting Central, then Westport Yarns, now since 2025 under Beth Berkowitz’s ownership — will relocate from 582 Post Road East, to 420 Post Road West. It’s just 2 miles away, across from Whole Foods.
It’s a popular spot, with knowledgeable staff and loyal customers who love to crochet and knit.
A reader writes: “I’m not normally one of ‘those people,’ but I guess for this one I will be.
“This lost dog was found on September 7. Yet the lost dog posters are still everywhere on Post Road near Stop & Shop. Almost every other pole has a sign taped to it — the bus stop too.
“I’m really happy she was found. But come on: Clean up after yourself!”
That’s a great reminder — and not just for lost dogs.
Hey, Westport: If you put up a flyer, poster — or (especially) a yard sign on a traffic island or sidewalk advertising an upcoming tag sale, sports tryout or other event– take it down as soon as it’s over. (NOTE: Election Day is November 3!)
And if your sign is advertising a business: Take it down now. It’s illegal.
In 1773, American colonists disguised as Mohawk and Narragansett Indians dumped 340 chests of tea into Boston Harbor. They were rejecting the right of the British Parliament to tax them without representation.
Over 250 years later — this morning, on Indigenous Peoples Day — a group of Westporters gathered on the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge.
Gathering on the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge.
Disguised as patriots, the Statue of Liberty and more, they dumped a large “T” into the Saugatuck River. They were rejecting the actions of President Trump.
Dumping the “T.”
Trump was one “T” in this modern day “T Party.” The small group carried placards with a long list of other “T”s that, they said, epitomized today’s abrogation of America’s hard-won system of constitutional checks and balances: tariffs, tyranny, terror, torture, turmoil, threats, taunts, tirades, terminations and more.
(All photos/Dan Woog)
It was a low-key event — far less dramatic than the patriots’ Tea Party. It will not lead to a Revolutionary War.
But, participants said, they hoped it would lead to a spotlight on today’s politics.
And on the importance of voting in the coming election our forefathers fought so hard to ensure.
But plenty of Westporters knew. hi’Amba — Bill Taibe’s new eastern Mediterranean restaurant and market, in the space recently vacated by Basso — was packed all day yesterday.
Customers loved the ground floor bakery; the dips, salads, shawarma, skewers and more, and the indoor and outdoor dining.
hi’Amba is not yet open for dinner. In fact, after this weekend it will close for a couple of days, to prepare for the actual non-soft opening.
But judging by yesterday, one of Westport’s most creative and favorite restaurateurs has another smash.
Thursday’s Roundup included information that 3 Westport school bus drivers had been given citations for driving while using handheld phones.
That information was provided in error. Westport Police Lieutenant Anthony Prezioso explains:
“On October 1, the state of Connecticut made changes to the cellphone statutes for Utilizing a Handheld Mobile Device in a Motor Vehicle. The statute number was changed. This caused the physical order of the statutes in the mobile systems utilized by our officer to be shuffled.
“The new statute now appears in a list below the statutes that were not changed. This change came without advertisement and led to some initial confusion when officers could not find the appropriate (original) charge within our system. In all three cases, the arresting officer selected the wrong statute number when issuing/processing the citation.
“The Westport Police Department did not issue any citations to school bus operators. All 3 were standard cell phone violations without special circumstances. I have also since been in touch with our Board of Education to clarify this matter.”
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The League of Women voters has canceled its Tuesday’s debate at Earthplace. It
Republican candidate Alma Sarelli’s campaign told organizers that she would not participate in the event, for voters in the 26th State Senate District. Democrat Sam Nestor had already agreed to appear.
LWV rules mandate that at least 2 candidates must be involved for a League-sponsored debate.
Nestor told local media that Sarelli also failed to respond to invitations from the Wilton, Redding and Ridgefield Leagues of Women Voters, causing those groups to cancel debates as well.
The 26th Senate district covers 8 towns, including Westport and Weston.
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As Staples High School seniors work on their college applications, their parents are working to figure out how to pay for the next 4 years.
Even in Westport, financial factors play a role in selecting schools. 26% of Staples students qualify for financial aid.
Since 1941, Staples Tuition Grants has helped close the funding gap. Last spring:
81 students qualified for a need-based STG grant
Recipients received an average grant of $5,186, with a maximum grant of $7,500
Over 90 individuals, families and organizations privately funded named awards
More than 500 community members donated to STG
Yet with tuition rising, STG met only 13% of the financial gap
Staples Tuition Grants is asking Westporters and alumni to continue helping. For example:
Donate to one of over named award (the SLOBs Award, the STG Fun Run, Perrin Delorey the Max Harper Award, and many more)
Establish a new named award with a pledge of $2,000 a year, for at least four years ($8,000). Email donation@staplestuitiongrants.org
Gifts of $25,000 or more create an endow and permanent named awards, changing lives for generations.
Speaking of education: Westport resident Brian Rutter works with Higher Heights.
The New Haven-based non-profit empowers, equips and encourages college-bound students as they pursue post-secondary education.
From November 2 to 6, they need volunteers to help high school seniors in Bridgeport and New Haven with their college applications. That week, the state of Connecticut will waive application fees for seniors applying to a state college or university.
Students can also complete the Common Application to apply to HBCUs.
Rutter says, “this is a great volunteer project for Westporters. Many people possess the experience and skills to help these students.”
Specifically, Rutter seeks volunteers for Bridgeport’s Bassick, Central and Harding Highs, on November 5 and 6.
“It would be just a couple of hours of commitment for a life-changing moment for these students who need guidance and help,” he says.
Aspetuck Land Trust is hosting Joan Maloof — author of “Forty Ways to Know a Tree: Exploring Trees to Understand Nature” — for this year’s Haskins Lecture.
Despite the subject and the name — the Haskins family donated a 22-acre preserve on Green Acre Lane to the ALT — the event will be held indoors.
It’s set for the Westport Library (October 22, 7 p.m.).
Maloff will discuss the incredible life of trees, and how people today perceive ancient, undisturbed ecosystems.
A reminder: The first event in “06880”‘s newest venture — community celebrations of local businesses — is today (Saturday).
And everyone is invited.
From 5 to 7 p.m, “06880” and Kiin Sauna host “Community, Connection and Contrast.” KiiN is at 1555 Post Road East, next to Sherpa, Longevity, Zion and CT Sports Recovery — all wellness businesses too.
You’ll see friends and neighbors. Enjoy complimentary beverages. Meet KiiN founder Ginger Richardson, who will tell you all about the benefits of a sauna and cold plunge.
Ginger Richardson
If you feel adventurous, you can try a sauna and cold plunge yourself. (Sauna and plunge space is limited; click here to sign up.)
Ginger and her crew are great hosts. It’s a fun way to learn about a new spot in town.
Dave Briggs and I will host more events soon, all over town. We look forward to this new series. If your business would like to collaborate with us, email us: 06880blog@gmail.com.
Kevin Flynn knows the Westport Country Playhouse well. Each summer, he hosts an education program that teaches youngsters life skills, through stand-up comedy.
On October 26 (7 p.m.), Flynn — a stand-up comedian, professional soccer player, actor, television host, and founder/executive director of the Nantucket Comedy Festival — returns to the Playhouse, with “Fear of Heights.”
The show — part of the Barnstormer series — examines the American experience through the lens of his Irish-American family, including his father and grandfather (both steelworkers ).
In this very funny biographical work, he’ll explore what it means to be a man, and how one generation measures success relative to their forebears. Click here for tickets, and more information.
“Belles of Steel” — a new book by Jeanette Vaughan — features strong, resilient women who have changed their corner of the world.
They include military members, nurses, and more.
One is Mary-Lou Weisman.
The longtime Westporter is one of 30 women portrayed in the book. Her son Peter was diagnosed at age 2 1/2 with a fatal disease, Duchene muscular dystrophy. He died at 15, in 1980.
Purple Martins are the largest swallows in North America. They are also nearly totally dependent on humans for housing.
Sherwood Island is doing its part. These birdhouses have stood for a long time at our state park. Today, they’re featured in our “Westport … Naturally” series.
(Photo/Eric Bosch)
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And finally … on this date in 1845, the Naval School opened in Annapolis, Maryland with 50 students. Today it is known as the US Naval Academy.
On Wednesday, the Board of Finance unanimously voted to accept nearly $900,000 in federal funding, through a Safe Streets for All grant.
On November 10, the RTM will be asked to give final approval.
Walk Bike Westport — which has championed the grant — says, “board members asked thoughtful, challenging questions of the town’s Department of Public Works and consultant Tighe & Bond, emphasizing something we wholeheartedly agree with: Securing this funding is only the beginning. Making sure it’s spent wisely and leads to meaningful improvements is what matters most.”
Walk Bike Westport thanks 1st Selectman Kevin Christie, Public Works director Larry Roberts and town engineer Keith Wilberg for their presentations, and work on the proposal.
“We are proud to be part of this community and optimistic about the incredible potential Westport has to become a safer, more walkable and bikeable town,” organizers say.
Some of the participants in last year’s Bridge to Bridge walk.
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For a few weeks, residents have admired the town’s newest outdoor sculpture.
On Tuesday (October 13, 5 p.m.), Westport will formally welcome “The Couple,” with a reception at Riverside Park.
The sculpture was donated to the Westport Public Arts Collection by philanthropist and long-time Westporter Susan Malloy.
In 1991, she and her husband Edwin commissioned William King to create an aluminum 12-foot high 2-person grouping for their Dogwood Lane property.
After her death in 2015, “The Couple” was installed at Earthplace. When the Westport Arts Advisory Committee sought a more accessible and visible home for the work, they recommended Riverside Park.
The move was possible with the help of Susan’s family: granddaughter Meredith, son Timon and niece Ann Sheffer.
With support from Westport’s Parks & Recreation Department, the installation was completed in August.
WAAC oversees the installation and care of Westport’s sculptures and monuments. In addition to The Minuteman monument and Doughboy statue on Veterans Green, Westport maintains 15 sculptures on town and school property.
In 2024, WAAC initiated a “loan program” with area artists. For an annual stipend, sculptors loan their sculptures to Westport for 5 years.
Since 2024, WAAC has overseen the installation of 5 “borrowed” sculptures: “Passages” by Westporter Niki Ketchman (Pasacreta Park); “Tulip Bulb” by Emily Teal (Grace Salmon Park); “Egrets” by Babette Bloch (Canal Park); “Enso” by Mark Zaref (Eloise Ray Park), and “Queen of Hearts” by Carole Eisner (Westport Center for Senior Activities.) Click here for more information.
“The Couple,” at Riverside Park
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The weather is getting chillier. The Westport PAL Rink at Longshore is nearly ready to reopen.
And Mar Jennings is preparing to return as head coach and program director for the popular Learn to Skate program.
Jennings – a lifestyle expert, TV host and real estate agent — is also a world champion gold medalist. Under his leadership, the US Figure Skating-sanctioned program offers a welcoming, confidence-building environment for toddlers taking their first steps, youth developing competitive skills, and adults rediscovering their love of the ice.
The 10-week Learn to Skate curriculum provides progressive instruction, merit badge evaluations, and a supportive environment to nurture personal growth.
Westporter Sara Kempner is director of creative campaigns and collaborations at the US Vote Foundation. The nonpartisan non-profit helps millions of American citizens around the world cast ballots.
They get their message out in fun, creative ways. A recent campaign involved placing a QR code linked to voter registration on pizza boxes.
With flowers blooming behind Town Hall, and Connecticut’s new no-excuse absentee voting policy rolling out, Sara figured she’d feature her hometown in a national spot.
Click here or below for the result — starring local ballerina Isabella Corridon.
But that’s not all. Another reel will feature local yoga and Pilates teacher Vicki Lopez. She’ll show how breathing techniques can quell anxiety about voting (and how to use your time in the voting line well).
Three years after the October 7 attacks, Chabad of Westport will host Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi, former chief of the IDF General Staff, for an important community conversation.
This will be one of his first public speaking engagements since stepping down as chief of staff a year and a half ago.
The event is November 2 (7:30 p.m.; sponsor reception at 6:45).
Halevi served as Israel’s top military commander for 515 days following October 7, leading the IDF through one of the most consequential periods in Israel’s history.
A few times a year, a few lucky folks get to share a private Saturday morning of movement, breakfast, conversation and community, on a rooftop overlooking the Saugatuck River.
Jennifer Ruspini offers a chance to “step away from the noise. Say hello to the neighbor you have not had time to meet. Move gently. Enjoy the morning without pressure, a sales pitch, or a crowded room.” It’s complimentary, too — with gifts from Southern Tide.
Yesterday was moving day for the Sherwood Mill Pond crane.
After many months — many more months than expected — repairing the tidal gates, the project seems to be nearing an end.
This scene in the Old Mill Beach parking lot was no doubt welcomed by many nearby residents — so long as the machinery is finally gone.
(Photo/Matt Murray)
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Jude Siegel grew up in Westport. Her father owned Westport Pharmacy downtown, across from the Library on Post Road East. Jude is a 1964 Staples High School graduate.
Since 1973, she has lived in Oregon — first on farms in the Willamette Valley, now in Portland.
She has long taught nature and bird journaling — a combination of drawing, watercolor and writing — to children and adults.
“This time of year,” she says, “I get homesick for the land, beaches and beauty of Connecticut.”
Of course, it is beautiful in Oregon too. Jude captures that beauty every year, in a watercolor and pen bird calendar she draws and produces.
“Birds bring such joy to our daily lives,” she notes. “It gives me peace to draw and paint them. I like the idea that they then go out on the calendar pages to people all over, and grace their lives as well.
This year’s calendar is now available for purchase. They’re $35 each, plus $5 per calendar for shipping. Email colorfuljude@gmail.com. (Originals are available for purchase. Just ask!)
One month, in Jude Siegel’s 2027 calendar.
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From nature to music: The next Christ & Holy Trinity Church “Music & Arts” event is New York Polyphony. The 4-part choral ensemble — called “larger and more complex than the sum of its parts” by NPR — performs on October 17 (5 p.m.). A reception follows.
And finally … on this date in 1701, the Collegiate School of Connecticut was chartered in Old Saybrook. Today we know it as Yale University, in New Haven.
(Happy 325th anniversary, Yale! You’re just 308 years older than “06880.” And while they have a $44.1 billion endowment, we don’t. To help us close the gap, please click here. Thank you!)
Another national No Kings Day is set for October 17.
Events have been announced for Wilton, Stamford, Greenwich and Ridgefield — though nothing so far for Westport.
Yet whether there is a downtown protest or not, Scott Heckman is ready.
The grandfather of 4 3/4 kids — the 5th is due in December — moved here 4 years from Maryland.
“I’d rather watch my grandkids grow up then watch my friends grow old,” he says. (How old is Scott? He turns 65 on October 17 — No Kings Day!)
A corporate bond trader for nearly 4 decades, he’s also a longtime amateur guitar player and songwriter. “I only seem to write when I’m really happy, really sad or really mad,” he notes. “It’s pretty easy to figure out which emotion triggered this one.”
Scott Heckman
Some years ago, to surprise his daughter for their dance at at her wedding, Scott wrote and recorded “Walk Her Down the Aisle.”
The videographer posted the moment online. It quickly went viral.
“It was an incredible experience. But as a songwriter I’ve been a little blocked since then,” Scott says.
Then came No Kings.
“Given the political dissension and division in our country, I had simply had enough. I grew up proudly in the United States of America — not the divided one we seem to have become. I wanted to write something about that.”
He stresses, “I’m not anti-Republican. The song isn’t about telling people how to vote.
“I want us to get back to a country where we can disagree without seeing one another as enemies, and where ‘We the People’ still have the deciding voice. Hence, ‘No Kings.'”
Scott recorded the song in a barn/recording studio in Westtown, New York.
He played it for his friends Clinton Curtis and Geoff Countryman, classically trained musicians who worked with him on “Walk Her Down the Aisle.”
“I brought them a song written on an acoustic guitar, with a very faint pulse but, I believed, an important message. I gave them my vision for what I wanted it to become, and their talent and creativity gave it a throbbing heartbeat,” he says.
The video was created by longtime friend Alan Paley, who owns Hairless Dog Productions.
Scott explained how he envisioned the video. Alan brought that vision to life, through shots of Scott performing, news clips and images of America.
WFUV selected “No Kings” for its daily “New York Slice” feature, and debuted it last month.
Will Scott’s political song go as viral as his wedding one?
Who knows? But if it does, you may read about it somewhere.
So long as we have a free press.
(“No Kings” is available on Spotify, and other streaming platforms.)
(“06880” reports often on politics, entertainment, interesting Westporters — and, like today, their intersection. If you enjoy stories like this, please click here to support us. Thank you!)
In the wake of last month’s flooding, the Small Business Administration will provide low-interest loans for homeowners, renters, businesses and non-profits in Fairfield, New Haven and Litchfield Counties.
The declaration comes in response to a request Governor Lamont submitted to the SBA immediately after assessments conducted by SBA, state, and local officials determined that the damage from the storm exceeds the criteria necessary to qualify.
Specifically, the loans cover:
Homeowners: Up to $500,000 to repair their primary residence.
Homeowners and renters: Up to $100,000 to repair or replace damaged or destroyed personal property.
Business owners: Up to $2 million to replace real property, inventories, machinery, equipment and other physical losses.
Businesses and nonprofits: Loans of up to $2 million to provide working capital until normal operations resume.
Businesses like The Visual Brand that were damaged in the September 13 flood, as well as homeowners and renters, can apply for Small Business Administration loans.
The application deadline for physical damage loans is December 1. The application deadline for economic injury loans is July 2, 2027. To apply:
In-person: A temporary, in-person outreach center will open at the Margaret E. Morton Government Center at 999 Broad Street in Bridgeport beginning tomorrow (October 7).
It will operate Mondays through Fridays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Adjusted hours include 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. October 9, and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. October 20 and 21. It will be closed October 12, and close permanently after October 21.
Online: The MySBA Loan Portal at https://lending.sba.gov allows applicants to apply online, view loan details, check balances, make payments and access statements.
This morning, “06880” posted a story about Kevin Nealon’s appearance at this Friday’s “Stand Up For Homes with Hope” benefit at Fairfield University. The event is now sold out.
Great news for the non-profit that addresses homelessness and food insecurity. Bad news for the comedian’s many fans who missed out on tickets!
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Most Westporters seldom think about our water.
We turn on the tap. We drink it. We cook with it. We shower in it.
Ignacy Nieweglowski think about our water, though.
He’s not a hydrologist. He doesn’t work for Aquarion, or the town.
He’s a senior at Staples High School. He and classmate Sahil Vora co-founded the Health Tech Initiative. The entirely student-run public research organization tracks the state of lead contamination in Connecticut. Recently, they won a President’s Environmental Youth Award.
This Saturday (October 10, 9 a.m. to noon), the group will host a free Water Drive. It’s in the main lobby of Staples High.
Residents can bring water samples from their homes. Ignacy, Sahil and their club will screen it — free — for lead and heavy metals.
The results come back in just 3 minutes. They are then added to the Health Tech Initiative Lead Watch database.
For the most accurate results, do not run any water in the house for 8 hours (usually that’s overnight). Then collect a sample, after that stagnation period.
Along with the testing, the Health Tech Initiative will raffle off an automatic flushing system on behalf of their partner, Noah Systems. It automatically clears lead from home pipes.
Any money raised or donated will help fund the group’s project: testing every Westport public school and many public facilities for lead.
Sahil Vora and Ignacy Nieweglowski, with the Presidential awards.
A reminder: The first event in “06880”‘s newest venture — community celebrations of local businesses — is set for this Saturday.
And everyone is invited.
On October 10 (5 to 7 p.m), “06880” and Kiin Sauna host “Community, Connection and Contrast.” KiiN is at 1555 Post Road East, next to Sherpa, Longevity, Zion and CT Sports Recovery — all wellness businesses too.
You’ll see friends and neighbors. Enjoy complimentary beverages. Meet KiiN founder Ginger Richardson, who will tell you all about the benefits of a sauna and cold plunge.
Ginger Richardson
If you feel adventurous, you can try a sauna and cold plunge yourself. (Sauna and plunge space is limited; click here to sign up.)
Ginger and her crew are great hosts. It’s a fun way to learn about a new spot in town.
Dave Briggs and I will host more events soon, all over town. We look forward to this new series. If your business would like to collaborate with us, email us: 06880blog@gmail.com.
This year’s event — the 4th annual fundraiser, supporting Westport’s first responders and veteran community — is Saturday, October 17 (6 to 8 p.m. VFW Post 399).
Greg Gunter of the Westport Police Department is the defending 3-time champion. Can he make it 4 straight?
Attendees vote for their favorite, among a wide variety of homemade recipes. There’s plenty of other great food, a 50/50 raffle, and a healthy heaping of community spirit.
Tickets are $25, at the VFW in advance or at the door. Proceeds benefit the VFW, Fire Department, Police Department and Volunteer Emergency Medical Services.
Questions? Email vfw399ct@gmail.com, or call 203-227-6796.
Here in District 4, it’s been a low-key race for US Congress.
On October 19 (7 p.m., Westport Library), the Lower Fairfield County Leagues of Women hosts a debate. The 3 candidates — Democratic incumbent Jim Himes, Republican Michael Ted Goldstein and Independent Benjamin Wesley — will participate.
Paula Morgan is the Westport Book Shop’s guest exhibitor for October.
She works primarily in oils, exploring the quiet moments and enduring light of coastal New England.
Paula has been a visual arts educator for over 2 decades. She is a member of The Artists Collective of Westport, and her work is exhibited in galleries throughout New England.
A reception is set for this Thursday (October 8, 6 to 7:30 p.m.
Paula’s work will be on display all month, and available for purchase.
Rain postponed the Slice of Saugatuck from last week to today.
It rained briefly yesterday too. But that did not step a crew of Staples Service League of Boys (SLOBs) — and their moms — from helping set up for this afternoon’s Slice.
The 14th annual Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce event takes place from 2 to 5 p.m., all around Saugatuck. Click here for full details.
SLOBs and moms set up for the Slice of Saugatuck.
The Slice is not the only big event today.
Also on tap:
Westoberfest, sponsored by the Westport Downtown Association (1 to 5 p.m., Elm Street); click here for details.
The Artists Collective of Westport’s annual trunk show is much more than, well, art sold from actual car trunks.
There’s music and food (and easels, panels and tables too).
The next one is tomorrow (Sunday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.), at the Westport Library’s lower parking lot.
Bring a large vehicle, to haul away your purchases.
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Westport resident Scott Foley joins Harrison Ford, Jason Segel and Jessica Williams for season 4 of Apple TV’s “Shrinking.
He’ll play a therapy patient, in the show about a grieving therapist who tells his clients exactly what he thinks.
Foley is a busy man. According to Deadline, he’ll also appear in a regular role on the Hulu pilot “Young Americans,” playing Judd Burchfield, president of the US.
And he’ll return too as Sean Kelly, in the second season of ABC’s “Scrubs” revival.
The first absentee ballot of this election season was given to Ken Stamm.
He reports, “There was no line in Room 105. But they did have a tray of outgoing ones, which by law had to wait until Friday to be mailed out.”
For the first time, Ken notes, there is no need to be out of town, or sick, to receive an absentee ballot.
The envelope looks a bit different, he says. But the drop box behind Town Hall is there, as always.
2026 ballot materials. (Photo/Ken Stamm)
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Scott Froschauer — a noted artist, sculptor and 1988 Staples High School graduate, whose “colorful public artworks turned familiar street signs into messages of kindness, optimism and reflection,” died Wednesday, according to WeHo Times. He was 57, and friends said he died peacefully in his sleep.
Scott Froschauer, with one of his signs in West Hollywood. (Photo courtesy of WeHo Times)
Ann Sheffer — the 1966 Staples graduate active in the arts scene both here and in Southern California — commissioned one of Scott’s signs for the Westport Arts Advisory Committee. Placed downtown, it celebrated Miggs Burroughs and Ann Chernow’s “Welcome to Art Town” newspaper column.
And finally … there’s a lot going on in Westport today (story above). Cue the action!
(Of course, “06880” is always where the action is. And the stories, news, comments, photos — you name it, it’s here. If you enjoy all the action, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
That’s because they know tomorrow is October 1. And that means dogs are allowed back on Compo Beach!
The next 6 months belong to the dogs. But remember:
Dogs are prohibited from the pavilion, playground and walkways.
All dogs must be leashed, except for the off-leash area south of the pavilion (including South Beach).
Pick up your pup’s poop. It’s the law! (With a $77 fine.)
Remember too: dogs are not permitted on town athletic fields or playgrounds at any time.
Happy (dog) days are here again! (Photo/Mark Mathias)
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After months of debate, lights on the Wakeman and PJ Romano athletic fields will come to a vote on Monday.
The Planning & Zoning Commission meets (October 5, 6 p.m., Zoom) to render a decision. The public portion of the meetings has ended; this will be a work session.
The public can weigh in, however, on a separate agenda item: a text and map amendment that would permit outdoor eating areas, and the sale of alcohol for on-premises consumption, in districts like the one that includes Old Mill Grocery & Deli).
For meeting materials click here, then scroll down to 222 Hillspoint Road and Food and Beverage Planned Development District.
Wakeman, one of 2 fields considered for permanent lighting.
Speaking of Old Mill Grocery & Deli: Romanacci’s — operators of the business — said goodbye to the community last night. Dozens of friends and customers — from the neighborhood, and far beyond — enjoyed food and drinks, courtesy of owners Graziano and Maurizio Ricci.
They opted not to renew their lease of the iconic market. They enjoyed their time, and did not lose money. But they’re turning their attention to a new restaurant, opening soon in Darien.
The last night at OMG.
Soundview Empowerment Alliance — owners of the 107-year-old building — are in talks with potential new operators. Though OMG is now closed, they hope for a fairly quick reopening.
They hope too for a positive vote from the Planning & Zoning Commission on Monday, on a text amendment that would permit outdoor dining, and the sale of alcohol (see item above).
Catching up at Old Mill Grocery & Deli (from left): Representative Town Meeting member Jimmy Izzo, former 2nd selectwoman Andrea Moore, former 1st selectwoman Jen Tooker. (Photos/Dan Woog)
Does our beloved American flag unite us today? Or does it divide us?
That’s the question explored by a wide variety of citizens in “Flagged,” a documentary co-written and directed by a woman who lost her firefighter husband on 9/11.
It will be screened October 7 (5:30 p.m., Earthplace amphitheater). The event includes snacks and beverages, a guided conversation after the film, and an appearance by singer Suzanne Sheridan.
Dr. Christina Cipriano is earning notice with her latest book: “Be Unapologetically Impatient: The Mindset Required to Change the Way We Do Things.” It is a guide for creating meaningful, urgent change in the lives of children and families.
On October 20 (7 p.m., Westport Library), Westport Together hosts her, for a talk. Her work advances inclusive and equitable social and emotional learning research, practice and policy worldwide.
Parents are invited to an “interactive, neuro-affirming conversation focused on helping neuro-divergent children build self-understanding and self-advocacy, while also fostering healthy communication, connection, and understanding among siblings.”
The event (October 22, 7:30 p.m., Pizza Lyfe) is sponsored by NeuroMind Services x UniquelyMothering.
Mah jongg is the star of local author Marsha Temlock’s latest novel.
“Monday’s MahJongg is a Mystery” will be published this month. Like her previous work, it features 4 women who bond and support each other while playing the popular game.
Anna — one of the Monday players — is desperate for a family after multiple failures to carry to term. Her husband is unwilling to donate his sperm, so she appeals to her fellow players to help her find a donor.
To what degree are her friends willing to violate their conscience to help Anna realize her dream of motherhood? What secret is Bert harboring that makes him opposed to helping the wife he adores? Can the weekly mah jongg game withstand the revelation of secrets that shatter and tumble when play begins?
And finally … the item about a flag documentary (above) got us thinking about flags.
Then of course there is this classic, for every flag, all over the world:
(Does our flag unite or divide us? The jury’s out. But it’s clear that “06880” brings Westport together. If you like being part of our online community, please click here to support our work. Thanks!)
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