One commenter said, “These people aren’t Christian.”
Another wrote that reading rooms “promote dangerous medical misinformation.”
A third reader — citing “4 major measles outbreaks between 1985 and 1994” — said that the Christian Scientists who did not treat children “should have been charged with murder and executed.”
Those words shocked and upset one long-time reader. Asking for anonymity, due to the “nastiness” of the comments, the reader writes:
I spent my childhood in the Westport Christian Science branch church, although I no longer attend any church. I choose to stay out of all organized religion at this time in my life.
We were part of the Westport church before it became the large and beautiful building it is today. We were there when it was the old army barracks building, and I loved that building as a church. The Sunday school was beautiful. And the sanctuary cozy and loving.
Westport’s First Church of Christ, Scientist …
The members were some of the most loving, caring, successful members of the church and Westport society. We had famous artists, musicians, actors, broadcasters, Madison Avenue men, realtors, lawyers and beautiful families. It was a wonderful atmosphere to grow up in.
To paint this broad brush of all Christian Scientists as some of the comments did? And in such a way that isn’t totally accurate, especially about most Christian Scientists?
Most people I’ve stayed in touch with received the COVID vaccine, and most are willing to vaccinate their children. As I understand it, they desire to obey the laws of land. Most do.
And many members of the church will go to doctors if need be. I know many Christian Scientists who have had surgery and received medical care if necessary. It is an individual choice, and many choose medical help from time to time.
… and the new reading room.
What I’m addressing mostly is the hate and nastiness of the comments on this post. Anyone is entitled to their opinion, but the cruel and nasty comments aren’t true of most Christian Scientists. It is like commenting on a whole race of people, and saying that a whole race of people are like the actions of a few.
Never paint a whole group with the actions of a few of a group. And people grow, and churches grow and learn.
My experiences with the medical world have been excellent. We have found many doctors and nurses willing to pray with their patients. I’ve seen a circle of nurses holding hands and praying with a patient.
Healing prayer and medicine aren’t as separate as depicted by some of the commenters. The gap is closing. I’m sorry if that is offensive to some. But it is what I’ve witnessed personally, as I pray every day.
I could say a lot more but I felt I had to speak to the most unkind and un-Christian comments. I will not even debate the “not Christian: debate. I guess the Lutherans started by Martin Luther would have issues too, as their church was started by a man.
Mostly, we need to give each other some room and some grace in this world. I hope the commenters can reflect on the hatred and judgment that came across in their writing. Talking about executing people??
It’s very easy to explode behind a keyboard, and it’s not what we all need now to lift up our world.
(Our “06880” Opinion pages are open to all. Please send submissions to 06880blog@gmail.com. To support this hyper-local blog, please click here.)
The superintendent of schools has long been the town of Westport’s highest paid employee.
Next year, Thomas Scarice will make 3% more.
Last night, the Board of Education voted unanimously to raise his base salary to $344,563. His rolling 3-year contract has been extended every year since he took the Westport Public Schools’ top job in 2020.
The action came after the Board offered similar 3% raises to 4 top district officials.
Chief financial officer Elio Longo will make $281,949. The 3 assistant superintendents are: pupil services Mike Rizzo ($260,205), human resources John Bayers ($251,070), and teaching and planning Anna Mahon ($247,200).
Superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice. (Photo/Dan Woog)
Speaking of schools: The Coleytown Company curtain is closing on the directing career of Ben Frimmer.
After more than 30 years of leading the middle school drama troupe, the program’s founder is stepping off stage.
Frimmer says, “This program has been one of the greatest joys of my life. It has been an honor to work with so many talented students and supportive families over the years, and I am incredibly proud of the community we have built together.”
His work as a Broadway and West End producer has grown significantly, he says. With “The Hunger Games: On Stage,” “John Proctor is the Villain” and “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” — plus other projects in development — he must “devote more time to this exciting chapter of my career.”
Katie Bloom will take over as Coleytown Company director.
“Katie brings tremendous experience, having spent more than 20 years as a Westport educator while also running her own successful theatre company in Newtown,” Frimmer says.
“She is an outstanding teacher, director and leader, and I know the program will flourish under her guidance. She will also be supported by our experienced Coleytown Company staff, who know the program and its traditions well.”
Frimmer will continue to teach at CMS. And, he says, he will watch “with great excitement as Katie leads the next chapter of this remarkable program.”
As the thermometer soars past 90, severe thunderstorms threaten and air quality deteriorates, Westport preparing for the next 3 days.
These cooling centers will be open:
Senior Center: Friday only, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Westport Library: Friday and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday 1 to 5 p.m.
Westport Weston Family YMCA (14 Allen Raymond Lane): Friday, 5:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Westport Museum for History & Culture: Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
For help or transportation, call 211 or click here.
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The moment Patty Haberstroh was diagnosed with ALS, her family leaped to help her. And to raise funds for every other person battling the disease, and their families.
Her son Steve is gearing up for his 3rd 100 Holes to Defeat ALS golf event.
In just 4 years, it’s grown from 2 golfers to 32. This year alone, they’ve raised $650,000 — and, Steve says, “we haven’t even teed it up yet.”
The corporate sponsor outing at The Country Club of New Canaan this Monday is already sold out.
The next day (Tuesday, June 16) Steve plays the “100 holes” at Keney Park in Windsor. (Hey, someone’s gotta do it!)
That evening Steve’s brother Chuck and ESPN’s (and Westport’s) Dan Orlovsky emcee a gala, with a live auction. They hope to raise $100,000.
There are Westport connections to the events, besides the Haberstrohs and Orlovsky.
Experience Camps –headquartered here — is one of 3 fundraising recipients. “100 Holes” co-founder Cory Sullivan attended a camp — for children who have lost parents — years ago, after his father died from ALS. It was so impactful, he later spent years as a counselor.
Several Westport families are now battling ALS. “We won’t stop fighting until there are cures,” Haberstroh says.
For more info on the events, and to contribute, click here.
For the 47th year, the Point to Point Swim takes place this summer. Save the date: Saturday, July 25.
And — as it has for nearly 5 decades — the Compo Beach event brings together swimmers of all levels. First-time open water participants join seasoned competitors, for a fun and meaningful morning.
Funds raised help children and families access camp, swim lessons, water safety, and youth development programs.
A good crowd turned out yesterday for the Westport Farmers’ Market.
Held every Thursday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. through November, at the Imperial Avenue parking lot, it’s a true community event.
Live music and lunchtime food stalls complement more than 2 dozen vendors. Fresh produce, breads, herbs, flowers, juices, honey, coffee … it’s all there, and more.
He’s graduating from Weston High School. And the singer/songwriter just released his second single, “Hundreds of Miles.”
The track captures the emotional experience of entering a new chapter of life. It’s available on all major streaming platforms, including Spotify and Apple Music.
Produced in collaboration with Factory Underground Studio in Norwalk, the song reflects on distance, growth and connection, at a time of life transitions.
While strongly resonating with the Class of 2026 — and called “the graduation song of the year” — “Hundreds of Miles” is relatable to anyone navigating change or separation. The song balances nostalgia with optimism, offering reassurance that meaningful relationships can endure even as people move in different directions.
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On Tuesday — after, no doubt, thinking about it for a while — someone decided it was “time” to take this piece from home to the transfer station.
(Photo/John McKinney)
No word on whether it was recycled, or someone (wisely) decided to reuse it.
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Jillian Elder’s Westport-themed designs are always popular.
Her new collection includes 6 designs that she’s been thinking about for years, and finally brought to life. Inspiration came from Robert Indiana’s “LOVE” statue, and the classic I ❤️ New York logo.
The pieces blend bold, nostalgic pop art with a modern, wearable twist.
Congratulations to Westport’s 4 newest Eagle Scouts.
Evie Bory, Lucas Gomez, Harrison Sydor and Charles Beckwith — members of Troops 39 and 139 — were recognized at a Court of Honor recently, at Green’s Farms Church.
From left: Evie Bory, Lucas Gomez, Harrison Sydor, Charles Beckwith.
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Lior Raz — co-creator and star of Netflix’s hit series “Fauda,” is coming to Westport.
Hosted by Chabad of Westport, the July 21 event is a chance to hear from one of Israel’s most recognized actors and storytellers. He will discuss his service in an elite IDF unit, the creation and global success of “Fauda,” and his perspective on current events in the Middle East.
A VIP reception begins at 6:30 p.m., followed by the main program at 7:30 p.m. The location will be provided upon registration. Proceeds from the event support Magen David Adom, Israel’s national emergency medical service.
The Parks & Recreation Department’s “Kickoff to Summer” — postponed from last month by rain — is back on the calendar.
The event is this Saturday (June 13, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.). The family fun day includes food trucks, touch-a-truck, bounce houses, climbing walls, face painting, raffle prizes and more.
Parks & Rec officials will be on hand, with information about many programs and services.
In addition, the new mural — hung recently on the side wall of The Sandbar concession stand — will be unveiled (10 a.m.). Staples student Luke Bernier is the artist; the Westport Arts Advisory Committee and Artists Collective of Westport helped make it happen.
Attendees must have a beach sticker to park. Walk-ins are welcome! And of course: no dogs.
Fun at last year’s Kickoff to Summer. (Photo/Katherine Phelps)
Yesterday was quite successful, for 2 Staples High School sports teams.
Bruce Schlegelmilch’s grand slam keyed a 13-2 victory over Norwalk, in the baseball state tournament quarterfinal.
Coach Jack McFarland’s Wreckers, now 17-7, move on to the state semifinals. They’ll face Fairfield Ludlowe on Tuesday, at a site and time to be determined.
The boys lacrosse team downed Wilton 10-6, in their state tourney quarterfinal.
That vaults coach Will Koshansky’s squad into their 4th state semifinal in 5 years. Seeded 5th, they meet #1 seed New Canaan on Tuesday, at a site and time to be announced.
Both teams are 17-4. Although the Rams are ranked first, Staples has defeated them 3 times this year. The most recent win came in a nail-biting FCIAC final.
Lachat Farm’s first Farmers Market is Friday, June 26 (4 to 8 p.m.).
The Weston spot offers a wide array of local vendors — and live music, with the Snake Skin Boots Band.
Many guests buy dinner from the tents and food trucks, plus beverages from the Barn Bar.
New vendors this year include Agape Premium (olive oils), Anchored Homestead (small batch seasonings) and Celtic Cottage (organic breads, scones and treats).
Redding Knives returns too — for sharpening during shopping.
Here is the full list of vendors:
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Craig Ferguson is nearly at the end of his Tartan Trek.
The Scotsman is walking over 3,200 miles across the US. He started in Los Angeles.
Over 100 days later, he’ll finish in Boston — just in time for Scotland’s opening World Cup match. (Next Saturday, June 13, vs. Haiti. It’s actually in Foxboro, 29 miles away. That’s okay — there are buses and trains.)
Fellow Scot David Lyons — now a Westport resident — has been following online. But he did not know that Ferguson’s route would take him through Westport.
Or that they’d meet.
But Lyons was drinking beer with a friend at Little Barn around 5 p.m. Friday, when the intrepid walker walked past.
Lyons rushed out. They chatted. And he made a donation. (The trek is a fundraiser (and awareness-raiser) for Scottish Action for Mental Health.
“Tartan Trekker” Craig Ferguson (right, obviously) and David Lyons.
Ferguson had walked 25 miles that day, with another 9 to go. The day before, he’d met the “real” Craig Ferguson (former “Late Late Show” host) in Central Park.
Another international-comes-to-Westport story: New York Times Pulitzer Prize-winning photographer (and 1988 Staples High School graduate) Tyler Hicks took a break from documenting the Ukraine war Thursday night.
He was at the Westport Library, for the opening reception of the Artists Collective of Westport’s summer exhibits, “American Journeys” and “Piece by Pieces.” His sister Darcy Hicks is a Collective member.
He posed (below) with artist Mark Yurkiw. The Westporter has been very active in Ukraine relief efforts.
Photo Mark Yurkiw and Tyler Hicks, NYT photogarapher, taking a break from documenting the Ukraine war To attend a Art fundraiser at Westport Library last night.
PS- There is a musical fundraiser for Ridgefield Responds & UAI this Sunday in Easton
Tyler Hicks (left) and Mark Yurkiw.
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Just in time for the 90-degree weekend, the crane involved in the Ned Dimes renovation project is gone. Much of the work has been completed.
Several readers asked “06880” what happened to the osprey nest, which the raptors built at the top of the crane.
We’re not sure. So we asked ChatGPT. It replied that ospreys are protected under the Migratory Bird Species Act.
“An active osprey nest (with eggs or chicks, or sometimes a nesting pair actively using it) is generally protected under federal law. Construction companies often must coordinate with wildlife agencies before moving a crane, removing a nest, or continuing activities that could cause nest failure.
“However, cranes create a common and well-recognized conflict with osprey nesting. In many cases, project owners work with agencies such as the US” Fish and Wildlife Service or state wildlife authorities to:
Delay certain activities until nesting is complete.
Obtain permits where available.
Install alternative nesting platforms nearby.
Remove nests before the breeding season begins, when allowed.
“For Connecticut specifically, the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection may also be involved because state protections can apply in addition to federal law.
“The key facts would be:
Was the nest occupied by osprey at the time?
Were there eggs or chicks?
Was the nest removed, or was construction simply taking place nearby?
Did the construction company have approval or guidance from wildlife authorities?”
Retaining wall work, on Compo Beach Road. (Photo/Totney Benson)
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The temperature was near 90 yesterday.
But it’s still early June. The water has not yet warmed up.
So while there was a good crowd at Sherwood Island State Park yesterday, only a few brave souls went into the water.
And those who did, did not venture far.
Here’s the view from Burying Hill Beach:
(Photo/Ed Simek)
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Exactly 100 years ago yesterday, Agatha Christie published what the British Crime Writers’ Association called the greatest crime novel ever written: “The Murder of Roger Ackroyd.”
To celebrate — and promote their upcoming production of the show by the same name — the Westport Country Playhouse has a special anniversary offer.
From now through Friday (June 12), anyone making a $100 donation to the Playhouse will get a free ticket to the play. (Limit 10 tickets per household.)
Westport’s 2 candidates running for statewide office — John Bolton (attorney general) and Jen Tooker (comptroller) joined fellow Republican Ryan Fazio (governor) in Stratford today.
The campaign season has begun. Bolton and Tooker are stumping — sometimes separately, sometimes together — around the state. (Hat tip: Sal Liccione)
From left in Stratford: John Bolton, Ryan Fazio, Troy Gargiulo (state representative candidate), Jen Tooker.
And if life hands you antisemitism, make shawarma.
Last month, someone across from The Blondinit restaurant yelled “F— Israel! You’re committing genocide” as Jonny Daniels left the Israeli restaurant. He posted about the incident on social media. The video went viral.
Now, The Blondinit invites the community to come together on Thursday (June 11) for “Stars, Stripes & Shawarma.”
The day and evening are dedicated to raising awareness about antisemitism, and its growing impact it on communities here and abroad.
Daniels — a British-Israeli activist and advocate for Jewish communities and the State of Israel — will be at the event.
Organizers say, “While the incident was deeply troubling, it also sparked a conversation about the importance of education, dialogue, and community engagement in confronting hatred and misinformation.
“Rather than allowing the moment to divide, The Blondinit and Daniels chose to transform it into an opportunity to bring people together, raise awareness, and support organizations dedicated to preserving Jewish history and combating antisemitism.”
Guests are encouraged to gather with friends and family for dinner at The Blondinit. Daniels will discuss modern antisemitism, the importance of education and remembrance, and the need for meaningful conversations rooted in understanding and humanity.
A portion of proceeds from sales throughout the day will be donated to From The Depths, an international organization dedicated to Holocaust remembrance, Jewish heritage preservation, education and humanitarian initiatives.
Shonda Rhimes gives plenty to Westport. She supports many great causes — some publicly, others behind the scenes.
We’re in good company.
She’s just given something to the Obama Presidential Center Museum: the Oval Office set from “Scandal.”
It’s the same one — noted here and below in this Bluesky post — used by “President Fitzgerald Grant” for 7 seasons.
Not gonna lie, this is a badass museum donation.🇺🇸 Shonda Rhimes donated the Oval Office set from Scandal, the same one fictional President Fitzgerald Grant called home for seven seasons.Now it’s part of the Obama Presidential Center Museum
The Long Lots School Building Committee offers a presentation of the elementary school and Stepping Stones pre-school project next Wednesday (June 10, 7 p.m., Town Hall auditorium).
The opening date has been pushed back to January 2028.
Artist’s rendering of the new Long Lots Elementary School.
For many people, the Westport Library is a home away from home.
And “home” is the theme, as Storytelling Sundays returns to the Library on June 28 (2 p.m.).
Five great storytellers will share their interpretations of home: Jennifer Munro, a National Storytelling Network’s Circle of Excellence recipient; Nina Lesiga, Women’s Storytelling Festival and Generation Women participant; Wendy Mages, professor at Mercy University; Rona Levine, yoga teacher, energy healer, and herbalist, and ChaChanna Simpson, curator, host and writer. For more information, click here.
Also at the Westport Library: a Pride Month combination of stand-up comedy and life story, on the big screen.
“Miss Personality: An Evening of Big Laughs, Big Heart & Big PRIDE” (June 18, 6:30 p.m.) with Mina Hartong is “a hilarious and heartfelt look at identity, reinvention, community, and finding your voice.”
Following the screening, Mina will join writer Susan Rukeyser and comedian/ activist Jamie Machotka in a conversation about storytelling, comedy and LGBTQ+ experiences. Click here for more information.
Westonite Chris Fuller’s “Cheese Fries & Chili Dips” — a moving and hilarious 2-person cabaret-style show — comes to the Westport Woman’s Club next Friday (June 12, 5:30 p.m. reception, 6:30 show).
The production follows Chris as he chases his lifelong dream of playing on the PGA Tour while navigating the challenges of bipolar disorder, and the nonstop commentary inside his own head.
A talkback immediately after the show with mental health experts will focus on healing, and breaking stigmas.
In 1993, Representative Town Meeting member Andrew Colabella’s cousin John DiGiovanni was killed in the first World Trade Center bombing.
Yesterday — in the aftermath of the victory by New Jersey congressional candidate Adam Hamawy, a plastic surgeon whose life-saving work in the Army has been contrasted with his former association with a Muslim cleric who masterminded the attack — Colabella was interviewed on Fox News’ “The Faulkner Focus.”
He called Hamawy’s victory “a disheartening threat to democracy,” and “an insult to injury” for victims’ families. Click here for the full segment.
Screenshot of Andrew Colabella on Fox News.
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“Looking for History: Rick Shaefer, Ellen Harvey & Michael Borders” — MoCA\CT’s next exhibit, exploring how history is remembered, imagined and contested through monument, memory, and labor — arrives just in time for America’s 250th anniversary.
An opening reception — celebrating Shaefer’s “Colossi” and Harvey’s “The Disappointed Tourist” — is set for June 25 (6 p.m.).
Three days later (June 24, 6 p.m.), the Westport Book Shop’s Short Story Club selections are — discusses selections about fathers and children. They are “Midair” by Frank Conroy, “Today Will Be a Quiet Day” (Amy Hempel) and “The Hare’s Mask” (Mark Slouka).
Registration is required. Call 203-349-5141, or email RSVP@westportbooksaleventures.org.
“Stressed Self to Best Self” — co-written by Westport author Nick Propper — will be published in October.
But it’s already available for pre-order.
Propper works with senior leadership teams at leading organizations like Procter & Gamble and Goldman Sachs. He is also a high-level advisor and facilitator in the US Air Force and federal intelligence community, on building sustainable human performance.
The book focuses on “how to show up at our best, for the people and things that matter most to us, in today’s highly volatile world.” It introduces practical frameworks and tools to help readers manage stress, recover more intentionally and optimize their human energy. Click here for more information, and to order.
And finally … on this date in 1968, presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy was killed.
That night, he won both the California and South Dakota primaries. He told supporters in Los Angeles’ Ambassador Hotel ballroom, “My thanks to all of you, and it’s on to Chicago and let’s win there.”
Walking through the kitchen, he was shot 3 times by 24-year-old Sirhan Sirhan. Five other people were also wounded. Kennedy died 25 hours later.
“No Kings” rallies in Westport — and weekly protests on the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge — have drawn plenty of people, and attention.
But there are questions too. Like: “What’s next?”
Flags flew at October’s “No Kings” rally. (Photo/Dan Woog)
Last month, a group of residents — including Congressman Jim Himes, Secretary of the State Stephanie Thomas and actor James Naughton — met at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport to discuss an answer.
The “What’s Next” organizers describe themselves as “a local pro-democracy community group that believes in free and fair elections for all citizens.” Members include Monique Bosch, Miggs Burroughs, Kenny Epstein, Linda Franciscovich, Dalma Heyn, Dan Levinson, Dede & Tony McDowell, Jonathan Steinberg and Stephanie Weiner.
Levinson said, “We left April ‘No Kings’ energized and wanting to take action. But we were lost as to how.
“In Westport, we feel we can do more than march, vote and donate. So our team came together to experiment around creative local projects and events that might have wider impact.
“Our goal is to do our part to help save our democracy, with the immediate focus on the November elections. The launch event last month was well attended, with great energy. Future events will follow.
“We are a grassroots, informal crew. Suggestions are always welcome.”
Their next event — “What’s Next? From Protests to Projects 2.0” — is June 18 (5 p.m., Saugatuck Congregational Church). They’ll learn about several organizations working to increase voter turnout, and ensure fairness, in November.
Calling it “another upbeat, informal, fun and productive reception bringing together people who want to engage with friends and neighbors to make a difference,” they’ve invited Bryan Mattimore to help attendees “uncover unexpected creative ways to get involved.”
Co=founder of the Norwalk-based Growth Engine Company (www.growth-engine.com) innovation agency, he has facilitated over 1,000 brainstorming sessions. Mattimore managed over 200 innovation projects, leading to over $3 billion in new sales for Fortune 500 clients including Kraft, Unilever, Ford, BNY Mellon, LVMH, Merck, and Pepsi.
It’s hard for many people to understand resistance to vaccines.
Why would anyone oppose preventing a preventable disease — for themselves, their child, or the community at large?
Kira Ganga Kieffer understands.
She’s not an anti-vaxxer, or a vaccine skeptic. She went through the Westport schools, from 1st grade through Staples High’s Class of 2004. She graduated from Brown University, then earned a Ph.D at Boston University.
Dr. Kira Ganga Kieffer
Now Dr. Kieffer is back in Westport, married to classmate Aaron Eisman (who begins a medical fellowship in cardiology at Yale next month). She is a visiting assistant professor of religious studies at Fairfield University, after teaching stints at BU, the University of Vermont and Wesleyan University
She studied American history and religion in college. Her honors thesis was an ethnographic study of 2 evangelical churches in Rhode Island. Kieffer sees vaccine hesitancy through the lens of religion.
It’s a nuanced view. She explains it in her new book, “Unvaccinated Under God,” tying debates over vaccine safety and mandatory vaccinations into “existential concerns about justice and morality.”
Kieffer says that vaccine hesitancy can be a religious expression — not the product of scientific misinformation.
She offers her insights at 7 p.m. tonight, in a Westport Library discussion with fellow Staples and Brown graduate, primary care physician Dr. Caroline Andrew.
It’s part of the “Saugatuck Scribes” series, spotlighting Westport authors.
The book’s genesis dates back nearly a decade. Kieffer was studying alternative health in contemporary America, and looking as far back as smallpox. Her advisor — knowing Kieffer’s interest in religion — suggested examining the subject from that angle.
When COVID hit, Kieffer published an article on how a vaccine rollout — still in the future — might be difficult. A religion editor tracked her down, and asked if she could turn it into her book.
The result — “Unvaccinated Under God” — was published this week.
“I want people to think about vaccine hesitancy and refusal not as scientific illiteracy or ignorance, but as innate religiousness,” Kieffer says. “Fear of vaccines can be transformative.”
By not addressing the religious component, she adds, “we’re not moving the needle” among people who distrust the medical establishment. “We need to understand where they’re coming from.”
That means “speaking more of their language, about their fears — without making them feel talked down to.”
There have been 6 vaccine controversies since the 1980s, Kieffer says. They involved issues like mothering; what one puts into one’s body; authority and politics — along with religious freedom.
Readers have been surprised at how “even-handed” her book is, Kieffer says. As vaccination debates are politicized by “both sides,” she hopes that “people in public health, medicine and on the liberal side will change their tone or attitude to people they see as non-compliant, to win their trust back.”
Pins like these may not be the best way to reach vaccine-hesitant people.
Many pediatric practices will not accept patients whose parents refuse full vaccinations, Kieffer notes.
The need to protect other patients is “totally understandable. But it shoves people away, to fringier medical providers who give them more reasons not to get vaccinated.
“The ‘believe in science’ banner of liberals and progressives in the culture wars can be reductive. It pushes people away. ‘Belief’ is a religious term.”
Meanwhile, measles cases are on the rise. The number of children entering kindergarten without measles, mumps and rubella vaccines are rising too.
Vaccines are crucial. But reaching vaccine-hesitant people by understanding their feelings — and addressing their fears and concerns, in a belief-centered, religious realm — is crucial too.
(“06880” often spotlights interesting Westporters, addressing important topics. If you enjoy stories like this, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
Westport has a new property tax rate: 13.2 mills ($13.2 per $1,000 of assessed value). The Board of Finance set that figure at its Wednesday meeting.
The current rate (for fiscal year 2025-2026) is 18.86 mills. However, many homeowners will see their property tax rise, following last year’s revaluation.
Tax bills will be sent in early July. To figure out your new rate, click here. Find your property; multiply the total assessment (minus the last 3 numbers) by 13.2.
Alma Sarelli’s candidacy for the 26th State Senate District is official.
The Republican Party nominated the Westport Representative Town Meeting member this week. She’ll face Democrat Sam Nestor — Weston’s 1st selectwoman — in the race to succeed retiring Senator Ceci Maher.
Sarelli owns a production company. She is involved in several local organizations, including Neighbors and Newcomers, and TEDx Westport.
Alma Sarelli
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Speaking of politics: It was 1st selectpersons’ day yesterday, at the Y’s Men’s meeting.
Westport’s Kevin Christie and Weston’s Sam Nestor were interviewed by a panel, then took audience questions.
Topics included the Westport mill rate (story above), Nestor’s run for State Senate, Saugatuck development, affordable housing including for teachers and young people), seniors aging in place, and Saugatuck River dredging.
Wheels2U is extending its “10 rides for the price of 9” promotion through December 31. The cost is $18 — a savings of $2.
Riders now have 8 more months to snag the discount. There is no time limit for using the rides.
Wheels2U provides on-demand service to and from anywhere in Westport, and the Saugatuck and Greens Farms train stations, Senior Center, Jesup Green, Farmers’ Market, and the shopping centers at Post Road East and Compo Road.
The Staples Tuition Grants Kids Fun Run is always a great time.
It’s also a chance to support an organization that each year helps over 100 students attend college.
This year’s Kids Fun Run is Saturday, May 30 (8:45 a.m., Loeffler Field at Staples High). In addition to the run, there’s a bounce house, face painting, snacks, awards and more.
Organizers Will Briggs and Ryan Krenzer, and other Stapleites, will help run the event. All youngsters in grades pre-K through 5th grade are welcome. Click here to register.
A few tickets are left for Cocktails & Clams. The tasty benefit for Harbor Watch — the Earthplace division that protects local waterways through water quality monitoring and research is set for June 6 (5 p.m., Copps Island Oyster, Norwalk).
This year’s event celebrates 2 milestones: the 15th anniversary of Cocktails & Clams, and the 40th for Harbor Watch.
All proceeds support Harbor Watch’s testing lab, to improve efficiency, expand monitoring capacity, and provide more hands-on training for student interns.
As always, the fundraiser includes an unlimited, super-fresh raw bar, hors d’oeuvres, open bar live band and silent auction, all with beautiful views of Long Island Sound. Click here for tickets, and more information.
Longtime Westport resident Mary McCarthy died Tuesday. She was 93.
Though born in New York City, Mary spent her formative years in County Limerick, Ireland, where she moved with her mother and brothers. Her childhood there shaped the woman she became: deeply rooted in her Irish heritage, her faith, and her love of family.
After World War II, Mary returned to New York City with her family. She graduated from Cathedral High School, and went on to work for the telephone company. At a St. Patrick’s Day dance she met her future husband of 61 years, Tom McCarthy.
After living in Manhattan and Montclair, New Jersey, they moved to Westport. Over more than 50 years Mary created a place of warmth, laughter and open doors, where 7 children and all their friends always felt welcome.
Her annual St. Patrick’s Day party — complete with homemade Irish soda bread and Irish coffee — was a cherished tradition for family, friends and neighbors.
In the years that followed, Mary and Tom lived in London, making a home away from home for family and friends. She and Tom traveled extensively across Europe and Asia.
Mary volunteered for many years at the Gillespie Center, where she and Tom served dinner monthly for many years. Recently, she found joy and purpose in attending protest rallies at Jesup Green and on the bridge in downtown Westport.
Tom died in 2021. She was also predeceased by her brothers Patrick, Neasy and John, and her dearest friend and cousin, Ann Ahern.
Mary is survived by her children Christine, Tommy, John ( Susan), Maggie, Michael (Stacy), Paul (Ann), and Stacey; grandchildren Kathleen, Thomas and James Casey, and Crissy, Patrick, Siobhan, Sean, Jack and Danny McCarthy, and nieces and nephews John Carroll, Madeleine Richmond, Sarah Richmond, Liam Richmond, Dorothy Carroll and Rob Nelson.
The family will receive visitors at Harding Funeral Home today (Friday, 4 to 7 p.m.). A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated tomorrow (Saturday, May 23, 10 a.m). Interment will follow at Assumption Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Mary’s memory may be made to Nourish Bridgeport.
Mary McCarthy
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Egrets are regularly featured in our “Westport … Naturally” series. (Sometimes we misidentify them as cranes.)
But usually they’re solo, or in pairs.
Today’s image shows a school of egrets. That may not be the official term (like a “parliament of owls”).
But the young ‘uns sure look like they’re learning what it takes to survive in the rough waters of Burritts Landing.
And finally …. on this date in 1807, a grand jury indicted former Vice President Aaron Burr on a charge of treason.
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We’re just 2 days away from the 53rd annual Fine Arts Festival.
Across North America, over 150 artists will head to Westport. (Six already live here — they’re hometown favorites.)
Selected from more than 320 applications, and representing 12 categories, they come from 23 states and Canada.
All 2025 award winners return (click here for a full list). Meanwhile, a record 52 artists make their Fine Arts Festival debut.
New this year: Staples High School art students will paint a BMW in the family area (Sigrid Schultz parking lot). There are lots of other kids’ activities there too.
Plus, of course, music and food.
Two new judges join the panel: art enthusiasts Lonnie Quinn (CBS weatherman) and Louise Crowley.
Also downtown, coming soon: an interesting reshuffling of space.
After more than 25 years in Westport, Brooks Brothers will vacate its space in what used to be called Brooks Corner, at the corner of Main and Elm Streets.
But they’re not closing. In fact, they’re moving a few yards away, to bigger digs.
Brooks Brothers’ new location is 44 Main Street. For decades, it was Klein’s department store. For a couple of decades after that, it was Banana Republic. For a few minutes most recently, it was Oka furniture.
(Before Klein’s expanded north from its smaller beginning, the space belonged to the Townly restaurant. During Banana Republic’s renovation, they discovered a long-lost painting, depicting life — in Westport? — during that era. They preserved it. Hopefully, Brooks Brothers will too.)
The move is planned for late October or early November — in time for the holidays.
The new space will be 1,000 square feet larger. It will include new women’s casual and everyday wear, in addition to the current inventory.
DOWNTOWN TRIVIA: Brooks Corner (now called much more generically “Main & Elm”) was not named for Brooks Brothers.
It’s a tribute to B.V. Brooks and his family. The real estate developer created the small shopping plaza in the 1960s — years before Brooks Brothers arrived in Westport.
Of course, the clothing company has a much longer history than that. They were founded in New York City in 1818 — 17 years before Westport was incorporated.
That makes them the oldest apparel brand in continuous operation in the United States.
There will be no Democratic primary in the 26th State Senate district race.
Weston 1st selectwoman Sam Nestor is assured of a clear path to the November ballot. State Representative Lucy Dathan of New Canaan had explored a bid after Nestor outpolled her nearly 2 to 1 at the nominating convention, but decided against it.
Nestor’s Republican opponent for the seat being vacated by Ceci Mahar will be Westporter Alma Sarelli.
Last month, Dr. Matthias Becker led a powerful Westport Library conversation about decoding bias and hate.
Next Thursday (May 28, 6 p.m.), the noted linguist returns for a follow-up discussion.
The evening includes screenings of video shorts about the subject, created by local teens — and an announcement of the winners of the “Decode Hate Video Challenge Awards.”
Parents, teens, and all community members are invited to learn — and to celebrate the next generation, using creativity to tackle an enormous social problem.
The Brubecks are one of the jazz world’s leading family.
They’re also local. Their roots in Wilton date back decades.
So it was fitting on Tuesday night for for Dave Brubeck’s son Chris to bring his trio, Triple Play, to MoCA\CT, for an intimate, high-octane performance. A full house enjoyed the warm, playful and intimate show.
Arts supporters and blues lovers joined together in the gallery space where the current exhibition, “Art, Jazz + the Blues,” has drawn raves.
Chris Brubeck (left) and his trio, in the MoCA\CT gallery. Two of Westport artist Eric von Schmidt’s majestic paintings, telling the stories of America’s jazz, blues and folk music history, hang on the wall. All 7 of his works are part of the show. (Photo/Roger Young)
The Pierrepont School junior will perform there in November, with Pierrepont dance faculty members Jamal Jackson and Emily Pacilio.
They’ll be in “Timaeus and The Teacher,” an opera written by former Pierrepont teacher Tammy Nguyen.
It will cost $100,000 to produce the piece. Tax-deductible donations can be made through the Center for the Arts at Wesleyan University. Designate a gift to the “Venice Biennale Project Fund,” or email Joshua Lubin-Levy, director and chief curator: jlubinlevy@wesleyan.edu.
Questions? Email Lisa Manimala: lisamanimala@gmail.com.
And finally … in honor of yesterday’s wonderful (if fleeting) weather:
(“06880” delivers hot fun — and news, features, photos, and much more — all summer long. Plus spring, fall and winter too. We rely on reader support to do it all. Please click here to help. Thank you!)
The Architectural Review Board gets its first look at the proposed development of 606 Riverside Avenue — the Minute Man Dry Cleaners property — next Tuesday (May 26, 7:30 p.m., Town Hall, Room 307/309).
Spinnaker Real Estate recently bought the parcel — and a nearby parking lot where boats are now stored — following the Planning & Zoning Commission’s rejection of the Hamlet at Saugatuck project.
Among the computer-generated designs to be considered:
The ARB will also discuss proposed façade modifications, solar panels and lighting at 520 Post Road East — the former nail salon next to Five Guys (and before that, a pancake house). The new proposed use is a Pilates studio.
Board of Education chair Lee Goldstein won the Democratic Party endorsement for State Representative of the 136th District last night.
She beat Representative Town Meeting member Matthew Mandell, 38 votes to 10. The two Westporters vied to replace Jonathan Steinberg, who is retiring.
The process allows for a primary. Mandell heads to Town Hall today, to pick up petitions.
Goldstein vowed to fight for and represent “this vibrant community we love, and for a Connecticut that remains dynamic, compassionate, and full of opportunity.”
She said she will work to protect and strengthen public schools, invest in infrastructure, preserve the environment, and ensure the state budget reflects the values and pressures facing Connecticut residents and towns.
Goldstein highlighted the increasing importance of fighting for reproductive rights, gun control, and civil liberties, saying, “At a time of federal hostility, we will defend our fundamental rights, safety, and freedoms.”
Lee Goldstein and Matthew Mandell
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A Cross Highway construction project will restrict access to residents only, beginning next month.
The small bridge near Wakeman Town Farm and the Wakeman athletic fields will be replaced. Cross Highway will be closed between North Avenue and Bayberry Lane, after students’ last day of school on June 18.
Local residents can access their roads. But through traffic will not be allowed.
The project will last 6 to 8 weeks. The road is planned to reopen by the end of August, before school starts.
The contractor, FGB Construction, has already put up signs announcing the work. Electronic signs will be placed there too.
Access to Wakeman Town Farm and the Wakeman fields is available, as always, through Bedford Middle School on North Avenue.
Questions? Contact town engineer Keith Wilberg: 203-341-1128; kwilberg@westportct.gov.
Cross Highway bridge. (Photo courtesy of Google Street View)
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You never know what kind of art you’ll see at the Westport Library.
And this spring, Artists Collective of Westport members didn’t know what they were creating, either.
48 artists received a printout of a single 12″ x 12″ section of a much larger, 6-foot high by 8-foot high work, and a blank panel. Each reimagined it, in his or her own way, using any medium they chose.
The result is “Piece by Piece” — a “vibrant and often surprising mosaic of styles, perspectives, and artistic voices … a playful yet powerful celebration of community, creativity, and collaboration. As the individual pieces come together, the larger image is gradually revealed, reminding viewers that every contribution plays a role in the creation of something greater than itself.”
It’s one of 2 Artists Collective exhibits opening at the Library on June 4 (6 to 8 p.m.). “Piece by Piece” will be unveiled at 7.
“Piece by Piece”
The other exhibit is “American Journeys,” an all-member exhibition inspired by America’s 250th birthday. The title reflects the idea that there is no single American journey, but rather a tapestry of countless personal paths, experiences, struggles and triumphs that together define the American story.
75 Collective members contributed works. All are available for purchase.
Speaking of the Library: A quarter century of “Shrek” came to life last night there.
Roger Schulman — co-writer of the iconic animated fantasy comedy — spoke with Sacred Hart University professor of communication, media and the arts Todd Barnes.
Schulmanl discussed his journey from journalism to Hollywood — and took the audience behind the Shrek scenes.
Roger Schulman (right), Professor Todd Barnes, and the Shrek franchise. (Photo/Susan Garment)
Speaking of entertainment: As the Westport Pops Concert nears — it’s June 5 (7 p.m., Levitt Pavilion) — the Staples Music Parents Associates announces a partnership with Romanacci’s.
Meals are available by pre-order only (click here). A portion of the meal price supports Staples Music. The deadline is May 29.
There are no food trucks in the Levitt Pavilion parking lot. However, the Oggi gelato cart will be on site.
The lawn opens at 6 p.m. (BYO lawn chair). Pre-show groups begin performing at 6. The main show starts at 7 p.m.
Tickets are free, though a suggested donation of $15 per ticket helps offset production costs. Donations in lieu of tickets can be made at the same (new) Stpales Music website — click here.
Compo Beach got a “C” grade, while Burying Hill Beach and Sherwood Island both earned “B”s, in Save the Sound’s analysis of water samples during the 2025 swimming season.
55 of 72 public and private Long Island Sound beaches in Connecticut (76%) received an A or B.
Last summer, water quality samples at Compo Beach failed 9% of the time. The rates for Burying Hill and Sherwood Island were 7 and 3%, respectively.
Burying Hill Beach closure last summer. (Photo/Seth Schachter)
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Mark Shapiro is buying a stake in another pro team.
This time it’s in the NFL.
The Westporter will join with his sports and entertainment industry partner Ari Emanuel in a minority stake in the Las Vegas Raiders. The deal is expected to close this month. The current ownership group includes Michael Dell and Tom Brady.
Shapiro’s NFL ties run deep. In 2005 he acquired Monday Night Football while running programming and production at ESPN. He later created the NFL Honors.
Shapiro also led Endeavor Group Holdings’ acquisition of On Location, the NFL’s exclusive hospitality provider. Shapiro is also a minority owner of MLS soccer team Los Angeles FC.
Emanuel and Shapiro are longtime business partners. Shapiro is now president and COO of TKO (comprising UFC, WWE, PBR, On Location and IMG), president and managing partner of WME Group, principal investor and board member of MARI (owner of the Miami Open, Madrid Open, Frieze and TodayTix), and is involved with WME Basketball.
Mark Shapiro — StartUp Westport’s 2025 Innovator of the Year — was interviewed at the Westport Library by Sara Eisen of CNBC.
The Bedford Middle School 6th grader placed first — and won $600 — in the World of 8 Billion International Student Video Contest. The event, sponsored by Population Connection, drew thousands of entries from teens in 63 countries around the world.
Her 60-second video, “Hanging by a Thread,”tackles environmental challenges created by fast fashion, and proposes the use of biodegradable fabrics in clothing production as a key to a more sustainable future.
This year’s contest challenged students to explore how population growth intersects with three critical global issues: wetlands, energy and economics.
Contest officials said, “Katherine Rose’s entry stood out for its smart analysis of fast fashion as well as its colorful animation.”
When Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana opens at 361 Post Road West — formerly the Naan restaurant — on June 1, it may seem like an Italian restaurant replacing an Indian one. (Which previously took over from Kibberia, a Middle Eastern spot.)
Residents with longer memories will recall that for many years, the space was occupied by John’s Best Pizza. So — like a big pizza pie — things are coming full circle.
But Frank Pepe has been around the block far longer than John’s Best. The “Original New Haven Apizza” place opened in 1925, on Wooster Street.
The Westport location — its 18th nationally, and 9th in Connecticut –features a large coal-fired oven, enclosed with a cast iron door that matches the original one in New Haven location. The dining room seats 110.
Frank Pepe Pizzeria will be open every day, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Takeout, delivery and catering ordering is available here. Diners get $10 in their account by signing up signing up here, or downloading the Frank Pepe Pizzeria app.
Tomorrow (Wednesday, May 20, 7:30 p.m., Town Hall auditorium), the Board of Finance will set the town’s mill/tax rate.
That’s item 6 on the agenda. They’ll also hear:
A request for additional funds to cover legal expenses, due to an atypical cost overrun. The item allows residents to glimpse the type of litigation the town faces (agenda item 8).
Funding to prepare the 2027 Plan of Conservation and Development. The state requires each town to create this, every 10 years. The POCD is important, as Westport thinks about housing in the years ahead (agenda item 9).
In addition, the Board of Finance will hold office hours this Thursday (May 21, 10 a.m. and 7:30 p.m.), Westport Library room 213). The public is invited to meet a member, and ask questions about any aspect of the board, and public finances.
Railroad station parking permits expire on June 30.
To renew a railroad permit, click here. Then click the “Permit” icon at the top of the page. Double-check that your email address is correct.
All renewals are online, or dropped off in the Police Department lobby. Drop-offs require cash or a check made out to “Town of Westport – Railroad Parking,” and a copy of the current vehicle registration(s). The Police lobby is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Time to renew! (Photo/Elle Bowe)
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Weston 1st Selectwoman Sam Nestor took a big step toward a new job last night.
She earned the Democratic Party endorsement to run for the State Senate’s 26th District. She captured 48 delegate votes, nearly twice as many as State Representative Lucy Dathan. A primary is set for August 11.
The winner will face a Republican opponent in November: Westporter Alma Sarelli.
Prospect Gardens — the spectacular 9-acre arboretum-style Greens Farms space featuring flowers, plants — is open to public on Sunday, May 31 (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.). The event is a partnership with the national Garden Conservancy.
Main garden designers Cindy Shumate and Judy Gardner will there all day, telling stories and answering questions.
Greens Farms Garden Club members will explain how they plant, tend and harvest the 3-tiered vegetable garden. Last season, their harvest of over 1000 pounds was donated to local organizations that feed families in need.
Prospect Gardens dates back to an 1812 Victorian farmhouse and onion farm. Property acquisitions over the past 20 years have created the current gardens. Mature deciduous and evergreen trees create a sweeping canvas.
Key features include a Mediterranean entry garden, 2 orchards, berry houses, bee hives, perennial garden, shady woodland walk, conifer collection, numerous flowering shrub and grass borders, a Japanese-inspired meditation garden and maple collection, citrus and cacti, a glasshouse, sculptures, 1-acre perennial/ native wildflower meadow, and a 4-tiered grassy amphitheater with a stone-medallioned stage.
The Staples high School Jazz Ensemble plays at 10:30 a.m. They’ll be fresh off an appearance 2 days earlier at New York’s Birdland Club.
The Westport Weston Domestic Violence Task Force is collecting items for their Crisis Center.
They need toothbrushes, toothpaste, menstrual products, deodorant, lotion, soap and body wash, shaving gel, shampoo and conditioner, and hair care products.
Drop-off locations are the Westport and Weston police stations.
To purchase items directly through an Amazon wish list, click here.
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Anyone can get scammed.
Before scammers hack your accounts, they hack your emotions.
In response, Westport’s E3 Wealth Advisory Group is sponsoring a 30-minute webinar. Attendees will learn how to recognize emotional manipulation, before they react.
It’s repeated 4 times: 12 noon and 2 p.m., tomorrow (Wednesday, May 20) and next Wednesday (May 27). Click here to register.
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Singer Melissa Newman — Westport’s own, and a Jazz at the Post favorite — kicks off their first-ever Voices of Spring festival this Thursday (May 21, shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner from 7; VFW Post 399).
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“I want people to think about vaccine hesitancy and refusal not as scientific illiteracy or ignorance, but as innate religiousness,” Kieffer says. “Fear of vaccines can be transformative.”
