Early in her 40-year career in manufacturing, marketing and management with global companies, Deirdre Evens set priorities: her work, her family, herself.
She realized she had little time to give to her friends and community.
Deirdre Evens, in the 1982 Staples yearbook.
In the Boston area and then Singapore, she kept up as best she could with friends from Westport, where she’d lived from third grade through Staples High graduation in 1982.
She looked forward to retirement, when she would have more time for friends, and civic involvement.
Her husband, Brad Kullberg, knew she wanted that community to be — again — Westport. He grew up in Rhode Island, but was familiar with Westport from visits with Deirdre to her family here.
They found a great house on Morningside Drive, half a mile from her childhood home. The couple moved in a year ago.
Can you go home again? Deirdre says, emphatically: Yes!
And can her husband find a home in a new community like this? Also, yes.
From the Y’s Men to the Patterson Club, they’re having an “incredible” time, Deirdre says.
Her perspective has changed, of course. She’s a retired adult with grown children — not a high school student with her whole life ahead.
Deirdre Evens, at Greens Farms Elementary School.
Clearly, she notes, Westport today is not the town of 1982. She misses the Remarkable Book Shop, Klein’s, Ships, Bill’s Smoke Shop. Traffic is “ridiculous.” Sirens sound frequently.
But so much more (including the restaurants) are so much better.
Between rediscovering old joys and stumbling on new ones, life in Westport has exceeded her expectations.
And Deirdre marvels at how quickly she and Brad were able to adapt.
Within weeks they met a broad group of people with common interests, at a similar stage of life. Old friends who still live in the area introduced them to new ones.
All were eager to share what they love about their community.
Brad and Deirdre don’t spend all their time in Westport. New York draws them in at least once a week, for museums and shows. Her parents had taken her to the city often while growing up. But the New York of 2025 dazzles them.
So does the Westport of 2025. Kayak rentals on the Saugatuck River, the Library, Levitt Pavilion, Farmers’ Market — and other gems in Fairfield, Rowayton and the rest of the area — keep the couple constantly active.
Deirdre Evens and her husband, Brad Kullberg, in Vietnam.
Deirdre speaks as a retiree. But many of her neighbors are young families. They tell her how much they enjoy raising their children here. They share her enthusiasm about the array of activities, and welcoming vibe.
Before their move, Deirdre wondered if their kids — she has 2 in New York, and one returning to the States from Israel; he has 3 in the Boston area — would want to visit in the suburbs.
“They love coming here!” she reports. In fact, Brad’s daughter recently got married in their Westport yard.
Deirdre is still figuring out how to get more involved, in organizations like Wakeman Town Farm.
She does not want to run for office, but hopes to find a way to have an impact on how the town is run.
Deirdre Evens, today.
Her advice to older people considering a move here: “Don’t stress out about the ease of joining — or rejoining — the community.
“There are so many ways to engage: the Westport Woman’s Club, Y’s Men, book groups, boating, mahjong, golf, gardening. It’s easy, and the people are so welcoming.
“Explore online before you come. If you have connections, make an effort to re-connect.
“And ask questions. Our realtor was great!”
Meredith Cohen found Deirdre and Brad a home.
In a town that Deirdre definitely could go home again to.
(“06880” often reports on Westport life — for and about people of all ages. If you enjoy stories like this, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
Unsure who to vote for? Clueless about the candidates?
Two events this week can help.
On Tuesday (October 14, 7 p.m., Toquet Hall) the 3 candidates for 1st selectman will answer questions (from moderators and the audience) on stage. The League of Women Voters Westport and Westport Youth Commission are sponsors. This is a special event for students, but adults are invited.
On Wednesday (October 15, 2 p.m., Senior Center) the LWV sponsors “A Conversation with Board of Finance Candidates.”
This Thursday (October 16, 6:30 p.m., Greens Farms Academy), Westport Journal is sponsoring a 1st Selectman candidates debate. Registration is required; click here.
Coming soon:
Select Board Candidates Debate: October 21, 12 p.m., Westport Library. Sponsored by Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce.
A Seat at the Selectman’s Table: October 21, 6 p.m., Westport Library. Sponsored by Westport Library Common Ground Initiative. Registration required; click here.
A Conversation with Board of Education Candidates: October 22, 7 p.m., Toquet Hall. Co-sponsored by League of Women Voters Westport and “06880.”
A Conversation with Planning & Zoning Commission Candidates: October 23; 7 p.m. Senior Center. Co-sponsored by League of Women Voters Westport and “06880.”
Candidates Debates: Board of Education, Zoning Board of Appeals, Board of Assessment Appeals, Board of Finance: October 27, 6:30 p.m., Westport Library. Sponsored by the League of Women Voters Westport.
Candidates Debate: 1st Selectman and Planning & Zoning Commission: October 28, 6:30 p.m., Westport Library. Sponsored by the League of Women Voters Westport.
“Someone banged on my door around midday today, a man I did not recognize. I ignored the pounding. He left after a while, but he left a brochure. I’m guessing it was for a campaign.
“I can’t reach it to read it, because I can’t find my grabber. Maybe tomorrow morning I’ll figure out what it’s about.
“This is a very bad time to go around pounding on people’s doors. We’re all a little nervous about strangers. If he is running for an office, he doesn’t understand the right way to do it.
“I had another candidate stick signs on my property, without permission.
“I also think this barrage of signs is distracting to drivers. Should we vote for the first person in the line of signs, the last person or somebody in the middle? Do they really want to look like lawn maintenance or a tag sale?
“The blight committee is so fastidious about the image of Westport. How can they stomach these hideous signs everywhere on our roadsides?
“If people want to know how to vote, it’s much more informative to consider the statements of the individuals and the information put out by the League of Women Voters, don’t you think?”
(NOTE: Campaign signs are free speech, and permitted on town property. However, they cannot be put on private property without the owner’s permission.)
================================================
Hundreds of human beings gathered yesterday at the Westport Library, to discuss their future — at least, as it relates to artificial intelligence.
The in-depth exploration of AI — and its implications across law, business, healthcare, education and technology — was sponsored by Verso University, the Library’s lifelong learning and education initiative.
It spanned 3 sessions. Yale Law School professor Scott Shapiro led off with a discussion of AI’s role in legal reasoning, government ethics, and cybersecurity, alongside Kevin Nguyen, features editor at The Verge.
The second session examined the ways in which AI is shaping Connecticut’s innovation landscape, higher education, healthcare, workforce and legislation.
The final session concluded with reflections from Kate Crawford, one of AI’s leading scholars of artificial intelligence and its material impacts. (Hat tip: Les Dinkin)
Kevin Nguyen and Kate Crawford. (Photo/Dinkin ESH Fotografix)
=================================================
Westporters will participate in Saturday’s “No Kings Day” national event.
The October 18 protest against President Trump begins at 11 a.m., at Jesup Green. Participants will march to Veterans Green, for speakers and music. The route follows one taken by Westport’s suffragists, in 1913.
One of the organizers, Darcy Hicks, says: “In Westport, No Kings Day is an opportunity to signal to our local leaders who we are and what we hold dear.
Most of us spend much of our time caring for family, whether that is our children, spouses, or parents. This is about them.
“We are marching for the preservation of the water and air they breathe, for truth in their classrooms, for their healthcare, and for their social security. Most of all, we are marching for the rehabilitation of love, and the right for all of our neighbors, regardless of their faith, gender identity, race, or economic standing, to live with dignity.”
A “No Kings” sign, from Westport’s June protest. (Photo/Pippa Bell Ader)
=================================================
I’m not sure what “Fish on the Pumpkin” is.
But it’s one of the seasonal specials you’ll find at Basso’s Halloween party.
It’s October 31. Music starts at 7:30 p.m. Manny Montañez and his orchestra will play — with Chef Renato joining in on percussion. Dancing is encourage.
TAP Strength is all about helping people feel more confident and capable in their bodies. A new program supports an important group: neurodivergent teens and young adults.
The next event in their “Effortless Effort” speaker series is this Tuesday (October 14, 6 to 7 p.m., 180 Post Road East). at its Post Road East studio. It’s a conversation between TAP founder Dr. EJ Zebro and Chelsea Elkind and Lauren Rosenblum, founders of Westport-based NeuroMind. They’ve helped TAP design a program that is inclusive, supportive, and grounded in real-world needs.
Renaissance and Baroque dances, folk songs and vocal masterworks from England, France and Italy fill Christ & Holy Trinity Church’s Branson Hall this Saturday (October 18, 5 p.m.
Soprano Sherezade Panthaki joins Parthenia Viol Consort (praised by The New Yorker as “one of the brightest lights in New York’s early-music scene”).
This was not taken at Christ & Holy Trinity Church’s Branson Hall. But that’s where Saturday’s concert will be.
=================================================
Duke University’s women’s crew team had a successful High Point Autumn Rowing Festival — thanks in large part to Mia Khamish of Westport.
Competing against international competition from Edinburgh and Oxford in North Carolina, the Blue Devils snagged 2 first-place finishes.
In the afternoon 8 race, the senior coxswain’s decision-making at a crucial moment made a key difference.
Coach Adrian Spracklen called it “very mature, very smart … a tremendous call that you expect from a senior — someone that’s done it before.” To see the race, click here.
The Staples High graduate rowed for the Connecticut Boat Club.
Mia Khamish
===============================================
Yeah, yeah, we’ve posted a couple of close-up “Westport … Naturally” photos recently of bees doing their thing with flowers.
And finally … today is the birthday of James “Sugar Boy” Crawford.
The New Orleans R&B musician wrote “Jock-a-Mo” in 1954.
A Mardi Gras standard, it became a hit a decade later for the Dixie Cups, as “Iko Iko.” It was recorded by many other artists too, including Dr. John, Belle Stars, the Grateful Dead, Cyndi Lauper, and (as “Geto Boys”) by Glass Candy.
But Crawford’ s career ended in 1963. A severe beating at the hands of state troopers incapacitated him for 2 years. In 1969, he decided to sing only in churches. He died in 2012, at 77. He is now in the Louisiana Music Hall Of Fame.
(No matter who you vote for, there’s one decision we can all agree on: When you click here to support “06880,” everyone wins! No recount necessary … thank you!)
Posted onOctober 11, 2025|Comments Off on Roundup: Sunday Walk Postponed; $10,000 Grant; Pink Aid …
With uncertain weather forecast for tomorrow (Sunday), Bike Westport is postponing its Bridge-to-Bridge Walk. The new date is Sunday, October 19.
Organizers say, “While we don’t think weather should ever keep us from being outside, we want this to be a fun, safe, and memorable walk for everyone — families, neighbors and candidates alike.”
The event feature candidates for First Selectman, RTM and other local offices walking from Jesup Green along Riverside Avenue to Kneads, one of the town’s busiest and most important walking and biking routes.
The 45-minute walk highlights Westport’s opportunities to improve walkability, bikeability, and safety along this key connection between downtown and Saugatuck.
==============================================
Does your non-profit want $10,000?
The Westport Woman’s Club seeks applications from local organizations for their annual Ruegg Grants. Over $200,000 have been awarded since 1995.
Proposed initiatives should be projects that benefit the Westport community, focusing on areas like social services, health, safety, arts, or education.
The non-profit providing emergency financial aid to breast cancer patients is celebrating 15 years of monetary and emotional support. Thousands of patients have not had to choose between treatment, or food and rent.
Founded in 2011 by area residents, Amy Katz, Andrew Mitchell-Namdar, Renee Mandis and Amy Gross, its needs remain great. Breast cancer is the most expensive cancer to treat — and the burden extends far beyond medical bills.
In just a decade and a half, Pink Aid has distributed over $13.7 million to more than 60,000 people, throughout the nation.
The non-profit’s “Evening of Glitterati” Gala on October 16 at Mitchells of Westport is — as always — sold out.
The very popular Staples High School resource officer has been named Westport Police Department’s Officer of the Year!
Wooldridge joined the WPD in 2017, following a 23-year career with the Connecticut State Police.
He was named the town’s first-ever school resource officer the next year.
The WPD says: “Through his hard work and solid relationships within the school community, what began as a trial position has grown into an integral part of the Westport Police Department.
“Today the Department’s School Security Unit includes officers in nearly every school in town, providing not only security, but mentorship, trust and accessibility to students and families. The success of this program can be traced directly to Corporal Wooldridge’s leadership. and the example he set as the first to wear that role.”
It’s a time of pumpkins. Apple cider. Crisp air. Beautiful leaves. Falling leaves.
And removing leaves.
It’s a longtime suburban ritual. Minus the when-I was-a-kid option of burning them. (If you don’t know that smell, you haven’t really experienced autumn.)
But is raking/blowing/bagging/hauling those leaves away the best solution?
Alert “06880” reader Jon Rosenoer sent an intriguing New York Times story.
Headlined “Why Leaving the Leaves is Better for Your Yard,” it begins:
Coming soon to a backyard near you: leaf drop. What’s your aftercare plan?
This fall, gardeners can turn to new research to inform their decisions on how to manage the cleanup — whether or not to “leave the leaves,” as the ecologically focused rallying cry has been in recent years.
That campaign has spread awareness that fallen leaves provide overwintering habitat for many ecologically critical organisms. But that’s not all they do. Now, we can look at theconsequences of leaf removal by the numbers, data that makes a more nuanced case for a gentler approach that supports plants and soil, and also offers insights into the most effective how-to practices to employ.
The effects of leaf removal were the subject of a two-year study published in March by Max Ferlauto, state entomologist for the Maryland Natural Heritage Program, and Karin T. Burghardt, an ecologist and associate professor at the University of Maryland.
Speaking of fall: Upcoming this month at Earthplace …
“Kids’ Night Out: Spooky Creatures” (October 17, 6 to 9 p.m.; ages 4-13; members $50, non-members $60): Costumes encouraged!
“Murder Mystery Campfire” (October 18, 7 to 9 p.m.; ages 21+; members $45, non-members $50): Spooky tales and thrills under a starry night: a live-action “whodunnit” around the fire. Solve a murder before it happens again. Light refreshments.
“Owl-ween Campfire” (October 24, 6:30 to 8 p.m.; $25 members, $35 non-members): Meet an owl up close; hear a spooky tale at the campfire; roast marshmallows and make s’mores.
“Pumpkin Carving and Painting” (October 26, noon to 2 p.m.; $30 for 1 pumpkin, and 1 table for up to 5): Earthplace provides all the supplies (and takes care of clean-up). Leftover pumpkins are composted, or fed to the animals.
No, you’re not hearing things. And your car is fine.
Last night, the Public Works Highway Department was scheduled to install “safety rumble strips” on 3 road.
Rumble strips are the slightly raised portions of a road designed to alert inattentive or drowsy drivers that they’re about to do something seriously wrong. (You’ll notice them on Wilton Road, near the Westport Weston Family YMCA).
The 3 streets are Roseville Road (Colony Road to Post Road East), Kings Highway North (Edge Hill Road to Wilton Road), and Old Hill Road (Jennifer Lane to Partrick Road).
Congratulations to Westport’s Department of Human Services!
The Southwestern Connecticut Agency on Aging has named them a “Community Focal Point.” The honor specifically recognizes Westport’s Center for Senior Activities — a Human Services program — as “a trusted hub where residents of all ages and abilities can find support, resources, and connection.”
The award highlights the dedication of Westport’s Human Services and Senior Center staff, who every day treat seniors and people with disabilities with kindness, respect and empathy. From daily programming to 1-on-1 support, the staff consistently go above and beyond to ensure every resident feels valued.
And finally … John Lodge, who the New York Times says “brought supple bass lines, soaring falsetto harmonies and deft songwriting to the British rock group the Moody Blues as it moved from its R&B roots toward a lush, symphonic sound as pioneers of progressive rock,” died recently. He was 82.
(Another day, another Roundup filled with shout-outs, upcoming events, news about rumble strips, and tons more stuff you never knew you needed to know. Please click here to support us. Thanks!)
Comments Off on Roundup: Sunday Walk Postponed; $10,000 Grant; Pink Aid …
UN Day is October 24. This year as never before, the international organization is wracked with controversy.
The night before, Under-Secretary-General Christian Saunders will be at the Westport Library. He’ll speak on “The UN at 80: Current Challenges and Future Possibilities” (October 23, 7 p.m.).
The event is part of the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Memorial Lecture Series, established by the United Nations Association of Southwestern Connecticut.
Today is the 2nd anniversary of Hamas’ October 7 attack.
The Blondinit will honor the memory of those lost in Israel, and those still held captive, by donating a portion of proceeds from all meals and drinks — dine in or take out at the Church Lane restaurant, and delivery — to United Hatzalah.
The volunteer-based emergency medical services organization provides free, lifesaving care to anyone in need across Israel. With more than 8,000 trained medics and an average response time of under 3 minutes, they save lives every day using innovative tools like ambucycles and GPS technology.
Entirely funded by donations, United Hatzalah was among the first responders during the October 7 attacks. They continue to provide critical emergency aid throughout the country.
=================================================
On a more joyful note, the Jewish holiday of Sukkot began at sundown last night.
The festival commemorates both the fall harvest, and 40 years of wandering in the desert after the Exodus from Egypt.
Celebrated for 7 days, it involves building a temporary hut (sukkah), which symbolizes the fragile, temporary shelters of the Israelites, and reminds observers of God’s protection.
This sukkah was built yesterday near Compo Beach:
(Photo/Richard Fogel)
===============================================
Survive-OARS — the inspirational (and very competitive) Saugatuck Rowing Club team made up of breast cancer survivors — heads to the Head of the Charles on October 18. It’s the biggest regatta in the world.
Six days before — this Sunday (October 12, 1 to 4 p.m., Saugatuck Rowing Club, rain or shine), the public can honor these strong, spirited women.
Every ticket and donation (all tax-deductible) will fuel the Survive-OARS’ life-changing program of strength, empowerment, resilience and sisterhood.
The afternoon includes music by the Bad Dog Buddy Band, nibbles and more (full raw bar, clam chowder, pumpkin bisque, charcuterie, apple crisp).
One of the highlights: turning the Saugatuck River pink, with 50,000 rose petals. That’s quadruple the usual, already stunning number.
A moment of silence will honor all the lives touched by the insidious disease.
Petals can be dedicated to a loved one, or the Survive-OARS program. Messages can be written on (biodegradable) paper, and lofted into the river along with the petals.
Tickets are $75. Can’t be there? Purchase and dedicate rose petals, to be scattered in your name ($50 or $25). Click here for more information. Questions? Email diana@survive-oars.org.
The last time we checked in with Max Orland — the 2006 Staples High School graduate who overcame a speech and language disability to work with the New York Mets, US Open (center court, for Federer and Serena Williams), Philadelphia Phillies, Boston Red Sox and Northeastern University — he was hired in golf operations at the prestigious Tiburón Club in Naples, Florida.
Now he’s a published writer. His piece in Tri- State Golf Magazine is an inspiring account of the challenges he’s overcome, the milestones he’s reached, and the lessons he’s learned along the way. (Click here to read.)
It focuses on his move away from all that was familiar, to South Florida. It’s very well-written, filled with strong examples, and a testament to Max’s talent, perseverance and character.
The other day, Max was in Westport. He headed to Staples — as he always does — to see Sara Levesh Prior, a teacher who was so helpful to him 20 years ago.
“I was so fortunate to go to school there,” Max says. “It really launched me to some great accomplishments. I am forever grateful for Staples and Westport.
I owe gratitude to a lot of people there, like the baseball coaches, who were rooting for me.”
PS: Max has a new (and very exciting) gig. He’ll be working in operations for the NBA’s Miami Heat. Good things happen to great people!
Max Orland
=================================================
Club203 — Westport’s social organization for adults with disabilities — celebrates Halloween early.
Their October 16 (6:30 p.m.) event at Earthplace is “a spooktacular night under the stars.” It includes music, a “trick-a-tree” trail” for treats, pumpkin painting, a fire pit, and a chance to hang out with friends.
Staples’ Candlelight Concert is over 2 1/2 months away.
But the school’s music department is deep in preparations for the 85th annual gift to the town.
Ten years ago — for the 75th anniversary — a special CD included selections from many previous shows. The oldest — “The 12 Days of Christmas” — was from 1953.
This year, the department wonders: Are there older Candlelight recordings anywhere? And when was the first concert recorded by a movie camera (or camcorder)?
If you’ve got a long-ago LP, movie or video, contact Steve Zimmerman, district arts coordinator: szimmerman@westportps.org. (PS: Please let “06880” know too!)
This photo is from the 1979 Candlelight Concert. It was already nearly 40 years old. There have been over 40 Candlelights since.
=================================================
Pequot Runners — organizers of the very popular Thanksgiving Day 5-mile race and 2.6-mile walk — are sponsoring a kids-only race this Sunday (October 19, Greens Farms Academy)
There are 2 distances: 1.5 miles (4th-5th grade boys and girls, 9 a.m.) and 2 mles (5th-6th graders, 9:30 a.m.).
“06880” received dozens of harvest moon photos last night. We couldn’t use all — or even a small part — of them.
But here is one, as it rose over (of course) Compo Beach:
(Photo/Nancy Lally)
And another, over Old Road:
(Photo/Ben Meyer)
The full harvest moon was framed beautifully, in this sculpture by Hans Von de Bovemkamp on Judy Point Lane, near Saugatuck Shores:
(Photo/Roger Leifer)
===============================================
The Staples boys soccer online silent auction has begun.
Items include soccer training with varsity players (for goalkeepers too!), a ball signed by the varsity team, a ski on/off weekend at Stowe, Knicks tickets, diamond earrings, writing consultations with “06880” founder Dan Woog, and much more.
Multi-instrumentalist (bass, guitar, harmonica, looper, vocals) Brian Torff stars this Thursday, at Jazz at the Post (VFW Post 399; 7:30 and 8:45 p.m. shows; dinner from 7).
Most of our daily “Westport … Naturally” photos show Westport at its best: the beauty and wonder we often appreciate (but not always).
Today’s shows Gray’s Creek, between Longshore and Compo Beach Road.
But while it is a town jewel, some people don’t always treat it that way. For example:
(Photo/Nathan Greenbaum)
=================================================
And finally … speaking of last night’s harvest moon:
(Another day, another Roundup chock full of news, events, photos and more. If you enjoy this daily feature — or any other — please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
It seems like our Photo Challenges are either very easy. Or very hard. We seldom hit the Goldilocks sweet spot
Last week’s was particularly difficult. Nancy Breakstone’s image showed a hard-to-figure-out view of an “Open” sign. Most readers figured out it was a restaurant.
Does this week’s Photo Challenge meet the elusive “just right” standard?
If you know where in Westport you’d see this, click “Comments” below.
(Photo/John Maloney)
(Every Sunday, “06880” hosts this Photo Challenge. We challenge you too to support your hyper-local blog. Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)
Things began frustratingly for Mike and Robin Clementi, who came to this area from New Jersey for his job. Realtor Karen Scott of KMS Team at Compass sold them on the schools, beaches, Longshore, restaurants and shopping. But they lost at least 6 houses, in bidding wars.
Finally they found — and bought — one. The location, a cul-de-sac off Compo Road South, was perfect. They could walk downtown, to the Levitt, and the water.
Then things got even better.
Even before they moved in 2 years ago, their new neighbors exchanged phone numbers. It was a young street — several families had arrived just a year or two earlier — and though their children were younger, they made sure the Clementis’ daughters (a rising junior at Staples High, and an incoming 7th grader — had someone to sit with at lunch the first day of school.
There was more. Lauren, the older girl, played varsity golf in New Jersey. The family reached out to Staples coach Patty Kondub. She spent an afternoon with them — and arranged a party for Lauren to meet her new teammates.
Robin Clementi and her family.
The shopping, restaurants and other amenities have been “great — worth all the hype.” But those two stories “sum up what this town means to me,” Robin says. “It was an exceptional, warm welcome we never expected.”
Not everything is perfect. Robin is an interior designer, and she thought she could keep her previous clients. Traffic on I-95 makes that difficult. So she pivoted. Now she’s got new clients — and has found great new designers and builders to work with.
The walk to the beach proved further than expected. But her daughter walks to town quite a bit. After school, she takes the bus to the Library — a spot Robin calls “magic. Kids love going there!”
Another surprise: Birchwood Country Club. Though Longshore is “beautiful and lovely,” tee times are tough to get. Someone suggested the club off Kings Highway South.
“It’s beautifully camouflaged and tucked in,” she says. “We love it.”
Birchwood Country Club: a hidden gem.
The Clementis’ experience is mirrored by other families who have moved here recently. “06880” wondered whether realtors’ hype — and newcomers’ expectations — were matched by reality.
In many cases, they are.
Jen Krichels is from rural Maine. Her husband, Matthew Johnson, grew up in Colorado. She is a writer and editor for architectural publications; he’s in marketing.
They lived for many years in Brooklyn. During the pandemic, they and their 2 children spent 2 years in the Catskills, where they’d bought a fixer-upper.
They loved the community, and had many friends there. But it was spread out. Childcare was limited.
They could not envision moving back to a 2-bedroom apartment. They looked at homes in Westchester County, and elsewhere.
The couple remembered visiting a friend in Westport. The flags on the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge, downtown, the beauty of the coastal beaches, the reputation for cultural life — all impelled them to consider the town.
Neither of them commutes regularly. But proximity to the train — and New York — was important.
KMS agent Mary Ellen Gallagher found them a home in the Old Hill area.
What’s the verdict?
Reality has lived up to expectations “in almost every category,” Jen says. She cites “the amenities for kids and adults, the schools, cultural opportunities, the and access to outdoors” — including Earthplace — among the highlights.
The Krichels family, at Winslow Park. (Photo/Matthew David)
Last summer, she surprised herself by not going away.
“We realized we were on vacation already!” Jen says. They attended concerts at the Levitt, and stayed late at the beach with friends and neighbors.
Traffic and parking are frustrations. She worries about her children walking and riding on local streets. At the same time, she walks with her kids to school. And she is heartened to see groups of youngsters riding bikes.
Her next door neighbor, Jenna Petok, is a director of Bike Westport. They’re kindred spirits, and have forged a strong friendship.
Jen is interested in municipal issues. She calls the Representative Town meeting an “interesting” form of government. “It’s nice to see peers involved in those discussions,” she says.
“Any town that can support growth, foster walkability, and include lower-income people will thrive. Westport can do that.”
Clara and Sebastian Krichels enjoy summer in Westport.
Meanwhile, is there anything Jen and Matthew have not tried?
“Anything after 8 p.m.,” she laughs. “I know people enjoy post-sunset drinsk at the beach. That’s nice. But it’s not our turn yet!”
Julia Dzafic has been here a bit longer. But the marketer and blogger says she and her husband Anel, who owns Countdown Fitness on Sylvan Road South (and who feels welcomed by other businesses), have had “the best 6 years of our lives. It’s even beyond our expectations.”
The family enjoys pizza nights at Compo and Old Mill, and restaurants like The Whelk and Bartaco (“we’re there once a week,” julia says of that family-friendly spot).
Her 8-year-old daughter’s 2 best friends live next door — a joy for any mother.
Julia Dzafic, and her family.
“We never felt we belonged to a community more,” she says. She and her friends — who recently returned from a 40th birthday trip together — share “values, kids and life situations.”
(One negative: “With a 2-year-old, I naively did not expect pressure on kids to do so much, at a young age.” However, she adds,” that may not be town-specific.”)
Fairfield County towns seem to be similar. However, Julia says, each attracts “a different group. Westport attracts a more laid-back type person. It’s got the feel of a beach town. Even the restaurants that aren’t on the water feel like that. There’s something about Compo that fills the whole town.”
Julia Dzafic and her husband Anel. He grew up on a farm in Bosnia. They keep 12 chickens in a large coop on their property. (Dazfic photos/Julia D’Agostino)
Julia speaks for many newcomers, who were enticed by Westport’s sizzle, and now enjoy its steak.
“We’re so happy to be here,” Julia says. “We don’t think we’ll ever leave.
“And we hope when our kids are much older, they’ll come back to visit.”
(“06880” keeps a sharp eye on every facet of Westport — old-timers, newcomers, and everyone in between. If you enjoy our coverage, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
This Saturday’s “Meet Your RTM Candidates” event (October 4, 10 a.m. to noon, Westport Library) is a great chance to, well, meet the men and women competing in your district for a Representative Town Meeting seat.
The RTM is our town’s legislative body. They are the final officials to sign off on budgets, and — at times — controversial issues.
Bring the kids! The event includes coffee, donuts, snacks, and art activities for youngsters. It’s co-sponsored by the League of Women Voters Westport, and “06880.”
But that’s not the only event going on Saturday morning at the Library.
From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., the Westport Volunteer Fair takes place in the Trefz Forum.
Dozens of local nonprofit organizations will have information tables, and members on hand to promote volunteerism.
It’s a fantastic way for adults — and teens — to find out how to put their talents and energy to great use. There is an organization for every interest.
Come for the RTM event. Stay for the Volunteer Fair. See you there!
The scene at last year’s Volunteer Fair. (Photo/Molly Alger)
=================================================
Also at the Library: The next 2 Common Ground Initiatives.
They’re both opportunities for positive, productive conversations on how we move forward as a civil society; encourage respectful, constructive dialogue, and tackle challenging and controversial issues.
This coming Monday (October 6, 7 p.m.), Michael Brownstein, Alex Madva and Daniel Kelly — authors of Somebody Should Do Something— will paint a picture of how social change happens, one choice at a time.
With moderator Sharon Suchotliff, the panel will delve into a novel and scientific approach to create transformative social change — and the surprising ways that each of us can help make a real difference. Click here for more information.
On October 14, “From Division to Unity: Lessons in Bridging Divides” (7 p.m.) features a panel of national experts in business, sports, and the military. They’ll share how they’ve navigated complex divisions, to lead diverse teams toward common goals.
The panel includes:
Bonnie Hammer, Retired vice chair, NBC Universal
Mel Raines, CEO, Indiana Pacers (NBA)
Steve Parrish, retired senior vice president, Altria Group
Tony La Russa, Hall of Fame Major League Baseball manager
General William Welch, US Air Force general (retired)
The conversation will be facilitated by Dr. Allen Hilton, executive director of the House United Movement and consulting theologian at Greens Farms Church. Click here for more information.
Preliminary work has begun for the new Long Lots Elementary School.
The former Long Lots Preserve — developed a few years ago, adjacent to the Community Gardens — will be used as a staging area for construction equipment. When the school is completed, the land will be converted to an athletic field.
A new Japanese restaurant has opened quietly in Westport.
Omakase — in the small plaza next to Dunville’s, on Saugatuck Avenue. The name refers to a series of small dishes of the chef’s choosing.
Jessica Ryan reports in CTBites that 10 sit at an open counter, watching Chef Edwin work. “He slices, dices and molds while offering entertaining and informative explanations about the fish, the flavors and his techniques.”
Want to help shape the future of Westport’s parks?
As part of the Parks Master Plan process, the Parks & Recreation Department hosts a public workshop today (Tuesday, September 30, 6 p.m., Westport Library). All community members are invited. It will be run by the town’s consultants, BL Companies.
The Town’s consultant, BL Companies, will provide residents with the opportunity to engage directly with the consultants, share feedback, and learn more about the planning process.
From 7:30 to 9 a.m. on Wednesday, Westport police officers will be hanging out at the downtown Starbucks.
There are no speeches; there is no agenda. Just a chance to sit and chat about Westport, ask questions, and discuss anything and everything, over coffee.
Green’s Farms Church’s 12th annual Service Sunday was, as always, devoted to hands-on projects with partners in Westport, Norwalk and Bridgeport.
After a send-off service, congregants put their faith into action on projects like landscaping, cemetery restoration, classroom makeovers, music at an assisted living community, and community-resource organization.
Among the efforts:
Bridgeport Rescue Mission: lawn/garden work, and cleaning service trucks.
Residence at Westport: music performance led by the church’s music team.
A Westporter and educator for over 43 years in the Catholic school system, she had a remarkable impact on students and families. She helped countless elementary and middle schoolers grow and learn.
Now she’s earned more kudos.
On Saturday Maureen received the St. Augustine Medal of Honor, on behalf of The Catholic Academy of Stamford. It was awarded for her “dedication, service and commitment to Catholic education.”
As we get ready to turn the page to October, today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature highlights one of the first trees in town to show its fall colors. Ed Simek spotted it, on Treadwell Avenue.
The Westport Emergency Medical Service crew chief received the Distinguished Achievement Award on Thursday, at the EMSPro International EMS Conference at Mohegan Sun.
He was chosen by the Connecticut EMS Council and state Office of Emergency Medical Services.
Jay began his service as a volunteer EMT in 1980, a few months after Westport’s EMS was founded. Over the past 45 years he has served as an EMT and crew chief, volunteering more than 30,000 hours.
He has saved countless lives, while also contributing as a board member, CPR program coordinator, an officer and president of Westport EMS, and a member of the Connecticut EMS Advisory Board.
Jay Paretzky
================================================
Breast cancer survivors and — caregivers, family members and friends — will gather on Sunday, October 19 (9 a.m., Sherwood Island State Park), for the American Cancer Society’s 31st annual “Making Strikes Against Breast Cancer” kickoff.
In advance of Yom Kippur, The Blondinit is preparing a catering menu of Israeli-inspired cooking. It includes “start the fast” and “break the fast” options, with full meals as well as a la carte items.
To order, call 203-557-3277, or email catering@theblondinit.com. All catering orders are pick-up only. The deadline is Wednesday morning.
================================================
Over the years, Mihali has become a Levitt Pavilion favorite.
Last night, the Twiddle co-founder returned to Westport with his “reggae, roots rock and riverside vibes,” and a full band.
He was joined by progressive funk powerhouse Night Zero. The show began with local high octane jam rock band Residual Groove.
Mihali, at the Levitt Pavilion. (Photo/Jerry Kuyper)
Aspetuck Land Trust’s 2025 Haskins Lecture features Tom Butler, author of “Wildlands Philanthropy: The Great American Tradition” (October 30, 7 p.m., Westport Library).
Butler will share little-known stories of the men and women who went above and beyond to conserve the landscapes they loved – across the continent and around the world. They’re a reminder of the power of individuals to protect wild places everywhere.
Which you know, if you’re been to Starbucks, Big Y, or any other place in America that sells pumpkin spice latte, pumpkin spice muffins, or any other version of the “p”-word.
Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo shows a pumpkin nearly as big as the boy holding it, at Old Mill.
Bratwurst, sausages, pretzels, pizza, beer and other beverages — plus live music, and a fantastic view of the river — was on tap yesterday, at The Bridge at Saugatuck.
The riverside restaurant celebrated its first anniversary with an Oktoberfest celebration that drew hundreds of Westporters, of all ages.
Here’s to many more!
The Bridge at Saugatuck is the wurst. And the best!
=================================================
One more Oktoberfest scene — at another restaurant — from a typical fall Saturday afternoon in Westport:
(Photo/Ferdinand Jahnel)
================================================
Today (Sunday) is the date for the Levitt Pavilion’s rescheduled Mihali festival.
The Twiddle co-founder returns to Westport with his “reggae, roots rock and riverside vibes” — and full band.
He’s joined by progressive funk powerhouse Night Zero. The event begins with local high octane jam rock band Residual Groove making their Levitt debut.
Just across the river from the Levitt, there’s always something interesting at Michael Chait’s studio.
Next up at the 11 Riverside Avenue 2nd floor space: Explore how graphic design shapes American culture, and learn how to incorporate creativity into your journaling (October 15, 6:30 p.m.). Click here for tickets, and more information.
Michael Chait
=================================================
Totney Benson spotted this guy supervising part of the Sherwood Mill Pond tidal gate renovation project.
(Photo/Totney Benson)
“I hope it’s not a harbinger of how long it will take to complete,” she says.
The recent “Shank it & Serve it For Shea fundraiser, at Birchwood Country Club. raised $80,00.
Combined with last year’s event — plus 3 “Shake it For Shea” galas — the total amount raised for research to find better treatments, and ultimately a cure, for Long QT Syndrome is over $1.4 million.
In Long QT, the heart’s electrical system takes longer than usual to recharge between beats. Patients like Shea Greenfield are at risk of fainting, seizures, cardiac arrest and sudden death.
Congratulations to Shea’s parents, Mark and Kira, for their unstinting efforts on behalf of Long QT Syndrome sufferers, and their families, everywhere.
Westport resident Marcia Marshall died peacefully on September 24. She was 86.
The Bridgeport native graduated from Southern Connecticut State College.
Marcia was a retired customer service representative from People’s Bank. She was a ballet dancer in her youth, and appreciated music, dance and theater throughout her life.
She was a voracious reader, and loved crossword puzzles and spending time with family and friends.
She was predeceased by her husband Thomas Marshall. She is survived by their daughters Marykate Marshall, Anne Eszlari (Edward) and Susan Marshall, and grandchildren Jessica and Thomas Gladu; Jeffrey, Shannon and Eric Eszlari; and Nicholas and Christopher Dostilio; great-grandchildren Isabella, Aidan and Liam, and several nieces and nephews.
A funeral is set for September 30 (10 a.m., Assumption Church) for a Mass of Christian Burial. Interment will follow in Assumption Cemetery on Greens Farms Road, The family will receive friends in the Harding Funeral Home on September 29 from 4-7 p.m. Condolences may be left online at http://www.hardingfuneral.com. Contribution in memory of Marcia in lieu flowers may be made to Westport Volunteer EMS.
Marcia Marshall
=============================================
Richard Fogel spotted — and captured — today’s “Westport … Naturally” image, in the Hillspoint area.
And finally … Robert “Rabbit” Jaramillo died last month in Colorado, of congestive heart failure. He was 78.
His band, Cannibal & the Headhunters, were one-hit wonders with “Land of 1,000 Dances.” They performed with the Temptations, Righteous Brothers, Marvin Gaye and the Rolling Stones. The Beatles asked them to be an opening act for their second US tour.
But they never had another hit. Jaramillo became a railroad signal maintainer, and sang gospel in his Pentecostal church. Click here for his fascinating obituary.
(“06880” is not a one-hit wonder. We’re here every day — 24/7/365 — and we have been, since 2009. If you enjoy this hyper-local blog, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
Just a decade ago, Fairfield’s restaurants were eating Westport’s lunch.
Our neighbor to the east still has a great, diverse dining scene.
But diners far and wide are eating ours up, too.
In fact, there are way too many Westport restaurants to cram into one week.
So the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce’s annual Restaurant Week will be two.
Zucca Gastrobar is last alphabetically. But it’s first on many diners’ lists.
It begins tomorrow (Sunday, September 28), and runs through Sunday, October 12. (So, to be technical, it actually spans 2 months)..
The 2025 event features nearly 20 venues, offering a variety of prix fixe meals to suit any interest and pocketbook. They range from one end of Westport, and Saugatuck, all the way to an honorary spot in Southport.
Take that, Fairfield! This is the scene at The Blondinit.
Some restaurants offer just lunch, others just dinner. Most serve both.
Click here to help support “06880” via credit card or PayPal. Any amount is welcome, appreciated — and tax-deductible! Reader contributions keep this blog going. (Alternate methods: Please send a check to “06880”: PO Box 744, Westport, CT 06881. Or use Venmo: @blog06880. Or Zelle: dwoog@optonline.net. Thanks!)
GET THE “06880” APP
The “06880” app (search for it on the Apple or Android store) is the easiest way to get “06880.” Choose notifications: whenever a new post is published, or once or twice a day. Click here for details.
