Roundup: Y Bear, Beat The Heat, That’s Entertainment! …

Posted on July 17, 2025 | 5 comments

One of the joys of the Westport Weston Family YMCA is the view from inside.

The spectacular scenery includes the Mahackeno Outdoor Center woods and trees.

And occasionally, its bears.

Adam Siegel was startled yesterday to see a young bear amble into view.

(Photo/Adam Siegel)

Looks like the cub was having fun with a ball.

Just like youngsters at Camp Mahackeno — all very safely out of the way — do, all the rest of the time.

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It was hot and hazy yesterday.

And a decent-sized crowd took advantage of a mid-summer hump day to enjoy Sherwood Island State Park.

(Photo/Pam Docters)

Today’s forecast: Clouds early, followed by partial clearing. It will hit 94 degrees — perfect for cooling off at your favorite beach.

And then, at 6 p.m. tonight (Thursday), the “o6880” blog party at Compo. ‘

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Speaking of beating the heat: Lou Mall had a chance to do that yesterday.

And he didn’t even plan on it.

The Representative Town Meeting member was on his way into the Senior Center, when he saw 2 teenager girls offering free lemonade.

From left: Taylor Lunney and Nicole Tooker. (Photo/Lou Mall)

Taylor Linney and Nicole Tooker also invited seniors to  join them in a “When life gives you lemons, play Cornhole!” event there, on July 30 (10:30 a.m.).

“What great young women!” Lou says.

“I had a wonderful conversation about their upcoming senior year in high school, and colleges.

“It was so nice of them to volunteer their time and energy. And who doesn’t love free lemonade on a hot day like today?”

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The Westport Downtown Association sponsors music on Church Lane, every Friday and Saturday from early June through mid-September.

Now there’s music on Wednesdays too. Spotted Horse hires the performer. But they play outside the popular restaurant, so diners at other venues enjoy them too.

Ethan Walmark was last night’s featured act. The very talented 2024 Staples High School graduate — a rising sophomore at the University of Southern California’s prestigious Thornton School of Music — rocked the al fresco roadway with a sampling of some of his 3,000 covers, of popular tunes in a variety of genres.

Of course, Ethan took requests. That’s the way he rocks.

And rolls.

Ethan Walmark, in action. (Photo/Jerry Kuyper)

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Also yesterday: 2 well-attended events, on either side of the Westport Library parking lot.

In the Trefz Forum, the 50th anniversary of “Jaws” was celebrated with a special screening of the iconic thriller — followed by an intriguing talk with nephew Christopher Shaw Myers, author of “Robert Shaw: An Actor’s Life on the Set of Jaws and Beyond,”and film critic Joe Myers.

(Photo/Copyright DinkinESH Fotografix)

Meanwhile, a few yards away, the Levitt Pavilion welcomed the folk trio I’m With Her:

(Photo/Jerry Kuyper) 

As if all that wasn’t enough: Singer Rosanne Cash and her husband, guitarist John Leventhal performed at the Westport Country Playhouse.

(Photo/Susan Garment)

In the words of former 1st Selectman Jim Marpe: “If you can’t find something to do in Westport, you’re just not trying.”

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Speaking of the Westport Country Playhouse: Individual tickets are now on sale for the upcoming season.

Beginning in the fall, and running through next summer, it includes 3 mainstage productions of 3 weeks each, plus 3 limited-run shows.

Click here for details, and ticket information.

Artistic director Mark Shanahan gets ready for another season.

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Sunday is the Big Day for Lloyd Allen.

The Double L Market owner — and musical theater playwright — debuts “Screen Time” at the Westport Library (2 p.m.).

It tells the story of Angie (a bookeworm) who meets Marshall (a coder) building Angela (an AI chatbot).

The humans fall in love. Marshall introduces Angie to his influencer friends. Cautious at first, she acquiesces. With Angela’s guidance, she becomes a viral influencer.

“It’s the biggest artistic risk I’ve ever taken,” Lloyd says. “But it feels right.

“And I can’t think the Library enough. They haven’t just given me a stage — they’ve become partners in the artistic endeavor.”

The show will stream live on the library’s YouTube station, and be archived there. For free tickets and more information. click here.

Screenshot from “Screen Time.”

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1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker says: “It is with deep sadness that I learned of the passing of Fairfield 1st Selectman Bill Gerber.

“He was a kind, engaged and accomplished public servant, having served the Fairfield in a wide range of elected and appointed roles over the past 30 years.

“Personally, I found Bill to not only be a good colleague, but even more importantly, a good human.

“On behalf of the town of Westport, I extend my sincere condolences to his wife,Jessica, his family, friends, and the entire Fairfield community. Please know that you are in our thoughts during this time of profound loss.”


Fairfield 1st Selectman Bill Gerber

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“Nature can heal itself, if we give it a little help.”

That was the message from Bob Mazzone, SoundWaters’ vice president of development, the the Westport Rotary Club on Tuesday.

The Stamford-based non-profit teaches students about the environmental challenges threatening Long Island Sound, through programs like sailing, growing kelp to improve the quantity of oxygen, and harbor maintenance.

Bob Mazzone addresses the Westport Rotary Club at Green’s Farms Church. (Photo/Dave Matlow)

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5th through 8th graders interested in history and photography: Check out “History Through a Lens.”

The 3-Saturday workshop (August 23, September 13 and 27, 10-11:30 a.m., Weston History & Culture Center) encourages youngsters to dive into photographs from the archives, uncover the stories they tell, capture their own images, and become storytellers too

No experience is necessary. Bring a camera or smartphone (or one will be provided).

Free for members; $10 for non-members. Click here to register, and for more information. 

Photos from the Westport History & Culture Center archives.

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Westport Police made 1 custodial arrest between July 9 and 15.

A 23-year-old West Haven man was charged with larceny, and conspiracy to commit larceny, after an investigation into the October 4 thefts of tires and wheels from Honda of Westport. The loss and associated damage was estimated at $15,530. He posted a $75,000, and was turned over to Stamford Police, who also held a warrant for his arrest.

Westport Police also issued these citations:

  • Driving while texting: 7 citations
  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 5
  • Failure to renew registration: 5
  • Failure to obey state traffic commission regulations: 5
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 2
  • Failure to obey traffic control regulations: 2
  • Criminal trespass: 1
  • Reckless driving: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 1
  • Failure to insure a motor vehicle: 1
  • Passing in a no-passing zone 1
  • Failure to obey stop sign: 1
  • Following too closely: 1
  • Improper turns: 1
  • Failure to grant right-of-way: 1
  • School zone violation: 1.

Criminal trespassing is a crime.

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Longtime Westporter and civic volunteer Mary Shaughnessy died peacefully in November in Stamford, 2 days after celebrating her 95th birthday.

Raised on a Minnesota farm during the Depression, and one of 10 children, she was Homecoming Queen at Rochester High School.

She put herself through the University of Minnesota by working at the Mayo Clinic. She then taught physical education and health at Minnetonka High School.

Mary was married for 60 years to Tom Shaughnessy. Together, they raised 6 children.

In Westport Mary was active with the Church of Assumption, volunteered with Meals on Wheels, and was the only female coach of Westport’s first co-ed softball league.

Mary is survived by her children and their spouses: Tom of River Forest, Illinois; Mary Kay of Stamford; Elizabeth of Nashville; Peggy of Lake Geneva, Wisconsin; Patrick of Redwood City, California and John of Coral Gables, Florida; 11 grandchildren, and her siblings Margaret Tushaus, Donna Mae Stock and Eugene Tushaus.

A memorial Mass will be held at Assumption Church on August 9 (10 a.m.). In lieu of flowers, donations made be made to the Thomas F. ’46 and Mary A. Shaughnessy Scholarship Endowment Fund at Cretin-Derham Hall, St. Paul, MN.

Mary Shaughnessy 

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Carolyn Doan sends a pair of spectacular “Westport … Naturally” photos.

She reports: “The Fresh Market osprey is getting ready to leave the nest.

“There is one chick this year. It can lift itself high above the nest. and is now assessing the idea of leaving. Proud parent looks on as this unfolds.”

(Photos/Carolyn Doan)

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And finally … see you tonight at our “06880” blog party (story above)!

(Sure, it’s hot. But the AC is cranking at “06880” Central, and we’re pumping out our usual mix of news, events, features, photos and more, without letup. Please click here to support our work. Thanks!)

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Posted in Beach, Downtown, Environment, Library, Obituaries, Police, Westport Country Playhouse, YMCA

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Young Entrepreneurs Make Mobile Car Care Shine

Posted on July 17, 2025 | 5 comments

The last time we checked in with Christian Rinaldi and Kyle Dulak, the Westport teenagers were running a thriving car detailing business.

They washed, polished exteriors, and scrubbed interiors (including steam cleaning, and shampooing carpets and seats, among many other services).

They used a foam cannon and pressure washer — not a hose — and earned raves from customers.

They still do all that — and much more. Since that story ran, they’ve gone into overdrive.

 

Christian Rinaldi (right) and Kyle Dulak, showing off their work. (Photo/Ryan Allen)

Christian — who founded CK Mobile Car Detailings — has upped their game by training with Steven Vitaliani of Fairfield’s Auto Spa. He has taken his mentor’s generous help to heart.

(Steven just wants to help young people, Christian says. And, he points out, the Auto Spa is on-site in Southport, while Christian and Kyle travel to customers’ homes.)

Christian and Kyle now offer 3 packages: Bronze, Diamond and F1 (click here for details).

Add-on options include engine bay, black trim and/or leather restoration, and paint correction.

The pair have an extensive checklist. They double-check every item, making sure nothing is missed.

“I’ve learned a lot of business skills by communicating with customers,” Christian says.

It shows. When he came to my condo — wearing his CK-branded shirt — he handed me his business card, clearly explained the process, and asked if I had any questions.

I know many Westport companies that could hire Christian to teach employees about customer service.

A customer recently asked, “Can you just make it look nice?”

Of course, Christian replied. But, he said, he and Kyle are committed to cleaning every crevice.

Christian works on the interior of my car …

Christian knows that his prices are higher than some car washes, which also offer detailing.

But, he says, he has invested thousands of dollars in equipment.

In addition, he notes, “they don’t maintain their materials.” He handwashes every thing — including buckets — with hot water and soap, every night. He uses a special detergent for his towels.

Christian refills all his chemicals regularly. He says he has learned a lot about math, working with dilutions.

He uses top-grade products for everything — and eco-friendly, safe cleaning solutions.

… and the exterior. When he was done, he got rid of all the soapy water.

Customers are delighted with CK’s services. “They really like and respect our work,” Christian says. “That means a lot.”

He and Kyle are hustling. They work hard for their money. They pour some of it back into their company. Materials are expensive, and Christian recently bought a large crate that keeps everything organized.

Some of Christian’s earnings may go toward his next business venture: his own wrapping and tinting shop.

But for now, it’s all detailing, all the time.

No job is too big, or too small. Every one gets the same professional attention,  from very professional teenagers Christian Rinaldi and Kyle Dulak.

(Click here for the CK Car Mobile Car Detailings website. All bookings are done online.)

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Posted in Local business, Teenagers

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Pic Of The Day #3010

Posted on July 16, 2025 | 3 comments

Longshore pool (Photo/Andrew Franco)

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Posted in Longshore, Pic of the Day

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Unsung Heroes #391

Posted on July 16, 2025 | 16 comments

This is not the first time the UPS Store across from Fresh Market has been our Unsung Heroes.

But — as every Westporter who has ever had to send a package, print a flyer, shred documents or use a notary knows — their customer service is above and beyond, every time.

So they deserve another shout-out this week. Jennifer Oprysko Kellogg writes:

The other day, I dropped off a large box I had clumsily taped up in my car. When I returned home, I realized my garage clicker was missing from the sun visor.

After searching everywhere, it occurred to me that it might have fallen into the box while I was packing it.

I went back to UPS. Without hesitation, JJ jumped into action.

He sifted through a room full of packages to locate mine. A few minutes later, he poked his head out to say he couldn’t find it — only to emerge smiling, with the box in hand and a playful “just kidding.” My garage opener had been right where I figured, inside the box.

Laughter and applause filled the store.

This wasn’t the first time JJ offered such kindness. It seems to come to him naturally. Thank you, JJ — you truly set the standard.

So does the entire crew at the UPS Store, from owner Don Curtis on down. They’re our Unsung Heroes — today, and every day.

(“06880” is proud to honor Unsung Heroes — and tell many other tales of town too. Please click here to support your hyper-local blog.)

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Posted in Unsung Heroes

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Roundup: LobsterFest, Lightning, Longshore …

Posted on July 16, 2025 | 9 comments

Save the date! This year’s LobsterFest — the early fall fun-fest (and fundraiser) at Compo Beach — is September 20.

All the food and family-friendly entertainment features of past years return. The Westport Rotary Club promises a few new additions, along with new beverage options.

Right now, the Westport Rotary Club is signing sponsors. It’s a great opportunity to align with one of the town’s most lively and popular events.

It’s all for a great cause. The Rotary Club is celebrating its centennial with a major contribution to the Compo Beach playground renovation.

They awarded $385,000 to the project from last year’s Lobster Fest. Another $285,000 went to 46 local and regional causes — and $100,000 more to support international projects. The largest is outfitting a new dental and vision building in rural Uganda.

To learn more about sponsorships, click here.

PS: Tickets go on sale next month. Be sure to watch “06880” for an announcement — and then pounce. They go fast!

Save the date — September 20 — for the Rotary Club LobsterFest. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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It’s not easy capturing lightning (on camera, of course).

But Meredith Holod was in the right place, at the right time — and a safe distance away — Monday.

Here’s her view during the quick but intense storm, from Compo Beach.

(Photo/Meredith Holod)

But lightning did strike twice, elsewhere in Westport. The Fire Department responded to 2 incidents.

One struck a home on Joanne Circle, igniting a fire on the second floor. Crews swiftly contained the fire before it could spread further. No injuries were reported.

Meanwhile on Bayberry Lane, lightning struck a pet “invisible fence.” The surge caused electrical damage, and posed a risk to the property.

“Summer storms can be dangerous, and things can go wrong quickly,” says Fire Marshal Terry Dunn.

“Electric pet fences are especially vulnerable, because they’re wired underground and usually connected to your home’s electrical system. If lightning strikes nearby it can travel through that wiring, damage your home, and potentially start a fire. It takes just a few seconds to unplug the system when a storm is on the way. It’s a smart precaution.”

The Westport Fire Department urges residents to take precautions during thunderstorms:

  • Unplug electric fences.
  • Use surge protectors for important electronics; unplug non-essential devices.
  • Avoid using wired appliances or electronics during a storm.
  • Stay indoors and away from windows when thunder or lightning is present.

For more safety tips and emergency updates, visit www.westportct.gov/fire.

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Saturn —  the wildly successful calendar app for high school and college students, which began as a Staples High venture when Class of 2017 member Dylan Diamond was a teenager there — has been acquired by Snap.

The new owners — the company behind Snapchat — did not disclose terms of the day. But most of Saturn’s 30 full-time employees will join their new owner.

Engadget, which first reported the news, says: “It’s not clear what exactly Snap has planned for Saturn, but … the calendar app will continue to operate as a standalone service.”

Saturn may help introduce calendar-related features into Snapchat.

Saturn is available at more than 17,000 high schools. And Snap is used by more than half of US teenagers.

Click here for the full Engadget story.

Dylan Diamond

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John McCarthy was the most recent “06880” reader to send a photo of the camera mounted at the Longshore entrance, and wonder why it’s there.

(Photo/John McCarthy)

“Seems a little out of place,” he writes.

Not really. Parks & Recreation Department director Erik Barbieri explains: “This is a license plate recognition camera, for cars entering Longshore.

:There have been break-ins in the past, but the cameras in the parking lot couldn’t always catch the plates.

“This helps us know who came in, if there are any other issues in the future. A good recommendation from the Police Department.”

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For years, Staples High School Class of 2024 graduate Ethan Walmark entertained Westporters, with his many musical talents.

But not just us.

Ethan was on the “Today Show.” He helped Yoko Ono flip the switch to light the Empire State Building blue for World Autism Awareness Day. His performance of “Eminence Front” rocked a Who show. He sang the national anthem in front of 25,000 fans at Red Bull Arena.

As a 12-year-old Coleytown Middle School student, Ethan followed Emerson, Lake and Palmer, Billy Joel and Elton John at the 1st-ever Autism Awareness Gala Fundraiser at the Kennedy Center in Washington.

Now — a rising sophomore at the University of Southern California’s Thornton School of Music — Ethan is back in town.

Tonight (Wednesday, 6 to 9 p.m.), he performs outside the Spotted Horse — on keyboards, and electric and acoustic guitar.

He won’t sing all of the 3,000 songs in his repertoire. But you’ll recognize many of your favorite Beatles, Billy Joel, Elton John, Motown, John Mayer, Simon & Garfunkel and Four Seasons favorites.

And Ethan will take requests.

Ethan Walmark

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Speaking of entertainment: Country music rocks the VFW this Saturday (July 19, 8 p.m.).

Grady McAuliffe — with his new single “On the Edge” at #4 on the Hot Disc/All Country Radio chart — and his band bring their high-energy, country grit, Southern Soul and rock-infused sound to the Riverside Avenue venue.

The bar features specials sponsored by Bubba’s Whiskey and Spacecat Brewing Company. Click here for tickets ($15 in advance, $20 at the door), and more information.

Grady McAuliffe

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Mitchells held their annual Compo Beach party last night, for company members and their families.

As always, it was first class: lobster and shrimp, Colony Pizza, hot dogs and much more.

Jack and Bill Mitchell — the second generation, after their parents Ed and Norma — were joined by their sons and daughters-in-law, and their kids. The 4th generation is well on its way to making its mark on the Westport store — and those in Greenwich, Long Island, on the West Coast, and now Dallas.

The fifth generation was there too. Their time will come!

Of course — befitting two Westport town jewels (Mitchells and Compo) — the weather was perfect.

Bill Mitchell, at the company picnic. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Today’s spectacular “Westport … Naturally” image comes from Michael Chait, via the Saugatuck River:

(Photo/Michael Chait)

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And finally … on this date in 1935, the world’s first parking meter was installed. The site was Oklahoma City.

(Don’t follow leaders … but please support “06880.” Just click here — and thank you!)

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Posted in Entertainment, Local business, Longshore, Police, Restaurants, Staples HS, technology, Weather

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GOP, Dems Endorse Slates For November Election

Posted on July 16, 2025 | 12 comments

Separated by 2 floors at Town Hall — but echoing pledges to unite the town — the Republican and Democratic Town Committees endorsed their slates of candidates last night, for November’s elections.

Representative Town Meeting member Don O’Day — an unaffiliated voter — and 2nd selectwoman Andrea Moore will head the Republican ticket for 1st and 2nd selectpersons, respectively.

Board of Education member Kevin Christie and Planning & Zoning commissioner Amy Wistreich lead the Democratic slate.

Democratic selectperson candidates Kevin Christie and Amy Wistreich. (Photo/Jerri Graham)

Both parties also chose candidates for the Boards of Education, Finance and Assessment Appeals; the Planning & Zoning Commission, and Zoning Board of Appeals.

Both parties’ nominating committees chose a mix of current members, and those running for the first time.

None of the nominating committee selections were contested from the floor. However — as reported earlier this morning on “06880” — 2 Democrats who were not nominated for the Board of Education hope to qualify for a primary in September.

Jim Marpe praised O’Day, before the RTC’s formal vote. The former 1st selectman cited the candidate’s “dedication, integrity, business acumen and transparency,” and called his approach to governing “collaborative, not combative.”

Of all potential candidates, Marpe said, O’Day is “the most personal, political and professional.”

O’Day — who until 6 weeks ago was a registered Democrat — addressed what he called “the elephant in the room, pun intended.”

“To people who say ‘how could you?’, I say ‘why not?'” O’Day countered. “Local government is about people over politics. It’s about our neighbors in Westport, not divisiveness in Washington or Hartford.”

Adding, “the only thing I have in common with President Trump is our first name,” O’Day vowed to make both the RTC and Westport “proud.”

Republican selectperson candidates Don O’Day and Andrea Moore. (Photo/Dan Woog)

Christie was nominated by State Representative Jonathan Steinberg.

Seconding the nomination, DTC member Lisa Newman said, “At every turn, Kevin has shown up with heart and integrity.”

She praised Christie’s role on the Board of Education during transportation contract negotiations, relaunching the Long Lots Elementary School building process, and fulfilling campaign commitments.

“Kevin is not just a good candidate,” Newman said. “He’s a good human.”

Christie thanked the DTC “as an institution and as individuals.” Being a Democrat “means something,” he said. “It’s not something I can toss aside.”

Both O’Day and Christie earned standing ovations from party committee members, following their official votes.

The rest of the Republican slate includes:

Board of Education: incumbent Dorie Hordon, Michelle Hopson, TEAM Westport member Andy Frankel, and Kaitlin Zucaro.

Planning & Zoning Commission: Michelle Paquette.

Board of Finance: Brian Gaines.

Zoning Board of Appeals: Scott Schuster.

Board of Assessment Appeals: Current board alternate Tom Bloch.

The Republicans did not nominate Robert Harrington for a second term on the Board of Education. The incumbent has clashed several times with fellow board members from both parties, most notably in the recent controversy over the decision to not renew the contracts of 2 Staples High School soccer coaches.

Harrington did not respond to “06880”‘s requests for comment.

The Democratic ticket includes:

Board of Education: RTM deputy moderator Lauren Karpf, incumbent Abby Tolan.

Planning & Zoning Commission: incumbent vice chair Neil Cohn, incumbent secretary Michael Cammeyer, incumbent alternate Bre Injeski.

Cohn announced that he would be stepping down from the P&Z, after a decade of service. He was nominated as a placeholder, until a new candidate is chosen.

Board of Finance: incumbent Allyson Stollenwerck, Parks & Recreation Commission member Elaine Whitney.

Zoning Board of Appeals: Current alternate Sheri Gordon.

Board of Assessment Appeals: Incumbents Ifeseyi Gayle and Lynette Pineda.

(Click here for information on the Democratic Town Committee. Click here for information on the Republican Town Committee. Additional reporting by Katherine Phelps.)

Republican Town Committee meeting last night. Foreground (from left): Vice chair Joseph Sledge, selectperson candidates Don O’Day and Andrea Moore. (Photo/Andrew Colabella)

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Posted in Education, Local politics

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Shackelford, Harris Plan Board Of Ed Primary Challenge

Posted on July 16, 2025 | 5 comments

The Democratic and Republican Town Committees nominated candidates last night for the Board of Selectmen, and a variety of other boards and commissions. (Click here for that story.)

They’ll all be on the ballot on November 4.

Well — maybe not all.

The 2 Democratic candidates for Board of Education — incumbent member Abby Tolan and Representative Town Meeting deputy moderator Lauren Karpf — may face a primary challenge.

Former RTM member Steve Shackelford and outgoing Staples High School PTA co-president Jodi Harris plan to run against the endorsed slate. They’ll pick up petitions at Town Hall today.

If they receive enough signatures — 5% of registered Democrats (approximately 500 names) — the Democratic primary would be September 9.

Steve Shackelford and Jodi Harris.

Harris and Shackelford are “proud registered Democrats. We think our party has historically served the town well on the Board of Education,” they told “06880.”

“More recently though, the BOE as a whole — including the Democratic majority — has lost its way in its prmary tasks of exercising true oversight over the Westport Public Schools administration, and being responsive to our community and its concerns. We believe we are the best people for that job.”

They add, “In talking through the many issues and conflicts facing the BOE this past year, we realized we see eye to eye on the type of role the Board should play, and the ways in which the BOE as currently constituted has fallen short.

“We believe the best way to make the BOE, and the administration, more accountable to the people of Westport is to run, and win, together.

“That way, we can ensure this push for meaningful and cnstructive oversight, accountbility and transparency is not just a one-person show, but a movement with real inquiry, discussion and momentum.”

The pair noted their complementary skill sets: Harris’ long involvement with Westport public schools at all levels, and Shackelford’s understanding of “good governance, acountability and proper risk management.”

Harris moved to Westport in 2008. Her daughters have gone through the Westport schools. She has volunteered from preschool through Staples, including as a member of the Bedford and Coleytown Middle Schools combined PTA, when those schools were merged.

She has spent her career in children’s book publishing, including most recently as editorial director at HarperCollins. She authored and ghost-wrote over 40 children’s books.

Shackelford has lived in Westport since 2016. His 4 children have gone through, or are still in, the district’s schools.

Inspired to serve in local government during the mold closure of CMS, he served 2 terms on the RTM.

A lawyer at Susman Godfrey, Shackelford was co-lead counsel for Dominion Voting System’s defamation case related to the 2020 presidential election. His team’s work led to Fox News’ historic $787.5 million settlement with Dominion.

He pledged to “make good use of legal advice when needed, without effectively delegating major decisions to outside lawyers.”

“Our kids get only one shot at their education,” the running mates say. They believe the Board of Ed can do more in terms of charting broad strategy, exercising rigorous oversight over the administration, ensuring transparency and accountability, and providing guidance to minimize conflict.

“Recent events also underscore a critical need to safeguard all Westport Public School employees,” they say.

“We believe immediate, decisive acction is necessary to implement clear policies and procedures that protect our students and staff. The current Board’s inaction on these serious, yet solvable, issues is unacceptable.”

(Click here for information on the Democratic Town Committee. Click here for information on the Republican Town Committee. For information on the primary campaign, email harris.shackelford@gmail.com)

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Posted in Education, Local politics, Staples HS

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Pic Of The Day #3009

Posted on July 15, 2025 | 1 comment

Riverwalk light (Photo/Duane Cohen)

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Water Samples Are Good — Beaches Reopen!

Posted on July 15, 2025 | 17 comments

Luci Bango, director of health for the Aspetuck Health District, says: “Good news. Beach samples are good!”

That’s the result of yesterday’s re-sampling of Compo Beach water. Swimming had been prohibited since Thursday, due to high bacteria levels.

The results from the state lab — which have a minimum incubation period of 24 hours, with only 4 to 6 staff members processing samples — means that Compo will reopen for swimming tomorrow (Wednesday). The beach has remained open throughout, for all other activities.

Wednesday’s weather forecast is for cloudy skies, with a high of 89.

With the humidity, it will feel like 95.

Everyone into the water!

After a few uncrowded days, Compo Beach will likely look different tomorrow.

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Amee Borys: New Earthplace Director Has Deep Roots

Posted on July 15, 2025 | 3 comments

Amee Borys — a longtime Earthplace professional — is the new leader of Westport’s nature education and conservation non-profit.

The first female to head Earthplace in its 65-year history — including its previous incarnations as The Nature Center and the Mid-Fairfield County Youth Museum — she begins her role as executive director today.

Borys served as Earthplace’s director of early childhood education from 2015 to 2023, after stints as assistant director of Earthplace preschool, summer camp counselor and classroom teacher.

She was instrumental in expanding Earthplace’s offerings, including establishing the After School Enrichment Program, Nest Infant and Toddler Program, and Little Wreckers classroom at Staples High School.

Borys’ Earthplace connection began nearly 2 decades ago, as a parent. Her 2 children attended Earthplace preschool, after-school programs, and summer camps. Their early experiences inspired them to pursue careers in environmental biology and science education.

New Earthplace executive director Amee Borys (right) and her predecessor, Tony McDowell.

The new executive director replaces Tony McDowell. He announced his retirement earlier this year, after more than a decade at the helm.

“I’m honored to follow in Tony’s footsteps,” Borys says. “His dedication to Earthplace laid a strong foundation, and I’m excited to build on that legacy in the years ahead.”

Borys holds a 6th-year certificate in educational leadership. Earthplace says, “Her background in strategic planning, program development and community engagement, combined with her passion for environmental education and commitment to inclusive programming, makes her the ideal leader to further Earthplace’s mission, and strengthen its role as a vital environmental and educational resource for the region.

“Under Tony’s leadership, Earthplace has seen remarkable growth in both financial stability and program offerings,” adds Mo Tooker, chair of the Earthplace board of directors. “Amee is eager to advance the Earthplace vision with her deep expertise and passion.”

McDowell says, “I am confident that Earthplace is in a strong position for continued success under Amee’s leadership. I look forward to supporting the next chapter by focusing on capital projects and the fundraising efforts that will allow us to grow our impact.”

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Posted in Environment

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