Last night, the Board of Education confirmed the appointment of Dr. Anna Mahon as assistant superintendent for teaching and learning.
The Brookfield educator — and former Olympic athlete — joins the Westport Public Schools on July 1. She replaces Dr. Anthony Buono, who is retiring.
In announcing her selection last night, superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice cited a “rigorous” interview process. He said Dr. Mahon impressed staff, parents, BOE members and administrators with her experience, passion, commitment to students, clarity of thought and communication skills.
A press release from the Westport Public Schools says:
Dr. Mahon brings a wealth of experience and a distinguished career in education to the Westport Public Schools.
She currently serves as assistant superintendent for curriculum, instruction and human resources with the Brookfield Public Schools.
Dr. Anna Mahon
Prior to this role, which she assumed in August 2022, Dr. Mahon had a long and accomplished tenure at Amity Regional High School in Woodbridge. She began as an English teacher in 2000, advanced to English Department chair in 2007, was promoted to associate principal in 2010, and served as principal from 2015 to 2022. Dr. Mahon has also taught high school English in Darien and Stamford.
She recently completed a term as a member with the New England Association of Schools and Colleges. She has also served on the National Merit Scholarship Corporation advisory board and the Executive Board for the Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference (CIAC) board of control.
Additionally, Dr. Mahon is an adjunct professor in the doctoral Program in educational leadership at the University of Bridgeport.
Dr. Mahon holds a bachelor of arts degree in English and psychology from the University of Vermont. She earned a master of arts in teaching secondary English from Boston University.
She continued her studies with a sixth year degree in educational leadership from Southern Connecticut State University and a doctor of education in educational leadership and internatiolnal educational studies from the University of Bridgeport.
Beyond her contributions to education, Dr. Mahon is also a former Olympic athlete. She competed with the US track and field team in the 4-kilogram hammer throw at the 2004 Athens Olympics.
She later served as an assistant coach for Yale University’s men’s and women’s track and field teams (2004 to 2012).
Her experiences as both an elite athlete and coach have further shaped her leadership skills and dedication to excellence. Colleagues who have worked with Dr. Mahon speak highly of her leadership skills.
Scarice said, “It is rare to find a candidate with the depth and range of leadership experience and expertise that Anna brings. She brings a long track record of success as a leader from the building level and central office level. In addition to her expertise and experience, Anna brings an extraordinary moral compass to her work. This was noted throughout the search process and across the reference checks.”
In a world grappling with conflicts in Ukraine and the Mideast, a nation divided over nearly everything, and a town facing crucial decisions on capital expenditures and Saugatuck redevelopment, Staples High School’s Block “S” is not the biggest concern.
Except — when it stands for something bigger, like respect for tradition — it is.
For 70 years, the Block “S” has been the highest award a Staples athlete can earn. Made of metal, mounted on a wooden base, it is handsome, strong, classy.
Lili Tucker’s Block “S” shows a few dings and scars — similar to what an athlete goes through during a sports season.
Each varsity sport gets 2 Block “S”s. The coaching staff awards them at the end of the season. Most teams give one to the Most Valuable Athlete. The other is for Most Improved, Outstanding Service, or some other admirable quality.
Character, integrity, commitment, passion — they all count for a Block “S.”
Athletes cherish their award. Long after they’ve gotten rid of other mementoes — trophies, medals, certificates — they hold on to their Block “S.”
That’s not just me talking. Stories about the Block “S” filled social media the past few days.
The reason: This year, Staples did away with the Block “S.”
Well, not really. Coaches still give them out. But instead of the handsome, strong, classy award, they hand athletes a generic, flimsy, $12.95 plaque that simply says “Block ‘S.”
Without even space for the honoree’s name.
I received an honorary Block “S” when I stepped down as head coach of the boys soccer program. It is one of the most cherished awards I have ever received.
To use a sports analogy: This was an unforced error.
The change was made this fall by Staples athletic director VJ Sarullo — about to embark in his second year in the role — for budgetary reasons.
That’s reasonable. Two Block “S”s, times 40 varsity teams, adds up.
But … the change was made without consultation with coaches, athletes, or anyone else.
It was done without exploring other options, like asking booster clubs, supportive businesses, or anyone else to contribute.
Or finding a supplier who charged less.
All of this would have been limited to complaints, disappointment and hand-wringing on social media. (To read some of the 100+ comments on Facebook’s Westport Front Porch page — including passionate responses from previous awardees, and those who never won it but wish they did — click here.)
Yet at last night’s Board of Education meeting, the topic exploded into public view.
After announcing the appointment of Dr. Anna Mahon to replace retiring assistant superintent for teaching and learning Dr. Anthony Buono, and then accepting gifts to pay for non-budgeted coaches for spring sports, the board was ready to move on to the next agenda item.
However, member Robert Harrington spoke up. Acknowledging the social media firestorm, he asked the board to discuss the topic.
No one seconded his motion.
Member Kevin Christie said that while he loved tradition and athletics, he trusts the suprintendent and staff ot make decisions. “I’m concerned about micro-managing,” he said.
Harrington and chair Lee Goldstein then engaged in an acrimonious back-and-forth.
“This is an embarrassment to 70 years of tradition,” Harrington said.
“We’re in the middle of a $150 million budget,” Goldstein replied, before moving on.
In 2019, Greens Farms Elementary School teacher Stacy Fowle was named Westport’s Teacher of the Year. Proud of her Westport roots, she sent this photo to “06880.” It shows her posing as a Staples soccer player with her Block S.”
Harrington soon took to Westport Front Porch. He wrote:
“I gave the superintendent and full board advance notice that I was going to simply ask for the goard to vote to discuss this at the BOE tonight. I didn’t even get to propose a solution or a recommendation. I simply wanted to have a discussion in front of attendees and members of our community.
“Jill (Dillon) and Dorie (Hordon) were out sick/traveling. The 4 remaining members wouldn’t even second the motion to simply discuss this issue in public.
“They argued it wasn’t in our purview. They didn’t want to micromanage the administration. The chair said she had to think of the whole community, not just the recipients of a ‘trophy.’ The Block ‘S’ award is more than just a trophy for the 70 years of students who received it.
“Three of my kids did. I am embarrassed as a dad and a Board of Ed member that current and future students won’t enjoy the same honor in the way that past student athletes did.
“We can and should do better than ask our community for a better answer. To not even have a simple discussion of this in public at a Board of Education meeting is an embarrassment.”
Athletic director Sarullo has promised to investigate other options.
The ball is now in his court.
(Two years ago, ESPN anchor Dave Lloyd — a 1979 Staples graduate — gave a shoutout to the Wrecker wrestling team. The crowning moment comes at the end, when he proudly shows his Block “S,” from over 45 years ago. Watch the video below.)
Westport is one of the few towns left in Connecticut with a Representative Town Meeting (RTM).
It’s our legislative branch. They pass budgets, enact ordinances, hear appeals, and do much more that impacts our daily lives.
You may know something about the RTM. You may know very little, or nothing at all.
This Sunday (March 23, 2 p.m., Westport Library), you can learn much more. A community conversation — with long-time RTM members, and newer ones — will cover what they do, how they do it, and why you should care.
Here are some reasons why I care about this event: The RTM is important. it’s been around for 75 years. Members are a diverse, interesting and hard-working group.
And the theme for the 2025 Memorial Day Parade float contest is … “Remember and Honor.”
Certificates will be awarded for Best Development of Theme, Best Youth Organization Float, Most Creative, Best Community Organization, Most Colorful, and Best Overall Float.
I’m going way out on a limb here, but I predict the Best Overall Float winner will be … the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston.
Just a hunch.
The Memorial Day parade begins at 9 a.m. on Monday, May 26. It runs from Saugatuck Elementary School, up Riverside Avenue, across the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge and onto Myrtle Avenue. It ends with a brief but moving ceremony at Veterans Green, across from Town Hall.
If you are new to Westport, and/or haven’t been to the parade: Mark it down on your calendar. It’s one of the best events in town.
Plus, if you have a kid involved in any activity at all, you have to go. They’re in it.
The Y’s Men ALWAYS win. This was their 2021 float. (Photo/Dan Woog)
Looking for a way for your 6th or 7th grader to participate in March Madness — without betting?
The Westport Weston Family YMCA hosts a special event tomorrow (Friday, March 21, 4:30 to 7:30 p.m.), in the gym.
Organized by junior board members, it includes basketball games, pizza, and a fun, social atmosphere.
Games are 3-v-3. Register with your onw team (limit: one travel player per team!), or sign up individually to be placed on a team. Entry fee is $25 for Y members and non-members alike.
The winning team can choose a charity to receive a donation from the proceeds.
If you haven’t been to an Artists Collective of Westport pop-up exhibit:
What are you waiting for?
Here’s your chance.
On April 2 (6 to 8 p.m., Westport Country Playhouse barn), they’ll host a reception for their next show.
On tap: hors d’oeuvres, wine, conversation, and beauty provided by 12 artists: Tom Berntsen, Louise Cadoux, Leonor Dao, Yuko Ike, Natasha Karpinskaia, Constance Manna, Dionne Pia, Dorothy Robertshaw, Norm Siegel, Marlene Siff, Debbie Smith and Elizabeth White.
Guitarist Bill Bickford will provide the music. He has played or recorded with jazz greats Joe Bowe, Mose Allison, Donald Byrd and Maceo Parker.
The exhibit runs April 3-6 (12 to 4 p.m.). An artists’ talk at 4 p.m. on April 6 will cover the creative process.
United Methodist Church hosts 2 events for the public next month. One is for kids, the other for adults.
An Easter Egg hunt (for youngsters up to age 10) is April 5 (2 p.m.). It’s free, but donations of non-perishable food for local pantries are welcome.
The Legacy String Quartet performs April 13 (2 p.m.). The suggested donation is $20.
The 2023 Easter Egg Hunt at the United Methodist Church.
================================================
In 2018, Connecticut became one of the first states to restrict the use of insecticides called neonicotinoids. This class of chemicals is very harmful to pollinators.
The Public Works Department encourages residents to take advantage of Household Hazardous Waste Day (Saturday, April 5, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Greens Farms railroad station parking lot), to dispose of any insecticides with neonicotinoid.
Products that contain these chemicals (see label) may be disposed of on April 5:
Imidacloprid
Clothianidin
Thiamethoxam
Acetamiprid
Dinotefuran
For a complete list of products containing neonicotinoids, click here.
Save pollinators! Dispose of neonicotinoids! (Photo/Lou Weinberg)
On the first day of spring, one more sign that summer is near:
In honor of the 50th anniversary of “Jaws,” the Westport Country Playhouse will screen that ground-breaking film.
The June 2 (7 p.m.) event includes an exploration of hidden details and behind-the-scenes stories before the showing, and a conversation after about how it became one of the greatest films of all time.
Tickets are $25 ($15 for Encore Club members). Click here to reserve, and for more information.
=================================================
Westport Police made 3 custodial arrests between March 11 and 19. One — reported earlier — involved the sale of illegal sale/manufacture of cannabis, at Savvy Smoker.
A 59-year-old Westport woman was charged with larceny, after she was observed filling up a Stop & Shop grocery cart, then leaving without paying. A wintess recorded her license plate, while parked in the fire lane. She ws released after postin a $10,000 bond.
A 26-year-old Stratford woman was charged with criminal attempt to commit larceny, illegal possession of a personal ID information device, and identity theft, following the theft of 2 checks from a mailbox. He was released after posting a $35,000 bond.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Traveling unreasonably fast: 6 citations
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 6
Failure to renew registration: 5
Failure to obey stop sign: 5
Speeding: 4
Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 2
Passing a standing school bus: 1
Driving while texting: 1
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 1
Failure to drive in the propero lane: 1
Failure to drive right: 1
Failure to obey traffic control signals: 1
Failure to display license plate: 1
The fine in Connecticut for passing a standing school bus is $450 for the first offense. Fines then rise to $500 to $1,000, with the possibility of 30 days in jail. (Photo/Christie Stanger)
The long-awaited season arrived officially at 5:01 this morning.
(Spring, summer, fall, winter — “06880” is here for you. We’re your 24/7/365, hyper-local source for news, events, opinions, photos, and more. Thanks for clicking here to support our work!)
When she purchased a new Tesla Model Y in November of 2023, the Westport woman was pleased.
She no longer had to buy gas. It was easy to maintain. The cost was only about $40,000.
“It was a no-brainer,” the woman — who asked that her name not be used — says.
Tesla Model Y
As he joined the Trump administration, the woman knew that Elon Musk — Tesla’s CEO — was “a potential danger as a human being.” But, she says, “I never thought he’d have as much power as he does.”
In the first days after the inauguration, she says, “I joked, ‘I gotta get rid of this car.’ But as he ramped up his slash-and-burn, I didn’t want to be attached to him in any way. He’s evil.”
Three weeks ago, she found a Hyundai Tucson hybrid. She sold her Tesla.
Hyundai Tucson
Worldwide, owners are talking about selling their Musk-related automobiles. This is one local woman who actually did.
“I don’t want to make a grand statement,” she insists. “I just wanted to feel better.”
No one ever said anything to her about her Tesla. No one flipped her off, or keyed her car.
Still, she says, “I didn’t want to become a target. I didn’t want controversy. There shouldn’t be controversy about the car you drive.”
But something else about her Tesla made her uneasy, beyond the company CEO’s actions she loathes.
Beginning in December, her Tesla’s menu of radio stations and podcasts suddenly changed.
There — sprinkled among her presets and favorites — were options like Ben Shapiro, Sean Hannity and “Fox & Friends.”
They’d probably been there before, she says, but much lower on the list. “I would have had to scroll way down to find them.”
She found the sudden appearance of right-wing shows “creepy. It can’t be a coincidence.”
The Westporter is happy with her Hyundai. It recharges itself. She can go 400 miles on a tank of gas.
Yet if she had a chance to meet Elon Musk, and talk face to face, what would she say?
“I just want him to stay in his lane,” she says.
“He’s a smart guy. He’s good with technology. But he’s been given so much power, because he gave Trump so much money.
“Why can’t he just stick with what he’s good at?”
(“06880” is “where Westport meets the world” — politically, automotively, and in every other way. If you enjoy this hyper-local blog, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
We hailed the founder of Facebook’s “What Up Westport” for her regular “Social Media Experiments.” Over 7 years, she’d run more than 2 dozen pop-up collections.
Thanks to Marcy’s posts and persistence, generous residents have donated food for pantries; hats, gloves and socks during winter months; prom dresses; school supplies; Puerto Rico hurricane relief diapers; support for Parkland High School after a shooting; a yearly holiday gift drive, for which people shop in stores or scour their drawers for gifts kids can give to their parents; even a band instrument fhat brought in over 150 trumpets, trombones and more, for Bridgeport youngsters who loved to play but could not afford them.
Marcy Sansolo, mid-collection at the Imperial Avenue parking lot.
Now Marcy has embarked on another collection. This stime, she’s joined by another Unsung Hero: a local business.
The Gillespie Center food pantry needs help. This Sunday (March 23, 11 a.m. to 12 noon), she and Martha Deegan will collect items at the Imperial Avenue parking lot.
They ask for canned beans, meats, veggies, fruit, pasta, rice, peanut butter, condiments and spices, along with dish soap, paper towels, dish soap and sponges. (No Costco-sized items, due to space constraints).
Supermarket gift cards are also welcome.
Speaking of supermarkets: The Fresh Market manager offered Marcy a great price — if she purchased 100 pounds of meat and chicken, or more.
She put a request on social media for people to cover the cost of the meat. In less than 10 hours, she exceeded the goal.
Yesterday, Marcy bought 100 pounds of meat, and another 100 pounds of chicken, for the Gillespie Center.
Marcy Sansolo (far left) and Martha Deegan (far right), with The Fresh Market’s very helpful staff.
“Mark, Mike, El and Gabby were the stars at Fresh Market,” says. “They couldn’t have been more helpful or kinder.
“Not only are they packing everything in 1-pound parcels — they are delivering it as well.
They also gave Marcy 3o packets of spices, and the promise of dairy and produce.
“I’m at a loss for words,” the normally very talkative civic volunteer says.
Marcy looks forward to seeing a great turnout at the Imperial Avenue parking lot on Sunday. “It’s such a great sense of community,” she says.
She offers this quote, which has always stuck with her: “We cannot live only for ourselves. A thousand fibers connect with our fellow men.”
Marcy and Fresh Market: Thanks for all you do. You are his week’s Unsung Heroes!
(Unsung Hero is a weekly “06880” feature. To nominate a hero, email 06880blog@gmail.com. To support our work, please click here. Thank you!)
Right on schedule — actually, a few days early — a Fresh Market osprey is back.
The nest next to Terrain is occupied by at least one of the magnificent raptors. The second member of the pair usually arrives after the first.
As we do every year, Westport waits anxiously for the little ones. (Hat tip: Dana Kuyper
Fresh Market osprey. (Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)
================================================
Earlier this month, the Democratic Town Committee’s nominating committee interviewed 4 “excellent” candidates for this November’s first selectperson election. It’s an open seat, now that incumbent Jen Tooker is running for governor.
The nominating committee settled on 2 “very qualified” candidates to present to the full DTC. Board of Education member Kevin Christie was one. The other asked not to have their name put forward.
However, despite a previous announcement, the full DTC will not vote on a candidate next month. Instead, in July they’ll introduce Christie’s name. At that point, nominations can be made from the floor.
That information was offered to DTC members — and other attendees — at last night’s monthly Zoom meeting, by chair Michelle Mechanic.
Next month, the Democrats also begin interviewing candidates for all open board and commission seats.
=================================================
Americans discard 20 million mattresses and box springs annually. That’s 55,000 that land in incinerators and landfills each day.
But up to 90% of old mattresses can be recycled into carpet pads, exercise equipment cushions, bike seats, insulation, air filters and steel materials.
Sustainable Westport can help. They’ll host a free mattress/ box spring recycling event on Saturday, April 26 (8:30 to 11:30 a.m., Earthplace).
Dry and unsoiled mattresses and box springs are welcome. Please do not bring those that are damaged, wet, or contaminated (bed bugs, etc.).
If you can’t bring your mattress or box spring, Westport Boy Scout Troop 36 will provide a pickup service for a small donation. Click here to sign up.
Twenty Staples High School seniors will graduate in June with high honors.
They represent the top 4% of the graduating class. Congratulations to Aidan Stubbs, William Borowsky, Andrew Rebello. Annam Anjolaoluwa Adachukwu Olasewere, Sam Rossoni, Jackson Tracey, Cole Siegner, Perrin Root, Mack Haymond, William Boberski, Carolina Proctor, Alexis Krenzer, Mia Bomback, Matthew Guadarrama, Abe Lobsenz, Alessandra Gavriloiu, Megan Sargent, Kendra Cheng, Shreyas Gorre and Suhani Aggarwal.
Principal Stafford Thomas notes, “these students were involved in a number of extracurricular activities and various aspects of school life which took a great deal of time, focus and concentration outside of the classroom. We were lucky to have had them for 4 years, and will no doubt hear about their next great achievements in the years to come.”
Staples High School Class of 2025 high honors students, flanked by assistant principal Pat Micinilio (far left) and principal Stafford Thomas (far right).
=================================================
VersoFest is near. Time to take the Westport Library decibel level up another few notches.
Actually, more than that. On Saturday, April 5, the goal is to become the loudest library ever.
Starting at 10 a.m., visionary artist 5iveFingaz hosts a 90-minute celebration. It includes a rotating cast of DJs, “an electrifying fusion of music, art, and community, and the Library version of a primal scream.” (Plus doughnuts and beverages.)
“Our goal is to make this a true celebration and community experience, showcasing the transformative power of community and creativity,” says Westport Library executive director Bill Harmer.
“We want everyone to feel welcome, from our youngest patrons to our longtime music supporters. The emphasis here is on fun, and setting the right tone to what promises to be an incredible weekend of events at VersoFest 2025.”
The festival closes Sunday, April 6, with a VersoFest live podcast discussion between longtime David Letterman music director Paul Shaffer and SNL Beehive Queen Christine Ohlman.
Click here for more VersoFest details, including a full schedule.
Club203 celebrated St. Patrick’s Day in style last night.
The Westport Library was filled with smoke machines — and decked out in green — at a special karaoke night.
Westport’s social group for adults with disabilities enjoyed soda breads and honey buns donated by Cob’s Bread, green bagels from Village Bagels, and cookies Baked by Belle.
As always, there was plenty of volunteer support, and MoCA CT ran an art table.
Also yesterday: a presentation to the Westport Rotary Club by Catalyst CT CEO and president Marc Donald.
The nonprofit began by combating teen substance abuse. It has since branched out into reducing gun violence, suicide prevention, and practicing restorative justice.
The organization trains police and security guards in Bridgeport and Fairfield public schools to help defuse potentially violent situations. They also partner with Park City Presents, helping familiarize Bridgeport teenagers with music production technology.
Marc Donald, at yesterday’s Westport Rotary Club. (Hat tip and photo/Dave Matlow)
The Westport/Weston Interfaith Clergy Association invites all teenage girls and boys to a packing party this Sunday (March 23, 5:30 to 7 p.m., United Methodist Church) for Dignity Grows.
The goal is to pack 200 bags of menstrual hygiene products, for distribution to local food pantries, shelters and organizations.
This will be a fun time, a great cause — and there’s pizza and snacks. RSVP your their faith community youth leader, or Heather Sinclair: hsinclair@westportumc.org.
=================================================
Yesterday’s “Roundup” item about TAP Strength’s first “lifespand and health span” wellness event — a conversation between TAP founder Dr. EJ Zebro and Jennifer Boyd — did not include the date and time. It’s March 26, 6 p.m.
A team from Rhone will offer performance-driven gear. Register by email: info@tapstrength.com.
================================================
Just 3 days remain before Westport Pride’s annual drag show.
This year’s special guest is Patty Bourée. The 18+ event — with cocktails, songs and comedy — is Saturday (March 22, 7 p.m.) at The Knowlton, Bridgeport’s premier event space.
“Come dressed to spring eternal,” organizers say. And why not? It’s the second day of spring!
And finallly … Jesse Colin Young, co-founder of the Youngbloods and the lead singer on “Get Together,” a still-beloved paean to love and brotherhood, died Sunday in South Carolina. He was 83. Click here for a full obituary.
(Come on people, smile on your brother, everybody get together and support “06880” right now. Please click here. It’s groovy — and we thank you!)
Recreation — sports, golf, racquets, the beaches, boating — is big in Westport.
As he settles in to his new position as Parks & Recreation Department director, Erik Barbieri is meeting with many stakeholders: staff, Park & Rec Commissioners, Public Works, Police and Fire Department, school officials, youth leaders, and more.
“I’m a team player,” he says.
He’s not kidding.
The Glastonbury native had a stellar soccer career at the University of Connecticut. He won numerous awards , culminating in 1994 Big East Player of the Year. Barbieri then played professionally with the minor league Connecticut Wolves.
Erik Barbieri, with UConn and sports memorabilia in his Westport office.
At the same time, the parks and recreation management major was embarking on his parks and recreation career.
Helped by a series of mentors — and secure in the knowledge that he was most comfortable in a hands-on, outdoors profession, not sitting in a cubicle — he rose through the ranks in New Britain.
Over 3 decades — culminating in 9 years as director — Barbieri managed 7 divisions. He oversaw parks, recreation, a golf course, a large stadium, cemeteries, senior and veteran services, and disability and youth programs. He completed 2 multimillion-d0llar capital improvement projects,
The only thing New Britain was missing was water.
With the mindset of an athlete — and a team player — the challenge of learning about beaches and marinas excites Barbieri.
Since starting his new position last month, the new director has explored our facilities, and tapped the insights of people like Rick Giunta, longtime marina director.
Ned Dimes Marina at Compo Beach is one of 2 under Parks & Recreation’s purview. (Drone photo/Daniel Johnson)
Barbieri had not been looking for a new gig. But the Westport position — vacant since Jen Fava resigned last spring — intrigued him.
The more he researched, the more he realized this town has outstanding facilities. It’s serious about recreation.
And there was plenty of work to be done.
The 10-year capital plan includes the renovation of Longshore. Replacing the maintenance facility is a high priority. There is a scarcity of athletic fields, several of which are overused and not up to high standards. Contracts — including the Compo Beach concession stand, and Longshore golf course maintenance and cart fleet company — expire soon.
New Britain’s self-described “jack of all trades” is excited to dig into every aspect of his new job.
“We’ve hit the ground not running, but sprinting,” he says. He’s learning about — and where necessary, taking fresh looks at — facilities, programs, and everything in between.
Take the maintenance facility and golf pro shop. Both have Americans with Disabilities Act compliance issues. Machines and golf carts are stored outside, in the salt air.
Erik Barbieri’s “fresh eyes” will take a new look at Longshore, and all town recreational facilities.
“Westport has great people,” he says. His Parks & Rec staff, and those in Public Works — with whom his department works closely — “really make things happen.”
Returning to his “team player” analogy, Barbieri says “we have to prioritize needs. We’ll do it together: our staff, the first selectwoman, Public Works, Board of Finance — everyone.”
Also on his agenda: hiring a new parks superintendent. Michael West left that crucial role in January, to become assistant director in Ridgefield. Barbieri begins interviewing candidates for that position soon.
On his first day, Barbieri says, he told his staff: “I have an open door. Feedback is important.” He, Giunta and operations manager Carmen Roda, “are here to listen to you.” And, he emphasized, “community feedback is important.”
Barbieri calls himself “high energy. I like to get things done. There are good projects ahead, to make Westport an even better place than it already is.”
(“06880” covers the Westport waterfront — literally and figuratively. If you enjoy this hyper-local blog, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
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.
Her experiences as both an elite athlete and coach have further shaped her leadership skills and dedication to excellence. Colleagues who have worked with Dr. Mahon speak highly of her leadership skills.
They’d probably been there before, she says, but much lower on the list. “I would have had to scroll way down to find them.”
Marcy looks forward to seeing a great turnout at the Imperial Avenue parking lot on Sunday. “It’s such a great sense of community,” she says.
