Patricia (Patsie) Bonardi — a longtime and much-loved Westport teacher — died peacefully, surrounded by her family on November 4. She was 94.
A longtime resident of Westport and Bethlehem, New Hampsire, “she left a legacy as a dedicated, inspiring educator and civic activist,” her obituary says.
The Littleton, New Hampshire native graduated from Keene State Teachers College in 1953, with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education. Her obituary says, “she was infamous in college for her activism and her involvement in numerous student organizations. She was included in Who’s Who in American Colleges and Universities in 1953.”
Patsie earned her master’s from the University of Bridgeport in 1985.
She taught in elementary schools in Nashua and Littleton, New Hampshire immediately following graduation.
Patsie Bonardi
In Westport, where she taught 2nd grade for 39 years, she was recognized for her outstanding and creative teaching skills.
In 1989, the town recognized her with a Most Committed Citizen Award. In 1995 she was nominated by her former students, and was featured in “Who’s Who Among American Teachers.”
After her retirement and return to Bethlehem in 1996, she worked as a real estate broker. She was also very active in local organizations, including the Bethlehem Public Library which she served as a trustee. She was instrumental in realizing the dream of a new library.
She also served on the boards of WREN and the North Country Home Health Agency.
“She was often seen, and heard, at Bethlehem Select Board meetings where she was a vigilant citizen advocate,” her obituary says.
Her only sibling, Bevalie Bouchard, predeceased her in 2019. Her longtime companion, Paul Babbet, predeceased her in 1997.She is survived by many nieces, nephews and cousins.
A celebration of life will be held May 30, 2026 (1 p.m.,Mulburn Inn, Bethlehem, New Hampshire).
Donations in Patsie Bonardi’s memory may be made to the Bethlehem Public Library, PO Box 250, Bethlehem NH 03574 and the Colonial Theatre, PO Box 204, Bethlehem, NH 03574.
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Patsie’s death drew many tributes on social media.
Mariana Lynn Castelli called her “an extraordinary teacher. I struggled with dyslexia (unknown in those days) and due to her patient, diligent, faithful efforts I learned to read and write.
“To me, Chuck Boisseau, Peter Mogren and many others, no doubt, Patsie Bonardi became a lifelong point of light.
“Several years ago we and our spouses gathered for brunch in New Hampshire in the town near where Peter and Patsie both lived.
“It was an extraordinary reunion. At my request Patsie read the opening paragraph to ‘The Box Car Children,’ a book she’d read to us decades before.
“I’d brought along my ancient copy, which she personalized with a message to me. I consider it a treasure.”
Katie Abelow Ruoff added, “Miss Bonardi remains my favorite teacher to this day. Among the many wonderful things she did in her classroom was recognize our birthdays by drawing a birthday cake on the blackboard and letting us tell her how we wanted it ‘frosted.’ Miss Bonardi would draw elaborate iced cakes in the colors we requested.”
In 2021, “06880” saluted Patsie Bonardi. We wrote:
It took a while for this news to make it here. But it was worth waiting for.
After a long and legendary teaching career in Westport, beloved elementary school icon Patsie Bonardi returned to her hometown of Bethlehem, New Hampshire.
For her 90th birthday in June, the town gathered along Main Street. They celebrated her with a surprise “reverse parade.” Residents gathered outside the theater, post office and library, holding signs and cheering as she rode by in her convertible — with a police and fire truck escort.
Patsie Bonardi, during her parade. (Photo/Angel Larcom)
Elementary school students held handmade signs.
Bonardi was a longtime supporter of the Colonial Theater, and served as a library trustee and Home Health Care Board member. As part of her birthday celebration, residents raised $1,300 in her name for the theater.
The Staples boys soccer team battles for their 13th state championship tomorrow.
Kickoff Sunday is 3:30 p.m. at Hartford’s Trinity Health Stadium, against archrival Greenwich. Click here for the livestream.
The Wreckers reached the “LL” (extra large schools) final with a 3-1 victory Tuesday night, over Hall-West Hartford at Newtown High.
John Walker is a freshman player, in the Staples program. He’s also a very talented photographer. The 9th grader was on the sidelines Tuesday, capturing everything from warmups to a sportsmanlike gesture at the end. Enjoy his photo gallery!
Goalkeeper Jack D’Amoreo warms up …
… and joins his teammates in the pre-game circle.
Adriano Carpi gets ready.
Brendan Allen outraces a defender …
… and (center) celebrates his goal.
Defender Gabe Hellmann moves upfield.
Reserves watch intently.
Adrian Rodriguez, in a rare moment without the ball.
After the final whistle, Ford Epstein consoles a Hall player. (All photos/John Walker)
The Board of Finance voted unanimously yesterday to recommend a $275,000 payment to Hook’d.
That would enable the Compo Beach and Longshore concessionaire to leave their 10-year contract early — possibly this summer.
Details have not been finalized between Parks & Recreation director Erik Barbieri and the company. Westport’s Representative Town Meeting (RTM) must give its approval too to the agreement.
“06880” will keep you posted.
The door may close soon on Hook’d’s time in Westport. (Photo copyright DinkinESH Fotografix)
Speaking of food: When Harvest Wine Bar closed in August, the Railroad Place place promised it would reopen, with new partners joining the ownership. The menu would be Mediterranean-based, including seafood.
The new restaurant will be called Blu Olive. A Facebook post promises “beautifully plated dishes of fresh ingredients, meticulously curated wines, and sparkling ambience.”
NOTE: Blu Olive is no relation to Blu Parrot, the similarly oddly spelled, short-lived (2012-13) restaurant/bar/music venue that occupied what was once the longer-lived Arrow and Jasmine restaurants — and is now Riko’s Pizza — around the corner on Charles Street.
Coming soon: Blu Olive. The shutters may need to be replaced.
Speaking of Saugatuck: The annual Cribari Bridge lighting ceremony takes place tomorrow (Sunday, 6:30 p.m.).
But before the official flip of the switch, strands had to be replaced — and bulbs tested.
It took just 4 hours yesterday. Huge thanks to AJ Penna & Son Construction, Westport PAL and president Craig Bergamo, and the lights’ sponsors. (Hat tip: Andrew Colabella)
Volunteers, after testing the Cribari Bridge lights. From left: David Floyd, Robert Caporale, Kevin Ancker, Craig Bergamo, Andrew Colabella, Andrea Moore.
But being inducted into the Toy Industry Hall of Fame is a great honor. Congratulations to 2 new members: Melissa and Doug Bernstein.
The brains behind Melissa & Doug — the legendary business, founded in Westport — join honorees like Walt Disney, Sesame Street’s Joan Ganz Cooney, and leaders of companies like Mattel, Toys “R” Us, Milton Bradley and Hasbro.
Greg Ahearn, president and CEO of The Toy Association, says, “Melissa and Doug built a legacy of timeless, beautifully crafted wooden toys that have sparked imagination and discovery for decades.”
They’ll be honored February 13. The Toy Industry Hall of Fame is part of the Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester, New York.
Mar Jennings — the lifestyle guru/realtor/figure skating champion — posted this teaser on Instagram:
“The Minuteman statue isn’t just iconic — it’s part of our hometown heartbeat. A symbol of courage, readiness, and civic pride, he’s stood watch over Westport for generations. And now, I’m bringing him back into focus… because something extraordinary is about to happen.
“In the coming days, I’ll be sharing an announcement that’s close to my heart—one that uplifts our community, honors our legacy, and inspires the next generation to rise with purpose.
“For now, let the Minuteman stand tall in our minds. Good news is coming. And it’s coming home to Westport.”
That’s certainly intriguing.
But what’s even more compelling is the video that accompanied the announcement. Thanks to AI, it shows our Minute Man in a way we’ve never seen before. Click here. to watch.
Cat Malkin writes: “I know people are suffering with food insecurities. But their pets struggle too, because pets are important family members.
“When food runs out families may have to make heartbreaking choices, like surrendering their pets, who have been their comfort and emotional lifeline.
“Many pet parents will literally go hungry to keep their pets fed. Pet food is often the last thing families ask for, because they feel ashamed or guilty. A small donation of pet food can prevent a family from being torn apart.
“Homes with Hope is collecting canned dog and cat food, as well as dry food in bags weighing 25 pounds or less (larger bags are difficult for families to manage). Drop-offs can be made Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.”
Yogi Bear says “thank you!” (Photo/Cat Malkin)
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Speaking of Homes with Hope: Salon Dada celebrated its 5th anniversary by raising funds for Westport’s non-profit, dedicated to eliminating homelessness and food insecurity in Fairfield County.
For Salon Dada, this was not a one-shot deal. They offer free hair styles, color and treatments to any Homes with Hope clients.
“Amazing and generous people!” praises HwH CEO Helen McAlinden.
Salon Dada owners Benjamin Lagasse and Steven Gemignani, with Homes with Hope CEO and president Helen McAlinden.
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Westport’s first — and only — Board of Selectwomen held their final meeting of their 4-year terms Wednesday.
Second selectwoman snapped this selfie:
From left: Andrea Moore, Jen Tooker, Candice Savin — Westport’s 2nd, 1st and 3rd selectwomen, respectively.
Thank you all for your service!
The new Select Board — 1st selectman Kevin Christie, 2nd selectwoman Amy Wistreich and 3rd selectman Don O’Day — will be sworn in Monday (November 17, 7:30 p.m., Town Hall).
All other elected officials — including boards, commissions and the Representative Town Meeting (RTM) — will take the oath of office too.
The public is invited.
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For over 50 years, Positive Directions has offered professional therapy and substance abuse prevention services to everyone who needs it. They accept all insurances, and never turn away a client for inability to pay.
Every day, the staff helps people facing adversity. Their new interim executive director knows something about that.
Jessica Branson grew up in Westport, and graduated from Staples High School in 1996. Her father John is an Episcopal priest. Her mother Judyth is a therapist. She learned early the importance of listening, nurturing and empowering others.
After a year in a wheelchair, and much longer in physical therapy and rehab, she has regained her mobility and independence. Now she has even deeper empathy for people battling mental and physical health challenges.
The Weston History & Culture Center’s Coley House is decked out for Christmas.
Christmas during World War II, that is.
Tours of the historic home — decorated as it would have been in the 1940s, when the last 3 generations of the Coley family lived there — offer an intriguing look back.
After holiday treats made from wartime ration recipes in the visitors’ center, guests follow a tour guide — dressed in period costume — to the Coley House.
They’ll view authentic decorations; listen to original radio broadcasts with Bing Crosby and Judy Garland, and learn how World War II impacted holiday celebrations here.
And finally … in honor of Melissa and Doug Bernstein’s induction into the Toy Industry Hall of Fame (story above):
(From the Minute Man monument in motion to the Toy Industry Hall of Fame, “06880” is where Westport meets the world. We rely on reader support to do it. Please click here to help. Thank you!)
We welcome 2 new artists this week — and our first-ever submission of a handsome arrangement of dried fall flowers. We’re glad they found our online art gallery, and that you’re here to greet them.
Of course, no matter your age; the style or subject you choose — and whether you’re a first-timer or old-timer — we welcome your submissions. Watercolors, oils, charcoal, pen-and-ink, acrylics, mixed media, digital, lithographs, collages, macramé, jewelry, sculpture, decoupage, needlepoint — we want whatever you’ve got.
Please email a JPG to 06880blog@gmail.com. And please include the medium you’re working in — art lovers want to know.
“Wild Horse” — oil on canvas, 32″ x 40″ (S. Guccione; Available for purchase; click here)
“Aphrodite” — pencil drawing from a sculpture at the Met (Bill Fellah — Available for sale; click here)
“Milo” — acrylic on canvas (Missy Greenberg)
Untitled (Duane Cohen — Available for purchase; click here)
Untitled (Tom Doran — Available for purchase; click here)
“Cockenoe Island Storm Clouds” — acrylic on canvas (Eric Bosch)
“Bleeding Hearts” — digital painting, limited edition archival giclee print, 34″ x 34″ (Peach Pair; Available for purchase — click here)
Dried flower arrangement (Jalna Jaeger)
“A Grand Gorge Down Into the Rio Grande” (Mike Hibbard)
“Scarfing Around Brooklyn” (Patricia McMahon — Available for sale; click here)
“All Souls Day Enlightenment Gentleness Unity” (Megan Grace Greenlee)
“An Old Family’s Tree” (Steve Stein)
“Horse Sense” (Martin Ripchick)
“Eyebrows” (Lawrence Weisman)
(Entrance is free to our online art gallery. But please consider a donation! Just click here — and thank you!)
Long-time Westporter Scott Smith sees things the rest of us miss. Today, he sees the need for a flagpole. Scott writes:
This month, we honor our veterans and assess election results.
I hope it is not too early to turn our attention to an upcoming landmark event in our nation’s history. I’m talking about the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, to be celebrated on July 4, 2026.
Even in this divisive political time, I like to think that the one thing all Americans can rally around is the flag of the United States.
So here’s the idea: Let’s celebrate the semiquincentennial by erecting a tall new flagpole at the most prominent, historic spot in Westport — by the cannons at Compo Beach.
An iconic spot for a new flagpole? (Photo/Tim Woodruff)
There are 2 flagpoles at Compo. One is set inland among trees at the entrance, with a smaller flag at the lifeguard station along the boardwalk. Both strike me as underwhelming.
One current Compo Beach flagpole …
Given that it’s hard to see these flags from any distance, wouldn’t it be swell if the town had a great big American flag, and Westport’s too, for all to see?
,,, and another.
A new flagpole off Cedar Point would complement the cannons, while serving as a navigational aid and eye-catching marker for meetups. As an old analog guy, and longtime boater and kayaker, I’ve long sought out fluttering flags to gauge wind and weather.
Flying the town’s “Minute Man” flag in addition to Old Glory would also be a fine way to salute the brave patriots who battled the British after their landing at Compo in April 1777, then fought the Redcoats again after their return from destroying the colonial depot in Danbury.
As it happens, the town may already have a flagpole on standby. On a trip to the yard waste dump on Bayberry Lane this summer, I noticed a sizable metal pole rusting away in a weedy back corner of the lot. Perhaps it can be refurbished and returned to service.
Flagpole at the yard waste station. (Photos/Scott Smith unless otherwise noted)
What say we run this idea up the proverbial — and perhaps literal — flagpole with Westport’s new first selectman Kevin Christie?
Then we can all have something to salute at next year’s Independence Day fireworks at Compo Beach.
(The “06880” Opinion page is open to all readers. Send submissions to 06880blog@gmail.com.)
There’s been plenty of talk lately about Parker Harding Plaza.
Should we add more green space next to the Saugatuck River? Or is keeping parking paramount?
Access to the river was an afterthought in the 1950s, when town official Emerson Parker and landscape architect Evan Harding devised a plan to use landfill to create a couple of hundred spots for shoppers, behind Main Street.
Up to then, the river lapped up against the backs of stores on the west side.
(Their sewage was dumped directly into the water — but that’s a different story.)
But Parker and Harding did provide access to the Saugatuck.
(Photo courtesy of Christopher Maroc)
Today, those steps are overgrown. The view below is from Parker Harding; the pedestrian bridge (left in the photo above) is closed.
(Photo/Dan Woog)
Reclaim the steps! Open the river! Access for all!
(Friday Flashback is one of “06880”‘s many regular features. If you enjoy this — or anything else on our website — please consider a tax-deductible contribution. Just click here. Thank you!)
Staples Players’ big, bold, brassy — and spectacular — 10-show run of “Les Misérables” opened last night.
A cast of over 70 — costumed to the hilt, singing lustily on a revolving set, backed by a superb pit of nearly 30 musicians — awed the audience, with every aspect of the production.
If you’ve never seen a Players show: Go now!
Even if you’re an aficionado, you’ll be blown away by this one.
NOTE: The link above is the only place to buy tickets. Two people arrived last night, with tickets bought on StubHub. Let’s hope the person who was so sleazy as to try to profit off a high school drama program ends up like some of the revolutionaries at the start of Act 2.
A small portion of the large “Les Mis” cast. (Photo/Kerry Long)
A beloved tradition — holiday lights on the Cribari Bridge — nearly ended last year.
A quarter century of sponsorship by Al’s Angels ended. At the last minute, Westport’s Police Athletic League rallied businesses and individuals to buy new lights, install them, and once again make the Saugatuck span sparkle.
PAL took the lead again this year. They’re even getting a jump on the season.
A holiday lighting ceremony is set for this Sunday (6:30 p.m.). Everyone is invited.
The Whelk will serve hot chocolate, topped with a marshmallow whipped cream rim from Momu.
Attendees are encouraged to bring an unwrapped toy, for the Westport Police Department collection drive.
Let there be (Cribari) lights!
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For nearly 50 years, Bloodroot has served delicious vegan food — spiced with healthy amounts of feminist ideology, and a side helping of social justice-type books — in a funky, you’ve-got-to-know-it-to-get-there spot on Bridgeport’s Black Rock Harbor.
Co-founder and longtime Westporter Selma Miriam died in February, 2 weeks short of 90.
Bloodroot is tucked away, off a residential street in Black Rock.
But nothing lasts forever. Bloodroot will close on December 21, after what co-owner Noel Furie calls “48 amazing and wonderful years in business. This decision, though sad, is also necessary given many factors in our lives at this time.
“We’ve chosen December 21 because it is the day of the Winter Solstice (which means sun standing still), and heralds the beginning of the return of the light. The days start to get longer and it is a time for hope and celebration.
“We hope you will continue to visit us during our usual business hours in the remaining weeks that we are open.”
The restaurant/community center earned a special place in American women’s history. And none of it would have been possible without the passion, creativity, love and great energy of Westport’s own Selma Miriam. (Hat tip: Chris Grimm)
Speaking of restaurants: The Blondinit has earned raves — and a passionate following — since opening 20 months ago.
Now the Israeli spot on Church Lane has introduced a new winter menu.
Dishes include shawarma-spiced potato wedges topped with garlic sauce; wild caught Chilean sea bass with mushrooms, cannellini beans and spinach with a roasted red pepper sauce; erguez sausage with peppers; roasted eggplant and peppers spread with challah toast points; Shabbat schnitzel sandwich with eggplant and matbucha on challah bread, and baklava brûlée.
The other night, I enjoyed a tasting menu. I love the cuisine to begin with, but the flavors, freshness, variety and creativity — and the joy with which it is all prepared and served — brought the meal to another level.
That’s not just me talking. It was a Monday — normally the slowest day of the week, in a traditionally slow time before the holidays.
But the restaurant was packed.
Meanwhile, The Blondinit just announced its Hanukkah menu. Email catering@theblondinit.com or call (203) 557-3277 for details.
Sustainable Westport’s co-directors, Johanna Martell and Gately Ross, were recently featured on “The Joe Gardener Podcast.” The national platform explores sustainability through the lens of gardening.
The pair described how they left established careers to lead the local non-profit. They discussed the ripple effects of local action, how to foster change at the community level, and why personal voices and examples matter.
Host Joe Lamp’l praised their ability to connect with people where they are, making sustainability accessible rather than intimidating.
Johanna Martell, Gately Ross and Joe Lamp’l tape their podcast at Westport Library’s Verso Studios.
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Looking for one more way to help fight hunger?
The Westport Country Playhouse is collected food and toiletry items, for Homes with Hope.
Pasta, pasta sauce, cereal, oatmeal, peanut butter and jelly, canned goods (tuna, soup, vegetables, beans, fruit), toothpaste and shampoo may be left in a box in the lobby.
You can drop them off during the day, or before a show.
(Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)
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Club203’s November event was a great “Bingo Bash” at the Senior Center.
Dedicated volunteers helped everyone be a winner. Trefz Corporation and Gold’s Deli were sponsors. MoCA\CT collaborated, as always. And once again, Westport’s Human Services Department provided important support.
Bingo!
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It didn’t rain yesterday.
But a beautiful rainbow appeared over Westport.
Adam Drake captured this image, over Winslow Park:
(Photo/Adam Drake)
It was also visible at — of all places — the rainbow crosswalk on Jesup Road:
And finally … in honor of Bloodroot, and its 48-year legacy:
(If it’s happening in Westport — or there’s a Westporter involved — you’ll read about it on “06880.” And if you appreciate what you read, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
As a freshman at Holy Cross, Mike Hayes attended a memorial service for John Connors. The Navy SEAL had been killed in Panama, after graduating the prior spring.
Hayes did not know Connors. But the event changed his life.
Hayes earned a spot in the very elite SEALs program. He spent 3 years in Iraq, then became a White House Fellow. On the National Security Council, he worked directly with Presidents Bush and Obama.
Mike Hayes (center), with his men on a mission.
After 20 years in the military — where he was held at gunpoint, jumped out of a building rigged to explode, and helped amputate a teammate’s leg — Hayes retired. He joined private industry, working as chief of staff to Ray Dalio, and COO, at Bridgewater Associates.
Hayes now serves as managing director at Insight Partners, a global software investor and venture capital firm.
Thirty years after his life was altered by a man he never met, Hayes spoke at a black-tie event, raising funds to build a statue honoring Connors in his home town.
Connors’ mother was there. Hayes thanked her, for raising a son who influenced Hayes’ life so profoundly.
That ideal — making an impact on someone you do not know — resonates deeply with Hayes. It’s the heart of his second book, “Mission Driven: The Path to a Life of Purpose.”
A practical guide for finding purpose and meaning in life, it focuses on self-discovery, and helps readers translate their purpose into actionable steps.
The target audience includes young adults, recent graduates, professionals seeking a new direction — anyone, really, who is going through a transition point in life — or will, one day.
Soon after publication in September, “Mission Driven” debuted at number 4 on USA Today’s list of all best-sellerss in the country.
Hayes never thought he’d be an author. But after the success of his first book — “Never Enough: A Navy Seal Commander on Living a Life of Excellence, Agility, and Meaning,” offering lessons from both the battlefield and boardroom — Hayes realized there was more to say.
He’d provided a blueprint for readers. But now he wanted to offer practical tools, to go beyond living a life of meaning. The next step was making an impact on others — including strangers.
“Mission Driven” has made its own impact. The author has heard from people who made important personal and professional decisions after reading it.
And someone texted him: “Mike, you’ve saved another life. Mine.”
Mike Hayes
Hayes certainly walks the talk. As he did with his first book, he is donating all profits to the 1162 Foundation, supporting Gold Star families. Through it, Hayes has paid off the mortgages of 12 women whose husbands were killed in action.
Hayes emphasizes, though, that the military is not the only way to impact people you’ll never meet. When people thank him for his service, he counters, “Everyone serves, in whatever way we can.”
His book, he says, helps everyone find their way to serve. For someone, it might be “taking particles out of the ocean.” For others, Teach for America, volunteering at their place of worship, or stopping in at a retirement home to spend time listening to residents’ stories.
All of us, he says, can “take action to make our great nation even better.”
Hayes’ grandfather was in the Navy at Pearl Harbor, on the day that will live in infamy. He told Hayes, “Whenever you’re having a hard day, find someone having a harder day.”
Hayes also lives by these words: “Helping others helps us more.”
Serving others is not easy, he acknowledges. The busyness of daily life can intrude on our ability to reach out, and act.
But “Mission Driven”‘s mission — and Hayes’ personal mission — is to reach people he does not know, and provide the tools so that they, in turn, can help others they may never meet.
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That ideal — making an impact on someone you do not know — resonates deeply with Hayes. It’s the heart of his second book, “Mission Driven: The Path to a Life of Purpose.”
