Unsung Heroes #402

Posted on October 1, 2025 | 1 comment

Last week’s Unsung Heroes were the hundreds of volunteers — Westport Rotary Club members, and those with no connection at all — who made this year’s LobsterFest a $400,000 success.

This week, we broaden our lens. September and October are prime fundraising season. The Westport Country Playhouse, Earthplace, Sunrise Rotary Club, Wakeman Town Farm — they, and many other very worthy organizations, host galas, bashes, fests and more.

The venues are different: indoors, outdoors, on-site and off.

The goals are similar: to raise money for their own operations, and/or to help others.

Wakeman Town Farm’s HarvestFest is one of many fall fundraisers.

There are so many moving parts: finding sponsors, and donors for raffles and auctions (silent and live). Lining up entertainment. Arranging for food and drinks. Selling tickets. Decorations, set-up and check-in. Making everyone feel welcome, and important. Following up, and thanking everyone else profusely.

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed, with invitations to great causes. It’s simple to pick one or two, write a check, go and have a good time.

It’s really, really hard to put on an event that showcases a non-profit’s work, stands out in a crowd, provides an evening of fun, and brings in the people and funds needed to keep the organization relevant and solvent.

To all those who toil behind the scenes, helping to ensure that good works get done well: You are this week’s Unsung Heroes.

(“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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Roundup: Westport Mom’s Fun Festival, Ruth Barrett’s Lawsuit, Oliver Vynerib’s Deconstruction …

Posted on October 1, 2025 | 3 comments

Over 1,000 Westporters will flock to Greens Farms Elementary School this Sunday.

Westport Moms’ 5th annual Family Fun Fall Festival (October 5, 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.) is one of the highlights of the year for kids (and parents).

Activities include a ninja wall, pottery making, pumpkin decorating, face painting, a bounce house, games, basketball clinics, chess matches, hair tinsel, and more.

Oh, yeah: a DJ, Mad Science show, character photo ops, and pizza and tacos food trucks too.

Click here for tickets, and more information. Overflow parking is on the street, and the Big Y shopping center.

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Here’s an update in the saga of Ruth S. Barrett.

In 2020, the Westport resident wrote a buzzy article for The Atlantic about the extreme measures taken by parents in their quest to mold their children into recruitable niche-sport athletes.

The lengthy piece appeared to be well-researched. A New York Times columnist called it “excellent,” and insightful in its depiction of high-end athletic recruiting as an accelerant of inequality in college admissions.

But 2 weeks later The Atlantic retracted the article. A scathing Editor’s Note accused Barrett of serious journalistic crimes, adding it could not “attest to the veracity” of her portrayal.

The Atlantic revoked Barrett’s rights to her own work, dissolved her contract, and blocked a Hollywood agency from acquiring the right to produce a spinoff TV series based on her article (entitled “The Mad, Mad World of Niche Sports Among Ivy League-Obsessed Parents).”

Barrett responded by filing a lawsuit. She claimed her article was accurate, and that Atlantic editors had breached her contract and slandered her with provably false accusations.

In September of 2024, federal judge Loren Alikhan appeared to side with Barrett. In a 38-page ruling, she rejected The Atlantic’s motion to dismiss Barrett’s case, and ruled that the majority of her defamation claims would stand.”

The judge also ruled that Barrett was a private figure — meaning she would not have to prove at trial that The Atlantic harbored “actual malice” against her, but merely that it published defamatory falsehoods that torched her reputation.

Earlier this month, The New York Times reported that The Atlantic had “quietly settled” with Barrett. The paper said that the magazine agreed to pay her over $1 million — and issued a series of corrections and “clarifications” to its online Editor’s Note.

Ruth S. Barrett

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Staples High School senior Oliver Vynerib — who recently received a Westport Green Building Award for exemplifying sustainable practices by supporting deconstruction on Westport properties at 5 Sycamore Drive and 159 Easton Road — will give a presentation about “deconstruction” to builders and residents looking to learn more.

The event is October 8 (4 p.m., 180 Saugatuck Avenue). Click here to RSVP, or for more information. 

Oliver founded HomeCycle CT in 2023. Its mission is to connect residents and builders with nonprofits to deconstruct homes — that is, dismantle buildings otherwise scheduled for demolition, then donating the building components to reduce landfill waste.

HomeCycle is a bridge between builders, donors and nonprofits, and provides guidance on donations and the tax deduction process. Salvageable items from home remodels are also eligible for donation. To learn more, email olivervynerib@gmail.com or call 203-919-0202.

Oliver Vynerib receives his Green Building Award from 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker. Town officials look on. 

To learn more about what you can do to make your home more sustainable, click here.  To learn more about the Green Building Award, click here. or email cvornkahl@westportct.gov.

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Speaking about homes, but in a different vein: The Blight Prevention Board meets October 9 (7 p.m.; Zoom).

The agenda includes these properties under old business:

  • 1 Charcoal Hill Road
  • 6 Clifford Lane
  • 38 Old Hill Road

and these under new business:

  • 20 Center Street
  • 7 Bedford Drive
  • 36 Hiawatha Lane.

20 Center Street (Google Street View, 2023)

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Melissa Newman — a longtime Westporter, and favorite of Jazz at the Post as long as it’s been around — returns tomorrow (Thursday, October 2), to the weekly VFW show.

The vocalist is joined by Tony Lombardozzi (guitar), Phil Bowler (bass) and Bobby Leonard (drums).

Shows are 7:30 and 8:45 p.m., with dinner service at 7. Click here for tickets and more information.

Melissa Newman

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A race? A chat? Or just a “Westport … Naturally” photo waiting for a clever caption from “06880” readers?

You be the judge.

(Photo/Nikki Gorman)

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And finally …. today is the International Day of Older Persons. Enjoy!

(If Willie Nelson can still perform at 92, you can click this link to make a tax-deductible contribution to “06880.” It’s a lot easier than what Willie does — though he’s more impressive. Thank you!)

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Posted in Children, Entertainment, Environment, Media, Real estate, Sports

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After The Closing: Does Westport Live Up To Its Hype?

Posted on October 1, 2025 | 3 comments

It’s daunting to move to a new town.

Things began frustratingly for Mike and Robin Clementi, who came to this area from New Jersey for his job. Realtor Karen Scott of KMS Team at Compass sold them on the schools, beaches, Longshore, restaurants and shopping. But they lost at least 6 houses, in bidding wars.

Finally they found — and bought — one. The location, a cul-de-sac off Compo Road South, was perfect. They could walk downtown, to the Levitt, and the water.

Then things got even better.

Even before they moved in 2 years ago, their new neighbors exchanged phone numbers. It was a young street — several families had arrived just a year or two earlier — and though their children were younger, they made sure the Clementis’ daughters (a rising junior at Staples High, and an incoming 7th grader — had someone to sit with at lunch the first day of school.

There was more. Lauren, the older girl, played varsity golf in New Jersey. The family reached out to Staples coach Patty Kondub. She spent an afternoon with them — and arranged a party for Lauren to meet her new teammates.

Robin Clementi and her family.

The shopping, restaurants and other amenities have been “great — worth all the hype.” But those two stories “sum up what this town means to me,” Robin says. “It was an exceptional, warm welcome we never expected.”

Not everything is perfect. Robin is an interior designer, and she thought she could keep her previous clients. Traffic on I-95 makes that difficult. So she pivoted. Now she’s got new clients — and has found great new designers and builders to work with.

The walk to the beach proved further than expected. But her daughter walks to town quite a bit. After school, she takes the bus to the Library — a spot Robin calls “magic. Kids love going there!”

Another surprise: Birchwood Country Club. Though Longshore is “beautiful and lovely,” tee times are tough to get. Someone suggested the club off Kings Highway South.

“It’s beautifully camouflaged and tucked in,” she says. “We love it.”

Birchwood Country Club: a hidden gem.

The Clementis’ experience is mirrored by other families who have moved here recently. “06880” wondered whether realtors’ hype — and newcomers’ expectations — were matched by reality.

In many cases, they are.

Jen Krichels is from rural Maine. Her husband, Matthew Johnson, grew up in Colorado.  She is a writer and editor for architectural publications; he’s in marketing.

They lived for many years in Brooklyn. During the pandemic, they and their 2 children spent 2 years in the Catskills, where they’d bought a fixer-upper.

They loved the community, and had many friends there. But it was spread out. Childcare was limited.

They could not envision moving back to a 2-bedroom apartment. They looked at homes in Westchester County, and elsewhere.

The couple remembered visiting a friend in Westport. The flags on the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge, downtown, the beauty of the coastal beaches, the reputation for cultural life — all impelled them to consider the town.

Neither of them commutes regularly. But proximity to the train — and New York — was important.

KMS agent Mary Ellen Gallagher found them a home in the Old Hill area.

What’s the verdict?

Reality has lived up to expectations “in almost every category,” Jen says. She cites “the amenities for kids and adults, the schools, cultural opportunities, the and access to outdoors” — including Earthplace — among the highlights.

The Krichels family, at Winslow Park. (Photo/Matthew David)

Last summer, she surprised herself by not going away.

“We realized we were on vacation already!” Jen says. They attended concerts at the Levitt, and stayed late at the beach with friends and neighbors.

Traffic and parking are frustrations. She worries about her children walking and riding on local streets. At the same time, she walks with her kids to school. And she is heartened to see groups of youngsters riding bikes.

Her next door neighbor, Jenna Petok, is a director of Bike Westport. They’re kindred spirits, and have forged a strong friendship.

Jen is interested in municipal issues. She calls the Representative Town meeting an “interesting” form of government. “It’s nice to see peers involved in those discussions,” she says.

“Any town that can support growth, foster walkability, and include lower-income people will thrive. Westport can do that.”

Clara and Sebastian Krichels enjoy summer in Westport.

Meanwhile, is there anything Jen and Matthew have not tried?

“Anything after 8 p.m.,” she laughs. “I know people enjoy post-sunset drinsk at the beach. That’s nice. But it’s not our turn yet!”

Julia Dzafic has been here a bit longer. But the marketer and blogger says she and her husband Anel, who owns Countdown Fitness on Sylvan Road South (and who feels welcomed by other businesses), have had “the best 6 years of our lives. It’s even beyond our expectations.”

Working for herself, she appreciates the meeting rooms at the Library.

The family enjoys pizza nights at Compo and Old Mill, and restaurants like The Whelk and Bartaco (“we’re there once a week,” julia says of that family-friendly spot).

Her 8-year-old daughter’s 2 best friends live next door — a joy for any mother.

Julia Dzafic, and her family.

“We never felt we belonged to a community more,” she says. She and her friends — who recently returned from a 40th birthday trip together — share “values, kids and life situations.”

(One negative: “With a 2-year-old, I naively did not expect pressure on kids to do so much, at a young age.” However, she adds,” that may not be town-specific.”)

Fairfield County towns seem to be similar. However, Julia says, each attracts “a different group. Westport attracts a more laid-back type person. It’s got the feel of a beach town. Even the restaurants that aren’t on the water feel like that. There’s something about Compo that fills the whole town.”

Julia Dzafic and her husband Anel. He grew up on a farm in Bosnia. They keep 12 chickens in a large coop on their property. (Dazfic photos/Julia D’Agostino)

Julia speaks for many newcomers, who were enticed by Westport’s sizzle, and now enjoy its steak.

“We’re so happy to be here,” Julia says. “We don’t think we’ll ever leave.

“And we hope when our kids are much older, they’ll come back to visit.”

(“06880” keeps a sharp eye on every facet of Westport — old-timers, newcomers, and everyone in between. If you enjoy our coverage, please click here to support our work. Thank you!) 

 

 

 

 

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Posted in Beach, Downtown, Library, Longshore, Real estate, Restaurants, Westport life

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Pic Of The Day #3086

Posted on September 30, 2025 | 1 comment

Saugatuck River, behind Levitt Pavilion (Photo/JD Dworkow)

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Roundup: Politics & Volunteers, Education & Environment …

Posted on September 30, 2025 | 8 comments

This Saturday’s “Meet Your RTM Candidates” event (October 4, 10 a.m. to noon, Westport Library) is a great chance to, well, meet the men and women competing in your district for a Representative Town Meeting seat.

The RTM is our town’s legislative body. They are the final officials to sign off on budgets, and — at times — controversial issues.

Bring the kids! The event includes coffee, donuts, snacks, and art activities for youngsters. It’s co-sponsored by the League of Women Voters Westport, and “06880.”

But that’s not the only event going on Saturday morning at the Library.

From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., the Westport Volunteer Fair takes place in the Trefz Forum.

Dozens of local nonprofit organizations will have information tables, and members on hand to promote volunteerism.

It’s a fantastic way for adults — and teens — to find out how to put their talents and energy to great use. There is an organization for every interest.

Come for the RTM event. Stay for the Volunteer Fair. See you there!

The scene at last year’s Volunteer Fair. (Photo/Molly Alger)

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Also at the Library: The next 2 Common Ground Initiatives.

They’re both opportunities for positive, productive conversations on how we move forward as a civil society; encourage respectful, constructive dialogue, and tackle challenging and controversial issues.

This coming Monday (October 6, 7 p.m.), Michael Brownstein, Alex Madva and Daniel Kelly — authors of Somebody Should Do Something — will paint a picture of how social change happens, one choice at a time.

With moderator Sharon Suchotliff, the panel will delve into a novel and scientific approach to create transformative social change — and the surprising ways that each of us can help make a real difference. Click here for more information.

On October 14, “From Division to Unity: Lessons in Bridging Divides” (7 p.m.) features a panel of national experts in business, sports, and the military. They’ll share how they’ve navigated complex divisions, to lead diverse teams toward common goals.

The panel includes:

  • Bonnie Hammer, Retired vice chair, NBC Universal
  • Mel Raines, CEO, Indiana Pacers (NBA)
  • Steve Parrish, retired senior vice president, Altria Group
  • Tony La Russa, Hall of Fame Major League Baseball manager
  • Lindsay Czarniak, Emmy Award-winning sports broadcaster
  • General William Welch, US Air Force general (retired)

The conversation will be facilitated by Dr. Allen Hilton, executive director of the House United Movement and consulting theologian at Greens Farms Church. Click here for more information.

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Preliminary work has begun for the new Long Lots Elementary School.

The former Long Lots Preserve — developed a few years ago, adjacent to the Community Gardens — will be used as a staging area for construction equipment. When the school is completed, the land will be converted to an athletic field.

This was the scene yesterday:

(Photo/Robert Steven Williams)

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A new Japanese restaurant has opened quietly in Westport.

Omakase — in the small plaza next to Dunville’s, on Saugatuck Avenue. The name refers to a series of small dishes of the chef’s choosing.

Jessica Ryan reports in CTBites that 10 sit at an open counter, watching Chef Edwin work. “He slices, dices and molds while offering entertaining and informative explanations about the fish, the flavors and his techniques.”

There are seatings at 5, 7 and 9 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday. A typical meal features 16 courses, and is $185 per person. Click here for the full CTBites story.  Click here for the Omakase website.

Chef Edwin at Omakase. (Photo courtesy of CTBites)

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Want to help shape the future of Westport’s parks?

As part of the Parks Master Plan process, the Parks & Recreation Department hosts a public workshop today (Tuesday, September 30, 6 p.m., Westport Library). All community members are invited. It will be run by the town’s consultants, BL Companies.

The Town’s consultant, BL Companies, will provide residents with the opportunity to engage directly with the consultants, share feedback, and learn more about the planning process.

Riverside Park (Photo/Pam Docters)

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Speaking of Parks & Rec: Less than 24 hours remain until Yogi Bear (below) and his friends can once again romp on the Compo Beach sand.

Dogs are permitted — in leashed and off-leash areas, marked by signs — from October 1 through March 31.

Arf!

(Photo/Cat Malkin)

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Tomorrow is also the day for “Coffee with a Cop.”

From 7:30 to 9 a.m. on Wednesday, Westport police officers will be hanging out at the downtown Starbucks.

There are no speeches; there is no agenda. Just a chance to sit and chat about Westport, ask questions, and discuss anything and everything, over coffee.

And maybe donuts?

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This is prime fundraising/gala season, for Westport non-profits.

Some are held indoors. Others are outside, under a tent.

Only one is almost completely outdoors. It’s also the only one we know of with both a fire pit and mechanical bull.

The event is Earthplace’s “Woodside Bash.” It’s this Saturday (October 4, 7 to 10 p.m.).

Also included: an open bar, harvest dinner, and live band.

A few tickets remain. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

The Earthplace Woodside Bash.

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Also this Saturday: classic jazz and funk from Vibe Cartel, featuring Scott Chamberland on sax. The band was formerly known as Southern Fried.

It’s at VFW Post 399. Doors open at 7 p.m.; the show begins at 8. The VFW has a light bar menu, and full bar. Beers are $8 for this event.

Tickets are $15 online; $20 at the door. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

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Green’s Farms Church’s 12th annual Service Sunday was, as always, devoted to hands-on projects with partners in Westport, Norwalk and Bridgeport.

After a send-off service, congregants put their faith into action on projects like landscaping, cemetery restoration, classroom makeovers, music at an assisted living community, and community-resource organization.

Among the efforts:

  • Bridgeport Rescue Mission: lawn/garden work, and cleaning service trucks.
  • Residence at Westport: music performance led by the church’s music team.
  • Domestic Violence Crisis Center: landscaping/planting, refinishing swing set.
  • Colonial Cemetery, Westport: headstone restoration and clean-up.
  • Mercy Learning Center: photo collage project and framing.
  • Open Doors Shelter: bike tune-ups, neighborhood cleanup, Community Closet organizing.
  • Pivot Ministries: painting, flooring, classroom fixes.
  • Recovery Community Development: construction-style service project.

One of many projects — this one at Bridgeport Rescue Mission.

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In 2020, Maureen Belford was an “06880” Unsung Hero.

A Westporter and educator for over 43 years in the Catholic school system, she had a remarkable impact on students and families. She helped countless elementary and middle schoolers grow and learn.

Now she’s earned more kudos.

On Saturday Maureen received the St. Augustine Medal of Honor, on behalf of The Catholic Academy of Stamford. It was awarded for her “dedication, service and commitment to Catholic education.”

Congratulations, Maureen! (Hat tip: Madeline Bayliss)

Maureen Belford

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As we get ready to turn the page to October, today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature highlights one of the first trees in town to show its fall colors. Ed Simek spotted it, on Treadwell Avenue.

(Photo/Ed Simek)

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And finally … in honor of tomorrow’s Coffee with a Cop (story above):

(October will bring dogs on the beach, gorgeous foliage, and the final quarter of the year. It’s a great time to support “06880.” Please click here to make a tax-deductible donation. Thank you!)

 

 

 

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Posted in Environment, Library, Local politics, Police, Restaurants

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“Where We Stand”: P&Z Candidates Discuss Their Most Important Issue

Posted on September 30, 2025 | 3 comments

Yesterday, “06880” introduced a new feature: “Where We Stand.” 

Once a week between now and Election Day, we’ll ask candidates for 3 important boards — Selectmen/women, Planning & Zoning, and Education — one specific question.

We’ll print their responses verbatim. 

An informed electorate is the greatest bulwark of democracy. Westporters have always participated avidly in our town government.

“06880” is proud to do our part this fall to help.

This week’s question for the Planning & Zoning Commission is: “What is the single most important issue facing the P&Z right now, and how will you address it?” 

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Michele Paquette is a bipartisan candidate, with endorsements from 3 organizations. She will be listed on the ballot under both the Republican Party and The Coalition for Westport. Additionally, she has earned the support of the Westport Alliance for Saugatuck. She says:

The most pressing concern voiced by residents — and one that demands the attention of Westport’s Planning & Zoning Commission — is overdevelopment, and its gradual unraveling of the fabric of our community.

Overdevelopment stems from 3 key areas: deviation from our 2017 Town Development Plan, approval of zoning amendments that increase density beyond what current zoning allows, and the impact of Connecticut’s 8-30g mandate, which lets developers bypass local zoning if a project includes affordable units.

Residents have made it clear: they’re open to thoughtful development and support affordable housing, but not when it compromises Westport’s charm and livability. Their concerns center on increased noise, worsening traffic, and pressure on infrastructure—all of which threaten the town’s unique character.

Michele Paquette

To address this, I will lead with a commitment to transparency, accountability, and resident-driven decisions.

First, we must create a new Town Plan with robust public input — and ensure it’s followed. I will implement a process to educate future commissioners on the plan, so decisions remain aligned with community values.

Second, I will push for stricter scrutiny of zoning amendments, especially those that increase density. The Saugatuck area is a cautionary tale: an approved zoning amendment allowed an 800% increase in density despite the 2017 Town Development Plan’s clear guidance to preserve the area’s small-town feel.

Third, we must tackle 8-30g with a proactive, multi-pronged strategy owned by many representatives. This means partnering with nearby towns under the same pressure as Westport to advocate at the state level for localized zoning solutions and to ask for state funding to support this unfunded mandate.

In addition, we need someone at Town Hall to own executing our affordable housing plan, so we can regain control.

As a commissioner, I will explore creative zoning tools — like converting existing buildings into affordable housing so density is not increased, and strengthening traffic regulations.

I’ll support public-private partnerships to align development with resident goals, and pursue state funding opportunities. We should also consider acquiring strategic parcels of land to guide growth responsibly and develop pre-approved site templates to streamline small-scale affordable housing.

Westport is a remarkable town with strong schools, vibrant neighborhoods, and a deep sense of community.

Growth is inevitable—but it must be managed with vision and care. My goal is to restore balance, seek to protect our town’s ambience, and ensure development serves the people who live here.

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The Democratic Party has endorsed Michael Cammeyer, Bre Injeski and Craig Schiavone. Schiavone is also running on the Coalition for Westport ticket, and has been endorsed by the Alliance for Westport. They say:

The most important issue facing Westport’s Planning & Zoning Commission today is how we manage growth, while retaining local control.

Connecticut’s 8-30g statute gives developers extraordinary power to bypass local zoning if towns fall short of state affordable housing targets. This means high-density projects can be forced into inappropriate locations — ignoring traffic, infrastructure, wetlands, and even fire safety.

In recent years, Westport has been different. Unlike neighboring towns overwhelmed by 8-30g projects, we’ve avoided costly court fights and oversized applications.

That success is no accident – it happened because of the decisive votes of the Democratic majority on the P&Z, two of whom are running for re-election today with a new colleague who brings her own fresh perspective.

From left: Michael Cammeyer, Bre Injeski, Craig Schiavone.

Together, our team supported the creation of the Affordable Housing Trust Fund, rezoning town land for affordable cottage clusters, and approving projects that gave Westport local control instead of leaving it to developers.

The choice is clear: Choose all three Democrats — two with a proven record of delivering results, and one who brings new energy, and a commitment to the same values.

We believe the smarter path to limit density and maintain control over our own zoning is to plan for development on Westport’s terms — not let developers dictate it. That means:

1. Partnering with developers where it works. By zoning for mixed-income, right-sized townhomes and cottage clusters, we prevent oversized 8-30g towers. We’ve already succeeded with projects like the approved townhomes behind The Clubhouse.

2, Using town-owned land strategically. With over $1.4 million in Westport’s Affordable Housing Trust Fund — created under our leadership in a split vote — we can move forward with entirely affordable, low-density projects that provide meaningful units while preserving neighborhood character. This was the vision of our 8-30J Affordable Housing Plan, also adopted in a split vote, which outlined a clear path to a second and third moratorium from 8-30g.

3, Protecting commercial and residential diversity. We acted — in multiple split votes — to permit medical offices in legacy office buildings, support new retail spaces, stop plans to destroy downtown parking, permit the seasonal closure of Church Lane, and strengthen our tax base while allowing for vibrant downtown growth and expanded outdoor dining. We also support creative models seen in other towns that reserve housing for seniors, young professionals, and people with disabilities — enhancing Westport’s housing diversity.

4, Advocating at the state level. We will continue working with our legislators to oppose unfair statewide mandates, such as the proposed “Fair Share” quotas and other laws that would strip towns of local control.

The upcoming Plan of Conservation & Development will be critical. It offers a chance to build on successes like 136 Riverside, which shows affordability and compassion can coexist, and outdoor dining, which revitalized our downtown.

These wonderful things would not have happened without our votes, and with careful planning we can expand affordability, maintain Westport’s character, and ensure thoughtful growth.

Our philosophy is simple: Smart development is not a threat – it is an opportunity. By collaborating with landowners, planning for lower density, and investing in town-controlled affordable housing, Westport can fulfill state requirements while protecting the qualities we love.

The alternative – costly and unwinnable battles under 8-30g – would only weaken our ability to shape our own future.

We pledge to continue to lead with vision, balance, and respect for Westport’s character. Vote all 3 Democratic candidates for P&Z  — two experienced leaders who have already delivered results, and one new voice to help preserve what you love and plan responsibly for the future.

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Posted in Local politics, Real estate, Saugatuck

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Pic Of The Day #3085

Posted on September 29, 2025 | 1 comment

Sherwood Mill Pond, from Grove Point (Photo/Andrew Colabella)

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Posted in Beach, Environment, Pic of the Day

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Remembering Russ Blair

Posted on September 29, 2025 | 5 comments

Russell Blair — who lived nearly all his life in Westport, and whose decades of volunteerism here included co-founding the Emergency Medical Service, and work on nearly every school building committee — died peacefully at his longtime home, surrounded by his family, on August 31. He was 96.

The Cincinnati native moved to Westport as a young boy. He spent many happy summers in the boat basin at Compo Beach, and sailing on Long Island Sound.

Russ attended Admiral Billard Academy in New London and the US Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, New York, earning his engineering degree in 1951.

He served on the USS Allagash for 3 years, rising to lieutenant before transferring to the Navy Retired Reserve.

Russ worked as an engineer for several companies before joining Slickbar in 1969. He became president in 1987, a position he held until retiring in 2001.

Russ’s devotion to community service began in high school during World War II, when he joined the civil defense fire crew.

Russ Blair

In Westport he gave generously of his time and talents, serving with the Volunteer Fire Department, co-founding Westport Emergency Medical Service, contributing to building committees that touched nearly every school in town — including the “new” Staples High in 2005 — and lending his care to various town and church restoration efforts.

Russ also spent 27 years in the Norwalk Hospital Emergency Department as an Emergency Medical Technician, offering steady hands and a compassionate heart. He received numerous awards, all of them with humility and grace.

Russ loved to repair, tinker and fix things. He always had a spare part, just waiting for its time to mend a broken object or machine.

Russ and his wife Isabel were married for 74 years. They shared a love for family, Westport, and traveling around the world.

He is survived by his wife Isabel; children Tripp (Nancy), DG (Bruce) and Laura; grandchildren Heather (Jamie), Lily (Andrew) Kate (Tim), and Maria (Travis). and great grandchildren Natalie, Christopher, Emily, Maddie, Oliver, Ryan, Drew, and Isabel

A celebration of life will be held October 25 (3 p.m.) at the Saugatuck Congregational Church.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Kings Point Merchant Marine Academy, or a local charity of your choice.

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Posted in Obituaries, Organizations, Staples HS

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Roundup: EMS Honors, Breast Cancer Walk, Candid Conversations …

Posted on September 29, 2025 | 1 comment

Congratulations, Jay Paretzky!

The Westport Emergency Medical Service crew chief received the Distinguished Achievement Award on Thursday, at the EMSPro International EMS Conference at Mohegan Sun.

He was chosen by the Connecticut EMS Council and state Office of Emergency Medical Services.

Jay began his service as a volunteer EMT in 1980, a few months after Westport’s EMS was founded. Over the past 45 years he has served as an EMT and crew chief, volunteering more than 30,000 hours.

He has saved countless lives, while also contributing as a board member, CPR program coordinator, an officer and president of Westport EMS, and a member of the Connecticut EMS Advisory Board.

Jay Paretzky

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Breast cancer survivors and — caregivers, family members and friends — will gather on Sunday, October 19 (9 a.m., Sherwood Island State Park), for the American Cancer Society’s 31st annual “Making Strikes Against Breast Cancer” kickoff.

The fundraising goal is $360,000. Click here to register, and for more information.

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Chabad of Westport presents a pair of “Candid Conversations.”

Eylon Levy — former official spokesman for the State of Israel — kicks off the series on October 22.

Former hostages Maya and Itay Regev, with their father Ilan, discuss “Siblings in Captivity” on November 19.

Both programs begin at 7:30 p.m., preceded by VIP receptions at 6:45. Click here for more information, and to RSVP.

Maya and Itay Regev

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In advance of Yom Kippur, The Blondinit is preparing a catering menu of Israeli-inspired cooking. It includes “start the fast” and “break the fast” options, with full meals as well as a la carte items.

To order, call 203-557-3277, or email catering@theblondinit.com. All catering orders are pick-up only. The deadline is Wednesday morning.

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Over the years, Mihali has become a Levitt Pavilion favorite.

Last night, the Twiddle co-founder returned to Westport with his “reggae, roots rock and riverside vibes,” and a full band.

He was joined by progressive funk powerhouse Night Zero. The show began with local high octane jam rock band Residual Groove.

Mihali, at the Levitt Pavilion. (Photo/Jerry Kuyper)

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Aspetuck Land Trust’s 2025 Haskins Lecture features Tom Butler, author of “Wildlands Philanthropy: The Great American Tradition” (October 30, 7 p.m., Westport Library).

Butler will share little-known stories of the men and women who went above and beyond to conserve the landscapes they loved – across the continent and around the world. They’re a reminder of the power of individuals to protect wild places everywhere.  

The event is free, and the public is invited.

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Did you notice our new “06880” header?

The Church Lane scene was photographed by Mark Taglia. If you’re on a laptop or desktop, at it’s the top of this blog.

If you’re on a smartphone, click here to see.

Or just look below:

(Photo/Mark Taglia)

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It’s almost October.

Which means, it’s already pumpkin season.

Which you know, if you’re been to Starbucks, Big Y, or any other place in America that sells pumpkin spice latte, pumpkin spice muffins, or any other version of the “p”-word.

Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo shows a pumpkin nearly as big as the boy holding it, at Old Mill.

(Photo/Richard Fogel)

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And finally … if it’s pumpkin season, it’s time to roll out:

(Ready or not, here we come … asking once again that readers who enjoy “06880” also support it. To make a tax-deductible contribution, please click here. Thank you — and happy Halloween!)

 

 

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“Where We Stand”: Selectmen Candidates Address Westport’s Most Important Issue

Posted on September 29, 2025 | 48 comments

The coming election is crucial for Westport.

Voters have several ways to assess candidates. But it’s not always convenient to get to to debates or forums.

Mailings don’t really dig into issues.

And yard signs are not exactly profound.

Today, “06880” introduces a new feature: “Where We Stand.”

Once a week, between now and Election Day, we’ll ask candidates for 3 important boards — Selectmen/women, Planning & Zoning, and Education — one specific question.

We’ll print their responses verbatim. (And we’ll change the order we run them each week, to be extra fair.)

An informed electorate is the greatest bulwark of democracy. Westporters have always participated avidly in our town government.

“06880” is proud to do our part this fall to help.

This week’s question for the Board of Selectmen/women is: “What is the single most important issue facing Westport right now, and how will you address it?”

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Democratic Party-endorsed candidates Kevin Christie and Amy Wistreich say:

Our top priority will be Westport’s infrastructure. Whether it’s solving traffic problems, upgrading parking at “Harder Parking” (aka Parker Harding), fixing a fast deteriorating Cribari Bridge, or building a school, Westporters deserve leadership that prioritizes essential projects, and then gets them done.

We will bring the community together to discuss our spending priorities. We are not talking about just “listening.” Reaching consensus on Westport’s infrastructure agenda will make sure taxes don’t have to rise unnecessarily, and will guarantee that the most pressing capital infrastructure projects are pursued with appropriate urgency; while respecting the process and citizen input.

We will weigh in on the most transformative proposed project in modern Westport history: Saugatuck. We will help guide the community conversation to a better answer for development in Saugatuck than The Hamlet. Together, we will find the path to a real solution.

Kevin Christie and Amy Wistreich

We all know that downtown parking is a growing problem. As your selectmen, Amy and I will seek a comprehensive plan for downtown which leverages the work of the Downtown Plan Implementation Committee, and includes ideas from business owners, too.

I will hold community discussions with neighbors to seriously consider other options such as a parking deck with liner retail and a “green roof” with passive recreation. We can solve the parking problem for a generation or more. We also need more sidewalks, and need to make Westport more walker- and cyclist-friendly.

We will fix the Cribari Bridge. In fact, we are already working with our state delegation. We will figure out how to maintain its charm while making it safe, while exploring creative options to keep large trucks off our local roads. We will consider local control of the bridge, too.

When elected, we will evaluate creating the role of director of economic and community development, a position that Fairfield has employed to great success. Business and community concerns are entwined, and both benefit when there’s someone dedicated to building consensus on how to move forward and facilitating those outcomes.

We can add transportation issues to this position’s portfolio, so that parking and traffic implications are considered when making big infrastructure decisions.

Ultimately, addressing Westport’s significant infrastructure investment choices requires leadership skilled in analysis, planning and project execution, as Amy and I have demonstrated in our careers and public service.

However, the most important talent is a willingness, even a passion, for listening to others. Our selectpeople should be confident in their vision for Westport, and prepared to persuade others on the merits. But they should also be humble, open to good ideas regardless of the source, so that the outcome for Westport is based not only on the best information and strategy, but also a range of perspectives.

My door will always be open to all Westporters. Only by working together can we fashion a plan that enhances this great town in a responsible way. That’s what we’ll do from Day 1.

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Republican Party-endorsed candidates Don O’Day and Andrea Moore say:

The most important issue facing Westport today is our inability to move projects forward.

Too often, our review and decision-making process is polarized and slow. Even small matters are delayed — or avoided altogether. Extensive public input and hard questions are always appropriate; however, never-ending requests for additional data can be decision avoidance. Nothing happens without decisions, and inaction ultimately hurts all Westport residents.

Andrea Moore and Don O’Day

Here are some of the of the most pressing issues requiring more action in Westport:

Affordable Housing and 8-30g

With the shortage of affordable housing, we are routinely targeted by developers exploiting our 4% ratio of affordable units that is well below the state’s 10% mandate. This shortfall leaves us vulnerable to dense apartment projects, with little zoning oversight under 8-30g. Reaching 10% is not realistic, but we can secure a new 4-year moratorium based on projects already in the pipeline (e.g., Post Road West and Hiawatha Lane).

What we will do? Double down on efforts to identify land or buildings for affordable housing. Westport has strong partners in the Affordable Housing Committee, Housing Authority, and Planning & Zoning Commission, and we must be ready to act quickly when opportunities arise. We should also encourage “friendly” 8-30g projects, as Darien has done, by working with developers willing to collaborate with the town.

Saugatuck Development

The future of Saugatuck remains unsettled, with the choice between no action, a thoughtful development, or a large 8-30g looming.

What we will do? Development with P&Z oversight is better than a dense 8-30g project with little control. We must resolve outstanding concerns through open dialogue. We cannot afford stalemate — we must talk and negotiate. It is better to have input than to relinquish control.

Senior Housing

Seniors face a severe lack of housing options. Single-level homes and condominiums are especially scarce.

What we will do? Establish a first selectman’s task force, with members from the Board of Finance, P&Z, Y’s Men and Women, and other stakeholders. Its charge: (a) expand senior housing inventory (retrofitting existing office space?), (b) incentivize developers to include more senior-friendly designs, and (c) explore financial tools such as tax abatements on new projects.

Downtown Parking

Parking downtown remains a challenge, and Parker Harding is overdue for significant improvements.

What we will do? Follow the Downtown Plan Implementation Committee’s structured 4-part strategy to address parking challenges and address ADA issues that have been brought up. No solution should be off the table.

Capital Projects

Over $400 million in proposed capital projects — and that’s before bonding costs. Every sponsor believes their project is most urgent.

What we will do? Re-prioritize the capital forecast by ranking projects high, medium, or low priority, with the understanding that low-priority projects will not move forward. Apply a simple rule: If a building is functional, dry, warm in winter, and cool in summer, it’s not an immediate priority. Further, the Capital Project list is a Westport list, not a school versus town list,

Traffic is terrible

Every part of town is impacted by increased volume of cars.

What we will do? We are not going to reduce the volume of cars, but we can explore remote monitoring of variable choke points as they develop. We can use technology and adjust traffic light timing to allow for more intelligent flow.  Another idea is to guide people on how to make left hand turns onto Post Road from Wilton Road.

Westport will always be able to solve issues by working together. The O’Day/ Moore team has experience leading collaboratively, and a visible and proven track record of success. We will be ready on day one because we have done it before.

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Independent Party-endorsed candidate David Rosenwaks says:

The most important issue facing Westport today is a need for greater transparency and accountability in our town government. This challenge has shaped how decisions are made, how residents experience our town, and to what extent people feel that their voices truly matter. I have had hundreds of conversations with friends and neighbors, and have heard a consistent theme: many residents feel unheard and undervalued.

As first selectman, I will lead with transparency as my guiding principle. Transparency means more than posting documents online or holding meetings that check a box. It means creating a culture where people feel welcomed into the process rather than shut out, where residents are proactively informed, and the rationale for decisions is clearly explained. It means treating residents as true partners in government, not obstacles to be managed.

Accountability is the second essential piece. Westport deserves leadership that is accountable to everyone, not to one faction or interest group.

David Rosenwaks

Accountability means acknowledging mistakes and correcting them. It means being responsive to residents by answering their questions and explaining the reasoning behind choices, so people understand not just what was decided but why.

Accountability also means making decisions after listening to all sides, not just the loudest voices, while also standing by those choices because they were made with fairness, openness, and the long-term best interests of our town in mind.

Modernizing the way our town uses technology is central to achieving this goal. By upgrading our systems and making information easier to access, residents will no longer have to search or wait for answers. They will be able to see clearly how decisions are made, and where their tax dollars are going.

The issues Westport faces are complex, and impact every household. From capital improvements to our schools and infrastructure, to sustainability and resiliency planning, to affordable housing, traffic, public safety, and the community gardens, every one of these issues requires collaboration with residents.

Westport’s strength comes from its people. Our town is full of engaged, passionate, and creative residents who want to contribute to the town’s future.

But when people feel excluded, their energy and talents are wasted. A more transparent and accountable government will not only restore confidence in leadership, but it will additionally invite more residents to participate and share their ideas.

By creating clear pathways for involvement, whether through modernized technology, brown bag lunches, weekly online video updates, or encouraging participation in commissions and committees, we can make it easier for Westporters to take part in shaping the future of the town while also respecting the incredible history that got us to this point.

My commitment as your first selectman will be to lead in this way: to listen, to communicate openly, to explain decisions clearly, and to be accountable to the residents of Westport. By trying to accommodate as many interests as possible during each decision-making process, our results will better reflect the shared values of our town.

 

 

 

 

 

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