Roundup: Politics & The Environment, Diwali & The School Calendar …

Posted on October 8, 2025 | 2 comments

Monday’s first selectman candidates’ discussion on sustainability and the environment drew an overflow crowd to Christ & Holy Trinity Church — and a commitment from all 3 to create and adopt a comprehensive Westport Sustainability Plan, within their first year in office.

That’s a milestone long sought by local environmental activists.

Representative Town Meeting member Clarence Hayes was at the event, hosted by Sustainable Westport and Earthplace. He reports:

Over 90 minutes of spirited questioning, moderator Peter Boyd — a lecturer and resident fellow at Yale’s Center for Business and the Environment — pressed candidates Don O’Day, David Rosenwaks and Kevin Christie on their personal engagement with sustainability, their records, and their plans to make Westport a leader in environmental action.

All 3 voiced support for sustainability priorities, including improved walkability, stronger flood resilience, enforcement of the leaf-blower ban, rebuilding the community garden, pursuing Sustainable CT Gold certification, and evaluating solar installations for Staples High School and town parking lots, among others.

While short on detailed road maps, the shared commitment to adopt a formal plan within the first year marked an important first step. None pledged to add dedicated staff immediately, preferring to rely on volunteer expertise and integrate sustainability goals into existing town departments — and to see what progress can be achieved this way first.

When asked how they hoped to be remembered after four years, O’Day said for “a willingness to be first, not just a follower.” Rosenwaks envisioned “a town known for a healthy lifestyle — walking, biking, and clean air and water.” Christie hoped Westport would “become a leader again on the environment, as it once was.”

The conversation continued informally at Emmy Squared, where candidates and residents carried the debate — and Westport’s hopes for a sustainable future — well into the evening.

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Will Westport have a new school holiday?

A petition to add Diwali to the calendar has gained several dozen signatures.

It says: “I am a proud member of the Hindu community in Westport. Every year my family and I celebrate Diwali, the Festival of Lights, with great joy and reverence. Diwali symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and good over evil, offering a time for reflection, community, and spreading love. As a Hindu, it holds deep cultural and spiritual significance for me and millions of others around the world.

“On October 1, 2025, Diwali was officially recognized as a state holiday in Connecticut. This acknowledgment is a huge step forward in embracing and celebrating the cultural diversity that enriches our state.

“Our community takes pride in our cultural diversity and our commitment to inclusivity. By declaring Diwali a school holiday, Westport can send a strong message of acceptance and celebrate the rich tapestry of communities within the town.

“I urge the Westport Board of Education to recognize Diwali as an official school holiday. Doing so will not only reflect the values of our inclusive community but also respect the cultural practices of Hindu families living in Westport. This change can serve as an inspiration and positive example for other towns and school districts in Connecticut.”

This year, Hindus celebrate Diwali on October 21.

Diwali: The Festival of Lights.

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Speaking of the Board of Education: They meet tomorrow (Thursday, 7 p.m., Staples High School cafeteria).

The main agenda item is a discussion of the phone-free implementation plan.

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When “06880” last checked in on Dylan Gleicher and Neil Sono, the 2017 and ’18 Staples High School graduates (respectively) had created an app — Prepared 911 — that enabled school employees to seamlessly share information with each other during shootings and other crises. They soon expanded it to focus on 911 centers, police and fire departments, and sheriff’s offices.

With early hire Chris Scherban (Staples ‘17), Prepared quickly became a leader in assistive AI technology for public safety agencies.

Their $16 million Series A funding round was led by Andreessen Horowitz.

Last week, the longtime friends sold Prepared 911 to Axon, a global public safety technology company.

Neil Soni and Dylan Gleicher, in their Yale days.

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Speaking of Staples students’ achievements: On Saturday, the top 7 members of the school’s boys cross country team competed in the 26th annual Great American XC Festival in Cary, North Carolina.

The competition draws runners from across the country to the fast WakeMed Course..

Staples competed in the varsity blue 5k race. They scored 228 points, good for a team win.

Congratulations to Oliver Samuel (15:57), Harrison Sydor (16:05), Luke Cooper (16:22), Jackson Wood (16:25), Oscar Jones (17:08), Samuel Burmeister (17:16) and Maxwell Benke (17:25).

Coming up: the FCIAC championship, at New Canaan’s Waveny Park. For more Staples cross country information, click here. 

The 2025 Staples boys cross country team, in North Carolina.

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Westport is becoming the Naples of America.

First came Massi Co — Massimo Tullio’s new restaurant, with Neapolitan cuisine.

Now Stephen Kempson London — the high-end tailor on Post Road West, just over the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge — is sponsoring a 2-day trunk show celebrating the artistry and heritage of that city’s craftsmanship.

The genesis for the October 17 (1 to 5 p.m.) and 18 (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) event was Kempson’s trip to Naples earlier this year. He was inspired by its devotion to beauty, precision, and passion — qualities found in its cuisine, architecture, and menswear tradition.

Three celebrated artisans will be in Westport

  • Paolo Scafora: Master shoemaker since 1956, known for hand-stitched footwear.
  • Gennaro Sannino: The house of Sannino shirts.
  • Anthony Lonzano (Gabo Napoli): Representing one of Italy’s leading tailoring houses.

Each will showcase signature pieces and take bespoke orders.

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Westport Library executive director Bill Harmer addressed the Westport Rotary Club yesterday. His topic was close to his heart: the Common Ground Initiative.

Recent Common Ground speakers have included Ken Feinberg, who ran the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund, and former Senator Roy Blunt of Missouri.

The Common Ground Initiative also includes the Seat at the Table series, where community members discuss intriguing topics.

“Americans regard libraries as one of the last safe spaces in our democracy,” Harmer said.

Bill Harmer, at the Westport Rotary Club (Photo/Dave Matlow)

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Early yesterday morning, Westport firefighters responded to a structure fire on Hillspoint Road.

The blaze was discovered by 2 passersby. They notified the home’s occupants, who evacuated before Fire Department units arrived. The fire was contained to the exterior area of origin.

The scene was turned over to the Westport fire marshal’s office for investigation.

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Staples High School Class of 1971 graduate Lynn Barber Mellor died on September 13 in Lake Wales, Florida. She was 72.

She was born in Chicago to Gordon and Jean A. Mellor. Lynn and her family moved to Westport when she was 7 months old. She attended California College of Arts & Crafts in Oakland, then worked as a graphic artist for marketing Corporation of America in Westport.

An avid scratchboard artist, she retired to Key West in 2006, then to Lake Wales in 2021.

Lynn is survived by her twin sister Gail M. Sibley (Jack), of Poinciana, Florida; brother Mark (Debbie) of Dorset, Vermont; niece Alyssa and nephew Devin. She was predeceased by her parents, her nephew Jes Sibley, and her stepmother, Shirley Mellor.

A private service will be held.

Lynn Mellor

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo is one more full moon image. This was one was taken at Burying Hill Beach.

It’s the last, we promise.

Until next month.

(Photo/Anne Bernier)

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And finally … in honor of (perhaps) the next Westport Public Schools holiday (story above):

(Where else but “06880” can you read about Diwali, political candidates, a life-saving app — and much more — all at once? Nowhere else! So please click here to support our work. Thanks!)

 

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Posted in Environment, Library, Local politics, Obituaries, technology

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Long Lots Neighbor: Demolition Goes Far Beyond P&Z Approval

Posted on October 8, 2025 | 51 comments

For 3 years Julianne Mulvey attended meetings, made phone calls and wrote letters about the Long Lots Elementary School building project.

As the closest neighbor south of the Hyde Lane site — with a home abutting the former Community Gardens — she wanted to be sure that her rights as a property owner were considered.

She and her husband Fran made compromises. They also made sure the Long Lots School Building Committee included elements like buffer zones in the design.

The first phase of construction began last week. On the very first day, carefully drawn plans were disregarded.

The buffer area, with before-and-after photos.

Specifically, the couple said in a letter Monday to the Planning & Zoning Commission:

Representatives of the LLSBC assured us that clearance along our property line would occur at the greater of the flagged 25 feet from property lines or areas essential to the approved site plan. That is not what transpired.

The most egregious clearance has occurred between the main construction road and our front yard. We were explicitly assured by the LLSBC that this area would remain as undisturbed as possible, while still allowing access to the site.

While the construction road was positioned the maximum distance from our home, the demolition crew nonetheless destroyed an estimated 6,000 square feet of mature vegetation and growth beyond the construction road — our home’s primary buffer from the project site.

This area is not part of the construction plan or existing future plans for the site and did not need to be cleared for the project to proceed. The fact that the area lies outside the fence enclosure of the construction site further underscores this point: It did not need to be destroyed.

Despite our repeated and consistent concerns voiced over the past 3 years, the LLSBC proceeded in direct opposition to both its own assurances and the conditions of P&Z approval, which specifically required that our property be taken into consideration.

In addition, certain areas were cleared within as little as 15 feet of the property line — though a walkthrough with the LLSBC identified flags at 25 feet that were meant to preserve the buffer.

The effects on their quality of life — and property values — have been devastating.

“We have spoken repeatedly in the last 12 months about our fear that demolition would occur without a town representative on hand for us to speak with immediately,” the couple said in the letter to the P&Z.

On the first day of construction, there was no representative of the town on site — “only construction workers doing their job with understandably no authority to speak with us.”

After seeing the letter, “06880” reached out to Julianne Mulvey.

She said that on Monday, Susan Chipouras — project manager for the LLSBC — knocked on their door. (Mulvey noted that Chipouras had tried to contact them earlier.)

Chipouras first blamed a utility company. Mulvey said that they had removed only one tree.

Chipouras acknowledged the gravity of the clearance, and implied it was a third party mistake.

“It was the first day of a $100 million project,” Mulvey said. “And no one was there from the LLSBC to oversee the removal of this sensitive buffer area.

“On the first morning the project began, everything we had been promised was gone.”

(Photos and graphics courtesy of Fran and Julianne Mulvey)

Before last week, the Mulveys could not even see the school. Now they live adjacent to a construction zone.

And they can see everything.

“Our skepticism regarding the LLSBC’s promises to take ‘only what is necessary’ (a quote from chair Jay Keenan during a formal walkthrough with neighbors in August) regrettably, has been validated,” the Mulveys’ letter said.

“We no longer have confidence in the town’s ability to manage this project.”

Chipouras proposed plantings to minimize the effect of the removal.

But, Mulvey said, “the damage is done. It is on the LLSBC and the town to fix this mistake.”

 

51 Comments

Posted in Education, Environment, Local politics, Real estate

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Pics Of The Day #3093

Posted on October 7, 2025 | 5 comments

Warm weather draws late afternoon October crowds — and dogs — to Compo Beach … (Photo/Heli Stagg)

… and the full moon creates this intriguing scene (Photo/Gabriela Hayes)

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Posted in Beach, Pic of the Day

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Roundup: Politics, Religion, Survivors…

Posted on October 7, 2025 | 5 comments

UN Day is October 24. This year as never before, the international organization is wracked with controversy.

The night before, Under-Secretary-General Christian Saunders will be at the Westport Library. He’ll speak on “The UN at 80: Current Challenges and Future Possibilities” (October 23, 7 p.m.).

The event is part of the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Memorial Lecture Series, established by the United Nations Association of Southwestern Connecticut.

Admission is free. For more information, click here.

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Today is the 2nd anniversary of Hamas’ October 7 attack.

The Blondinit will honor the memory of those lost in Israel, and those still held captive, by donating a portion of proceeds from all meals and drinks — dine in or take out at the Church Lane restaurant, and delivery — to United Hatzalah.

The volunteer-based emergency medical services organization provides free, lifesaving care to anyone in need across Israel. With more than 8,000 trained medics and an average response time of under 3 minutes, they save lives every day using innovative tools like ambucycles and GPS technology.

Entirely funded by donations, United Hatzalah was among the first responders during the October 7 attacks. They continue to provide critical emergency aid throughout the country.

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On a more joyful note, the Jewish holiday of Sukkot began at sundown last night.

The festival commemorates both the fall harvest, and 40 years of wandering in the desert after the Exodus from Egypt.

Celebrated for 7 days, it involves building a temporary hut (sukkah), which symbolizes the fragile, temporary shelters of the Israelites, and reminds observers of God’s protection.

This sukkah was built yesterday near Compo Beach:

(Photo/Richard Fogel)

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Survive-OARS — the inspirational (and very competitive) Saugatuck Rowing Club team made up of breast cancer survivors — heads to the Head of the Charles on October 18. It’s the biggest regatta in the world.

Six days before — this Sunday (October 12, 1 to 4 p.m., Saugatuck Rowing Club, rain or shine), the public can honor these strong, spirited women.

Every ticket and donation (all tax-deductible) will fuel the Survive-OARS’ life-changing program of strength, empowerment, resilience and sisterhood.

The afternoon includes music by the Bad Dog Buddy Band, nibbles and more (full raw bar, clam chowder, pumpkin bisque, charcuterie, apple crisp).

One of the highlights: turning the Saugatuck River pink, with 50,000 rose petals. That’s quadruple the usual, already stunning number.

A moment of silence will honor all the lives touched by the insidious disease.

Petals can be dedicated to a loved one, or the Survive-OARS program. Messages can be written on (biodegradable) paper, and lofted into the river along with the petals.

Tickets are $75. Can’t be there? Purchase and dedicate rose petals, to be scattered in your name ($50 or $25). Click here for more information. Questions? Email diana@survive-oars.org.

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The last time we checked in with Max Orland — the 2006 Staples High School graduate who overcame a speech and language disability to work with the New York Mets, US Open (center court, for Federer and Serena Williams), Philadelphia Phillies, Boston Red Sox and Northeastern University — he was hired in golf operations at the prestigious Tiburón Club in Naples, Florida.

Now he’s a published writer. His piece in Tri- State Golf Magazine is an inspiring account of the challenges he’s overcome, the milestones he’s reached, and the lessons he’s learned along the way. (Click here to read.)

It focuses on his move away from all that was familiar, to South Florida. It’s very well-written, filled with strong examples, and a testament to Max’s talent, perseverance and character.

The other day, Max was in Westport. He headed to Staples — as he always does — to see Sara Levesh Prior, a teacher who was so helpful to him 20 years ago.

“I was so fortunate to go to school there,” Max says. “It really launched me to some great accomplishments. I am forever grateful for Staples and Westport.
I owe gratitude to a lot of people there, like the baseball coaches, who were rooting for me.”

PS: Max has a new (and very exciting) gig. He’ll be working in operations for the NBA’s Miami Heat. Good things happen to great people!

Max Orland

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Club203 — Westport’s social organization for adults with disabilities — celebrates Halloween early.

Their October 16 (6:30 p.m.) event at Earthplace is “a spooktacular night under the stars.” It includes music, a “trick-a-tree” trail” for treats, pumpkin painting, a fire pit, and a chance to hang out with friends.

Costumes are encouraged. Click here for more information.

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Staples’ Candlelight Concert is over 2 1/2 months away.

But the school’s music department is deep in preparations for the 85th annual gift to the town.

Ten years ago — for the 75th anniversary — a special CD included selections from many previous shows. The oldest — “The 12 Days of Christmas” — was from 1953.

This year, the department wonders: Are there older Candlelight recordings anywhere? And when was the first concert recorded by a movie camera (or camcorder)?

If you’ve got a long-ago LP, movie or video, contact Steve Zimmerman, district arts coordinator: szimmerman@westportps.org. (PS: Please let “06880” know too!)

This photo is from the 1979 Candlelight Concert. It was already nearly 40 years old. There have been over 40 Candlelights since.

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Pequot Runners — organizers of the very popular Thanksgiving Day 5-mile race and 2.6-mile walk — are sponsoring a kids-only race this Sunday (October 19, Greens Farms Academy)

There are 2 distances: 1.5 miles (4th-5th grade boys and girls, 9 a.m.) and 2 mles (5th-6th graders, 9:30 a.m.).

The entry fee is $27.50. Click here to register. 

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“06880” received dozens of harvest moon photos last night. We couldn’t use all — or even a small part — of them.

But here is one, as it rose over (of course) Compo Beach:

(Photo/Nancy Lally)

And another, over Old Road:

(Photo/Ben Meyer)

The full harvest moon was framed beautifully, in this sculpture by Hans Von de Bovemkamp on Judy Point Lane, near Saugatuck Shores:

(Photo/Roger Leifer)

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The Staples boys soccer online silent auction has begun.

Items include soccer training with varsity players (for goalkeepers too!), a ball signed by the varsity team, a ski on/off weekend at Stowe, Knicks tickets, diamond earrings, writing consultations with “06880” founder Dan Woog, and much more.

Click here to see all the items, and bid. The auction closes Monday, October 13 at 10 p.m.

Staples High varsity soccer players offer special training, through their online auction. (Photo/Ryan Allen)

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Multi-instrumentalist (bass, guitar, harmonica, looper, vocals) Brian Torff stars this Thursday, at Jazz at the Post (VFW Post 399; 7:30 and 8:45 p.m. shows; dinner from 7).

He’s joined by saxophonists Wes Lewis and Josh Walker, and percussionist Elijah Atkins. Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Most of our daily “Westport … Naturally” photos show Westport at its best: the beauty and wonder we often appreciate (but not always).

Today’s shows Gray’s Creek, between Longshore and Compo Beach Road.

But while it is a town jewel, some people don’t always treat it that way. For example:

(Photo/Nathan Greenbaum)

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And finally … speaking of last night’s harvest moon:

(Another day, another Roundup chock full of news, events, photos and more. If you enjoy this daily feature — or any other — please click here to support our work. Thank you!) 

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Posted in Children, Politics, religion, Restaurants, Sports, Staples HS

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P&Z Hears Downtown Parking Pre-Application

Posted on October 7, 2025 | 14 comments

Forty-four fewer spaces in Parker Harding Plaza. Twenty more in the Imperial Avenue lot.

More greenery and walking paths at Imperial Avenue and Jesup Green — including turning Taylor Place into a pedestrian zone.

No parking garage at the Baldwin lot. At least, not yet.

Redesign of the Imperial Avenue parking lot. View is looking north, toward the pedestrian bridge to the Levitt Pavilion (left).

Those were key takeaways from last night’s Planning & Zoning Commission meeting.

Public Works Department director Pete Ratkiewich presented a pre-application to the commissioners, for the long-debated, oft-delayed downtown parking-and-more plan. (Click here for a link to construction and other materials for Parker Harding.)

It was a cordial meeting. Commissioners asked questions. Ratkiewich and Downtown Plan Implementation Committee chair Randy Herbertson answered them.

After nearly 2 hours, a consensus was reached: Officials will continue planning.

And the P&Z will welcome them back for another meeting.

Ratkiewich’s goal, he said, was to show that with a parking management strategy, downtown can withstand the loss of 44 “core” spaces. Meanwhile, he added, improved pedestrian and river access — and compliance (now lacking) with Americans with Disabilities Act standards — will make all of downtown more pleasant, and also more accessible.

Artist’s rendering of more green space by Jesup Green and the Saugatuck River.

The Public Works director’s appearance came a year after the Representative Town Meeting nixed a plan to add parking spaces by cutting into Jesup Green, sending planners back to the drawing board.

Plans on that drawing board now show enhancements to the “non-core” parking areas: Jesup Green and Imperial Avenue. Those include riverfront seating,  connectivity between the 2 areas (including a mile-long pedestrian loop), and possible outdoor tables in the short area connecting the lower library parking lot with Post Road East.

Taylor Place could become a pedestrian area. View is from Post Road East, looking to the library. Tonic & Green is on the left.

Two benefits to that proposal: better integration between the “cultural” part of downtown and the shopping district, and better traffic flow on the Post Road, by removing that Taylor Place traffic light.

While the lower library (Taylor) lot would lose 10 parking spots — going from 75 spaces to 65 — those 10 would be reclaimed by reconfiguring parking on Jesup Road.

Renovations to the Imperial Avenue lot would include 16 more parking slots, a bathroom and storage space, a walkway with kayak launch, and bike racks.

Improvements to the Imperial Avenue lot include walkways and (rear) a bathroom.

The third part of Ratkiewich’s presentation involved Parker Harding. A parking study — conducted last year during late summer, mid-fall and the holiday season — showed that downtown parking is most full only during a 2-hour period, Ratkiewich said: 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. (Click here for the parking study.)

That “2-hour parking problem” could be managed, he said, with a “proper parking plan.”

The best option, he noted, is modifying parking times — something that has already been done. Off-street parking is now 3 hours; previously, there were 2- and 3-hour limits. The average shopper spends 2-3 hours downtown, Ratkiewich said.

On-street parking — primarily Main Street — is now 2 hours. “That’s only a small percentage” of all available parking, Ratkiewich said.

The impacts of those changes are being evaluated.

Planned improvements to the lower library (Taylor) parking lot.

There are a few changes proposed for Parker Harding. They include improved entrances and exits; perpendicular parking, and 7 ADA-compliant spots

As for a parking deck: Consultants said the Baldwin lot (off Elm Street) is the only feasible location. A 1-level deck would cost $5 million; the “best bang for the buck” is 3 levels, for $10 million.

But, Ratkiewich said, a deck would address only “the problem of 2 hours, at peak time.”

His and DPIC’s recommendations, following up on the current Phase 1 (adjust parking times, and monitor effects), in this order:

  • Metered parking in high-demand areas (to incentivize free parking outside those areas)
  • Selling permits to employees, for all-day parking
  • A parking structure, only if the above steps do not work.

Parker Harding would be the first priority, followed by the Imperial Avenue lot. Jesup Green would be third.

P&Z commissioners’ comments were muted. Amy Wistreich praised the “holistic approach” and walking paths, but cautioned against lifting previous restrictions until the plan is complete.

Michael Cammeer said, “You’re on to something. Let’s try to mitigate any controversy.”

And Michael Calise noted, “If we can get 30 employees to park outside the core, that will solve the problem.”

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Posted in Downtown, Local politics, Transportation, Westport life

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“Where We Stand”: P&Z Candidates Describe Their Skill Sets

Posted on October 7, 2025 | 3 comments

An informed electorate is the greatest bulwark of democracy.

Westporters understand this is a very important election. “06880” is doing our part, to help Westporters understand candidates’ perspectives on a variety of issues.

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

We’ll print their responses verbatim.

This week’s question for the Planning & Zoning Commission is:

What skill sets do you have that would complement or enhance the P&Z as a whole?

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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:

Instead of drafting 400 words each, we are submitting a combined post to represent all 3 of us running as a slate.

Michael Cammeyer, Bre Injeski and Craig Schiavone bring diverse yet complementary skills in law, civic service and planning. From infrastructure to 8-30g housing to coastal resilience, Westport faces real challenges. Our team brings the necessary collective experience to ensure decisions that are fair, transparent, and right for Westport’s.

Michael Cammeyer, Bre Injeski and Craig Schiavone

Michael Cammeyer
Michael ensures that all voices are heard, including those expressing unpopular or minority views. That’s not accidental; that’s leadership. He brings a long record of civic engagement and leadership in Westport, always focused on bringing people together and finding consensus.

His service on town boards and committees has given him a deep understanding of how different parts of local government work together – and where the P&Z can make a difference.  For example, Michael successfully promoted the regulation change necessary to ensure female athletes will have equitable access to lit fields.

Known for being thoughtful, approachable, and able to bridge perspectives, he strengthens the Commission’s ability to balance community input with responsible growth. His collaborative style makes him a strong complement to the team. When it comes to drainage, Michael is always the first to make sure the water flows in the right direction. Michael approaches his role with quiet confidence and careful consideration. He doesn’t speak the most, but when he does, it counts – and that is what makes him an effective leader.

Bre Injeski
Bre brings a unique combination of legal expertise in government ethics and transportation policy, with hands-on experience as a current P&Z alternate.

A Georgetown Law graduate, she has nearly 20 years of public and private sector experience focused on municipal and administrative law. As a transportation regulatory lawyer, she advises on compliance, strategic planning and policy — skills that translate directly to applying zoning rules fairly and consistently.

Previously, as ethics officer for the New York city comptroller and as deputy director of enforcement at the NYC Conflicts of Interest Board, she oversaw government ethics enforcement, which gave her a deep appreciation for neutrality, transparency, and public trust in government decision-making. Combined with her practical service on the P&Z, her background ensures decisions are legally sound, and grounded in Westport’s current challenges and opportunities.

Craig Schiavone
Craig brings a strong professional background in community planning, historic preservation, real estate finance, business and project management — expertise that is essential for understanding the economic implications of development and ensuring projects are both viable and aligned with community goals.

A Westport resident for more than 20 years, she has played a central role in shaping local planning efforts, including serving as co-chair of the Saugatuck Transit-Oriented Development Master Plan Commission, and as an appointee to both the Downtown Westport 2020 Task Force and the 2022 Downtown Implementation Committee.

Craig has worked closely with residents and business owners, giving her a grounded sense of how zoning decisions impact daily life in Westport. Her ability to analyze projects from both a practical and financial perspective adds another critical dimension to the Commission’s deliberations.

Deeply committed to community service, Craig serves as a guardian ad litem with Child Advocates of Connecticut, a mentor with Homes for Hope, and a volunteer with the Westport Public Library. She has also held leadership roles with organizations advancing historic preservation, the arts, and child welfare.

Together
As a slate, we offer legal, civic, and financial expertise.  This is a balance that ensures decisions are fair, transparent, community-oriented, and economically sound. We each bring a different lens, and together we will strengthen the Commission’s ability to address housing, traffic, environmental resilience, and Westport’s long-term character. On election day, vote all 3 for P&Z.

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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:

I’m honored to be a candidate for the Planning and Zoning Commission, driven by a desire to serve and contribute to a town I truly love.  Throughout my life and career I’ve thrived on learning, engaging others, solving complex problems, and collaborating to find thoughtful solutions. I’ve always believed in the power of collective effort to produce tangible, lasting results.

I bring personal land use experience through limited partnerships and a real estate business outside Westport. Now retired, I offer decades of strategic business leadership, including serving as general manager of a billion-dollar business and global leader of a multi-billion-dollar enterprise.

These roles sharpened my ability to evaluate complex proposals, lead teams through high-stakes decisions, work through legal and regulatory concerns, and implement systems that ensure accountability and progress. I believe this blend of land use and experience will enhance the commission’s ability to navigate increasingly complex development challenges.

Michele Paquette 

Planning and zoning decisions shape the future of our town. They require technical expertise, ethical judgment, and a respect for public input. These are values I’ve lived by since my upbringing in Michigan, where my father was a union member and my mother led a hospital department. I was taught that honesty matters, accountability is essential, and hard work lays the foundation for meaningful progress. I was also taught to treat others with respect, collaborate generously, and never shy away from a challenge.

I believe in listening — not just hearing words, but understanding what individuals are truly saying. That’s where I differ from an incumbent candidate.

When hundreds of residents voiced concerns about an 800% increase in density in the Saugatuck area, they were asking for balance. The residents supported a 200–400% increase, but their concerns about the impact on the small-town feel, traffic and parking were ignored. The large zoning change was approved, including by an incumbent candidate, and this made The Hamlet development possible.

During final straw votes on The Hamlet, 2 incumbent candidates indicated approval for the project despite months of public opposition by thousands. Then, when it came time to vote, they abstained. I respect their service, but I believe residents deserve courageous decision-making. I will take a stand.

When I evaluate a project, I ask: Is it complete? Is it compliant? Does it serve the town’s long-term interests?

The Hamlet was not a complete application. It lacked over 80-plus conditions—for example, the plan didn’t provide employee parking even though it was requested.  This is the largest development Westport has ever faced and it is in the midst of our main commuting hub. It deserved thorough scrutiny and a clear, principled response. The plan was eventually denied—but not by the two incumbents’ candidates who initially voted to approve.

I’ve heard from over 1,000 residents about development concerns. I’ve studied the 2017 Town Plan of Conservation and Development and the 2012 Affordable Housing Plan. I’ve attended countless commission meetings and engaged with boards including Affordable Housing, Architectural Review, Erosion and Control, Conservation, and Parks and Recreation. I have studied the regulations and process. I look forward to learning more. I am ready to give residents what they expect: transparency, accountability, and results.

I’m running to be a leader of change – a proactive, principled voice for Westport residents. My business acumen, collaborative spirit, land use experience, and local engagement position me to serve with integrity, courage, and clarity. I’m here to work with all commissioners, regardless of party, to deliver on what residents want—and to ensure our town grows in a way that’s smart, sustainable, and community-driven.

I would be honored to serve.

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For last week’s “Where We Stand” question, click here.

 

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Pic Of The Day #3092

Posted on October 6, 2025 | Comments Off on Pic Of The Day #3092

Saugatuck River sky (Photo/JD Dworkow)

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“06880” Podcast: Emily & Tim Zobl

Posted on October 6, 2025 | 4 comments

Emily and Tim Zobl are the founders and owners of The Clubhouse.

Their new spot on Post Road East (in the old Pane e Bene space) offers golf and other sports simulators, high-tech darts, 2 karaoke rooms, a full restaurant and bar with enormous TV screens, a rooftop deck, and more.

It’s a unique business. The other day, Emily — a native Westporter — and her husband stopped by the Westport Library, to talk about it.

You can learn more about The Clubhouse — and what’s it’s like to open a new business in Westport, while raising 2 young kids, along with the couple’s University of Michigan collection — here, or in the podcast below.

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Roundup: Selectmen & Sustainability, Halloween Window Painting, Beach Scenes …

Posted on October 6, 2025 | Comments Off on Roundup: Selectmen & Sustainability, Halloween Window Painting, Beach Scenes …

A reminder: tonight (Monday), Westport’s 1st selectman candidates will discuss sustainability and the environment. The 6:30 p.m. event, at Christ & Holy Trinity Church’s Branson Hall, is co-sponsored by Sustainable Westport and Earthplace.

David Rosenwaks, Don O’Day and Kevin Christie will share their perspectives, priorities, and proposed solutions and action plans for Westport on issues like clean energy, waste reduction, climate resiliency and Westport’s long-term sustainability goals.

Click here to submit a question. Guests are invited to continued the discussion afterward, at Emmy Squared.

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The annual Halloween window painting contest is now older than many participants.

The 10th annual Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce event — in which children paint retail and business windows — takes place Saturday, October 25 (9 a.m. to 4 p.m.).

There are (as always) (and of course) prizes for the winners — ice cream gift cards — in both the elementary and middle school categories. Children can paint individually, or in teams. Painters and businesses: click here to sign up.

Window painting collage.

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This weekend’s almost-midsummer-like temperatures brought not-midsummer-like-but-still-respectable crowds to Compo Beach.

One festive group took advantage of the space, and enjoyed a drum circle:

(Photo/DinkinESH Fotografix)

Meanwhile at low tide, the sand bar was a popular attraction.

(Photo/Judy Auber Jahnel)

Nearby, a classic car owner had taken his MG out for a spin.

(Photo/Richard Fogel)

Boaters were on the water, too. Lawrence Zlatkin sends this shot:

When he came ashore later, he captured this full moon over Ned Dimes Marina:

(Photos/Lawrence Zlatkin)

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Also yesterday: Cosmic Jibaros celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month, at the Levitt Pavilion.

The 7-piece ensemble had the large audience dancing under a full moon, with an intriguing blend of Latin, Puerto Rican, Caribbean (and more) music.

Cosmic Jibaros front man Rick Reyes. (Photo/DinkinESH Fotografix)

Les and Sami Dinkin enjoy the show. (Photo/Seth Bemand)

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Later, a near full moon rose over Westport.

The actual “harvest moon” is tonight. That’s the full moon closest to the autumn equinox. It’s also the first “supermoon” of 2025 (meaning it appears larger than other full moons).

This was the view over Long Island Sound, off Schlaet’s Point on Hillspoint Road:

(Photo/Tammy Barry)

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The Mid-Fairfield Youth Cannabis Prevention Project hosts a 5-part speaker series, via Zoom. Positive Directions and Westport Together are co-sponsors.

The first, on October 20 (7 p.m.) features Dr. Joseph Feuerstein. The Weston resident is president of the Fairfield County Medical Association. Click here to register and for more details, including other speakers. 

Dr. Joseph Feuerstein

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Serena is a 13-year-old Westport girl with Tourette’s Syndrome.

The neurological disorder may cause sudden uncontrolled rapid and repeated movements or vocal sounds.

She is passionate about raising awareness — and research money — for the cause.

Serena has organized a walk-a-thon in Westport. It’s October 18 (noon to 2 p.m., PJ Romano Field track behind Saugatuck Elementary School.

There is no fee to register. But donations are absolutely welcomed; click here.

PS: To donate food or products to help, email beitelmark@aol.com.

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Jude Siegel grew up in Westport. Her father owned Westport Pharmacy downtown, across from the Library on Post Road East. Jude is a 1964 Staples High School graduate.

Since 1973, she has lived in Oregon — first on farms in the Willamette Valley, now in Portland.

She has long taught nature and bird journaling — a combination of drawing, watercolor and writing — to children and adults.

“This time of year,” she says, “I get homesick for the land, beaches and beauty of Connecticut.”

Of course, it is beautiful in Oregon too. Jude captures that beauty every year, in a watercolor and pen bird calendar she draws and produces.

The cover of Jude Siegel’s 2026 calendar …

“Birds bring such joy to our daily lives,” she notes. “It gives me peace to draw and paint them. I like the idea that they then go out on the calendar pages to people all over, and grace their lives as well.

This year’s calendar is now available for purchase. They’re $30 each, plus $5 per calendar for shipping. Email colorfuljude@gmail.com. (Originals are available for purchase. Just ask!)

… and one of the months.

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Sure, we’ve run a couple of bee photos recently, in our “Westport … Naturally” series.

But one of nature’s most remarkable creatures deserves another highlight.

Especially when the image is as remarkable as this one, captured in Mark Yurkiw and Wendy Van Wie’s garden by the incomparable Miggs Burroughs:

(Photo/Miggs Burroughs)

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And finally … Happy National Badger Day!

(You don’t have to be a Wisconsin Badger to celebrate today. And you don’t have to be anything — other than a grateful reader — to click here and support “06880.” On we go. And thank you!)

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“06880” Historic Homes Tour Set For November 2

Posted on October 6, 2025 | Comments Off on “06880” Historic Homes Tour Set For November 2

Four beautifully restored homes highlight the 3rd annual “Historic Homes of 06880 Tour.”

Set for Sunday, November 2 (1 to 4 p.m.), it builds upon our first 2 very successful events, opening some of Westport’s most intriguing properties to the public.

209 Wilton Road

Known as the Nathaniel S. Kirk House, this circa 1870 antique was expanded in 1900, 1930 and 1989. Many may not even know it exists, behind the perimeter fencing. A quick glance shows only the old well.

The current owners have worked tirelessly for nearly 5 years to add their own touch. Original fireplaces, wide board flooring and beams help retain the character and charm of this Connecticut classic. A beautifully paneled family room and incredible Prohibition Era bar room often have guests staying well past their welcome.

123 Compo Road South (corner of Green Acre Lane)

The David Flynn House (circa 1853) is a pristine, updated 19th century gem. The current owner has taken the prior owners’ restoration even further, combining compelling cosmetic changes with gorgeous antique and contemporary furnishings.

Three working fireplaces are often in use. The heated stone floor in the family room is perfect for stocking feet. The stunning country kitchen opens to a bluestone terrace, small pool and magnificent gardents.

The bonus is a separate 2-car garage, built to look like an original barn, with furnished living space above it.

155 Long Lots Road

This beautiful, somewhat humble 1938 Cape Cod-style home has been expanded more than once over time, by previous owners.

The current owners have created more natural light, and a more open floor plan, with exposed beams. There is a wonderful loft space above the barn-style garage. Think “Easthampton meets Westport.”

Outdoor amenities include a pool and tennis court (recently transformed into a pickleball magnet).

The 4th house will be announced soon.

“06880” often celebrates Westport’s rich history. We honor homeowners who preserve the past, while enhancing their neighborhoods — and those who bring new life to them.

“06880” tells stories. As you explore all 4 houses, you’ll learn the stories behind each one.

The homeowners will point out cool aspects of each home. You’ll get a brochure explaining the 4 houses too.

Our friends at KMS Team at Compass once again sponsor the “Historic Homes of 06880” tour.

Tickets are $60 each, $100 for 2. Proceeds help fund “06880”‘s work — which, as always, chronicles Westport’s past, present and future.

Click here for tickets. Questions? Email 06880blog@gmail.com.

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