Tag Archives: Democratic Town Committee

[OPINION] Tom Prince: Make Democrats’ Caucus More Democratic

Posted on January 11, 2026 | 9 comments

Tom Prince has lived in Westport since 1993. He is a former editor for New York magazine, Condé Nast, Martha Stewart and Meredith. He has written for for New York, The Wall Street Journal and GQ, 

Tom says, “I am NOT a member of the Democratic Town Committee.” But — in advance of Tuesday’s DTC biennial caucus (January 13, 7:30 p.m., Town Hall auditorium) — he writes:

In the voting booth, you may wonder how the names on the ballot ended up next to those ovals. Who picked these people? How did this happen? And if I’m unhappy with the choices, how can I change them?

In many ways, the most important election is not in November. It’s this Tuesday in Town Hall at 7:30 p.m., when the Westport Democratic Town Committee picks 50 to 70 voting members. They in turn endorse the candidates who run for office, and run our town.

It may seem like just another back room, inside baseball, cigar-chomping nerd-fest. But it’s a crucial decision.

And it’s easy for any registered Democrat to participate. (Any voter who changed registration from another party must have done so at least 90 days prior to January 13. Unaffiliated voters can register as Democrats as late as the day of the caucus.)

In a town where 40 percent of registered voters are Democrats, and where Democrats often win elections, the DTC is pre-selecting the people who will win races. That’s indisputable. Only 17.5 percent of Westport voters are Republicans.

The DTC has a special nominating committee to choose and endorse future candidates. It consists of 5 to 9 DTC members making recommendations to all 50 to 70 DTC members. Each recommendation requires only a majority of that committee (3 to 5 people).

Then it takes only 36 DTC members to endorse a candidate or slate, and get those names on the ballot. That’s some concentrated decision-making: Very few people are making very important choices.

In return, the officially endorsed candidates win a lottery of sorts: special tracking software, loyal volunteers, experienced door-knockers, savvy phone bankers, resolute poll standers, SWAT teams of Facebookers and videographers and Instagrammers, targeted texting campaigns, merciless robocalls, t-shirts, hats, stickers, yard signs, branded Halloween candy, and — in their dedicated Saugatuck headquarters — beer, wine and pizza.

Officially endorsed candidates have easy access to yard signs.

In simple terms, 3 to 5 members of the DTC control the money and the power (and the resources), and decide who gets the money and the power (and the resources).

These endorsers have an outsize effect on every election. Their votes say more than anyone else’s, and they say it early in the process. Sure, the process could unfold differently — it could be more democratic (ironically), involve more people, or support equally qualified candidates.

If you attend DTC meetings (they’re open to the public), members often complain about how hermetically sealed the nominating committee is. (At the December DTC meeting, one member asked about her perpetual exile to the sportswear committee; her plea was ignored.)

Instead of rotating members or recommending more than one candidate for an office, the leadership trudges along the same well-trod paths, year in and year out.

How can you help change things, if you’re dissatisfied with one or more of the choices you’re presented with each year?

Show up and vote. Any Democrat can show up to vote on the slate of people running to be elected to the DTC in their Representative Town Meeting (RTM) district. Elect people who align with your values.

Run, and bring your family and friends to vote for you. The steps to win are pretty straightforward. Are you a registered member of the party (90 days before the caucus, if changing from another party)? Do you have family, friends or neighbors who are registered Democrats, and have 1 or 2 hours to show up on Tuesday night to vote for you (and others if they support their candidacies)?

The Democratic Town Committee biennial caucus is Tuesday night, at Town Hall. (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

If you want to participate, bring about change, have a better process, or choose more like-minded candidates, this is how to make it happen.

It’s time to stop looking the other way, and start questioning how things are always done. It’s a rare chance for the young, the unrepresented, and the unheard to become voices in an important choir.

What would happen if democracy were open to all Democrats, not just a chosen few? What if ideas could once again prevail over ideology, and people could take precedence over power? Tuesday is a good time to find out.

(“06880″‘s Opinion pages are open to all readers. Email submissions to 06880blog@gmail.com.)

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Roundup: Democratic Caucus, Venezuela, U Thant …

Posted on January 3, 2026 | 6 comments

The first step toward becoming a Democratic candidate — or helping to influence the party locally — begins January 13 (7:30 p.m., Town Hall).

That’s the biennial Democratic Town Committee Caucus — an election to the DTC. They’re the group that endorses candidates for local elections, and helps select statewide nominees.

All registered Democrats are eligible. Any voter who has changed registration from another party must have done so at least 90 days prior to January 13. Click here for the Westport Democratic Town Committee bylaws.

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Speaking of politics (sort of): The capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has had a collateral effect on Westporters vacationing in the Caribean.

The closure of air space in the region caused airlines to cancel hundreds of flights.

One local family was scheduled to leave today from Trinidad & Tobago — 7 miles off the Venezuelan coast, but 350 miles from Caracas.

Another is in St. Thomas, Virgin Islands — hundreds of miles from Venezuela.

Airlines are swamped with calls from stranded travelers. They’re responding with variations of “We have no idea…”

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Verso Studios — the media arm of the Westport Library — has hosted headliners like Patti Smith and the Wallflowers. They’ve produced a vinyl album — the first ever by any library, anywhere.

What haven’t they done? A Battle of the Bands.

Until now.

Next Saturday (January 10, 7 p.m.), 4 high-energy local bands take the Trefz Forum stage. The crowd will decide the winner. Prizes are $500 for first place, $250 for second.

The college and teen groups are the Breakers, Clockwork, Caravan and MOSS.

Tickets are $10 for students, $20 general admission. Click here to purchase, and for more information. 

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Many Westporters know and love Abby LaBanca, longtime Spotted Horse bartender.

They may not know that her father Jim is terminally ill with cancer. A strong and selfless man, he continues to give back — including as chair of the Sunshine Kids Cancer Foundation, dedicating time and energy to helping children and families facing the same battle he now wages.

Along with the emotional weight of their impending loss, Jim’s family faces unexpected financial hardship.

A GoFundMe page has been organized to help the LaBancas focus on spending their final days together, without added stress. Click here to donate, and for more information. (Hat tip: Andrew Colabella)

Jim LaBanca

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Thant Myint-U grew up in Riverdale, New York — when his grandfather, U Thant, was the third secretary-general of the United Nations — and then in Bangkok, when his father was with the UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific.

But his mother Aye-Aye Thant — U Thant’s daughter — was a longtime Westporter.

Her son has just published a book about his grandfather.

According to PassBlue — an independent, women-led nonprofit news company that covers the US-UN relationship, women’s issues, human rights, peacekeeping and other global matters — “Peacemaker: U Thant and the Forgotten Quest for a Just World” “reveals rich layers of history during the 1960s, taking readers back to key moments in his maternal grandfather’s role in world history, from the Congo crisis to the Cuban missile crisis, from Vietnam to the Six-Day War in the Mideast.

“The author, who worked for a while in the UN and has produced several history books, has now written a book drawing on his family’s legacy. He says it was an accident that he stumbled upon archival material about his grandfather and the UN, which led him to work on this biography.”

Aye Aye and her husband lived in Westport from 2000 to 2022 (except for 2011 through 2014, when they renovated her former home in Yongon, Myanmar, as the U Thant House Museum. It is still in operation; her son is the chairman.

Aye Aye moved from Westport to Boston in 2022, to be closer to her daugthers.

Click here to read more, including a Q-and-A with Aye Aye Thant’s son. (NOTE: “06880” rules limit comments to the relevant topic at hand.  All comments on this item should pertain to the Thant family. General posts about the UN today will be deleted.)

U Thant

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Dana Kuyper snapped a nice “Westport … Naturally” image of the view from Longshore, across Gray’s Creek to Owenoke.

Well, it was a nice view — except for the large trash bin that someone dumped sometime, somewhere, and which managed to get stuck in the winter mud.

(Photo/Dana Kuyper)

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And finally … in honor of the Gray’s Creek photo above, lets hear from this musician:

(Where else but “06880” will you find U Thant and Muddy Waters together? That’s the way we roll. If you appreciate this blog — where Westport meets the world — please click here to support us. Thanks!)

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Posted in Entertainment, Library, Local politics, Politics, Restaurants

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3 Keys To Christie’s Win

Posted on November 12, 2025 | 30 comments

Early candidate selection. Voter contact and communication. Data.

Those are the basics of winning elections.

And, according to Democratic Town Committee chair Michelle Mechanic, they were the keys to Kevin Christie and Amy Wistreich’s decisive win in last week’s Board of Selectpersons race.

Democrats hold a 2-to-1 advantage over Republicans, in local registrations. (Unaffiliated voters are second — nearly as many as Democrats.)

But although Dems controlled all other town boards, they had lost 3 consecutive selectperson contests — dating back to 2013 — before this year.

One key was to start the nominating process early. Past DTCs had waited until the official July nominating convention — “the 11th hour,” Mechanic says.

This year’s “pre-endorsement meeting,” in late winter — including a round of interviews — identified Board of Education candidate Christie for the top spot.

He promised to campaign “day and night.” And he identified Wistreich — a Planning & Zoning Commission member — as his running mate. The nominating committee then met her, vetted her, and endorsed her to the full DTC.

There was no “grand strategy,” Mechanic notes. More important is “picking good people, and allowing them to be themselves.”

Kevin Christie and Amy Wistreich, at a candidates’ debate. (Photo/Dan Woog)

Communication is another important element. The Democrats spent about 60% of their funds on email newsletters and blasts, high-quality mailers, digital media and robo-texting.

Another element of communication: old-fashioned knocking on “tons of doors.”

The rest went to professional services, like campaign managers.

(As for yard signs: “They don’t win races,” Mechanic says. They are, however, good for name recognition of new candidates. And when placed on private property; they serve as “personal endorsements.”)

The Democratic Town Committee also used its proprietary data base well, Mechanic says. That includes information on who is likely to vote for their candidates; who needs a push to get to the polls — and, during early voting and Election Day itself, who has not yet cast a ballot.

By Election Day, Mechanic was ready for one of 2 outcomes: “either really close, or a blowout.”

In the end, it was close to the latter. Christie and Wistreich earned 52.84% of the vote, in a 3-way race.

Kevin Christie (center, rear), speaking to supporters at Little Barn on election night. (Photo/Catherine Campagnino)

“The rules of politics worked,” Mechanic says. “People found Kevin and Amy authentic and qualified.”

The Board of Education race was trickier. The DTC endorsed 2 candidates; 2 other Democrats gathered 400 signatures, and also appeared on the Democratic Party line.

One of the 2 endorsed candidates dropped out. But because, by Town Charter, one party can have just a bare majority on the BOE, only 2 of the 3 Democrats could be seated.

Abby Tolan

Mechanic consulted with state Democratic Party officials. They said the DTC had some discretion, but their first duty was to ensure the election of the endorsed candidate, incumbent Abby Tolan.

She won. Petitioning candidates Stephen Shackelford and Jodi Harris were close — within 300 votes. Both swamped the leading Republican, incumbent Dorie Hordon, by over 2,500 votes. But only Shackelford — who received 11 more votes than Harris — will be seated.

“Stephen and Jodi ran a great race,” Mechanic acknowledges. She had “a lovely exchange” with Shackelford after results were announced, she says.

The Planning & Zoning Commission race was more straightforward. Three Democrats — incumbent Michael Cammeyer, alternate Bre Injeski, and Craig Schiavone — won handily.

“They worked very hard. They’re very committed to serving the community,” Mechanic says.

Besides Schiavone — with a cross-endorsement from the Coalition for Westport — the top vote-getters in the overall election were a pair of familiar faces: Democrats Elaine Whitney for the Board of Finance, and Sheri Gordon for the Zoning Board of Appeals.

What do last week’s resounding results mean for Westport’s Democratic Party?

“I am thrilled for 4 amazing years of great service with Democratic values,” party chair Mechanic says. “Kevin and Amy are Democrats with a capital D.”

“Every selectman’s cycle, people talk about the DTC like it’s a private club. It’s not.

“I also invite newer and younger residents to attend our meetings and make their voices heard. We are committed to representing every voice, but we need those voices in our processes.

“That said, I believe our elected candidates will serve everyone, in every facet of town life.”

(“06880” covers local politics, in all its forms. If you appreciate our coverage — and anything else we do — please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Board Of Ed Race: Rift In Democratic Party

Posted on October 10, 2025 | 31 comments

Three Democrats are running for the Board of Education.

In a normal year, party leaders would be delighted.

But this is not a normal year.

Because the Town Charter limits one political party to a bare majority — 4 seats — on the 7-member board, and because Democrats Lee Goldstein and Neil Phillips are in the middle of their 4-year terms, only 2 Democrats can be elected. Jill Dillon, who won a seat 2 years ago as an unaffiliated write-in candidate, is in the middle of her term too.

In March, the Democratic Town Committee interviewed several candidates for the Board of Ed. They chose incumbent Abby Tolan, and Representative Town Meeting deputy moderator Lauren Karpf.

Abby Tolan

Dissatisfied with those choices, Democrats Stephen Shackelford and Jodi Harris — an attorney and former Staples High School PTA president, respectively — opted to run as petitioning candidates.

They secured the signatures of over 400 registered Democrats, and will appear with Tolan on the party line this fall. (Shackelford had interviewed with the DTC for a Board of Ed endorsement in March, but was not selected.)

Karpf, meanwhile, bowed out of the race. She is running again for the RTM (in a new district, after moving).

The DTC opted not to replace Karpf. That leaves Tolan as the sole party- endorsed candidate.

Shackelford and Harris say that party officials are steering clear of their campaign. They tell “06880”:

“We’re proud to be running as Democrats for the Westport Board of Education this November. We are members of the Democratic Party, but we believe our campaign for common-sense solutions and results-driven oversight on the BOE transcends partisan lines.”

However, they note, “Our most significant hurdle is coming from within our own party.

“We secured our places on the Democratic ballot line not through appointment, but by gathering more than 400 signatures each from registered Westport Democrats. This feat represents a strong, grass-roots mandate for new voices on our BOE.”

Yet, they say, “despite this clear demonstration of support from the rank-and-file, the Westport Democratic Town Committee has taken a remarkable step: It has provided us with zero support — financial, logistical, or otherwise.”

Stephen Shackelford and Jodi Harris 

Even worse, Shackelford and Harris say, “the DTC appears to be actively campaigning for voters to ‘bullet vote’ only for (Tolan), despite the risk that doing so could result in Democrats winning only 1 of the 2 available spots.”

There are 4 seats up for contention, but the Democrats are limited to only 2 winning candidates. There are 5 Republicans running for 4 seats. Four were endorsed by the Republican Town Committee: incumbent Dorie Hordon, plus Andy Frankel, Michelle Hopson and Kaitlin Zucaro.

Incumbent Robert Harrington was not endorsed by the RTC. He is running as an independent write-in candidate. If the 4 Republicans win, they would take control of the BOE from the current 4 Democrats.

Shackelford and Harris say that the Democratic Town Committee is not the only political body to ignore their campaign.

“This campaign of exclusion extends to local party-affiliated groups.” the pair say.

“The Democratic Women of Westport, which we understand is meant to operate independently, has publicly promoted our opponent’s events to its members, but is refusing to include our upcoming events in its member communications.

“In short, the Democratic Party in Westport is telling its own registered voters that the grassroots effort from 2 newcomers doesn’t matter. They do not want you to hear from candidates who challenge their status quo.”

“06880” reached out to DTC chair Michelle Mechanic for comment.

She says: “The Westport Democratic Town Committee is committed to getting the most qualified Democratic candidates elected up and down the ballot, and maintaining the majority on our boards and commissions.

“With 2 spots available for Democrats on the Board of Education we urge you to vote for Abby Tolan, the vetted and endorsed candidate (whom the authors interestingly state is their opponent) and one other Democrat of your choosing.”

“06880” also asked the Democratic Women of Westport for comment. As of late last night, there was no response.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Karpf Leaves Board Of Ed Race

Posted on August 19, 2025 | Comments Off on Karpf Leaves Board Of Ed Race

And now there are 3.

Lauren Karpf — one of 2 candidates nominated by the Democratic Town Committee for the Board of Education — is stepping out of that race.

After careful consideration, she believes she can make a greater impact by running to remain on the Representative Town Meeting (RTM). The District 7 member currently serves as deputy moderator.

After consultation with the Democrats currently serving on the Board of Ed — chair Lee Goldstein, secretary Neil Phillips, and members Kevin Christie and Abby Tolan — the Democratic Town Committee has decided not to endorse another candidate.

Tolan is running for re-election. She and Karpf were endorsed by the DTC last month. Two other Democrats — Steve Shackelford and Jodi Harris — are also in the race, as petitioning candidates.

By state statute, one party can hold no more than a bare majority — 4 seats on the 7-member board. Thus, the Democrats will enhance their chances by running 3 candidates, rather than 4. With Goldstein and Phillips in the middle of their 4-year terms, and remaining on the BOE, only 2 of those 3 could be seated.

Meanwhile, the Republican Town Committee has endorsed 4 candidates: incumbent Dorie Hordon, plus Michelle Hopson, Andy Frankel and Kaitlin Zucaro. If all 4 win, the GOP would have a majority on the Board of Education.

 

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GOP, Dems Endorse Slates For November Election

Posted on July 16, 2025 | 12 comments

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Christie was nominated by State Representative Jonathan Steinberg.

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

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

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

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

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

The rest of the Republican slate includes:

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

Planning & Zoning Commission: Michelle Paquette.

Board of Finance: Brian Gaines.

Zoning Board of Appeals: Scott Schuster.

Board of Assessment Appeals: Current board alternate Tom Bloch.

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

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

The Democratic ticket includes:

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

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

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

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

Zoning Board of Appeals: Current alternate Sheri Gordon.

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

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

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

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GOP Surprise: Ex-Dem Don O’Day To Get 1st Selectman Nod

Posted on July 14, 2025 | 42 comments

As Washington becomes more polarized, Westport’s Republicans hope to reverse that trend.

The party’s nominating committee has endorsed Don O’Day for first selectman.

That’s a historic choice for Westport — and might make national news.

The former Board of Education chair was a lifelong Democrat. Six weeks ago, he switched his registration to “unaffiliated.”

The nominating committee also endorsed Republican 2nd Selectwoman Andrea Moore, for a second term.

Theofficial selection of O’Day and Moore — tomorrow (Tuesday) at 8 p.m., in Town Hall Room 307/309 — seems assured. Though nominations may be made from the floor, no other Westporter has indicated a desire to run.

Andrea Moore and Don O’Day.

The Democrats meet tomorrow too (7:30 p.m., Town Hall auditorium). They are expected to endorse Board of Education member Kevin Christie for first selectman, and Planning & Zoning Commission member Amy Wistreich as his running mate.

O’Day’s candidacy is rooted in both “bipartisanship and non-partisanship,” he told “06880.”

It won’t be his first time seeking that kind of consensus. When he became Board of Ed chair in 2008, he bucked tradition by insisting that the vice chair come not from his own Democratic party, but from the GOP.

That vice chair, Jim Marpe, later served 2 terms as first selectman.

The Board of Finance then adopted the 2-party model for chair and vice chair. They and the BOE continue the practice today.

“I’m very, very proud of that,” O’Day says. “We built a culture of cooperation and respect that worked.

“I have a non-partisan point of view. I think the best way to govern here is in a bi-partisan way.” He is currently a member of Westport’s non-partisan Representative Town Meeting (RTM), from District 3.

The role of parties in Westport, he says, is to present candidates who support their vision of how the town should be run.

“The difference between Democrats and Republicans should be de minimis in Westport,” he says. “Nationally, I know it’s different.

“Local government should be about neighbors and solutions – not ideology. What matters most is what’s best for Westport residents, not a particular party.”

This is not O’Day’s first time in the first selectman’s race. He vied for the Democratic endorsement in 2021. It went instead to State Representative Jonathan Steinberg.

O’Day understood. He had supported Marpe’s 2 successful selectman campaigns, raising charges from Democrats of “apostasy.”

“I guess I was like Joe Lieberman,” he notes. “I chose to support the person I thought was most qualified.”

When several Westporters suggested he enter the race this year, O’Day listened. However, independent candidates are not assured a line on the ballot. He realized his clearest path would be endorsement by the GOP.

In conversations with Republican Town Committee members, O’Day emphasized his experience chairing both the Board of Ed and the Coleytown Middle School Building Committee, after its sudden closure due to mold.

The RTC was “confident I have the best interests of Westport at the forefront,” O’Day says. “This is about the town, neighbors, people — not party.

“In every meeting, I made it perfectly clear that the last Republican presidential candidate I voted for was Ronald Reagan, in 1984,” O’Day says.

“I am not close to being a Trump supporter. I’m a Westport supporter.”

Not once, he says, did the RTC “back away.”

“We may not align on all national issues,” O’Day says. “But we agree that Westport deserves pragmatic, non-partisan leadership focused on getting things done.”

He advocates “action, transparency and inclusivity — not delays or endless studies.”

His priorities include modernizing town and school infrastructure, with a focus on fiscal responsibility and sustainability; preserving Westport’s AAA bond rating through disciplined financial management; respecting local zoning while responsibly expanding affordable housing; enhancing parks, beaches and recreational facilities; and improving traffic management with an emphasis on pedestrian and cyclist safety.

“People won’t always agree with every decision,” the candidate notes. “But they’ll always understand how and why it was made. The first selectman’s office will be clear, candid and responsive.”

O’Day moved to Westport in 1994, from Long Island. “I was so proud to be here,” he says. “I’ve never lost that pride of saying I live here.”

O’Day is retired. He spent 40 years in financial services, including 35 years at Citigroup. His roles there included chief financial officer of Citi Home Equity, and chief administrative officer of CitiMortgage.

His wife has taught preschool at St. Paul’s for many years. All 3 children went through the Westport school system.

Donny, now 40, moves back in August. His 2 children will eventually attend Coleytown Middle School — and see their grandfather’s name on a building committee plaque.

“I want the same rewards for them here that my kids had,” O’Day says.

Don O’Day chaired the Coleytown Middle School Building Committee. Just before its reopening in January 2021, he posed in the renovated cafeteria.  (Photo/Dan Woog)

He is excited to share a ticket with Moore. The Staples High School graduate, former Board of Finance vice chair and financial services professional offers “deep knowledge of town operations and financial control,” he says.

She shares his enthusiasm. The 2nd selectwoman got to know O’Day during his work on the CMS renovation, and cites his “even temperament and ability to get stuff done, during a really tough time.

“I was impressed by his grasp of the big picture, and his ability to bring people together for a common cause.

“At the end of the day, first selectman is a management job,” she adds. “You have 17 direct reports, a budget and so much more. Most people see the meetings and events, but the job is really running the town. Don has a great ability to do that. I hope I get the opportunity to keep doing what I’ve done, to support that.”

Washington venom will not be part of Westport’s first selectman’s race — and not just because O’Day is an unaffiliated voter.

Kevin Christie

Of Christie — the favorite for the Democratic nomination — O’Day says, “You can’t find a nicer guy. I like him a lot.

“As the Board of Education representative to the Long Lots School Building Committee, which I serve on, he asks lots of thoughtful questions.”

The difference between them? “I think I have more experience, both in town and management.”

Tomorrow night, both parties determine their selectperson slates. In November, voters get the final say.

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Roundup: Cribari Bridge Meeting, DTC Candidates, Whippets …

Posted on May 12, 2025 | 6 comments

It’s been a while — 6 years, in fact.

But the Connecticut Department of Transportation is rousing itself, for another stab at the William F. Cribari Bridge.

Rehabilitation or replacement has been discussed — fitfully — for well over those 6 years. May 8, 2019 marked the last meeting of the “Project Advisory Committee,” established “to assist CTDOT in its decision-making process.”

“We recognize it has been some time, and since then, there have been significant developments both within the community and concerning the project itself. CTDOT is now scheduling a new PAC meeting to provide updates and discuss the project’s progress,” wrote project manager James Barrow II, in an email to a select group.

It includes the 1st Selectwoman; chair of the Planning & Zoning Commission; fire, police and public works officials, some Representative Town Meeting members, and nearby residents.

The meeting — which appears to be open only to those invitees — is this Thursday (May 15, 4 to 6 p.m., Town Hall auditorium).

CTDOT officials have said they will hold a public meeting in the future.

More information on the project — including a description, map, and details of previous meetings — can be found here. (Hat tip: Werner Liepolt)

William F. Cribari Bridge (Photo/Ferdinand Jahnel)

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The Democratic Town Committee’s Nominating Committee has recommended 10 candidates to run in November’s election.

If approved July 15 by the full DTC — along with Board of Selectperson candidates Kevin Christie and Amy Wistreich — they’ll be on the municipal election ballot.

The Nominating Committee has chosen:

Board of Education: Lauren Karpf, RTM Deputy Moderator and Education Committee chair; Abby Tolan, current BOE member and former PTA Special Education co-chair.

Board of Finance: Allyson Stollenwerck, current BOF member and international nonprofit executive; Elaine Whitney, former BOE chair and healthcare management executive.

Planning & Zoning Commission; Michael Cammeyer, current P&Z secretary and mergers and acquisitions consulting executive; Neil Cohn, current P&Z vice chair and sustainable finance and digital technologies executive.

Board of Assessment Appeals: Ifeseyi Gayle, current BAA member and DTC volunteer; Lynette Pineda, current BAA member and commercial real estate executive.

Zoning Board of Appeals: Sheri Gordon, Former BOF chair and current ZBA alternate. Joe Scordato, current ZBA member and legal and compliance executive.

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On Saturday, Hannah Schneewind posted this photo on Facebook:

She wrote: “Does anyone know if there is a trend or dare involving whipped cream cans? Every day, I see them when I go for a walk. I have seen them in a variety of locations. Any ideas?”

There were plenty.

The nitrous oxide in the canisters is being inhaled. Called “whippets,” it produces a short high. But it can also cause oxygen deprivation, leading to fainting, brain damage, even death.

A Staples High School graduate died several years ago, from inhalation.

Diane Lowman — who alerted “06880” to the post — notes that finding cans on the roadside means teenagers and young adults are probably doing whippets while they or their friends are driving.

More information on whippets and nitrous oxide is available here.

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FoundHer is a Westport-based, female-focused recruiting company. They specialize in women re-entering the workforce after a brief career break, and commuters looking for a local or flexible position.

Tomorrow (Tuesday, May 13, 6:30 to 8:30 a.m.), you can find FoundHer at Steam Coffee Bar, on Railroad Place by the train station.

You’ll also find, to your delight, that your first cup of coffee or tea is on them.

“Arrive for your train a little early and chat about the current job market,” FoundHer says.==================================================

he RTM Environment and Health & Human Services Committees meet jointly tomorrow (Tuesday, May 13, 7 p.m., Town Hall Room 201).

There is one agenda item: “discussion about artificial turf ordinance.”

There are 4 artificial turf fields in Westport: Paul Lane (above) and Jinny Parker Fields at Staples, Wakeman adjacent to Bedford Middle School, and PJ Romano behind Saugatuck Elementary School.

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Plenty of Westporters celebrated Mothers Day yesterday with a trip to Compo Beach.

The weather was mid-May nice. Time to take off all those layers!

(Photo/William Weiss)

When the crowds were gone, what remained was a scene we’ll see repeated often, over the next few months:

(Photo/Copyright DinkinESH Fotografix)

Of course, not everyone left.

These scenes too will be familiar — as they have been for years — in the months ahead:

(Photo/Sunil Hirani)

(Photo/Copyright DinkinESH Fotografix)

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Staples High School junior Jade Reejhsinghani has had a life-threatening peanut allergy since she was 2.

In elementary school she felt isolated at the nut-free table. In 7th grade she was diagnosed with allergies to eggs, dairy and soy.

Eating at a restaurant with friends puts her in danger of anaphylaxis. People have told her, “just eat at home.”

Classmate Claire Harris is also allergic to peanuts. In 2020 she started oral immunotherapy. That’s changed her life for the better.

The two girls run a Staples club called Food Allergy Education. May is Food Allergy Awareness Month. They help students — especially younger ones — feel empowered living with their food allergies.

On June 1 (9 a.m. to noon Staples High School track), they’re joining with the non-profit FARE (Food Allergy Research & Education) to sponsor a walk. The goal is to raise both awareness and funds.

Sign up for the walk here. Donate to the fundraiser here.

Claire Harris and Jade Reejhsinghani.

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Frank Sinatra is coming to the Westport Country Playhouse.

Also Carrie Bradshaw.

Okay, one is dead. The other was never alive.

But both are “starring” on the historic stage.

On June 27 (8 p.m.), Cary Hoffman turns his “My Sinatra” PBS special into a one-man musical play.

It’s a hilarious, poignant show about his love for Ol’ Blue Eyes, and the perils of wanting to be someone else. Learn more and order tickets here.

On July 9 (8 p.m.), Candace Bushnell — creator of “Sex and the City” — takes the Playhouse audience on a tour of New York, from Studio 54 to the Lipstick Jungle. “Meet the real Carrie Bradshow!” the WCP says.

Learn more about “Sex, Success, and Sex and the City,” and order tickets, here.

One more attraction: on July 20 (7 p.m.), Grammy Award-winning bluegreass/ Americana band Steep Canyon Rangers bring their mountain music to the Playhouse. Here’s more info on the show, and tickets.

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My Lucky Penny — a children’s clothing story at 8 Church Street South, just behind Little Barn — has its grand opening May 31 (noon to 5 p.m.).

Penny is owner Rhoda Schwartz’s daughter. Born with a brain deformity, she had 4 surgeries. Today she is a gifted artist, who also sews all types of clothing.

Rhoda Schwartz’s daughter, in My Lucky Penny.

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Congratulations to Staples grads Emma Ashe (Class of 2022) and Kate Smith (’23).

Both play on the Boston College women’s club lacrosse team — and yesterday, they won the Women’s College Lacrosse Association Division I national championship, in Wichita, Kansas. Here is the full report.

Emma is the team’s vice president. Kate will be captain next year, as the team goes for a two-fer.

Emma Ashe and Kate Smith: national champs!

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Speaking of former Staples athletes: George Robbins’ Raleigh Bombers team just won the Over-50 Triangle Adult Soccer League championship.

George — a 1990 SHS grad, and former soccer captain — plays central midfield.

And he could probably play pretty well with today’s much-younger-than-50 crowd too.

George Robbins

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Another season of live music on Church Lane begins May 22.

Featured artists are Staples senior Vivian Shamie and her sophomore sister Willa. They sing contemporary pop, and covers. (Hat tip: Andrew Colabella)

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What would we do without the month of May?!

Today’s “Westport … Naturally” super-spring foliage shot comes from Ellen Wentworth, on Highland Road:

(Photo/Ellen Wentworth)

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And finally … Yogi Berra was born 100 years ago today. The Hall of Fame catcher and homespun philosopher may not have said everything he said he said, but who cares? Happy birthday, Yogi!

(Yogi once said, “The future ain’t what it used to be.” We say, “The future ain’t the future if you don’t support ‘06880.’” Yogi joins us in saying, “Please click here to help!”)

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Roundup: Osprey Returns, Mattress Recycling, Staples High Honors …

Posted on March 19, 2025 | 4 comments

Right on schedule — actually, a few days early — a Fresh Market osprey is back.

The nest next to Terrain is occupied by at least one of the magnificent raptors. The second member of the pair usually arrives after the first.

As we do every year, Westport waits anxiously for the little ones. (Hat tip: Dana Kuyper

Fresh Market osprey. (Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

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Earlier this month, the Democratic Town Committee’s nominating committee interviewed 4 “excellent” candidates for this November’s first selectperson election. It’s an open seat, now that incumbent Jen Tooker is running for governor.

The nominating committee settled on 2 “very qualified” candidates to present to the full DTC. Board of Education member Kevin Christie was one. The other asked not to have their name put forward.

However, despite a previous announcement, the full DTC will not vote on a candidate next month. Instead, in July they’ll introduce Christie’s name. At that point, nominations can be made from the floor.

That information was offered to DTC members — and other attendees — at last night’s monthly Zoom meeting, by chair Michelle Mechanic.

Next month, the Democrats also begin interviewing candidates for all open board and commission seats.

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Americans discard 20 million mattresses and box springs annually. That’s 55,000 that land in incinerators and landfills each day.

 

But up to 90% of old mattresses can be recycled into carpet pads, exercise equipment cushions, bike seats, insulation, air filters and steel materials.

 

Sustainable Westport can help. They’ll host a free mattress/ box spring recycling event on Saturday, April 26 (8:30 to 11:30 a.m., Earthplace).

 

Dry and unsoiled mattresses and box springs are welcome. Please do not bring those that are damaged, wet, or contaminated (bed bugs, etc.).

 

If you can’t bring your mattress or box spring, Westport Boy Scout Troop 36 will provide a pickup service for a small donation. Click here to sign up.

 

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Twenty Staples High School seniors will graduate in June with high honors.

They represent the top 4% of the graduating class. Congratulations to Aidan Stubbs, William Borowsky, Andrew Rebello. Annam Anjolaoluwa Adachukwu Olasewere, Sam Rossoni, Jackson Tracey, Cole Siegner, Perrin Root, Mack Haymond, William Boberski, Carolina Proctor, Alexis Krenzer, Mia Bomback, Matthew Guadarrama, Abe Lobsenz, Alessandra Gavriloiu, Megan Sargent, Kendra Cheng, Shreyas Gorre and Suhani Aggarwal.

Principal Stafford Thomas notes, “these students were involved in a number of extracurricular activities and various aspects of school life which took a great deal of time, focus and concentration outside of the classroom. We were lucky to have had them for 4 years, and will no doubt hear about their next great achievements in the years to come.”

Staples High School Class of 2025 high honors students, flanked by assistant principal Pat Micinilio (far left) and principal Stafford Thomas (far right).

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VersoFest is near. Time to take the Westport Library decibel level up another few notches.

Actually, more than that. On Saturday, April 5, the goal is to become the loudest library ever.

Starting at 10 a.m., visionary artist 5iveFingaz hosts a 90-minute celebration. It includes a rotating cast of DJs, “an electrifying fusion of music, art, and community, and the Library version of a primal scream.” (Plus doughnuts and beverages.)

“Our goal is to make this a true celebration and community experience, showcasing the transformative power of community and creativity,” says Westport Library executive director Bill Harmer.

“We want everyone to feel welcome, from our youngest patrons to our longtime music supporters. The emphasis here is on fun, and setting the right tone to what promises to be an incredible weekend of events at VersoFest 2025.”

This kickoff coincides with 5iveFingaz’s Interactive Community Participation Mural. (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.) Residents  are invited to create a one-of-a-kind work of art from 10 am to 2 pm.

It will be followed by an all-star panel discussion on the 50th anniversary of Bruce Springsteen’s “Born to Run” (1 p.m.), and 2 Verso Visionary conversations: 4 p.m. between The Roots founder and lead emcee Black Thought and June Archer, followed by hardcore punk legend Henry Rollins in conversation with Nabil Ayers at 7.

The festival closes Sunday, April 6, with a VersoFest live podcast discussion between longtime David Letterman music director Paul Shaffer and SNL Beehive Queen Christine Ohlman.

Click here for more VersoFest details, including a full schedule.

5iveFingaz

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It takes a week to transform the Westport Country Playhouse stage, from one show to the next.

But you can watch it happen in just 3 minutes, on video.

Immediately after “Native Gardens” closed, a crew began building the “Theatre People” set.

The comedy opens March 25. Will they get it done in time?

Watch below!

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Club203 celebrated St. Patrick’s Day in style last night.

The Westport Library was filled with smoke machines — and decked out in green — at a special karaoke night.

Westport’s social group for adults with disabilities enjoyed soda breads and honey buns donated by Cob’s Bread, green bagels from Village Bagels, and cookies Baked by Belle.

As always, there was plenty of volunteer support, and MoCA CT ran an art table.

Club203 rocks the Westport Library.

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Also yesterday: a presentation to the Westport Rotary Club by Catalyst CT CEO and president Marc Donald.

The nonprofit began by combating teen substance abuse. It has since branched out into reducing gun violence, suicide prevention, and practicing restorative justice.

The organization trains police and security guards in Bridgeport and Fairfield public schools to help defuse potentially violent situations. They also partner with Park City Presents, helping familiarize Bridgeport teenagers with music production technology.

Marc Donald, at yesterday’s Westport Rotary Club. (Hat tip and photo/Dave Matlow)

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Fleet Feet’s United Track Club program, for boys and girls in grades 2-8, begins April 27. All athletic levels are welcome.

The program runs Sundays (11 a.m. to noon, Staples High School track) through June 8.

It includes sprints, hurdles, long jump and endurance running. The focus is on coordination and confidence.

The cost is $160. Click here for details.

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The Westport/Weston Interfaith Clergy Association invites all teenage girls and boys to a packing party this Sunday (March 23, 5:30 to 7 p.m., United Methodist Church) for Dignity Grows.

The goal is to pack 200 bags of menstrual hygiene products, for distribution to local food pantries, shelters and organizations. 

This will be a fun time, a great cause — and there’s pizza and snacks. RSVP your their faith community youth leader, or Heather Sinclair: hsinclair@westportumc.org.

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Yesterday’s “Roundup” item about TAP Strength’s first “lifespand and health span” wellness event — a conversation between TAP founder Dr. EJ Zebro and Jennifer Boyd — did not include the date and time. It’s March 26, 6 p.m.

A team from Rhone will offer performance-driven gear. Register by email: info@tapstrength.com.

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Just 3 days remain before Westport Pride’s annual drag show.

This year’s special guest is Patty Bourée. The 18+ event — with cocktails, songs and comedy — is Saturday (March 22, 7 p.m.) at The Knowlton, Bridgeport’s premier event space.

“Come dressed to spring eternal,” organizers say. And why not? It’s the second day of spring!

Click here for tickets, and more information.

 

 

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Most Sherwood Mill Pond sunsets are dramatic.

Yesterday’s was particularly vivid.

Matt Murray captured the scene, for our “Westport … Naturally” feature:

(Photo/Matt Murray)

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And finallly … Jesse Colin Young, co-founder of the Youngbloods and the lead singer on “Get Together,” a still-beloved paean to love and brotherhood, died Sunday in South Carolina. He was 83. Click here for a full obituary.

(Come on people, smile on your brother, everybody get together and support “06880” right now. Please click here. It’s groovy — and we thank you!)

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1st Selectman’s Race: Kevin Christie Seeks Democrats’ “Informal Endorsement”

Posted on March 10, 2025 | 10 comments

With Republican incumbent Jen Tooker declining to run for a second term, the first selectperson’s race is wide open this fall.

The Democratic Town Committee interviewed 4 “strong” candidates for the position. The Nominating Committee chose 2 to recommend to the full Democratic Town Committee.

But they released only one name today.

Kevin Christie — a current Board of Education member — will participate in the DTC’s meeting this month, when members make an “informal vote of endorsement.”

The other candidate has decided not to participate. However, he or she “is free to seek the nomination” in July, DTC chair Michelle Mechanic said in a press release this afternoon.

Kevin Christie

“I am overjoyed that so many great candidates came forward,” Mechanic said.

“We narrowed it down to 2 incredibly qualified candidates, who boast both municipal and private sector experience. The ultimate decision is in the hands of the full committee. As a valued nominating committee member stated, ’70 voices is far better than 9.’

“Furthermore, we are returning to the process of forming an early consensus, which has proved successful both here in Westport and across the state. We all look forward to hearing from Kevin Christie at our next meeting.”

Christie was elected to the Board of Ed in 2021. He chairs its Policy Committee.

A graduate of Union College, with an MBA from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management, he spent more than 15 years in investment banking, and corporate development and strategy. He is now a stay-at-home dad, raising twins.

Other volunteer efforts include the Coleytown Elementary School PTA, and coaching in the Westport Soccer Association.

The Republicans have not yet met to discuss their candidate. Tooker announced last week that she is running for governor.

 

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