Tag Archives: Long Lots Elementary School

Long Lots Update: What’s Happening, And When

Posted on February 5, 2026 | 3 comments

For over 2 years, the renovation of Long Lots Elementary School was one of Westport’s most controversial issues.

Since June — when the Long Lots School Building Committee received unanimous approval from every town board and commission to move ahead with the design development, construction documents and construction of the new Long Lots and Stepping Stones Preschool project — we’ve heard very little.

Long Lots Elementary School — as it looks now …

But that does not mean nothing’s happening.

Yesterday, the LLSBC issued an update.

They said they have met with neighbors to review the first phase of the project. Once construction actually begins, they promise “more frequent updates.”

The project has been broken into 5 phases for state approvals. This will allow the geothermal drilling portion of the project to begin, while construction documents for the new building are in process.

“This will allow the construction manager the space to better stage the project,” the committee says.

… and one look at the future …

They note that the 5 phases of state approvals will not always align with the construction schedule. Those phases are:

Geothermal wells (underway): Approved by the state Office of School Construction to go out for bids last August. A contractor was selected.

The area has been fenced; construction trailers and temporary electric service has been installed; the lower soccer fields have been stripped in anticipation of drilling, and topsoil has been screened.

Drilling and installation of the geothermal wells is currently taking place on the lower soccer fields. Each of the 100 wells is 500 feet deep. Eighty have already been drilled. Completion is expected next month.

Pre-purchase of electrical switchgear and generator (underway): Approved by the state Office of School Construction to go out for bids last September. A contractor was selected.

The generator and electrical switchgear are being purchased early, to avoid nationwide supply chain delays of up to 17 months. This equipment will be installed during the construction of the new school.

… plus another.

Construction of the new Long Lots Elementary and Stepping Stones Preschool (next): Construction documents have been reviewed by the state Office of School Construction, and were released for bid in December.

Received bids will be evaluated in March. It is anticipated that construction will begin in April, with excavation for footings and foundations.

Furniture, fixtures and equipment: This will be submitted to the state for approval in late 2026. All furnishings will be new, and purpose-designed for the school. Delivery will align with the end of the new school construction. It is anticipated that no student-related equipment will be moved from the current building.

Demolition of the old school; construction of parking lots, athletic fields and Playgrounds (Late 2027; into 2028): Demolition of the current school will begin after the new one is occupied. Playgrounds, parking lots and athletic fields will follow the demolition of the old school.

The LLSBC notes that the upcoming bid process will help establish a more defined construction timeline.

Long Lots site plans.

The committee expects to meet with the Board of Education, and the faculties of Stepping Stones and Long Lots, to review the interior finishes in mid-February.

The LLSBC plans to have another neighborhood update prior to the start of the new building construction.

They will provide the Architectural Review Board with an update, followed by a town-wide project presentation in late February.

(For the Long Lots School Building Committee’s page on the Westport town website, click here.)

(“06880” keeps a close eye on Long Lots — and all our schools. If you appreciate our coverage of education — and/or anything else on your hyper-local blog — please click here to support us. Thank you!)

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Posted in Education, Local politics

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Westport Schools Announce Snow Day — 2026 Style

Posted on January 25, 2026 | 13 comments

Back in the day, my generation learned about snow days by listening to the radio.

Westport’s WMMM and Bridgeport’s WICC would go through the list.

It was alphabetical — and agonizing.

Ansonia Public Schools. Bridgeport public schools. Darien public schools. Even Our Lady of Fatima, wherever that was.

Who cared? What about Westport?!

Sometimes they’d be closed. Sometimes they wouldn’t. It was a crapshoot.

Then came a more high-tech method: emails and voicemails.

Still, it was a crapshoot. Longtime superintendent of schools Elliot Landon made it a point of pride to keep Westport schools open.

“Today is Monday, January 26. The Westport Public Schools will be open!” he cackled.

It didn’t matter that schools from here to Buffalo were closed. Suck it up!

Former superintendent of schools Elliot Landon. He is probably smiling because he just announced that schools would be open.

But this is 2026. Social media is everywhere. High school students make full-length documentaries; 8-year-olds create Instagram reels.

So, to announce tomorrow’s snow day — which there was little doubt about, from Friday’s predictions on — Westport Public Schools officials got creative.

Assistant superintendent John Bayers headed to Long Lots Elementary School. He consulted with Leo the Lion — the mascot. They punted.

The decision was left to Long Lots’ staff: teachers, cafeteria workers, custodians, and the school resource officer.

Click here to see their announcement. 

So kids: Sleep in!

You don’t have to wake up at 6 a.m., to listen to the radio.

Or the superintendent’s voice.

Screenshot, from the Westport Public Schools video.

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Posted in Education, Looking back, Media, Weather

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[OPINION] Special Ed Parent Says: “Thank You, Westport!”

Posted on November 2, 2025 | 11 comments

Raising a child today is challenging. It is especially so when that youngster has special needs.

Ali Wachtel moved to Westport nearly 8 years ago. Today, she shares an inspiring story about her son Nate, and the Westport Public Schools. She writes:

When I moved here in December of 2017, I did not know how lucky I was. My son Nate was 18 months old.

I knew in my bones that he was autistic. What I did not know was that I had just moved to a town that could, and would, support him.

On Nate’s 3rd birthday, he had his very first day at Stepping Stones Preschool.

Nate’s first year at Stepping Stones.

Nate was not just mildly affected. He was non-verbal.

I was not sure he would ever be able to communicate with us in the way every parent dreams. As I was new to the world of special education, the team at Stepping Stones walked me through every step of the IEP (Individualized Education Plan) process.

Together we crafted a strategy for Nate to develop the necessary skills to access the academic curriculum.

Nate and his mother, Ali Wachtel, as she read to his Stepping Stones class …

Three years later, Nate graduated and moved on to Long Lots Elementary. To my delight, he matriculated into the general ed classroom. A dream of mine had come to fruition.

Nate still required a great deal of support. He is in the IR (Intensive Resource) program, which means he has 1-to-1 paraprofessional support. He is pulled out for reading, writing and math support to this day, in addition to participating in social skill building groups.

There is not a single area in which Nate does not require support. But it is all given to him.

I am writing this not solely as a co-chair of the Westport Special Education PTA, nor as an advocate for children who receive SpEd services, but as a proud parent.

Like so many I navigated this process, armed with little if any information or insight, and terrified that this outcome would never be an option for my child.

Yet 5 years later, on October 17, my incredible young boy was invited to return to Stepping Stones preschool to read aloud in his former teacher’s class.

… and Nate in October, reading to another Stepping Stones class. (Photos/Andy Fleischman)

This has, in no small way, been made possible by Westport’s dedicated educators.

My son who walked into Stepping Stones 7 years ago without the ability to speak, returned a confident 4th grade reader who shared his experiences in the Westport school system with a group of 5-year-old pre-school students.

To say this moment was the honor of my life is an understatement. It is all thanks to our good fortune in having moved to the town of Westport.

So thank you Westport, for granting me my annual birthday wish and prayer that one day my child would be able to express himself.

(Our “06880” Opinion pages are open to all. Please send submissions to 06880blog@gmail.com)

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Posted in Children, Education

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Roundup: Long Lots Groundbreaking, Selectman’s Debate, Halloween Parade …

Posted on October 15, 2025 | 20 comments

It’s official!

A crowd of around 100 gathered at Long Lots Elementary School yesterday, for the ceremonial “groundbreaking” for the new facility.

Dignitaries made speeches. They looked back on the long process leading up to the afternoon — and looked ahead at the modern building that will rise next to the current, 70-year-old one.

Jay Keenan, chair of the Long Lots School Building Committee, speaks. Looking on (from left): 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, the Long Lots Lion, LLSBC member Don O’Day, Board of Education chair Lee Goldstein, superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice. 

Then the real action began.

Students — some of whom will enjoy the new school when it is finished, others who will have already moved on to middle school — picked up shovels.

They dug into a pile of dirt.

(Photos/Andrew Colabella)

And then — led by the Long Lots Lion — everyone cheered.

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Toquet Hall — the town’s teen center — was filled last night, for the Westport Youth Commission’s first-ever 1st selectman’s debate.

Nearly 100 students, and a couple of dozen adults, heard the 3 candidates for the top job talk about their experience, vision, priorities and goals.

Some of the questions from Youth Commission members Jake Shufro and Jack Thompson were teen-specific. Many touched on broader topics, from Saugatuck development to the environment.

Asked to name a difficult decision they’d grappled with, Don O’Day cited the controversy over the Community Gardens, as a member of the Long Lots School Building Committee. Kevin Christie mentioned his decision to recuse himself during the soccer coaches’ non-renewal appeal. David Rosenwaks discussed his choice to leave the Democratic Party, and run as an independent.

1st selectman candidates at Toquet Hall (from left): Don O’Day, David Rosenwaks, Kevin Christie. (Photo/Lee Shufro)

In terms of the legacy they hoped to leave, Rosenwaks said, “respect for the town’s heritage, providing for the future, and a careful capital plan.” Christie said, “a place where everyone feels heard, and more proactive and decisive planning.” O’Day said, “a well-managed town where residents know what’s going on and feel better, and a well-managed tax base.”

Part of the Toquet Hall crowd. (Photo/Dan Woog)

The event was co-sponsored by the Westport League of Women Voters.

Youth Commission moderators Jack Thompson and Jake Shufro. (Photo/Lee Shufro)

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Trick or treat!

One of Westport’s great traditions — the Westport Downtown Association and Westport PAL Halloween parade — kicks off October 29 (3:30 p.m.).

It begins on Main Street, and continues right onto Avery Place, then left on Myrtle Avenue to Veterans Green. Children (recommended for kids up to age 8 can trick or treat along Main Street, and in Town Hall.

The Parks & Recreation Department provides refreshments, a small gift kids, and entertainment from DJ Kenny Michaels.

Seen at a previous parade.

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“06880”‘s Instagram Live series with selectman candidates continues at noon today (Wednesday). Our Instagram is @06880danwoog.

Democratic Kevin Christie and his running mate Amy Wistreich are the guests. Republican-endorsed Don O’Day and Andrea Moore, and Independent David Rosenwaks were interviewed previously.

Kevin Christie and Amy Wistreich.

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Josh Suggs graduated from Staples High School just 4 years ago.

But he’s already been featured in the Wall Street Journal.

A story yesterday, headlined “Inside Advertising’s Most Grueling New Genre: ‘You Have to Have Zero Social Anxiety’” — featured Suggs’ year-old business: 203 Media.

They specialize in “street interview ads, clips of real people reacting to a product or service that companies pay to insert into social media feeds.”

The story says:

Suggs didn’t invent the concept, although he’s one of very few marketing executives to go all-in on the format. Man-on-the-street interviews have existed since the invention of radio and TV news, and political campaigns and consumer marketers have occasionally used the format in their advertising. …

Advertisers soon followed the (YouTube and TikTok) trend, paying creators to place products in their shoots. Social media agencies and user-generated content studios eventually began offering street interview ads as a service.

Suggs is betting that demand for real, unscripted videos will increase as ads made with generative AI proliferate, and consumers grow weary of influencers’ typical paid-for posts. The widening pool of media channels and platforms also means that advertisers have to battle harder for consumers’ attention than ever before, he said.

“Your ads cannot look like ads anymore,” Suggs said. “Nobody wants scripted, inauthentic, staged commercials—people trust real opinions, real emotions.”

Click here for the full story.

Josh Suggs

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Sierra Club Connecticut and State Representative Jonathan Steinberg invite residents to a community walk at Earthplace.

The October 21 event (10:30 to 11:30 a.m.) blends nature, conversation and action. The mile walk will include exploration of the local ecology, a discussion of important environmental issues and legislation — and picking up trash.

Click here to register, and for more information.

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Speaking of the environment … what could be more appropriate for today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo than this beauty, standing tall amid wind and falling temperatures, on Soundview Drive?

(Photo/Matt Murray)

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And finally … in honor of the upcoming Halloween event (story above):

(We love a parade. In fact, the only thing we love more is readers who support their hyper-local blog. It’s easy: Just click here, to make a tax-deductible contribution. We thank you!)

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Posted in Children, Downtown, Environment, Local politics, Media, Staples HS

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Roundup: Long Lots, CVS, Fundraisers …

Posted on October 13, 2025 | 9 comments

It’s (almost) official!

A groundbreaking ceremony for the new Long Lots Elementary School is set for tomorrow (4:30 p.m.). It’s at “Terrace 4.”

The public is invited.

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There’s a lot to gripe about with CVS.

Your call is very important to them, but the phone tree is very annoying.

You need to ask an employee to unlock the heavily guarded Advil.

The good news is: They’ve finally done something about their toilet paper-thin bags.

Not only are they (once again) sturdy — but now they’ve got handles.

Thank you, CVS!

Now, about those receipts, which stretch from here to Woonsocket …

PRO TIPS: You can ask to print out your (normal-length) receipt at home — or not get one at all. And of course, you can bring your own bags.

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Sustainable Westport takes their mission seriously.

And means much more than just composting, recycling and electric vehicles.

Next month, the non-profit teams up with the Senior Center and Westport woman’s Club to collect lightly used durable medical equipment, to support Wheel It Forward. Click here for a full list of items (there are many!).

Crutches, canes, wheelchairs and similar items can be dropped off at the Woman’s Club (44 Imperial Avenue), on Saturday, November 15 (8 to 10 a.m. and 2 to 4 p.m.) and Sunday, November 16 (11 a.m. to 1 p.m.).

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In 2022 Westport Writers’ Workshop lost longtime instructor Jessica Speart to breast cancer.

To honor her life, and so many others affected by the disease, they’re hosting a fundraiser this Thursday (October 16, 6:30 p.m.).

This is not your usual gala. It’s not even a party.

For $50, participants can join instructor and breast cancer survivor Christine Pakkala in writing to prompts.

It’s creative — and important. Click here to register, and for more information.

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In a Heartbeat — the life-saving organization that offers free screenings for children, teens and young adults, to prevent death from sudden cardiac arrest — celebrates 10 years of saving lives this Thursday (October 16).

Fittingly, that’s World Restart a Heart Day.

From 6 to 9 p.m. (Aitoro Appliances, 401 Westport Avenue, Norwalk), guests will enjoy great food from restaurants like Kawa Ni and Gruel Britannia, raffles and a live auction.

Plus powerful stories from survivors.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Nearly 80,000 people are living with Alzheimer’s in Connecticut.

Many more family members and friends are affected by the disease, as caregivers.

On October 26 (10 a.m.), the annual Fairfield County Walk to End Alzheimer’s steps off at a new location: Sherwood Island State Park. Dave Briggs is the MC.

To donate or walk — and for more details — click here. Questions? Email cspodob@alz.org.

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Angela Buchdahl is one of the most influential rabbis in America — and a longtime colleague and mentor of Temple Israel’s Rabbi Michael Friedman and Cantor Julia Cadrain.

On October 28 (7 p.m.) she’ll be at Temple Israel, discussing her new book. “Heart of a Stranger” is a stirring account of her journey from feeling like an outsider to becoming an internationally admired religious leader. Click here to register, and for more information.

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On a gray day, here’s a great way to start off the “Westport … Naturally” week.

Photographer Celia Campbell-Mohn calls it “Gratitude for Fall Bounty.”

(Photo/Celia Campbell-Mohn)

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And finally … in honor of CVS’s new bags (story above) — hey, we couldn’t resist.

(Hey, we wanted to put a smile on your face today. Now you can put one on ours. Just click here, to make a tax-deductible contribution to your favorite hyper-local blog. Thank you!)

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Posted in Education, Environment, Local business, religion

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Long Lots Vegetation Clearing: Building Committee Responds

Posted on October 8, 2025 | 28 comments

This morning, “06880” reported on the first day of construction for the new Long Lots Elementary School. Homeowners just south of the property reported that carefully drawn plans had been disregarded, resulting in clearance of an estimated 6,000 square feet of mature vegetation and growth beyond the construction road.

This afternoon, the Long Lots School Building Committee responded. They told “06880”:

This statement is intended to address the story regarding the over-clearing of vegetation on the Long Lots campus in close proximity to a resident’s home.  We would like to explain what happened, and what steps are being taken to address the situation.

Despite the extensive planning and multiple site visits conducted to review the area on the east side of the Long Lots campus which was designated for limited clearing, some additional vegetation beyond the intended scope was mistakenly removed by the contractor as the road for construction vehicles was installed.

It was a mistake and should not have happened. The issue has been reviewed extensively with all involved to ensure mistakes like this are not repeated.

Pre- and post-construction views.

To remedy the situation, a plan has been developed to plant a large evergreen buffer (in addition to similar plantings which will be planted on the site in the future) in the affected area within the next 1 to 2 weeks.

The homeowner who is most affected by this over-clearing will be involved in the placement of the trees in advance of the plantings. The Building Committee’s project manager has already been in contact with the homeowner.  A separate letter to Planning and Zoning which details this remediation is also in the process of being delivered.

While we sincerely regret this error at the start of the new school construction process, we also see the proposed remediation as an opportunity to improve the plans for the final result. Upon project completion, the landscape buffer between the school property and the residence closest to the east side of the campus will be enhanced over the previous mix of unkept trees and the initial proposed single layer of evergreens.

Again, we regret the mistake and we will work to ensure it is not repeated.

Sincerely,
The Long Lots Building Committee

28 Comments

Posted in Education, Environment, Local politics

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Roundup: Post Road East, Long Lots El, Slice Of Saugatuck …

Posted on September 12, 2025 | 10 comments

It’s been going on so long, we barely notice it at all.

Except it’s so annoying — and dangerous — that we drive through it like we’re 16-year-olds, behind the steering wheel for the first time in our lives.

It’s the Post Road East project. Specifically, the section in front of Westport Hardware and Pottery Barn, extending up to Sakura.

It began, I think, during the Roosevelt years (Teddy). And it will last until the end of the next Trump administration (Barron).

The other day, Jerri Graham — whose photos usually showcase the most beautiful scenes and people in Westport — took this shot:

(Photo/Jerri Graham Photography)

She added this comment, on social media: “After wondering why this was taking forever to complete, I asked the man at the UPS Store.

“He said that one company was paid for the work, when two should have been paid. Now there’s a dispute, and construction has been halted.

“I guess it’s becoming an art installation. Regardless, it’s a hazard for drivers and pedestrians.”

It’s also a headache — and a financial hit — for businesses along that torn-up, semi-tarred stretch.

In the meantime: Drive safely. Drive slowly.

And if you happen to see anyone working there again, be extra careful. We can’t afford to lose a single laborer.

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Plans are moving forward for the new Long Lots Elementary School and Stepping Stones Preschool.

1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker reports that the end of this month, or early October, will see “groundbreaking for the geothermal wells and site mobilization.” It’s the first major step in the construction process.

For updates, documents and more details, click here.

Long Lots Elementary School

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Jonathan Uman was killed on September 11, 2001.

He was 33 years old. Today, he would be a grandfather.

Jonathan’s wife, Julie Whamond, is a Westport resident, and Representative Town Meeting member. She also volunteers as a docent, at the 9/11 Memorial & Museum in New York.

Yesterday she and fellow RTM member Andrew Colabella visited the museum. They paused in front of a mural of blue tiles. Each represents one of the 2,977 people killed that tragic day, 24 years ago.

Andrew Colabella and Julie Whamond, at the 9/11 Museum.

Behind that wall is where the chief medical examiner office’s. Nearly a quarter century later, they store and test remains every day. Over 1,000 have yet to be discovered.

Part of Jonathan’s remains are kept on site. It is the final resting place for many victims.

As a docent, Andrew says, Julie tells the story of 9/11, and her personal connection to it. It, and she, serve as “a primary source of evidence of the impacts of terrorism that day,” he says.

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Tomorrow’s Slice of Saugatuck is on!

Delayed one week by rain, the annual Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce event will fill Riverside Avenue, Railroad Place and Bridge Square with 7 bands, tons of kids’ activities, retail offerings — and more 2 dozen restaurants and food purveyors, handing out tasty samples.

The forecast is for partly cloudy skies, and a high of 78 degrees — perfect Slice weather! Click here for a map, ticket information and other details.  

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The Norwalk Art Space’s Arts Bash will have a very distinct Westport flavor.

The October 9 event (6 p.m., 455 West Avenue, Norwalk) — featuring exhibits, music, cocktails and gourmet bites, raising funds to provide free art education and exhibition opportunities to under-represented students and artists — will honor Melissa Newman, for her many contributions to arts and arts education.

The longtime Westport resident is a noted artist, writer, teacher, sculptor, painter — and jazz singer.

A Norwalk Art Space board member, Newman is also a dedicated mentor. “Her multifaceted artistic career and deep-rooted passion for the next generation of creatives make her an ideal honoree for this year’s celebration,” the Art Space says.

​Another Westport connection: The Arts Bash co-chair is local resident Dale Najarian.

​Click here for tickets, and more information.

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During the Gilded Age, America’s favorite sage, sociologist, philosopher and
news analyst was Mr. Dooley — a bartender invented by Chicago newspaper editor Finley Peter Dunne.

Though hardly remembered today, Dunne’s humorous newpaper columns were read all over the world. Mr. Dooley’s opinions were read at White House cabinet meetings; robber barons and politicians lived in fear of the bartender’s sarcasm.

Starting tonight, Mr. Dooley comes to life at the Westport Community Theatre in “Dooley at the Bar,” a one-man show created and performed by Alexander Kulcsar.

The play — which opens WCT’s 68th season — runs for 10 performances, on Fridays and Saturdays (7:30 p.m.) and Sundays (2 p.m.), through September 28.

For tickets, call 203-226-1983, or click here. Questions? Email info@westportcommunitytheatre.com.

“Dooley at the Bar,” at the Westport Community Theatre.

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The Connecticut League of Conservation Voters and State Representative Jonathan Steinberg discuss “climate wins from the 2025 legislative session, and plans for the future” on September 17 (9:30 a.m., Westport Library). The public is invited.

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The American Parkinson Disease Association Connecticut Chapter holds its annual “Optimism Walk”  at Sherwood Island State Park on September 20 (11 a.m.). The event raises awareness and funds. Click here for more information.

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Except for a few hours last weekend, we haven’t had any rain since about 1986.

You wouldn’t know it from Burying Hill Beach, though.

The entrance floods regularly now — pretty much, whenever the tide comes in.

Jalna Jaeger snapped this photo on Wednesday, for our “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Jalna Jaeger)

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School has begun. The temperature is slowly dropping.

But the Levitt Pavilion continues to offer great entertainment.

DNR — the nearly-all-physician classic rock band — played to an enthusiastic crowd last night.

They’ll be back again just a few yards away on November 1. That show is indoors, at the Westport Library. It’s a benefit for Norwalk Hospital’s Whittingham Cancer Center.

DNR, at the Levitt Pavilion. (Photo/Ken Schwarz)

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And finally … in honor of “Dooley at the Bar,” the new play at the Westport Community Theatre (story above):

(If you don’t support “06880”: Hang down your head and cry. And then … click here to right your wrong. Thank you!) 

 

10 Comments

Posted in Arts, Education, Entertainment, Environment, Transportation

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New Hat In Ring: Rosenwaks Runs For 1st Selectman

Posted on August 8, 2025 | 55 comments

Westport’s interesting race for 1st selectman just got even more intriguing.

David Rosenwaks will be the town’s first-ever Independent Party-endorsed candidate. Having secured more than enough signatures, he’ll have his own line on the November 4 ballot.

He joins Democratic-endorsed Kevin Christie, and Don O’Day, the Republican-endorsed candidate who is now unaffiliated.

Rosenwaks, 48, spent 25 years as an unaffiliated voter. He became a Democrat less than a year ago, but is now joining the Independent Party.

David Rosenwaks

Party politics is one of the reasons Rosenwaks is running for the town’s top job. A first-term member of the non-partisan Representative Town Meeting, he says, “I want to change the tenor of town government. As an Independent, I’ll answer to one entity: Westport and its citizens.

“A lot of decisions have been made before weighing all views. A lot of people feel unheard and undervalued.”

Rosenwaks envisions a return to former 1st Selectwoman Diane Farrell’s “Brown Bag Lunches.” A member of the RTM’s Information Technology Committee, he also hopes to “modernize and digitize” the town’s technology system.

Rosenwaks and his wife, actor Liz Fye, moved to Westport from New York at the beginning of COVID. They felt “blessed” by the school system, Library, beaches and rich arts heritage.

Rosenwaks dove into all aspects of the town. He attended commission and TEAM Westport meetings, Westport Library events, the Senior Center, the Westport Country Playhouse and more. He is a member of the Westport Arts Advisory Committee, joined the Citizens Police Academy, served on the PTA Council in a technology role, and coached recreation soccer.

“I learned a lot from the people who have been here for years,” Rosenwaks said. “They helped me understand how this town grew and evolved into what it is now.”

At the same time, he says, “Westport is at an inflection point. The average age is 39 to 45, depending on the data you use. We’re ready for the next evolution of the town. I’m confident I can be the bridge between those who have been here for decades, and the more recent arrivals.”

His RTM District 6 race was very competitive: 7 candidates for 4 seats. He knocked on 700 doors, and heard a diversity of viewpoints on a variety of topics.

David Rosenwaks

In the past 5 years, Westport has grappled with some major controversies.

Rosenwaks — a Long Lots Elementary School parent — was disturbed by the overcrowding and neglect at his children’s school. At the same time, he says, “the Community Gardeners should have been handled differently. They deserved a more honest approach up front.”

Redistricting 30 children “across the river, at 2 of the worst times of day” was an example of decisions being made “piecemeal, not holistically,” he says.

Rosenwaks was also disturbed at the Board of Education’s handling of Staples High’s soccer coaches.

“Over 100 kids sat in Town Hall for 14 hours,” he says. “Their voices were not heard. They were disilliulsioned. That’s a problem for their future, and the future of the town.”

As for the Hamlet, he says, “the majority of people in Westport want some development. But not to the extent of what was proposed. How did we get here, held hostage by a developer that doesn’t connect with what most people want?”

after graduating from Dartmouth College, Rosenwaks joined Salomon Smith Barney/Citigroup  as an investment banker.

He then co-founded a multi-billion dollar asset management firm, StoneCastle Partners. After selling it a decade later he pivoted to singing, songwriting and art collecting.

He’s recorded with Paul Shaffer and Phil Ramone. Rosenwaks’ original music has appeared in independent films. He headlined shows at the Public Theater, Joe’s Pub, and BB King’s.

Now, he says, “I spend most of my time dedicated to the town.”

Which brings him back to the reason he is running.

“I want what’s best for my family, my neighbors, and the town of Westport,” Rosenwaks says.

“I want everyone to feel involved. Whether it’s Jesup Green or a parking lot, every decision should be about what’s best for Westport.”

To run on the Independent Party line, Rosenwaks needed signatures from 1% of the number of people who voted in the previous selectperson’s race: 85 registered voters.

He submitted 132.

Now he awaits official certification, from the Independent Party.

He is running solo for the top spot. According to the Town Charter, if a person elected 1st selectman “has not been nominated by political party, the 2 defeated chandidates for First Selectman having the high number of votes shall be elected Selectman.”

It is unclear if that means the 2nd and 3rd selectmen would be the 2 other candidates for that position (Christie and O’Day, in whichever order they finish), or if the candidates of the runner-up party with the most runner-up votes would serve as 2nd and 3rd selectpersons, respectively (Christie and Amy Wistreich, or O’Day and Andrea Moore).

Either way, Rosenwaks says, “I will be happy to work with any combinatiion of ‘defeated candidates. Leadership comes from the top.”

55 Comments

Posted in Education, Library, Local politics

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Roundup: No Referendum, Open Beaches, Fireworks Tickets …

Posted on June 27, 2025 | 5 comments

There will be no referendum on Long Lots Elementary School.

Toni Simonetti had 14 days to collect 2,015 signatures — 10% of all eligible voters in the most recent election. She hoped to slash the proposed $103,190,124 expenditure for a new school to $90 million.

Yesterday was the petition deadline. Only 71 signatures were turned in. The drive was 1,944 signatures short.

Planning will proceed for a new Long Lots, without a referendum.

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Good news!

The most recent bacteria tests for Compo and Burying Hill came back negative yesterday. The beaches have reopened.

Whew!

Everyone back in the water! (Photo/Rowene Weems)

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Tickets are selling well for Wednesday’s fireworks show at Compo Beach — aka Westport’s Best Party of the Year. Only a small number remain.

A few residents have asked about this year’s price increase, the first in several years.

Westport PAL — the longtime co-sponsor, and beneficiary of the fundraiser — explains that costs have risen dramatically for everything: the barge, insurance, and the fireworks themselves.

Melissa and Doug Bernstein generously underwrite part of the costs, as they’ve done for years. Without their help, PAL would net only about $2,000.

Proceeds helps fund PAL programs that serve programs that serve thousands of youngsters each year, plus the Longshore skating rink and college scholarships. Click here to learn more about PAL.

Tickets (cash or check) are available at the Parks & Recreation Commission office at Longshore (near the golf course first tee) during office hours, and any time at the Westport police station on Jesup Road.

Westport’s greatest party returns July 2. (Photo/Elissa Moses)

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Our second “06880” Instagram Live yesterday was certainly lively.

Dave Briggs and Dan Woog explored the “Don’t Kill the Old Mill” campaign, in support of Old Mill Grocery & Deli.

And we did it from the communal table, inside the very popular Hillspoint Road spot.

We were joined by several OMG notables, including owner Graziano Ricco of Romanacci’s; Jim Hood and Ian Warburg of the non-profit Soundview Empowerment Alliance, owner of the 106-year-old building, Matthew Mandell of the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce, and Chris Tait, an Old Mill neighbor and staunch supporter.

They explained what OMG means to the neighborhood. We took questions from viewers too.

Click here to see the converation. or click below. Too bad you can’t taste the meal we had.

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There is still time to take the Parks & Recreation Department’s master plan survey.

It’s a great opportunity to offer your opinion on the current state, and future needs, of our town’s beaches, parks, athletic fields and more.

Click here to take the survey. It closes next month.

How are things at Compo Beach? And every other Parks & Rec facility in town? Take the master plan survey to weigh in.

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The Levitt Pavilion offers 2 free shows, and 1 other, this weekend.

The Tom Petty Project kicks things off tonight (Friday, 7:30 p.m.). All free tickets have been claimed, but returned tickets will be redistributed at the box office before the show.

A few tickets are still available, at various prices, for tomorrow’s Disco Biscuits cconcert (Saturday, 7:30 p.m.).

Artemis takes the stage Sunday (7 p.m.), for a free show.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

Disco Biscuits

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The “Weston Connections Art Exhibit” at the Weston Public Library opens next month. Over 55 artists will be represented.

A reception, with the artists, is set for July 9 (6 p.m.).

Two drawing/painting classes are scheduled for July: the 12th for adults, the 26th for children. Click here for more details, and to sign up. 

Weston Public Library

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Edwin A. Audley — a former Westport Police captain, and founder of the Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Service — died last month in Winter Haven, Florida. He was 87.

The Westport native graduated from Staples High School in 1955. He served in the Army from 1955 to 1958, then joined the Army Reserves as a senior aircraft mechanic until 1962.

Ed joined the Westport Police Department in 1961. He was promoted to sergeant, lieutenant, inspector, then captain in 1990. He retired in 1993.

Ed founded the WVEMS in 1979. He became an Emergency Medical Technician instructor in 1987.

In Florida, Ed was president of the Winter Haven Rose Society.

He is survived by his wife Elizabeth; brother Harry Audley (Pat), daughters Kimberly, Susan Palmer (Mark) and Victoria; 4 grandchildren, 5 great- grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on July 12 (Assumption Church, 10 a.m.).

Click here to leave online condolences. Donations can be made to the Edwin Audley Scholarship Fund, c/o Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Services, 50 Jesup Rd. Westport, CT 06880.

Ed Audley

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Former Westporter Priscilla Boyle died last Friday, surrounded by her family. She was 96.

She graduated from Lesley College, then taught kindergarten in Watertown, Massachusetts for 9 years before marrying Charles Boyle in 1958. They moved to Westport in 1963, and raised 3 children here.

Priscilla was involved with tennis, the Weston Field Club and bridge.

She was an active member of Assumption Church for over 6 decades. She shared her faith through Eucharistic Ministry, prayer groups, book clubs and as a catechism teacher, with a special dedication to preparing children for their First Communion.

Later, Priscilla became a welcoming presence at the Westport YMCA as a receptionist.

Priscilla was predeceased by her husband and her siblings Mary Alice Connolly, James W. Scanlan, Anne T. “Nancy” Batal and Francis V. Scanlan. al.

She is survived by her children Charles “Chip,” Susan Improta (Paul), and Elizabeth Boyle; grandsons Kenneth and Philip Improta, sister-in-law Alice Scanlan, and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

A celebration of Priscilla’s life will be held at Assumption Church on July 15 (11 a.m.). In lieu of flowers, donations in Priscilla’s memory may be made to Smile Train.

Priscilla Boyle

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June is ending the way it began: with plenty of colors.

Today’s “Westport … Naturally” yellow-and-green scene is from Whitney Street.

But it could be many other places in town too.

(Photo/Richard Fogel)

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And finally … Mick Ralphs — the Mott the Hoople and Bad Company guitarist/ songwriter — died. He was 81, and had bedridden after suffering a stroke in 2016. Click here for a full obituary.

(You’re in good company if you support “06880” with a tax-deductible contribute. Please click here. And thank you!)

5 Comments

Posted in Beach, Entertainment, Local business, Obituaries, Weston

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Petition Begun For Long Lots Referendum

Posted on June 18, 2025 | 40 comments

On Thursday, the Representative Town Meeting (RTM) unanimously approved a $103 million request, for the new Long Lots Elementary School project.

Toni Simonetti says the actual cost is $129 million.

She thinks it should cost $90 million. Now she’s gathering signatures on a petition for a referendum, to decrease the appropriation to that sum.

It’s no easy task. She needs 1,860 signatures — 10% of the town’s registered voters — by June 26.

Simonetti — a longtime Westport Community Gardens member, and vocal opponent of replacing the gardens with an athletic field — does not oppose the new school.

In fact, she says, she wants a new building to replace the current “rotting, moldy, unhealthy and shabby” one,

However, she says, $129 million is too much. Her figure is based on the $103 million appropriation; $6.7 million previous allocated, and $20 million in debt service interest.

She says that will result in a 4% tax increase, beginning next year. That would translate, she says, to $1,200 more per year for a $2.1 million home, the Westport average. Personal property and motor vehicle taxes will rise 4% too.

Simonetti posted those figures, and more — including her issues with the RTM process — on Substack.

Artist’s rendering of the proposed Long Lots courtyard.

 

 

 

40 Comments

Posted in Education, Local politics

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