A fenced-in dog run at Winslow Park is not on tonight’s Parks & Recreation Commission agenda (Wednesday, 8 p.m.; Zoom).
But the topic may be raised in the “Public Comment” part of the meeting.
Commissioners generally do not respond publicly, and a vote is a long way off. But if a “Dogport” is brought up, it might include data from a second survey of Winslow Park users.
The survey — which is still online — received 338 responses, as of yesterday afternoon. 85.5% of the respondents live in Westport.
The majority (60.7%) oppose creation of a separate, fenced area. 22% are in favor, while 17.3% are undecided.
The main concerns include the disruption of natural beauty and open space. Fencing is viewed as unnecessary, an eyesore, and potentially disruptive. Many believe current open, leash-free areas work well and should remain unchanged.
Survey QR code at Winslow Park.
Some users oppose the Dogport altogether; others prefer a different location. Some support a fenced area if it does not detract from Winslow’s open space, with emphasis on proper planning and minimal disruption.
While a majority of respondents believe fencing reduces the risk of dogs running into traffic and enhances owner supervision, others say that fenced areas can increase aggression, territorial behavior, and fights between dogs.
Owner responsibility was a major issue. Respondents stressed the importance of training and supervision, over fencing.
Suggested improvements for Winslow Park include better fencing along existing boundaries, and enforcing leash rules.
If a Dogpark is approved (the preferred size is 1/2 acre), the proposed site along Compo Road North garnered approval from just 18.5%. That location was not favored by 41.5%, while 40% were undecided.
Rendering of the proposed site, along Compo Road North.
Alternative locations suggested included Longshore, Compo Beach, Riverside Park and Baron’s South. One respondent offered “the back yard of the student who suggested it and the town rep who supports it.” Another said, “nowhere. People have back yards. Let dogs run there.”
If a Dogport is implemented, 45% favored town funding. 39.2% say funds should come from people who use it, while 15.8% are undecided.
And if a Dogport is built, 56.8% believe it should be open to non-residents. 21.8% would ban out-of-towners; 21.5% are undecided
No! Mark Mathias sent this email last week, to residents who are interested in the project:
First, our survey now has 333 respondents. I’m very impressed with this outcome. In addition, 103 people who filled out the survey gave us their email asking to be kept informed.
Second, we are primarily waiting for the Planning & Zoning Commission meeting to put on the agenda the request for a text amendment that would allow a dog run (aka “Dogport”) to be built in Winslow Park.
Should the text amendment be granted, that doesn’t mean construction will start. As I read the documents they simply allow it, but don’t state what or where it will look like, who will pay for it, who will maintain it, and more.
Those are separate questions that will have to be addressed if the P&Z approves the application for the text amendment.
One proposal for a fenced-in off-leash area at Winslow Park.
Third, on Monday morning this week, I met at Winslow Park with Emme Dorfman (one of the applicants), Ali Dorfman (Emme’s mother), and Jon Polayes (invited by the Dorfmans) in order to see what options might be available.
Discussions included having only a small dog area, moving the fenced area to the southeast corner of Winslow Park where Compo Road and the Post Road meet, and more.
Fourth, many people have expressed health concerns about Dogport. I reached out to respected local veterinarian Dr. Irwin Lebish, and asked his thoughts on the initiative. He said:
I don’t have any specific objections to a fenced-in dog run area in Winslow Park. My main concern would be the transmission of intestinal parasites through contamination of the surface. Ordinary grass would be a problem because if stools are not picked up, and even if they are, parasite eggs and larvae could leach into the surface and be transmitted.
The best surface in terms of cleanliness and maintenance would be pet grade artificial turf. However, to cover an area you describe would be very expensive.
The next best surface would be decomposed granite/washed stone. How much more aggressive behavior would occur in a fenced-in area is difficult to determine. A lot depends on the density of the dog population inside the area.
Fifth, we discussed the issues of how to pay for the creation of the fenced-in area, maintenance and upkeep, as well as other logistical matters that would require various town agencies (mainly the Parks & Recreation Department) involvement, and funding, not only initially but on an annual basis.
Winslow Park (Photo/Mark Mathias)
One question that I am frequently asked is whether a fenced-in off-leash area would ultimately lead to having the rest of Winslow Park be made on-leash. People have told me stories of towns around Westport where they have seen this occur, but I have no firsthand knowledge of this. If anyone receiving this has reliable information about this, please send it to me (winslowdogport@gmail.com).
In summary, I continue having enjoyable and informative conversations with people in Winslow Park as I walk Loki there daily. Please feel free to say hello, and give your perspectives on this matter.
I will continue to work with Emme and her supporters to help craft a plan that will have a positive impact on Westport.
I am also monitoring the agendas for both Parks & Recreation and Planning & Zoning to see what agenda items appear on their agendas so that anyone who is interested in conveying their opinions to the relevant officials can do so at the appropriate time, whether in advance of their meetings or by joining their meetings (many of which are held over Zoom).
I welcome conversations and insights from you and hope you will help inform me of your suggestions and opinions: winslowdogport@gmail.com.
Winslow Park is Westport’s — maybe Fairfield County’s — favorite dog park.
Before its most recent run though, it was other things: a sanitarium (for half a century) — and before that, one of the most elegant estates in town (here’s looking at you, State Senator Henry Richard Winslow, and your wife Mary).
Where not sure when, why or by whom a wrought iron fence was erected on the Compo Road North side of the property.
But it sure looks like it’s been there a while. It was the subject of last week’s Photo Challenge (click here to see).
Nearly every reader who responded nailed it: Marilyn Alger, Rachel Sara Halperin, Ed Simek, Morgan Eklund, Jonathan McClure, Seth Braunstein, Martha Witte, Lynn Untermeyer Miller and Clark Thiemann.
There were only a couple of errant guesses (Haskins Preserve, and Christ & Holy Trinity Church). Good ideas — but not the right fence.
Meanwhile, we head into the dog days of summer with this week’s challenge:
(Photo/John Maloney)
If you know where in Westport you’d see this, click “Comments” below.
(Every Sunday, “06880” hosts this Photo Challenge. We challenge you too to support your hyper-local blog. Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)
But that impact isn’t just happening at home; it’s transforming public spaces too.
Thanks to resident contributions, UnPlastic Westport has funded, secured town approval for, and installed 2 new water bottle filling stations. They’re at the Compo Beach basketball courts, and Winslow Park.
Water bottle filling station at Compo Beach …
We’re positioned to knock thousands of single-use plastic bottles out of our parks and beaches this summer.
But the game isn’t over. This month is Plastic-Free July.The global movement inspires millions to take simple steps to reduce plastic waste. Sustainable Westport is handing the playbook over to residents to score the next big win.
To fund the next wave of infrastructure, they’re launching a town-wide competition to decide where Westport’s next water bottle filling station should go.
Every dollar donated counts as one vote (or point scored) for your favorite location. If you chip in $1, that’s one vote. $5 = 5 votes, helping stack the deck for your favorite park, beach or sports field.
Whichever Westport location puts the most points on the board by the end of the month wins the championship, and the next water bottle filling station.*
Under “Additional info”, select your desired location from the list: Town Farms Ball Complex, Old Mill Beach, PJ Romano Field, or Wakeman Park
PS: Where does our town need a hydration upgrade? Is it athletic fields, a spot downtown, or closer to the beach? Click “Comments” below to rally your neighbors.
*All locations are subject to approval by the Planning & Zoning Commission, Parks & Recreation Commission and Department of Public Works, as applicable. The cost and feasibility of each location vary.
Their owners may not have loved the somewhat grotty water fountain — serving canines and humans — that stood for years near the Westport Country Playhouse parking lot.
It’s gone. And everyone is lapping up its replacement.
Yesterday, a new one was installed.
There are 2 bowls for people, one for dogs, and a spigot to fill water bottles. They all rest on a concrete pad — so goodbye to muddy paws.
The new fountain is a welcome gift from Sustainable Westport. A plaque says it honors Sherry Jagerson — “a champion for the environment.”
Teaching an old dog new tricks. (Hat tip and photo/Mark Mathias)
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Congratulations to the Westport Library!
On Tuesday, the Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County presented director Bill Harmer with the Mark Award. It’s given annually to groups and individuals who create and support the arts.
The Library was honored for VersoFest. For 5 years, the event has entertained the state with 4 days of immersive music, multimedia, panels, workshops and more. (Hat tip: Matthew Mandell)
Bill Harmer, accepting the Mark Award from the Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County. With him on the screen is David J of Bauhaus, a keynote speaker and performer at this spring’s VersoFest.
Speaking of the Library: The Board of Finance holds office hours there today (10 a.m.).
Residents can stop in, and ask a member town finance-related questions.
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Kerri Kenney-Silver — the actress (now appearing in Netflix’s “Four Seasons”), comedian, writer, singer, musician, and 1988 Staples High School graduate — was a recent guest on Seth Meyers and his brother’s “Family Trips” podcast.
Speaking of performing: Westport Country Playhouse Joanne Woodward Internships are among the most prestigious in the theater world.
Stephen Sondheim was an apprentice at the historic stage (long before the program was named for the longtime Playhouse friend, and former artistic director). Joining him that year: future director Frank Perry, and Richard Rodgers’ daughter Mary.
This year, 4 theater career aspirants will enhance their skills and gain experience working with Playhouse senior staff this month and next. They were selected from 79 applicants.
The 2026 group includes Nick Bates, production intern, arts administration major at Wagner College; Rebecca Brown, marketing intern, advertising and public relations major at Marist University; Leah Fosbrook, development intern, theatre administration major at Ithaca College; and Julia Orr, artistic/education intern, theatre directing and public advocacy double major at Belmont University.
In addition to work in their departments, interns attend seminars with guest speakers. They receive a stipend and nearby housing.
From left: Rebecca Brown, Leah Fosbrook, Julia Orr, Nick Bates. (Photo/Kelsey McFarland)
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Comedy Night returns to VFW Post 399 tomorrow (Friday; doors open at 6 p.m.; show at 8).
The lineup of 4 comedians includes David Beckles, Jr., Autumn Harvest, Dan Altano, and regular residency comic Joe Pontillo. Matt Zako hosts.
Once the kids are gone, construction on the new Long Lots Elementary School can move ahead full throttle.
But — at the northernmost edge of the property — work has already begun.
Here’s what the old lower soccer fields looked like on Monday:
(Photo/Michael Chait)
This is the new site for the school’s geothermal system.
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The Westport Rotary Club got a “healthy” bit of info at Tuesday’s meeting.
Dawn Myles, vice president for community health of Northwell Health described her organization: the largest not-for-profit health system in the Northeast. With 28 hospitals, more than 1,000 outpatient facilities, 22,000 nurses and over 20,000 physicians, Northwell cares for more than 3 million people annually in the New York area.
Dawn Myles at the Westport Rotary Club. (Photo/Dave Matlow)
Westport Police made 2 custodial arrests between June 10 and 16.
A 37-year-old Danbury man was charged with harassment and threatening, following a complaint by the owner of a cleaning service. After firing an employee for stealing from a client’s home, the victim received calls and texts from someone presumed to be the former employee’s husband. Among other statements, he threatened to kill the victim’s daughter if his demands were not met. He was released on a $51,000 bond.
A 37-year-old Bridgeport woman was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol/drugs, operating a motor vehicle under suspension, and defective stop lamp, after an officer observed a vehicle swerving on the Post Road. She was released on a $500 bond.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
School zone violation: 9 citations
Traveling unreasonably fast: 5
Distracted driving: 4
Failure to obey traffic control signals: 4
Failure to obey stop sign: 2
School zone violation, 2nd offense: 1
Speeding: 1
Texting while driving: 1
Failure to grant right of way: 1
Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 1
Operating an unregistered motor vehcile: 1
Unreadable license plates: 1
Ten drivers were charged last week with school zone violations.
In other Westport Police news, a promotion ceremony will be held today (Thursday, 10 a.m., Police headquarters) for 3 officers.
Detective Scott Alberti has been with the Westport force since 2018. A Sacred Heart University business management graduate, he spent many years working in the private sector, where he also became an emergency medical technician. He has been recognized in Westport for superior performance, particularly in the area of mental health emergencies.
Sergeant Rachel Hall joined the Westport Police Department in 2016, from Ridgefield. She is a University of Connecticut graduate, with a degree in allied health science (pre-medicine). She has served Westport in the motorcycle and drone units, the Marine Division, school security, and as a dive rescuer.
Sergeant Casey Mezerewski has many relatives who served on the Westport force, include fallen officer William Frawley, his great-grandfather. Sgt. Mezerewski has been with the Westport Police since 2008. He is a Tae Kwon Do back belt, and has worked with the dive team, Marine Division and Honor Guard. He received a Life Saving Award in 2014.
From left: Det. Scott Aliberti, Sgt. Rachel Hall, Sgt. Casey Mezerewski
And finally … the item that mentioned Stephen Sondheim’s long-ago internship at the Westport Country Playhouse (above) got us thinking about his music.
We also thought about the Playhouse — and remembered that when Judy Collins gave a memorable performance there last year, she sang this signature song:
(Send in the clowns. And send in the checks. Or online donations. “06880” relies on readers to support our work. If you appreciate us — or want to honor Sondheim or anyone else — click here. Thanks!)
As the proposal to create a fenced area in Winslow Park for off-leash dogs moves forward, some residents say proponents are barking up the wrong tree.
This month, Representative Town Meeting member Andrew Colabella filed a request with the Planning & Zoning Department for a text amendment change to the Dedicated Open Space and Recreation District Zone.
It would “provide a safe, controlled area for off-leash recreation, while preserving the park’s overall open space character and public accessibility.” The area would “enhance (Winslow Park) through responsible management, improved safety, and additional recreational opportunities for residents.”
Proposed location of the Winslow Park “Dogport.”
Mark Mathias — who lives near Winslow Park, and uses it frequently with his dog — tells “06880” that the proposed “Dogport” has elicited plenty of discussion at the 29-acre town-owned property.
He said a recent Zoom call with the Parks & Recreation Commission did not result in a recommendation. The conversation ended, Mathias says, with commissioner recommending that alternate locations — other than the proposed site along Compo Road North — be explored.
Proponents were urged to put a flyer at Winslow Park, with a link to their survey. A few days later, the flyer — with a QR code — was placed at the water fountain, and other spots (photo below). Click here for a link to that survey.
However, Mathias says, some Winslow Park regulars felt the survey did not address “fundamental issues,” or “adequately reflect the views of people who use Winslow Park.”
(“06880” never dogs it. We work 24/7/365, to bring you news, features, photos and more, about every area of local life. We rely on reader support. Please click here to support our work. Thanks!)
Posted onMay 16, 2026|Comments Off on Roundup: Fine Arts Artists, Levitt Pavilion Musicians, “Shrek” Anniversary …
We’re a week away from the 53rd annual Fine Arts Festival.
Across North America, over 150 artists are preparing to come to Westport, and show their work.
Selected from over 320 applications, and representing 12 categories, they come from 23 states and Canada. 27 are from Connecticut — 6 from right here in 06880.
All 2025 award winners return. Click here for a full list. Meanwhile, a record 52 artists make their Fine Arts Festival debut.
New this year: a very cool art activation. Staples High School art students will paint a BMW in the family area (Sigrid Schultz parking lot).
Two new judges join the panel: art enthusiasts Lonnie Quinn (CBS weatherman) and Louise Crowley.
Longshore Capital Improvement Plan update – Maintenance facility building update.
One possibility for the enclosed dog run at Winslow Park.
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The Levitt Pavilion announced a torrent of new shows this week — both free and ticketed.
The Revivalists rock on August 11. One of the most uplifting live acts in music today, their current tour includes the Grand Ole Opry, part of the FIFA World Cup, Red Rocks Amphitheatre — and a return to the banks of the Saugatuck. Click here for tickets, and more information.
Also booked:
May 29: An album release concert by Amani Burnham (first free show of the ’26 season). The 20-year-old Ethiopian-born, Connecticut-based artist has amassed more than 240,000 followers and nearly 30 million views on social media. Amani and his band will make their Levitt Pavilion debut while celebrating their debut album and set sail as the first free show of the 2026 season! Pretty auspicious!
June 7: Jumaane Smith Jazz Quartet. Lauded by Michael Bublé (with whom he tours). Wynton Marsalis (coming to the Levitt on June 28) was his trumpet teacher at Juilliard.
Hard to believe: This is the 25th anniversary of “Shrek.”
Not hard to believe: The Westport Library is celebrating the milestone.
On Tuesday (May 19, 7 p.m.; $10), co-writer Roger S.H. Schulman takes the audience behind the scenes. He’ll discuss his journey from journalism to Hollywood and the classroom. Click here to register, and for more information.
To learn more about the mechanics of screenwriting, Schulman offers a Verso University workshop on “Writing Compelling Characters.” Click here for details.
The bakery — founded by Westporters Bill and Andrea Pecoriello, which trains and employs people with disabilities (who make great stuff) — is raising money for the Hype 4 Life Foundation, an autism awareness non-profit.
They’ll send 2 winners (and plus-ones) to the Brian Burns Celebrity Softball Game May 30 in Pomona, New York. The football star and current Giants play Brandon Jacobs and Super Bowl XLII and XLVI champions, and other legends. Over 100 current and former NFL players will be on the field, competing in softball, a home run derby and (why not?) dodgeball.
Just in time for Memorial Day: the construction trailer — part of the Soundview parking lot staging area, for the Compo Cove tidal gate renovation project — has been hauled away.
Those parking spaces will be needed soon.
Maybe very soon. Sunday’s high temperature is forecast to be 86.
And finally … Soul singer/guitaristClarence Carter died Wednesday in Atlanta. He was 90, and had been diagnosed with prostate cancer.
The New York Times said, “Blind from youth and distinguished by his deep, declamatory baritone and lecherous, full-throated laugh, Mr. Carter combined the sermonic fervor of a backwoods preacher and the bawdy humor of a juke joint.” Click here for a full obituary.
(Sure, it’s the weekend. But “06880” keeps pumping out these Roundups like there’s no tomorrow. If you enjoy our 24/7/365 work, please show your support by clicking here. Thank you!)
Comments Off on Roundup: Fine Arts Artists, Levitt Pavilion Musicians, “Shrek” Anniversary …
Today, she and Representative Town Meeting member Andrew Colabella offer an update, clarifying some misconceptions about the idea.
Since the story was published, we’ve continued working with the Parks & Recreation Department and Planning & Zoning Commission, to develop a thoughtful proposal for a fenced-in dog park at Winslow.
With help from “06880” and Westport Moms, we conducted a community survey. We received over 700 responses, with 73% supporting a fenced-in dog park in Westport.
We recently presented the proposal to both commissions, and shared our vision for “Dogport.”
A suggested area for the “Dogport” is the area near Compo Road North, which served as the staging area for a recent nearby sewer project.
A key part of the plan is that the space would not be an unregulated open area. Access would be controlled through a secure key fob system, allowing only registered users with vaccinated dogs to enter. This creates accountability, encourages responsible use, and allows the town to enforce rules if needed.
Unfortunately, some concerns appear to be based on misunderstandings or rumors — including claims that the entire park would be fenced in, or that the space would resemble a “kennel.”
In reality, the proposal involves fencing in one specific section of Winslow to create a safe off-leash area. The rest of the park would remain completely unchanged.
Andrew has spent considerable time meeting with regular Winslow users to explain the proposal, answer questions, and hear feedback firsthand. We’ve found that many residents become supportive once they understand what is actually being proposed.
Only one section of Winslow Park is proposed for the Dogport. The rest of the 29-acre site would remain open. (Photo/Mark Mathias)
For decades, Winslow has been a gathering place for dog owners. However, the lack of an enclosed area and the park’s proximity to Compo Road North create safety concerns for many residents. A fenced-in section would provide a safer, more organized environment while still preserving the park’s existing recreational uses and open-space character.
After reviewing multiple possible locations with town officials, the proposed site emerged as the most practical and least disruptive option. The area is already graded, easier to maintain, and would not interfere with current park activities.
Throughout this process we’ve worked hard to listen to feedback, answer concerns, and approach this responsibly. We truly believe Dogport would be a meaningful, well-managed addition to the community.
Proposed Dogport rules include:
Sunrise to sunset hours
Secure key fob access for registered members only
Dogs must be licensed, vaccinated and registered
Maximum of 3 dogs per person
Dogs must be leashed entering and exiting
Owners must clean up after their dogs
Repeated violations could result in revoked access
A sign like this might be placed at the proposed “Dogport.”
We will have a table at the Westport Dog Festival on May 17, to sell Dogport merch. Here is the link to the merch for anyone who would like to donate!
Thank you for helping bring attention to this project and move the conversation forward.
NOTE: Renderings are only conceptual — not final designs. Official schematic plans are underway.
(“06880″‘s Opinion pages are open to all. Please email submissions to 06880blog@gmail.com. To support this hyper-local blog, please click here. Thank you!)
A new community garden at Burr Farms. At least 2 synthetic turf fields. Some upgrades to Compo Beach and Winslow Park. A dedicated maintenance facility.
Those were some of the key “Phase I” recommendations for Westport’s Parks & Recreation Department, offered last night as part of the new Parks Master Plan.
The Town Hall event was the third public session for BL Companies, the consultants who have undertaken an independent review of the town’s beaches, parks and playing fields.
Thirty residents — including a number of elected officials — heard Dominick Celtruda offer a “10,000-foot” view of current facilities and operations, and 3 phases for the future.
Parks & Recreation director Erik Barbieri, last night at Town Hall. (Photo/Dan Woog)
Specifically, Phase I priorities involve:
Infrastructure upgrades, including maintenance; a multi-purpose field at the Doubleday complex, and a minimum of 2 synthetic fields. BL Companies urges a balance between natural grass and artificial turf surfaces.
The Community Garden at Burr Farms would share space with a 50 x 70 multi-purpose athletic field, as well as restroom facilities for gardeners and field users.
Upgraded trails and a dedicated dog area at Winslow Park.
At Compo Beach: Upgraded pickleball (site TBD), a relocated skate park, reconfigured internal circulation, and dune restoration.
Phase II would include Baron’s South — for example upgraded access, vegetation management, removal of invasives, and a small percentage of space dedicated to semi-active recreation.
Phase III would focus on Luciano Park, Jesup Green, other parks, and the Town Hall athletic fields.
Celtruda emphasized that these are recommendations only. Parks & Recreation director Erik Barbieri noted that while BL offers important insights, he “may not necessarily agree” with all of the recommendations, or their timing.
“Nothing is set in stone,” he noted. His department, and the Parks & Recreation Commission, will continue to assess the report.
Next Monday’s Planning & Zoning Commission meeting (April 27, 6 p.m.; Zoom) will begin with the consideration of a pre-application that’s been discussed for a while.
Representative Town Meeting member Andrew Colabella will initiate discussion of a fenced dog area at Winslow Park. It would be located near the end of the asphalt walkway, in the area where construction equipment was staged a couple of years ago.
There would be one section for small dogs, another for large ones.
A pre-app is an informal, preliminary review process for a proposed project. It’s a way to present a conceptual plan and receive early feedback, before formally filing a special permit or site plan application.
There are currently on- and off-leash sections of Winslow Park — but no special fenced-in area. (Photo/Mark Mathias)
Speaking of the great outdoors: Yesterday was Earth Day.
As she has done for over 20 years, longtime Westporter and environmental advocate Rindy Higgins cleaned up garbage at Canal Beach (after a full day of substitute teaching at Coleytown Middle School).
She reports: “Finding mostly paper scraps, tar chunks, an odd large jar full of dirt topped with a lid like a terrarium, and some plastic bits and bobs, I’m glad to announce there is much less this year than in the past!”
Next year, let’s put Rindy out of a job. (Clean-up, that is — not teaching.)
An update on an ongoing accessory dwelling unit (ADA) case:
In January, the Zoning Board of Appeals unanimously denied an appeal of a previous Planning & Zoning Commission decision, to allow construction of an ADU at 21 Norwalk Avenue.
Adjacent Compo Beach neighborhood property owners David Johnson and Holly Jaffe had objected to the ADU, based on its 26-foot height and location 10 feet from the existing house. (Click here for a previous “06880” story on this issue.)
James Ezzes, ZBA chair, wrote that zoning regulations in effect at the time of the application allow construct of accessory dwelling units as of right; the proposed plans conform to the definite of an ADU and all applicable standards; regulations allow a 350-square foot coverage exemption for lots of 1.5 acres or less; and the zoning enforcement officer does not have discretion in the review of permits.
With a suit pending in Superior Court (set to be heard in August), alleging that the Zoning Board of Appeals erroneously approved the permit, Johnson and Jaffe requested an injunction to prevent construction. A judge will rule on that motion on April 29.
This week, however, work began on the new structure.
Construction begins at 21 Norwalk Avenue.
Meanwhile, the P&Z has already revised regulations for ADUs in small lots. They removed a 350-foot exemption on lots of 1.5 acres and less. The lot in question (above) is .11 acre.
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“Affordability” — a hot topic nationally these days — is the theme of this year’s 10th annual Westport Woman’s Club Art Show.
Sixteen local artists — with works curated by Miggs Burroughs — kicks off with an opening reception today (Thursday, 4 to 7 p.m.). The exhibit continues Saturday and Sunday, April 25-26 (2 to 5 p.m.).
Artists include Robin Babbin, John Bygott, Bonnie Edelman, Susan Fehlinger, Hernan Garcia, Rachel Hall, Elisa Keogh, Shelley Lowenstein, Paula Morgan, Larry Morse, Jon Puzzuoli, Butch Quick, Jodi Rabinowitz, Cindy Wagner and Tammy Winser.
Guest artist Sean Keating will show work in the drawing room, where small works donated by the participating artists as chance prizes will be on display.
This year’s show honors the memory of Jo Fuchs Luscombe. The former WWC president — who also served as state representative, 3rd selectwoman and Zoning Board of Appeals chair — died last year.
Net proceeds benefit local community service organizations, and need-based scholarships.
The Westport Weston Family YMCA is all about health for all — especially youth.
So it’s a no-brainer for them to invite everyone to Healthy Kids Day (April 25, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.).
Part of a national Y program, Healthy Kids Day highlights the importance of nutritious eating, physical activity, mental resilience, and developing lifelong healthy habits.
The event includes mini-classes, food trucks with healthy options, a bounce house, water safety demonstrations, and community vendors and partners.
“Art, Jazz + the Blues” — MoCA\CT’s current exhibition — is open through June 7. It’s visually expansive, and the music it evokes is equally broad and inspiring.
But that’s far from the only reason to visit the Newtown Turnpike gallery.
A host of activities complements, draws upon and adds to the exhibit. For example:
East Coast Contemporary Ballet Salon Series (tonight, Thursday, 7:30 p.m.).
Teen Open Mic Night (April 30, 6 p.m.)
Inside Art & Jazz with WPKN’s Richard Epstein and Jim Motavalli (May 2, 6 p.m.)
Intuitive Painting: Analyzing Your Creative Flow with Melissa Benedek (May 3, 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.)
1 Degree of Separation: Jazz in Connecticut — A Conversation with Yale School of Music’s Tom Duffy & Wayne Escoffery (May 7, 6 p.m.)
Mother’s Day at MoCA\CT (May 10, 12 to 5 p.m.)
Sound Bath Meditation with Hummingbird Healing Arts’ Lisa Pak (May 12, June 30, July 14, 6 to 7 p.m.)
Westport Writers’ Workshop at MoCA\CT (May 14, 6 p.m.)
Camp MoCA Open House (May 16, 9:30 to 11 a.m.)
Karisa Chiu, Violin, and Frederic Chiu, Piano (May 16, 7 p.m.)
Lewis Black is an upcoming Westport Country Playhouse attraction.
Well, he won’t be on stage. But the comedian has written a lively, insightful comedy — “One Slight Hitch” — that is the next Script in Hand reading.
It’s set for Monday, May 4 (7 p.m.).
His inspiration was a wedding invitation from a woman he had dated years earlier.
“That really blew my mind,” Black says. “I thought, ‘What if I did go?’ That was the beginning of the idea: What would happen if someone from the past suddenly showed up on a day that’s supposed to be completely planned out?”
“Everyone loves Lewis Black for his razor-sharp stand-up, his incredibly funny books, and his unforgettable appearances on ‘The Daily Showm’” says Mark Shanahan, Script in Hand series curator and Playhouse artistic director.
“But he’s also a remarkably funny playwright, and ‘One Slight Hitch’ proves it.”
The face “feels both wildly entertaining and all too familiar to anyone who’s ever navigated family, love, or the chaos of a wedding day.”
Born 16 weeks prematurely, doctors said he would be blind, and never walk.
He proved them very, very wrong.
Buoyed by support from his parents and sister, and many others — including eye doctors and occupational, speech and physical therapists — he survived.
At Staples High he ran cross country, and competed in indoor and outdoor track. He graduated in 2017.
But that was just the start.
Daniel ran 4 marathons. He got his undergraduate degree in human services from Beacon College, and pursued a master’s through the University of Vermont. in physical activity and wellness science.
The other day, Daniel provided this update:
“I believe that in our digitally connected world, we might be missing out on human support and contact.
“I saw the challenges my fellow neurodiverse individuals and I face in that digital world. My solution is developing a local neurodiverse mentoring community.
“Because resources are commonly developed and brought about from a neurotypical perspective, while well-intentioned they unfortunately often fail to support individual goals of people they are meant to serve.
“I offer personalized coaching for teen and young adult neurodivergents. Across several levels of functioning. my support from an empathetic perspective helps people achieve their goals and navigate their lives, from daily routines and indepedence to fitness and school.
“My background as a neurodiverse individual, and my professional experience as a paraeducator and fitness coach allow me to help. But my most important credential is my lived experience.”
For more information, email danielimaya@gmail.com; call 203-644-6877, or click here.
Daniel Maya
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Pop Shop Market offers a special pre-Mother’s Day event, with local vendors showcasing fashion, accessories, home goods and more.
It’s May 2 (10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Westport Museum for History & Culture).
Other gift ideas include graduations and teacher appreciation.
David Aasen — a 1974 Staples graduate whose interest in foreign affairs led him to a long career as a field manager, policy analyst and representative of international organizations in the Middle East, Africa and Europe — died of natural causes on April 7, in Dubai. He was 69.
A resident of Mombasa, Kenya, David had expertise in governance,
democratization, and relations between non-governmental organizations and the
media. He worked to make the world better and safer, in places many would have thought too broken to fix.
David worked for the United Nations, US State Department, Organization of African Unity, and Organization of American States.
Previously, he served as a long-time program officer for Amnesty International USA. Field assignments included reporting on civil conflict in Sudan, coordinating electoral assistance in Haiti and relief aid in Somalia, monitoring elections in the Republics of the Congo and Angola, and overseeing refugee repatriation projects in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
David spoke French, Spanish, Portuguese and Arabic.
After Staples High School, David earned a BA in international affairs from George Washington University. He also received certificates in mass media from Stanford University, and international peacekeeping from the Inter-American Defense College.
He was predeceased by his parents, Martha and Lawrence Aasen. He is
survived by his sister Susan Aasen (David), of Rockland, Maine.
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The Longshore golf course is up and running … and ready to shine, as the featured photo in today’s “Westport … Naturally” daily series.
And finally … Dave Mason, who had success both with Traffic and as a solo artist, died Sunday. He was 79.
Mason — inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, with Traffic — headlined more than once at the Levitt Pavilion. His most recent appearance there was a 2017 fundraiser.
In his long career, he played with Paul McCartney, George Harrison, the Rolling Stones, Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, Michael Jackson, David Crosby, Graham Nash, Steve Winwood, Fleetwood Mac, Delaney & Bonnie and Cass Elliott.
Click here for a full obituary. (Hat tip: Amy Schneider)
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