Superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice sends this update:
We have crossed the mid-point of the school year and our February Recess is just a couple of weeks away.
Winter Weather Decisions
It looks like we dodged a major blizzard this weekend. That said, our consulting meteorologist is predicting a series of storms and continued cold temperatures throughout February. Sorry to be the bearer of that news!
Since this is the time of year when weather decisions tend to come up a lot, I wanted to share a bit about how those calls are made. When conditions require a delay or closure, I do my best to make a final decision by 5:30 a.m. This typically follows an early morning regional call between 4 and 4:30 with area superintendents and our consulting meteorologist (the entire region uses the same service).
Whenever possible I make the decision the night before, though that’s relatively rare as weather has a habit of changing its mind overnight. Many factors go into these decisions, including temperature differences across town, conditions from the northern side of town to southern side, and coordination with the town on road clearing.
February break may spare us at least one winter weather decision, but early forecasts suggest we may still be looking at snow on the ground well into March. Seems like the groundhog and meteorologists are on the same page…and winter is in no hurry to leave.
As always, thank you for your patience and understanding as we navigate an old-fashioned New England winter together.
Snow day!
District Strategic Plan
Since the presentation of our AI Strategic Plan in November, several initiatives are now underway. All of this work is grounded in our commitment to being “AI-Powered and Human-Centered,”using technology thoughtfully while keeping students, learning, and well-being at the center.
Our guiding approach is simple: Go slow to go fast. Rather than rushing new tools or expectations into classrooms, we are intentionally establishing ethical guardrails, clear expectations, and thoughtful preparation first. This allows us to support students and faculty responsibly, protect privacy, and maintain high academic standards as technology continues to evolve.
Several important foundations are already in place:
A District AI Vision Statement, which describes how AI can support teaching, learning, and operations while preserving human connection
An AI Code of Ethics, (currently in draft form) outlining clear principles related to student safety, privacy, accountability, transparency, and responsible use
A comprehensive AI Strategic Plan, guiding work across instruction, operations, and professional learning
Work has begun to develop a clear, developmentally appropriate K–12 approach to AI literacy for students, along with defined competencies for staff. Expectations and access will vary across elementary, middle and high school levels to ensure appropriate and responsible use at each stage of development.
The goal of this work is to ensure that students understand how AI systems actually work, as well as their benefits and limitations. By building this foundational knowledge, students will be better equipped to think critically about AI, recognize potential challenges, including overreliance or emotional dependence, and use emerging technologies thoughtfully, ethically, and responsibly as part of their learning.
Academic Integrity
As generative AI tools become more common, the district is revisiting its Academic Integrity Policy, particularly for our middle and high school level, to ensure expectations for original thinking, effort, and learning remain clear and meaningful. This work is focused on preserving strong academic standards while helping students navigate new tools responsibly.
Future-Proofing and AI Trends
The district has also begun work to monitor emerging AI trends and engage community expertise. This proactive effort is intended to help us anticipate where technology may be headed and prepare thoughtfully, rather than respond reactively. Our goal is to host our first school/community “AI Trends Group” meeting in late March.
Screen Time Audit
When we developed our Strategic Plan we used a number of “essential questions” to help frame our thinking. One such question was, “How do we maximize the power of AI and minimize screen time?” That led to the development of an initiative that would audit screen time in our schools.
In support of our student strategic objective, “Preparing Students to Think, Adapt, and Lead with AI,” the district is conducting a screen time audit to better understand how technology use intersects with learning, well-being, and instructional design.
This audit is intentionally being conducted through multiple lenses to ensure a balanced and accurate picture:
Surveys of students, teachers, and families to gather perceptions and experiences related to screen time (the parent guardian survey will be administered after the February Recess.
A review of curriculum and instructional practices to examine the amount of screen time required by our curriculum and instructional methods.
An analysis of overall network usage patterns at the elementary and middle school levels to help quantify screen time in the aggregate. The district will use network tools, such as GoGuardian, to collect high-level, quantitative information about screen time. Because Staples High School operates under a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) model, this analysis will not be conducted at the high school level.
Importantly, this work is not intended to monitor or evaluate individual students or staff. The purpose of the audit is to inform thoughtful decision-making about instructional balance, technology use, and student well-being. In addition, this audit will help set a baseline for future studies on the topic of screen time.
Supporting Educators and Responsible Tool Use
Professional learning for educators continues to be aligned with the district’s AI vision and Code of Ethics. This ensures that any use of AI or digital tools in classrooms is intentional, ethical, and focused on supporting, not replacing, strong teaching and learning by our faculty.
Access to AI tools for staff remains controlled and supported, with broader access planned for next year alongside clear expectations, training, and ethical oversight.
I recognize that AI, technology use, and screen time raise important questions for families. My commitment is to continue moving deliberately, communicating transparently, and keeping students’ best interests at the center of every decision. I will continue to provide updates in manageable ways as this work progresses.
Thank you for your trust and partnership as we maneuver this evolving landscape together.
On Saturday, Westport water pollution treatment plant supervisor Joe Tracy was making his rounds. It was cold; he was breaking up ice in one of the tanks.
He heard odd noises coming from the post-anoxic effluent basin. Stopping to investigate, Joe removed the heavy grating. Two mallard heads stared back up at him.
They were neck-deep in brown “foam” — trapped in one of the spillways.
Joe contacted on-duty Westport Animal Control Officer Peter Reid, across the street. He jogged over with a long net.
The ducks, a male and female — were transported back to Westport Animal Control, to warm up and be cleaned.
WASA volunteer Sara Stockman arrived with frozen peas, and provided additional bathing.
Officer Reid happened to have a can of “gourmet” meal worms ready as well. He then took the mallards to Wildlife in Crisis. They were monitored, as they restored feather oil prior to release.
Thanks to all — starting with Joe Tracy — for going above and beyond, in weather that was cold even for ducks.
The Westport Book Shop‘s 5th anniversary celebration continues this month.
Head to the Jesup Road store to see a special mosaic, by the legendary Miggs Burroughs. It celebrates the 60+ local artists who have exhibited there each month.
The Book Shop’s Short Story Club meets February 25 (6 p.m.). They’ll discuss 2
stories by Alice Munro: “What Is Remembered” and “The Bear Came Over the Mountain.”
Registration is required: Call 203-349-5141, or email RSVP@westportbooksaleventures.org.
And in honor of Valentine’s month, make a $10 donation to support the Book Shop — and its mission of providing training an employment for people with disabilities — and get a chocolate bar, courtesy of Wegman’s.
You can also honor a loved on on the “Heart of Heart” window display.
Ann Chernow — one of Westport’s great artistic treasures — turned 90 yesterday.
She celebrated with family and close friends. “06880” joins the rest of the town in saying congratulating an artist who has enriched us in so many ways — from her work and her volunteer efforts, to her always-smiling presence.
Perrin Delorey — a 4th grader at Greens Farms Elementary in 2018 who played baseball and hockey, and was a Cub Scout — died in a car accident shortly before summer break.
Those 4th graders are now Staples High School seniors. They have not forgotten him.
Perrin’s cousin and best friend, Philip Sullivan, have created n endowed scholarship in his name. The first “Do Your Best” Award will be presented by Staples Tuition Grants this spring.
More than $30,000 has already been raised, ensuring that the funds will be awarded in perpetuity.
A new fundraiser is planned, so that the grants will be the maximum allowed under STG bylaws.
A community skating event is set for February 10 (7:15 to 8:45 p.m.; Westport PAL Rink at Longshore).
Everyone is welcome — to skate, watch, and enjoy the DJ and food. A photographer will capture the community feel.
Philip says, “one of the most special parts of this event is the range of community support behind it. There could be an entire story on the individuals, businesses and community groups that have donated precious time and money to help us raise the necessary funds to establish the award.”
He gives a special shout-out to Staples Tuition Grants, the Staples Class of 2026, Staples Service League of Boys, Staples boys and girls hockey teams, Westport Parks & Recreation, Scout Troops 39 and 139; Videler Photography, the host committee of individual and family donors, “06880,” and “countless members of the community who have helped us get so far with our fundraising efforts.”
Perrin Delorey
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Wakeman Town Farm’s February calendar includes classes and activities for all ages. They include:
Storytime with Mosaic & Movement (ages 2-6; February 4)
Drop-in Knitting Circle (February 10)
Kids’ February break Needle Felting Workshop (ages 11-14; February 16)
Winter cooking for Minis and Kids (grades K-2; 2-4)
Neighbors and Newcomers of Westport — a great organization that welcomes new arrivals and longtime residents alike — has a busy February. Events include:
Galentine’s Day Luncheon (February 12, noon, Zucca Gastrobar
“Westport thrives because of its people — the community. And local government exists to support that community.”
That was the heart of new 1st Selectman Kevin Christie’s first “State of the Town” address yesterday.
He and Board of Education member Abby Tolan spoke at the Westport Library, to a crowd of 150. Others watched on livestream. The 9th annual event was co-sponsored by the Westport Rotary Club and Westport Sunrise Rotary. Representative Town Meeting (RTM) moderator Jeff Wieser emceed.
Board of Education member Abby Tolan and 1st Selectman Kevin Christie respond to questions. (Library photos/Dan Woog)
The pair also answered nearly 2 dozen questions, from audience members on a wide range of topics. There were no surprises in Christie’s and Tolan’s answers.
For example, the 1st selectman said the town is “getting its arms around” new state legislation (HB 8002) on affordable housing. He is “optimistic” about Department of Transportation’s focus on local traffic issues. His administration is studying next steps for a combined Police/Fire/Emergency Medical Services facility.
He hopes for a new community gardens site “as soon as practical,” and is in conversation with gardeners and others.
Naming a new chair for the Downtown Plan Implementation Committee is a top priority. Christie will include a “seat at the table” for merchants. He acknowledged a need to improve Parker Harding Plaza, along with river access.
A new maintenance facility “has to go somewhere,” he said “Anyplace it goes, there will be tradeoffs.”
The town is also examining the reason swimming in Long Island Sound was closed often last summer, and speeding up the process for re-opening.
Tolan spoke about ongoing efforts to address girls’ sports facilities inequalities; the need for Coleytown Elementary School renovations, and the next “deep dive” exploration of programs by the Board of Ed. It will focus on special education.
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In his prepared remarks Christie — in office just 76 days — said support shows up “in many ways.”
1st Selectman Kevin Christie, with a photo of a packed Compo Beach.
He gave shout-outs to specific departments.
Last year, for example, Police handled over 27,000 calls, including more than 5,500 traffic stops.
The Fire Department responded to over 4,000 incidents, with an average response time under 4 minutes.
The Building Department issued 3,045 permits, and generated more than $2.6 million in revenue.
Public Works, Christie continued, touches daily life in every neighborhood. In 2025 the department repaired or reconstructed 9 miles of road, completed 9 additional miles of pavement preservation, and repaved 2 parking lots. They also secured almost $11 million in grant funding. Just last week, they responded to a near-record snowfall, working long shifts for days at a time.
1st Selectman Christie praised Public Works for their response to the recent snowfall. He took a snowplow ride-along earlier, and learned a lot about department operations. (Photo/Rick Carpenter)
Parks and Recreation supported 10,895 program registrations, about 1.2 million beach visits, and 40,000 rounds of golf.
Through the Department of Human Services and the Senior Center, the town provides over 24,000 congregate and home-delivered meals annually, and administered $2.9 million in housing and community grants over the last 2 years.
In 2025, the Planning and Zoning office issued over 430 administrative zoning permits, while processing 42 applications to the Planning and Zoning Commission, and 75 to the Zoning Board of Appeals.
The Conservation Department issued nearly 200 permits, and currently oversee 49 violations going through the enforcement process.
The Historic District Commission processed over 150 applications across HDC, Architecture Review Board, and the Joint Committee. They now have a fully digital application process.
The Historic District Commission helps preserve and honor homes like this one, on Long Lots Road.
Westport recently completed a state-mandated property revaluation — the first since COVID. After notices were mailed, the Assessor’s Office met with over 1,000 property owners through informal hearings.
The Tax Collector delivered over a 99% collection rate.
The Town Clerk’s office recorded 464 property transfers — well over one a day.
Christie also hailed the teams in information technology, finance, personnel, the town attorney’s office, and his own selectman’s office.
Collaboration is one key to successful governance, Christie said.
Cross-department collaborations are crucial to good governance.
For example, Human Services and the Police Department recently launched a Community Care Unit. It connects residents to behavioral health and social service support outside of traditional law enforcement paths, and “reflects a shared commitment to prevention, care, and appropriate response.”
Similarly, joint work between Human Services, the Police Department, Westport Public Schools, and community partners around underage drinking, social hosting and early intervention address challenges no single department or board can handle alone.
Returning to last week’s snow, Christie said that Fire and the Emergency Management director, Public Works, Police, Human Services and staff “worked together around the clock to keep roads passable, critical services running, and residents safe.
“We all rely on one another as a community — staff, boards, volunteers, residents and more. (But) this only works because people collaborate, share information, and take collective responsibility for serving the community well.”
1st Selectman Kevin Christie illustrated his talk about “community” with a photo of the Compo Beach playground.
Turning to finances, Christie noted the need for “discipline and planning.”
In the current budget season, “trade-offs become real and priorities have to be weighed carefully. The decisions we make over the coming months will shape not just the next fiscal year, but the town’s trajectory over the longer term.”
His focus is on “making sure those conversations are grounded in facts, transparent, and aligned with the long-term interests of our town.”
Board of Finance budget workshops begin tonight, and continue February 9 and 25 (6 p.m., Town Hall Room 307/309.
Looking ahead, Christie turned to sustainability. While Westport has set ambitious goals — including being net-zero by 2050 — “meaningful progress usually comes from steady, thoughtful steps, not going from zero to 60 all at once. The work ahead is about integrating long-term thinking into everyday decisions, and doing so in a way that is responsible, practical and transparent.”
Also ahead: the new Long Lots Elementary School and Stepping Stones Preschool. Bids for the next phase of construction are due this month.
On the horizon: a new Long Lots Elementary School.
“Westport is a special place not because of any single project or initiative, but because of the people who care deeply about this community and show up for it in ways large and small,” the 1st selectman concluded.
“Local government’s role is to support that community — to provide services, plan responsibly, and create space for thoughtful decision-making. I’m grateful for the trust placed in town leadership and staff, and I’m optimistic about the work ahead.”
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Tolan (filling in for Board of Education chair Lee Goldstein, in Washington for a conference) touted the school district’s new strategic plan; its AI pilot for Staples and Bedford Middle School 6th graders; Staples’ designation as a bell-to-bell phone-free school; an upcoming technology audit; Board of Finance approval for upgrades to the Staples auditorium and girls locker room, plus the BMS science labs — and of course, groundbreaking for Long Lots Elementary School.
Some Westport Public Schools’ achievements.
Tolan also listed a host of awards and honors for the Westport Public Schools.
There were group achievements (Science Olympiad, History Day, All-State Music Festival, We the People, WWPT-FM, team championships) and individual accomplishments, by students and staff members.
We posted a classic rooster weathervane, atop a 4-sided wooden bell tower on a snow-covered roof. (Click here to see.)
Appropriate, because last Sunday we were in the middle of a classic New England snowstorm.
Surprisingly — because there was not much else to do that day, but curl up beside a fire with “06880” — only a few readers hazarded guesses.
A few were wrong. It was not the Westport Country Playhouse, or Wright Street.
Diane Lowman’s photo showed the roof of Bridge Square — the small plaza with popular destinations like Kawa Ni, Rainbow Thai and 99 Bottles.
Gabriela Hayes, Seth Schachter, Ben Meyer (whose office sits just underneath, and whose brother-in-law helped repair it), Susan Lloyd and Elaine Marino all answered correctly.
Susan added some very intriguing history: She says it was the bell tower of the original Saugatuck firehouse. Today — with a different bell tower — it’s a few yards away, on Riverside Avenue.
But it’s very old. So this one, at Bridge Square, must be really old.
What’s new? Today’s Photo Challenge.
If you know where in Westport you’d see this, click “Comments” below.
(Photo/John Maloney)
(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!)
Ruben — the tremendously helpful, very patient and always on top of things clerk at the main post office in Playhouse Square — tells Westporters: Mail your local taxes directly to Town Hall, 110 Myrtle Avenue, Westport, CT 06880.
The tax office had a post office box — but no more. To avoid “return to sender,” use the Town Hall address.
Or bring your check directly to them. They’re always happy to see you!
Wheels2U is not just for commuters — or commuting hours — anymore.
Starting Tuesday (February 3), the on-demand program will serve the Saugatuck and Greens Farms stations middays (10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.) on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.
The expansion recognizes that train riders include hybrid workers heading to New York for afternoon meetings, museum-goers enjoying off-peak fares, residents heading to lunch in Saugatuck but concerned about parking — and many others.
Wheels2U’s on-demand, shared ride public transit service is operated by the Westport Transit District. For $2, it takes riders to and from anywhere in Westport, and the train stations and downtown destinations. Riders downloading the Wheels2U app for the first time get 5 free rides.
Service hours:
Monday–Friday (Saugatuck and Greens Farms train stations): 5:30 to 10:30 a.m.; 4 to 9:30 p.m.
• 4:00 PM – 9:30 PM
Also, Tuesday–Thursday (Saugatuck and Greens Farms train stations, Jesup Green/Library/Senior Center): 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
For more information and to download the Wheels2U app, click here.
Lauren Tarshis — a Staples High School graduate, and author of the very popular “I Survived” children’s book series — celebrates the Westport Book Shop’s 5th anniversary, in a much larger venue: the Westport Library.
On March 15 (3 p.m.), she’ll talk about her stories, and describe her research and writing process.
Before the event, attendees may participate in an “I Survived”–themed Kahoot trivia game. The first-place winner receives a 1-hour Sunday morning session with Tarshis at the Westport Book Shop, with 4 guests. Second- and third-place winners get “I Survived” and Westport Book Shop prize bundles.
All proceeds go to the Book Shop. Children’s tickets are $10, and include one “I Survived” book. Adult tickets, or those for youngsters who do not wish to receive a book, are $5. Children under 5 are free. Click here to purchase, and for Kahoot trvia game details.
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Rugby is one of America’s fastest-growing sports for girls.
It builds confidence, strength and friendships. Westport’s program is always looking for new high school players.
All body types, backgrounds and experience levels are welcome — including first-time athletes, and those who play other sports.
No experience is needed — they’ll teach everything you need to know. It’s open to all high school girls — not only those at Staples.
An informational meeting is set for this Tuesday (February 3, 3:15 to 4:15 p.m., Staples room 186, between the fieldhouse and pool). For more details, click here.
Questions? Contact captains Mia Chatterjee (miachatterjee@gmail.com) and Isabella Pirkl (ip1006111@students.westportps.org).
Jen Bengtson (Terrain), Chris Gonzalez (Kawa Ni) and Matt Storch (Match Restaurants), plus Robin Selden of Marcia Selden Catering, are 4 of the many chefs and caterers who will cook up a storm at Make-a-Wish Connecticut’s “Taste of Wishes.”
The event — one of the tastiest and most fun fundraisers around — is March 26 (6:30 p.m., Aitoro Appliance, Norwalk).
The evening features cooking demos, tons of tastings, delicious bites from other hot spots, and a chance to meet amazing “wish kids.”
“White With Fear” — written, directed and produced by Westporter Andrew Goldberg, which explores how race and religion have been used to divide America — has been nominated for a Writers Guild of America Award for Best Documentary Screenplay.
Goldberg interviews politicians and experts on both sides of the aisle — including Hillary Clinton, Jamie Raskin, Terry McAuliffe, Steve Bannon, Rick Gates and Sam Nunberg — in this fascinating film.
To view the trailer, click here or below. To learn more about “White With Fear,” click here.
The science, conservation and education center is home to over 50 “animal ambassadors” (including the very cool birds of prey).
But many are injured, preventing them from surviving in the wild. Earthplace provides excellent care. The animals, in turn, help teach about wildlife and the natural world.
Throughout February, visitors can create Valentines, and leave them in mailboxes for the animals.
Earthplace also encourages sponsoring an animal or donating to their “wish list,” to help provide enrichment, food and veterinary care.
For nearly 70 years, Mitchells has served Westport. In ways large and small, the family-owned business — now nearing its 4th generation — has looked out for all of us.
The latest example can be seen near its front door, on Post Road East:
(Photo/Dan Woog)
It’s a small thing, sure.
But it’s so thoughtful.
And so important.
If more businesses followed Mitchells lead, we might even break the car theft epidemic gripping our town.
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Westport has a lot of banks.
But on April 30, we’ll have one fewer.
That’s the day M&T Bank closes its small branch at Stop & Shop.
M&T — the successor to People’s Bank — will continue to operate next to Compo Shopping Center and Whole Foods.
FUN FACT: M&T’s Compo Road North location is in the location where, in 1958, Ed and Norma Mitchell founded a small men’s clothing store. Today, Mitchells’ much larger store is located a mile east (see item above).
The Weston History & Culture Center celebrates both America 250 and Women’s History Month with “A Pocketful of Rosies” (March 1, 2 p.m.).
The event follows the lives of 3 World War II “Rosie the Riveters.” It starts with their Revolutionary War roots, to explore the many generations of women in their families who helped during troubled times. For more information, click here.
Speaking of impressive women: Quilters had their day yesterday. Pam Docters calls the Westport Library’s “A Traveling Legacy: From Gee’s Bend to the Nutmeg State” an “extremely entertaining and informative afternoon, given by 4 quilters of Gee’s Bend (the Alabama home to a strong quilting tradition).
The women described their experiences growing up in the rural South during segregation and the civil rights movement. They had strong mothers who would “quilt and pray.”
Gee’s Bend quilters, at the Library. (Photo/Pam Docters)
As the new year begins, many people make “wish lists” for the coming 12 months.
(Others wish they had the time or energy to do so.)
Realtors are no different than you or me.
I asked the crack staff at KMS Team at Compass what they wished their clients would do. They said:
Home buyers
Speak with a mortgage broker, and get pre-approved for a purchase.
Select a trusted buyer agent, who has strong local knowledge and relationships to represent you.
If you plan to purchase with cash, have a “proof of funds” letter ready to go from a trusted advisor or investment counselor.
Evaluate your situation. Be clear about top priorities. and realistic goals and needs. Understand where you might have flexibility, or be willing to shift gears to break into this competitive market.
For some people, living directly on the water is non-negotiable. Others may be more flexible. (Photo/Jimmy Izzo)
Explore town websites. Speak to friends and acquaintances who already live and/or work in the area. What insider tips can they provide?
Spend a day exploring the town(s) you are thinking about. Drive through shopping areas and downtowns. Grab a coffee or drink. Eat there. Take a hike, walk the beach, visit the library, use a school playground, see what you think. How does it feel?
Start going to open houses. Familiarize yourself with the inventory. See how homes are presented and priced. Photographs are one thing; visiting the space, and walking though it, is another.
Ask your partner or agent team about private exclusives or pocket listings that have not yet been listed publicly.
Home owners
Tackle your maintenance to-do lists. Ordinary seasonal cleaning and repairs should never be left to the last minute.
Even if you are not thinking of listing in the short term, make the improvements now with a team you know. That includes:
Refinish floors
Update a kitchen or bathroom if needed (“new” is considered within the last 5-7 years)
Neutralize paint colors. to clean the palette and presentation
Have your roof evaluated. Replace poor shingles or repair entirely, if necessary. This is a particular sticking point for insurance carriers today.
Have your attic and basement evaluated for mold and mildew.
Remove dead trees, branches or tired landscaping for a cleaner presentation; less is more. Consider maintenance-free options and evergreens that provide greenery and privacy year-round.
Dead trees can cause big damage. (Photo/David Pogue)
Evaluate your curb appeal. Does the driveway need resealing or repaving? How does the garage — especially if detached — complement the house? Are the garage doors in good shape, and work well?
Most importantly: Make needed improvements so you can enjoy them before you sell.
Home sellers
Declutter, declutter, declutter!
If you need help to get motivated or sorted out, hire an organizer..
Clean and purge all closets. Buyers will want to see space for their family to move into.
Pack things up now. You’ll have to move things eventually, so pack it up, donate it, and/or sell it!
Get a home inspection before listing. Address problems you may not know about.
Service mechanicals if they have not been examined within 12 months of listing.
Clean up the yard. Plant bulbs in the fall, flowers in spring.
Flowers add to curb appeal. (Photo/Patricia McMahon)
Wash windows, inside and out.
Clean gutters; make sure all downspouts are operational.
Fresh paint is the quickest refresh for the least amount of money
Hardwood floors in pristine condition are like gold. Show them off!
Hire a handyman to address annoying items that need fixing.
Paint the front door — first impressions are very important. Plant flowers, or put planters at the front door.
Take photos in the fall, if you plan to list during the winter or early spring.
Swap out old light fixtures to make the house look more current, with updated styles. These do not have to be very expensive fixtures.
January was Radon Action Month. Did you have your house tested? Connecticut requires a reading of 4.0 or less.
(Not ready to buy or sell a home today? No problem. But you can click here, to make a tax-deductible contribution to “06880.” It’s also a good investment — and a lot cheaper.)
The inspirational Martin Luther King Day conversation between author/writer/ Columbia School of Journalism dean Dr. Jelani Cobb and Westport writer/ professor Trey Ellis is now online.
Click here; then use password Jelani_Cobb_2026. The video is available through February 27.
We’re just a week from Homes with Hope’s “Soup-er Bowl” food drive.
The event — next Saturday (February 7, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Stop & Shop), is sponsored by the Westport Police Department, and the Westport Rotary and Sunrise Rotary clubs.
It’s a way to help our town’s homeless shelter and food pantry stock up on most-needed items, before the game.
They include cereal, oatmeal, pancake mix, pasta sauce, canned chicken, peanut butter and jelly, rice, laundry detergent and deodorant.
Speaking of animals: Wakeman Town Farm just received 4 newborn lambs, from Bluebird Farm in Willington.
The southdown babydoll sheep — a sweet and loving breed — are 2 weeks old, all female, and related to the sheep that currently reside at WTF.
Farm educators, headed by Judy Panzer, train volunteers to help patiently teach the babies how to drink from bottles.
Wakeman Town Farm also offers “Lamb Cuddles,” a hands-on experience through which residents cuddle, socialize and connect with the animals while learning about their care and personalities. Click here for tickets, and more information.
To help defray the costs of care and feeding, WTF is running a fun “Name the Newest Farm Babies” contest.For $10, you can submit up to 4 name suggestions (one per lamb — remember, all are girls!).
We’re just a few days away from the Winter Olympics. The eyes of the world will be on Milan.
Of course, there’s a Westport connection.
Longtime resident/veteran sports and news journalist Dave Briggs has teamed up with Saatva — the luxury mattress company founded by fellow resident Ron Rudzin, and the official provider of mattresses and bedding for the 2026 and ’28 Olympic and Paralympic Games — on a series of “Superpower” podcasts.
Briggs interviewed gold medalists Tara Lipinski (figure skating), Jessie Diggins (the most decorated American cross country skier), Jessica Long (the Michael Phelps of the Paralympics), and gold medalist Brenna Huckaby (Paralympic snowboarder) — all in bed, on Saatva mattresses.
These are in-depth interviews about the athletes’ lives — including personal challenges. Despite the luxurious and sports-related settings, there are no softball questions. Lipinski, for example, talks about pressure and performance, infertility, pregnancy loss and the LA fires.
Click here or below to see Briggs’ interview with Lipinski. Click here for the podcast on iTunes; click here for Spotify.
Congratulations to the students involved with Soundings and QED.
Staples High School’s 2 literary magazines have been awarded “Superior” rankings, in the 2025 Recognizing Excellence in Art and Literary Magazines (REALM) contest. The honors come from the National Council of Teachers of English.
Publications are evaluated by a panel of judges. Criteria include the quality of writing, variety of genres featured, excellence of art and graphic design, and overall editorial layout.
At Staples, students oversee everything from the initial call for submissions to the final technical production. Editor-in chief Allison Cancro, and associate editors Eva Slossberg and Jack Robinson, worked with faculty advisor Kim Herzog.
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Westport is filled with entrepreneurs.
Plenty of youngsters are excited by the opportunity to run their own business. How can they start?
This Thursday (February 5, 5 p.m., Westport Library), they can head to the Mini Moguls Marketplace.
Staples High School junior Aanya Gandhi organized the event, for students in grades 5-8.
Participants will run their own business by selling a product (handmade items; gently used toys, books and games, etc. — no food please!), and creating posters explaining their product, pricing, and marketing strategy, while learning
valuable financial literacy and entrepreneurial skills.
Speaking of the Library: VersoFest audiences tap their feet to the music. Sometimes they dance.
On March 28 (10 a.m.), no one will be in their seats.
The Westport Library’s 5th annual music and media conference and festival welcomes master artist Andoche Loubaki. He’ll lead a lively traditional Congolese Dance and Drum workshop, presented by Brooklyn-based Cumbe Dance.
It’s a great family event. After all, who doesn’t want to dance in a library?
Club203 — Westport’s social group for adults with disabilities — gets a jump on Valentine’s Day.
Their next event (February 4, 6:30 to 8 p.m., VFW Post 399) includes music, dancing, art by MoCA\CT — plus heart-shaped pizza from Planet Pizza, sweet treats, and plenty of Club203 love.
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