Top Story
Superintendent McKersie announces his resignation.
Hearings this week about August's power outages.
Also in the News
Advice about how to trick-or-treat as safely as possible.
Images of life in Weston in the EMS Photo Challenge.
Weather & Events
Our Events section includes Halloween scares at Lachat Town Farm, an historical tour, a stroll in a sea of jack o'lanterns, and a live theatrical musical.
Here is how to vote absentee this year.
McKersie Resigns
Dr. William McKersie announced today that the 2020-21 school year will be his last as superintendent of the Weston Public School District.
“After what will have been a five-year run as Superintendent, I believe it is a good time to take on new leadership opportunities,” he said.
Tell PURA About the Outage
Three public hearings this week focus on the response by Eversource and United Illuminating to Tropical Storm Isaias.
The hearings take place via Zoom on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. You can listen in, testify, or tell your story in writing.
Nominate a Citizen of the Year
Through November 4, Weston’s Board of Police Commissioners will accept nominations for its annual Citizen of the Year award.
Each year, the Commission recognizes an outstanding citizen who makes a unique contribution to the town.
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Letters to the Editor
Recent letters in the mailbag include support of Sen. Tony Hwang for "qualities that impress us" and praise for Rep. Anne Hughes for having "delivered many wins for the environment" and being "accessible, responsive, empathetic."
Read Letters to the Editor.
UN Day Flag Raising Ceremony, Friday
A flag raising ceremony at Town Hall on Friday morning, October 23, marks the 75th anniversary of the United Nations.
The one-hour event features vocal and instrumental performances and remarks by James Naughton.
How to Have a Safer Halloween
Halloween and trick-or-treating can still be fun this year. The Connecticut Department of Public Health has suggestions about how it can all take place as safely as possible.
It's all about reducing the risk of traditional activities.
Snap One for New EMS Quarters
New headquarters for Weston Volunteer EMS are almost complete, but there is a problem: the walls are bare.
The Weston EMS Photo Challenge gives talented photographers an opportunity to have images on display that depict life in Weston.
Seeking the State Senate: Kim Healy
Kim Healy, a Wilton resident, is the Republican candidate for the State Senate 26th district.
She said she was first motivated to seek office upon hearing in 2019 of concept bills filed in the Legislature regarding schools and teacher pensions.
How Will You Celebrate Thanksgiving 2020?
Are you as ZOOMed out as I am? Thanksgiving is just around the corner. Will it be possible to celebrate with our families in person and still be safe? It is recommended that social distancing and masks be maintained. That can make for an interesting table configuration.
Reservoir Run Goes Virtual
If this were a normal year, the Weston Kiwanis Half Marathon Reservoir Run would take place later this month.
This year, it's virtual. Your entry fees and donations help fund the Connecticut Food Bank and Weston Social Services.
COVID-19 Antibody Testing: FAQ
People may be looking for more information about COVID-19, particularly if they have been exposed to it and if they have any type of protection against the virus. AFC Urgent Care Norwalk is offering antibody testing for asymptomatic patients to test for COVID-19 antibodies.
Full Reopening Set for Grades K-5
Hurlbutt Elementary and Weston Intermediate schools are set to reopen on October 26 for daily in-person instruction in either full or abbreviated days.
Much remains to be resolved.
Road Work Begins October 23
On or about October 19 (a revised date), maintenance work begins on five Weston roads.
In early November, the plan is to leave one lane open while work is done on the roads.
Hearing Set For In-House Apartment Sizes
On Saturday morning, December 5, the Planning & Zoning Commission will hold a hearing on increasing the allowable size of in-house apartments.
Make Weston Redeemable
Thanks to volunteers, you can still deposit 5-cent redeemable cans and bottles for recycling.
This keeps Weston a little cleaner, saves taxpayers a little money, and generates revenue for local charities.
Seeking Re-Election: Senator Will Haskell
“Two years ago this community really took a chance on me,” says Senator Will Haskell in an interview.
And now, "I am in awe of what we’ve been able to accomplish in just two years,” he said.
Halloween Frights at Lachat Town Farm
On the nights of October 16th, 17th, 23rd, and 24th, Lachat Farm will be diving deep into Weston’s haunted history with an immersive Halloween experience sure to scare all those who are brave enough to attend.
Carl M. Gilpin, 86
Carl M. Gilpin, 86, recently of Pinehurst, North Carolina, passed away on October 4, 2020 at his home.
Mr. Gilpin served as a Lieutenant in the US Army, began a career, and joined Somerset Importers in New York City. At that time he and his family resided in Weston.
About Town
With Election Day 2020 on the horizon, all we hear about in news media is the national story. But what about those who are in the Connecticut General Assembly?
Are they running as well on Election Day November 3rd? You bet!
Making Strides Against Breast Cancer
For the 27th year, the American Cancer Society's Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk takes place on October 25.
Organizers have come up with an innovative approach.
Legislature Passes "Take Back Our Grid"
In special session on September 30, the Connecticut House of Representatives passed the "Take Back Our Grid Act."
The Senate did too, the next day. It's meant to improve service and make utilities more accountable.
Weston Real Estate: Still Hot
A surge in demand for Weston properties continues. In a follow-up to our May report, we learn that inventory is at an all-time low and bidding wars are not uncommon.
Meanwhile, buyers enjoy low interest rates, but lenders are toughening up requirements.
Seeking the State Senate: Michelle McCabe
In an interview, Michelle McCabe, the Democratic candidate for the State Senate 28th District, which includes part of Weston, discusses topics of current interest and the priorities she would have if elected.
Whaleboats in American History, October 14
Whaleboats played a significant role during and after the American Revolution, but much of their history has been overlooked.
On October 14, historian Ed Hynes tells you all about it in a Weston Historical Society presentation.
Letter: 4-CT Meets Its Goal, Looks Ahead
When Don Kendall and Ted Yang formed 4-CT, the goal was to establish a statewide non-profit to support programs and deliver rapid relief from the pandemic. That goal was met.
Now, a new focus.
Phase 3 Reopening Set for October 8
If all goes well over the next two weeks, limits on the size of gatherings in many venues will increase on October 8.
But for the time being, bars and nightclubs will remain closed.
ACT Presents The Last Five Years Live and Streamed
The curtain rises again in October at ACT—A Contemporary Theatre—in Ridgefield. For your viewing pleasure, in person or at home: the modern musical The Last Five Years.
Play Ball for All Forms Teen Mentor Leadership Board
For the past two years, Weston's Play Ball for All has provided an opportunity for the town's athletes to serve younger ones.
This year, the organization is taking it even further.
Weston Students eesmarts Finalists
Students Thomas Carlon, Annalise Kimura, Nicole Linell, Kaeli Mecca, and Nicole Sztachelski were honored as finalists in the 15th annual eesmarts student contest promoting energy efficiency.
Frank G. Schettino, 98
Frank G. Schettino, Commander, USN (Ret.), 98, passed away on September 16, 2020.
Upon retiring from the Navy, Mr. Schettino joined the optical division of Perkin-Elmer Corp., and the family moved to Weston.
COVID Cases Temporarily Close Weston Schools
Weston schools shifted to all-distance for two days this week after school district officials learned that two students tested positive for Covid-19.
Schools reopened on Wednesday in their hybrid mode. Our September 20 original story now contains an update.
Flags at Half-Staff for Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg
Governor Ned Lamont today directed U.S. and state flags in Connecticut to be lowered to half-staff as a mark of respect for the memory of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who died today at the age of 87.
Seeking Re-Election: Rep. Anne Hughes
In the first of a set of interviews with candidates seeking to represent Weston in the General Assembly, State Representative Anne Hughes discusses topics of current interest, accomplishments from her first term, and priorities for a second.
Autumn Football Still Canceled, Spring Back on the Table
Full contact autumn high school football appears to be a definite no-go following today's announcement by CIAC.
A spring season is back on the table.
Alfred Wirtenberg, 74
Alfred Irving Wirtenberg, age 74 of Weston, passed away peacefully on September 14, 2020.
Alfred lived with his wife, Margaret, in Weston for 40 years. An audiophile and avid runner, he loved the town and its natural beauty. Anyone who met Al loved him.
Jolantha is Ready Again
Our pleasure to bring you this from Hans Wilhelm:
Some time ago the school bus driver stopped by to thank us for always dressing Jolantha up for the first day of school. He said, "Every year on their first day of school there are always some crying children on the bus."
School Board Chair: "If Anyone Can Pull This Off, We Can"
In a video interview, Board of Education chair Tony Pesco discusses the agreement with the Weston Teachers' Association, news about the costs of reopening Weston schools, the "pillars" of the reopening plan, and how parents need to do their part.
Something for Everyone at Lachat Town Farm
In true Weston fashion, Lachat Town Farm continues to keep the community connected by reinventing beloved past events and establishing exciting new ones.
Back to School: Expert Advice
In a video interview, we turned to educational advocate Nancy Taylor for expert advice about how to make school re-entry a success.
School Board, Teachers Union Reach Understanding
In a joint statement this evening, the Weston Board of Education and the Weston Teachers' Association announced an agreement and "common understandings" for reopening schools next week.
Court Dismisses Dog Park Appeal
A Superior Court judge dismissed an appeal of the Conservation Commission's approval of locating a dog park on the Town-owned "Moore property."
"The court has no doubt," wrote Judge Taggart Adams, "the record contains substantial evidence to support the Commission's decision."
Lamont, Legislative Leaders Agree to Emergency Extension
Governor Ned Lamont announced today an agreement with legislative leaders to extend his emergency powers five months, to February 9, 2021.
The six-month Public Health and Civil Preparedness Emergency had been set to expire on September 9.
Barbara Warfield Zacavish, 81
Barbara Warfield Zacavish, age 81, a longtime former Weston resident, died peacefully after a brief illness at her home in Wesley Chapel, Florida on August 24. “Barbie,” as she was affectionately known, had a 35-year teaching career at Hurlbutt Elementary School and co-owned the Lunch Box for 37 years.
New Weston Cases a Concern, Include Children
First Selectman Chris Spaulding, visibly troubled by an outbreak in the region and new Weston coronavirus cases that include children, urges Weston residents to remain disciplined and do the right thing.
Teachers: We Don't Feel Safe
Teachers in Weston public schools are more than nervous about returning to classrooms, according to the Weston Teachers' Association. Some teachers put it plainly: "We are terrified."
A Good Idea: Share the Road
You may have seen Share the Road signs popping up around town, especially on busy streets. They come to you courtesy of the Weston Police and Board of Police Commissioners.
No threats about the long arm of the law, but a polite request: let's watch out for each other.
A Friend Remembers Lynne Barrelle, Weston Town Historian
Weston's Town Historian, Lynne Barrelle, passed away on August 18. Her friend and colleague, Mary Ann Barr, Town Historian of Danby, New York, writes that the two "were fellow explorers into Weston history for many years."
How Weston Schools Will Reopen: The Plan
Weston public schools open on September 8, if all goes as planned, with a blend of in-person and online instruction, a full curriculum, and a more populace student body.
Questions remain about athletics, with a shift to spring possible for two autumn sports.
Community Kindness: Trip’s Tree
Four-year-old Trip Burns has always had a special connection with nature and the outdoors.
His interest in one particular tree produced a touching kindness.
Post Office Challenges in Weston and Beyond
Long lines and long waits at the Weston Post Office, frustrating to many residents, are mainly attributable to the facility's size.
The Postal Service itself is under great pressure.
Powerless
For about a week, we were reduced to reporting only to our email list whenever we could find a stray signal strong enough to connect.
In this story, photos and a recap of our email reports.
The Real Dogs of Weston
Meet Arlo, an American Blue-Nose Pit Bull whose love of life can barely be contained by his gigantic puppy body.
Weighing in at 110 pounds of pure mush, this love bug will charm you right off your feet (sometimes literally) with his affectionate personality and enthusiastic kisses..
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Other Recent News
Links to all previous articles can be found in our aptly-named Previous Articles section.
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