Good morning, Westport.

Westport Country Playhouse remembered Robert Redford for his support of the arts when he filmed a sketch with Paul Newman in 2004—his gesture helped raise funds for the playhouse renovation and continues to inspire local theater efforts.

A survey released on September 15 found that more than 800 educators reported burnout and job dissatisfaction as factors such as low salaries, high stress, and rising student behavior problems have strained schools.

Many teachers urged for higher pay and better mental health support to address the growing shortage.

The Westport Planning and Zoning Commission reviewed a pre-application from local builder Ronald Friedson proposing higher density affordable housing on Route 1 and Route 33 — his plan would allow 45 units per acre with nearly 70 percent affordable units.

Several commissioners called for a subcommittee review to analyze the proposal further while Friedson works on his Fairfield project expected to finish in March.

Connecticut’s chief justice and governor announced new rules that ban immigration agents from making arrests at courthouses without a warrant and from hiding their faces—unless a mask is needed for health reasons.

The rules go into effect immediately to keep courthouses calm, while critics say it may lead to more unsafe street arrests.

Gov. Ned Lamont is meeting with lawmakers to work on a revised housing bill meant to boost affordable housing as the state struggles with a tight market and rising homelessness.

Lawmakers have not yet agreed on the proposal and will decide if a strong bill will be ready for a special session in October—officials stress the need for careful balance between state and local interests.

Westport Planning and Zoning deferred its decision on a four-lot subdivision at 107 Old Road after neighbors raised concerns about flooding and the look of a retaining wall—commissioners will tour the site on Oct.

6 and request more detailed drawings before reconsidering the proposal.

The Connecticut Insurance Department approved a double-digit health insurance rate hike that will affect over 220,000 people next year with nearly 17% increases on individual plans and 11% on small group policies, and local business owners in Westport plus lawmakers have warned that rising costs could impact families and small businesses. The department said the increase is due to rising health care costs, including prescription drugs and more demand for services.

Photos capture action during the high school soccer match between Greenwich and Staples in Westport on Tuesday, September 16, as Greenwich's Nicholas Martschenko celebrated a goal while Staples' goalie Jack D'Amore made a key save — marking a competitive FCIAC contest.

Westport Lobster Festival

7-11 p.m. — Compo Beach — Ticket required — A delectable night featuring lobsters, music, and fun for the whole family.

Make Tracks Walk/5K Run for Kids with Cancer

9-11 a.m. — Sherwood Island State Park — Registration fee applies — Participate in the 11th Annual Walk/Run supporting children battling cancer in Connecticut.

Oyster Festival on the Sound

6-8 p.m. — Copps Island Oysters by Norm Bloom & Son, LLC — Ticket required — Savor fresh local oysters and a buffet while enjoying stunning waterfront views.

Rhythm and Rhyme

10:30-11:00 a.m. — The Westport Library — Free entry — Enjoy a lively session of movement, nursery rhymes, and storytelling for young children.

Story Fun with Miss Jessica

4:30-5:00 p.m. — The Westport Library — Free entry — Enjoy engaging stories and fun activities for kindergarteners and first graders with Miss Jessica.

Tummy Time for Babies

9:30-10:00 a.m. — The Westport Library — Free entry — Engage pre-walking babies with songs, fingerplays, and bouncing during this playful session.

Create a Spooky Book Nook

5-6 p.m. — The Westport Library — Free entry — Craft a miniature spooky scene in a diorama to fit between your bookshelf books.

10th Annual Air Cooled Classic Car Show

9 AM – 2 PM — Veteran's Green, 109 Myrtle Ave, Westport, CT — $25 per car — A showcase of air cooled vehicles with bike tours, vintage displays, and family activities.