The initiative aims to reduce single-use plastics, and expand water-filling stations around town. The goal is to “turn shared intention into measurable, community-wide change.”
Once a month, we help them highlight an area of daily life where single-use plastic is most common, along with practical ideas to use. This month, we focus on a topic we all relate to: groceries.
Grocery runs are unglamorous. We do them often — and often without thinking.
But think about this: A surprising amount of what ends up in the cart is wrapped in plastic that did not need to be there.
To help Westporters cut down on the plastic entering their home, Sustainable Westport has released its UnPlastic Your Groceries guide. We break the store down, to show where the easiest swaps are.
Be a smart shopper!
One resident shows what that looks like in practice.
Sustainable Westport’s Gretchen Hoffmann took a camera along on a regular grocery trip. She walked aisle by aisle, pointing out plenty of plastic-free choices. Click here to see.
Produce: Choose loose fruits and vegetables over the pre-bagged multi-pack whenever there’s a choice. Skip the produce bag entirely for anything with a peel, like oranges or avocados. Or use your own reusable produce bags as needed.
Bulk Bins: Both the Westport Whole Foods and Fresh Market stock bulk bins for grains, nuts, snacks and more. Bring your own container, weigh it at customer service, and skip the packaging altogether.
Buy in bulk!
Butcher & Seafood Counter: A simple ask (paper instead of the pre-packaged plastic tray) that most counters are happy to accommodate, even if it’s not posted anywhere. Some stores only have the plastic-wrapped options, so make the best choice you can.
Condiments:Ketchup, mustard, mayo and others all come in glass as well as plastic. They’re usually on the same shelf — at a similar price.
None of this requires a special trip or specific store. It’s the same cart, same list — just a slightly different choice at each stop.
Every individual swap is minor on its own — one glass jar instead of plastic, one loose pepper instead of a bagged 3-pack.
But multiplied across carts, over months, across a town, it adds up to something bigger than waste reduction.
It’s a signal to local stores about what Westporters actually want on the shelf. That’s part of what shapes what gets stocked here in the first place.
To see Gretchen’s full grocery trip, follow along on Instagram: @sustainablewestport.
For the complete aisle-by-aisle breakdown, along with product recommendations for bulk shopping, produce bags and pantry staples, visit the fullUnPlastic Your Groceries guide on Sustainable Westport’s site.
(In 2026, the team’s goal is to turn shared intention into measurable, community-wide change. Plastic affects our health, our environment, and communities far beyond our borders, and recycling alone is not solving the problem. That’s why UnPlastic Westport focuses on reducing plastic at the source through education, practical swaps, and collective action. Follow along on Instagram (@sustainablewestport) or sign up for their newsletter for more tips.)
A reader writes: “The Ned Dimes Marina, and the pumps there, are still operating only on generator power.
“Eversource has yet to restore power to the marina (since the marina construction project). Why Eversource hasn’t restored power there in all of this time is crazy.”
“06880” contacted Public Works director Larry Roberts. He replied quickly:
As part of the Compo marina project, new switch gear was to be installed — this is the exterior cabinet containing the circuit breaker panel and other equipment that receives power from the Eversource transformer, and distributes it to the marina’s sub-panels.
“Load calculations performed during the design phase showed the new switch gear would not exceed what it was replacing; in fact, the calculated amperage called for a smaller panel than the existing one.
“During construction, we learned that Eversource would require a new transformer regardless of the smaller switch gear. That triggered a requirement to ‘harden’ the electrical service to meet updated code — for example, elevating the transformer above the FEMA flood plain.
“When we brought an appropriation request to the Board of Finance, but it was withdrawn due to inaccuracies in the accompanying materials.
“In any event, the work was not anticipated to begin until after the summer boating season.
“We’re now soliciting a competitive bid for the work, which I expect will produce savings — hopefully substantial — compared to the original request. The tradeoff is a longer timeline, partly due to design review by Eversource to confirm the new system meets their regulatory requirements.
“Our goal is to have bids returned and the work completed by late winter. Unfortunately, that means the marina will run on generator power for the rest of the boating season.
“The upside: once complete, the marina, South Beach bathrooms, and event power in the parking lot (Lobsterfest and others) will run on an electrical system that’s resilient to flooding and erosion for years to come.”
Ned Dimes Marina has used generators throughout the renovation project. (Photo/DinkinESH Fotografix)
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Time to get rid of your gun?
The Westport Police Department will buy it back.
On October 3 (10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Police headquarters, Jesup Road), Westport will participate in a statewide gun buyback and gun safe giveaway program.
It’s 100% anonymous. No identification is required.
Gift cards will be exchanged for operable firearms, while supplies last.
In addition, a limited number of free PIN-code gun safes will be available to pistol permit holders while supplies last.
Firearms must be transported in the trunk of the vehicle
Non-working firearms, black-powder weapons, flare guns, ghost guns, pellet/BB guns, ammunition, and magazine clips are not eligible for gift cards, but may still be turned in.
The program is sponsored by the Newtown Alliance Foundation. For additional information, contact Lieutenant Sereniti Dobson: sdobson@westportct.gov; 203-341-6010.
Residents who subscribe to the town’s government email list were surprised to learn yesterday that the Board of Finance is canceling 4 upcoming meetings: October 21, November 18, December 16 and January 20.
But that doesn’t mean they’re pulling a House of Representatives move, and not meeting at all.
Chair Danielle Dobin explains: “The Board of Finance traditionally meets monthly. Collectively, we decided to add a second monthly meeting to ensure that all follow-up appropriation requests could be heard in a timely fashion.
“However, we found that we were consistently canceling these additional meetings, so we are reverting to our traditional monthly schedule. Our regular monthly meetings, which were noticed this past January, remain on the calendar.
“Should a matter arise that requires more immediate consideration, the Board can always schedule an additional meeting as a special session.”
Don’t worry! The Board of Finance will continue to meet monthly, keeping an eye on all town expenditures.
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Families, friends, neighbors and individuals are invited to “Give Back Together” — and help Homes with Hope.
Next Saturday (September 26, 8 to 11 a.m., 10 Church Lane), volunteers will pack essential item bags — filled with household items, snacks and personal hygiene products — for people served by Westport’s supportive housing non-profit.
A $25 contribution covers the cost of 2 bags. All items will be provided. Click here to register. The event is sponsored by the Westport Downtown Association, FLB Law, David Adam Realty and Willo.
Westport Counseling and Therapy has just launched a new Young Adult Counseling Group. It’s aimed at people navigating the challenges of that stage of life: family and relationships, confidence and identity, stress management, communication, life transitions and change, and work-life balance.
The new group fills a gap in mental health support for young adults, who may not always have access to services designed specifically around the challenges of this period. Group counseling offers a supportive, confidential space to gain perspective, deepen self-understanding, develop effective coping strategies, and build meaningful connections with others who are navigating similar questions, experiences, and transitions during a pivotal life stage.
Lapde wanted to create a client-centered practice that accepts insurance, making quality mental health care more accessible to the communit. She and her 5 clinicians offer in-person counseling, as well telehealth,
Lapde’s team takes an integrative approach to therapy, drawing from psychodynamic, CBT, EMDR, solution-focused therapy, person-centered, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and more. .
Westport Country Playhouse is famous for producing 2- and 3-week shows.
But they’ve gotten into 1-off programming too.
Up soon: “Rent Control” (September 28, 7 p.m.).
The Off-Broadway comedy, written and performed by playwright/actor Evan Zes, is based on his own story.
The play follows a struggling New York actor who devises a seemingly clever moneymaking scheme — only to watch it spiral wildly, and hilariously, out of control.
Zes finds himself caught up with a cast of internet scammers and low-level gangsters. In this wild-but-true tale of greed, survival and redemption, Zes brings 25 characters to life.
“Rent Control” enjoyed back-to-back sold-out runs, at its 2016 New York International Fringe Festival debut and the Fringe Encore Series at SoHo Playhouse. Zes has since taken the production internationally.
The Weston History & Culture Center kicks off their new speaker series, “Backstories & Breakfast,” with a bewitching topic.
Three days before Halloween (October 28, 10 a.m.), the topic is “Witches of Connecticut.”
Rebecca Gavin, director of education at the Connecticut Museum of Culture & History, will share stories of some of the women (and men!) accused, tried and executed as witches — and describe how Connecticut ultimately controlled the spread of accusations.
The trials and executions here predated the more famous Salem witch panic by over 40 years.
Fresh on the heels of their a cappella camp for kids, Westport musicians Danielle Merlis and Robert Kwan have organized a group of adulsts.
Aimed at people who love to sing, learn music and connect with others, A Cappella Central is for you.
All are welcome: former college singers, seasoned musicians, those who have not sung in years, and anyone brand new but eager to try.
There is no audition. All voice parts are invited. The group will be fun, supportive and friendly.
An open house (with pizza!) is set for September 30 (7 to 8:30 p.m., Trinity Episcopal Church, Southport. The group will continue meeting there on WEdesdays, at the same time.
Just in time for Halloween, Westport native Charlie Greenwald has published “Jeff O’Lantern.”
Aimed at kindergartners through 2nd graders it’s a “funny, heartwarming picture book about a shy little pumpkin.” (Jeff O’Lantern — Jack’s younger brother — is not quite as spooky.)
Readers can discover that being shy or gentle is not a weakness. and that kindness can be its own kind of bravery.
PS: Charlie will entertain young readers October 25 (1 p.m.) at Barnes & Noble, with a special Storytime session.
Don’t miss it. He’s as entertaining as the book!
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At least once a week, someone sends a photo of an eagle perched atop the communication tower by the Westport Police station.
Look! they say. How cool is this?!
It would be more cool if it were an actual eagle.
Unfortunately, it’s a decoy. It’s there — and has been for months, if not years — to keep other birds from flocking to the equipment.
Judith Katz was the latest reader to excitedly send in that photo.
Sorry ! replied. It’s a decoy.
But she followed up with the entire, uncropped image. It showed a second — and real — bird, nearby.
Maybe — after all this time — the birds have gotten wise to the WPD ruse.
(Photo/Judith Katz)
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A 2-car accident at 5:40 p.m. yesterday closed Imperial Avenue for a short time.
Westport firefighters, police officers and EMTs were on the scene, through 6:50.
Imperial Avenue (Photo/Westport Fire Department)
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Dave Briggs lends his substantial MC talents to many causes.
One of the best is Hero to Hero, the non-profit dedicated to transitioning servicemembers.
They, and the team behind the upcoming film “Blue Bunny,” host their 2nd joint fundraiser, “An Evening of Honor and Service,” on October 2 (6:30 p.m., Fairfield Theatre Company).
Guests will enjoy a sneak peek of footage from “Blue Bunny,” personal appearances from stars of the film, and powerful firsthand accounts from veterans whose lives intersect with the mission of Hero to Hero.
The evening also features food, wine, beer, and a specialty Hero cocktail. creating a warm and celebratory atmosphere in support of a meaningful cause.
But families still flock to Compo Beach, on weekend nights.
This was the scene last evening. If that’s a limbo stick, they have to lower it considerably.
(Photo/DinkinESH Fotografix)
Today, nearby, South Beach will be packed with 1,500 guests, and 200 volunteers.
It’s the Westport Rotary Club’s annual LobsterFest.
If you don’t have tickets … you’re out of luck. It’s been sold out since August.
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Bees are our friends!
As Jeff Manchester’s “Westport … Naturally” photo shows, they are one of the best ways to eradicate spotted lanternflies.
Isn’t nature amazing?
(Photo/Jeff Manchester)
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And finally … in honor of the Weston History & Culture Center’s upcoming discussion of Connecticut witches:
(It’s not magic. Just click here to support “06880” — your hyper-local blog. We won’t put a spell on you if you don’t. At least, we probably won’t. Thank you!)
A reminder to all our visitors: Each week, many works are for sale.
We’ve revised our email notification system. Artists: Be on the lookout for a new address in your inbox when someone wants to purchase your work.
Remember: No matter your age; the style or subject you choose — and whether you’re a first-timer or old-timer — we want your submissions. Watercolors, oils, charcoal, pen-and-ink, acrylics, mixed media, digital, lithographs, collages, macramé, jewelry, sculpture, decoupage, needlepoint — we want whatever you’ve got.
Just email a JPG to 06880blog@gmail.com. And please include the medium you’re working in.
“A Yom Kippur Prayer To Be Written and Sealed in the Book of Life For a Peaceful and a Good Year” — watercolor (Steve Stein)
Untitled (Michael Chait — Available for purchase; click here)
“Westport Onions Ready for New York City” (Eric Bosch)
Untitled (Rowene Weems — Available for purchase; click here)
“The Footbridge Over Deadman Brook” (Michael Tomashefsky)
“Saugatuck Station Power Grid” (John Maloney)
“Rings of Life” (Jerry Kuyper)
“Once Upon a Time” (Dorothy Robertshaw — Available for purchase; click here)
“A Little Music” — June Rose Whittaker (Available for purchase — click here)
Untitled — acrylic and sharpie (Susan Celuch)
“Croatian Boy in Cavtat” Wendy Levy)
“Traffic” (Robbie Sumberg)
“This Ol’ Dawg Ain’t Gonna Learn Any New Tricks!” (Mike Hibbard)
Untitled (Duane Cohen — Available for purchase; click here)
(Entrance is free to our online art gallery –as it has been for 6 years. But please consider an anniversary donation! Just click here — and thank you!)
After Sunday’s 7-inch “rain bomb,” a neighbor of the proposed redevelopment of 55 Greens Farms Road — which would replace 1 of 2 office buildings next to Assumption Cemetery with 250 apartments, 30% of them affordable under state formulas — writes:
During Wednesday’s Conservation Commission hearing, members prudently chose to continue the review until October rather than vote on the application, for which the surrounding community is grateful.
A proposal of this scale and sensitivity deserves a dedicated hearing. It is difficult for both the Commission and the public to adequately consider such a complex application after hours of reviewing important but perhaps less consequential matters.
Wednesday evening’s presentation by the applicant’s team of professionals was impressive, visually compelling, and optimistic.
However, it also appeared to lack details that warrant further examination.
Aerial view of Greens Farms Road office buildings. The southern one (bottom) would be demolished, for 250 apartment units.
Several aspects of the proposal were presented, including but not limited to green spaces, walkways, plantings, water management and maintenance plans.
But it failed to elaborate on the true scale of the proposal in more detail — for example, number of units, coverage comparison and parking, under the rationale that they fall outside the Conservation Commission’s purview.
While that may be technically correct, some of these issues have significant implications for stormwater management, impervious coverage, and environmental impacts, all of which are directly relevant to conservation concerns and fall under the Commission’s oversight, in addition to the Commission’s request for a side-by-side comparison.
During the presentation, a consulting engineer stated that the property did not experience what was characterized as complete flooding during the recent 200-year storm event, contrary to the image below with a vehicle partially submerged in floodwaters.
Respectfully, it begs the question of what standard is used to define complete flooding. By any reasonable measure, substantial portions of the property, both above and below grade, were underwater.
The parking garage appeared to have flooded, roadways providing access to and from the property were inundated, and adjacent wetlands overflowed significantly, breaching abutting properties.
This was one for the record books — but will it be the last one?
Last Sunday’s flood, at 55-57 Greens Farms Road.
Equally concerning are the effects on neighboring properties. At least one concerned resident bordering the wetlands observed water levels extending well beyond that area. One would argue that these conditions constitute extensive flooding, and should be acknowledged when evaluating future development impacts.
Although parking may not fall directly under the Conservation Commission’s jurisdiction, impervious coverage and land disturbance certainly do. The proposal contemplates accommodating all required parking beneath the building footprint, rather than in traditional surface lots.
On paper, this is an attractive concept. However, can the required parking be fully accommodated under the building footprint as proposed? It doesn’t take long to understand the true scale of the proposal.
On the site plan provided by the developing team, as part of the meeting materials, you can see the existing back building that is planned to remain, at least for now, next to the new proposed larger building, shown in beige with pale green donut holes representing courtyards within the building. The 2 existing buildings are identical in size; the proposal is far from it.
The new building (bottom) would be substantially larger than the current one.
The question is not what’s under the Commission’s purview, but whether safeguards should be established now as the proposal is further detailed. Should the final site plan design deviate from the proposal as it moves through other agency approvals, no modifications should be granted without a comprehensive public review process, including notice and hearing requirements.
Too often, substantial project modifications occur later in the approval process when public scrutiny has diminished. If or when the development proceeds, all of Westport deserves assurance that future changes will not undermine the environmental commitments being presented today.
The broader environmental impacts of this development also deserve careful consideration. The proposal includes extensive native plantings, pollinator habitats, and attractive landscape features. While these elements are commendable, they do not eliminate the significant ecological disruption associated with large-scale construction.
Construction activity remains a major source of environmental disturbance through habitat fragmentation, waste generation, erosion, sedimentation, and impacts to surrounding ecosystems, particularly where wetlands are involved, even with protections in place.
Could the Sherwood Mill Pond watershed basin also be impacted, as it is connected through smaller waterways? Adaptive reuse rather than a redevelopment may not be appropriate here, but it provides many lessons not to be ignored.
Sherwood Mill Pond is not far from 55 Greens Farms Road.
The development team also referenced future maintenance plans intended to preserve the property’s environmental performance. Such plans are encouraging in theory, but they ultimately rely on consistent implementation and enforcement.
Who will ensure compliance years after approvals have been granted, construction has been completed, and the dust has settled?
Another voiced concern during the hearing: The town’s resources for monitoring private properties are limited. The site’s existing office park likely had maintenance obligations, yet residents have witnessed years of neglect, including recurring litter and debris entering the watershed from adjacent roadways and highways, using the roadway as a trash conveyor belt.
Another point articulated at the hearing: Many times, it is the residents who volunteer to go up and down this stretch of road and collect the garbage. A high-density development will only add to the problem.
A redevelopment could be inevitable; the owners have made a substantial financial investment and intend to seek a reasonable return, but at what expense?
The objective is not to prevent development (although it would be ideal), but to ensure that it receives even more rigorous scrutiny such a consequential project deserves.
We have not even touched on the traffic this will create on an already overwhelmed road, not to mention the everlasting debate about what will happen to the beloved Cribari Bridge once it’s further overwhelmed and likely becomes structurally inadequate.
This section of Westport may appear as the forgotten land, but it is home to families, many of whom have lived here for generations. They have repeatedly dealt with flooding due to poor upkeep of the waterways, never-ending traffic, and are bracing for additional impact. But they are hopeful for some reprieve.
Perhaps the new development will, in fact, improve the water management capability of the property and be a positive addition to the community.
But at the moment, the facts and scale are not feeding much confidence or conviction to those who will be impacted the most. Rest assured, the ripple effects of this not-so-small pebble in the pond will be felt far beyond the adjoining properties.
(“06880” Opinion pages are open to all. Send submissions to 06880blog@gmail.com. To make a tax-deductible contribution supporting our work, please click here. Thank you!
Town officials have posted a Storm Recovery webpage.
The site (click here) will help residents and businesses affected by the September 13 flooding find assistance, insurance information, repair guidance and town updates, all in one place.
The page includes recovery resources from the Department of Human Services, and guidance from the Planning & Zoning Department about storm damage repairs and permitting requirements.
“We know many residents and business owners are still cleaning up, dealing with losses and figuring out what comes next,” says 1st Selectman Kevin Christie.
“Our goal is to make it easier to find useful information and connect with people who can help.”
Norwalk Avenue flooding near Compo Beach, on September 13.
The webpage includes:
Reporting storm damage: The state’s damage survey for residents and businesses to report flood damage and help document the extent of the storm.
Insurance help: Connecticut Insurance Department contact information and guidance for residents and businesses with coverage or claims questions.
Help with recovery needs: Human Services contacts and a downloadable guide covering food, housing referrals, financial assistance and other resources.
Repairs and permits: Town guidance on approvals that may be required before beginning storm repairs or reconstruction, with Planning & Zoning contact information.
Town updates: Storm-related news releases, and links to sign up for emergency alerts and town news.
Additional updates will be added as recovery work progresses.
Residents and businesses affected by the flooding are encouraged to complete the state’s damage survey.
NOTE: The survey is not an insurance claim or application for assistance and does not guarantee aid. Insurance coverage and claims should be addressed separately with your insurance company.
Closure of the Green’s Farms post office after Sunday’s storm has been an inconvenience to patrons.
And not just because it’s an easy-to-park-it, always-uncrowded alternative to the always-busy Playhouse Square location.
Locked doors meant people with PO boxes could not access them.
Now, a note alerts all box holders to knock on the side door. Postmaster Suzannie Swaine will hand you your mail.
The building suffered serious damage. At the height of the storm, the interior was inundated with up to 5 inches of water. In nearly 25 years at Green’s Farms, Swaine had never seen that.
She and a fellow postal worker spent Monday and Tuesday cleaning up, and throwing away water-damaged materials. Not a single piece of mail was lost.
A postal technician was scheduled to reset or replace the server that works the computerized mail and postage equipment. Until that is done, the branch is closed to walk-in traffic.
Box holders may get their mail weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.
Green’s Farms post office, in dryer days.(Photo/Bobbie Herman)
He said that DPW is also reviewing reports of lingering standing water near Bradley Street and Fairfield Avenue, and debris in nearby drainage structures.
A homeowner on nearby Norwalk Avenue — one of 4 roads between Soundview Drive and Bradley Street — wants to make sure that town officials know about their plight too.
He writes: “The drains in front of 6 Norwalk have backed up several times this summer, even before this most recent storm.
“I’ve been in contact with the town engineer. He assured me everything operated as intended, but I want to be sure the right town officials are aware that the marina pump situation responsible for the drains on our street should be evaluated as well.”
Here are 2 photos of the flooding on Sunday, after the rain ended.
Westport resident Meredith Gerard is a sepsis survivor.
She has worked hard to bring more awareness to the life-threatening medical emergency: knowing the signs, understanding how quickly it can happen, and the importance of getting treatment fast.
Her advocacy to get the state to recognize September as Sepsis Awareness Month has paid off.
Locally, Westport declared September 14 Sepsis Awareness Day. 1st Selectman Kevin Christie presented the proclamation to Meredith and and her family at Town Hall.
The effects of sepsis did not end when she left the hospital. It has had a lasting impact on me and my family over the past several years. She is proud that her children see that when something difficult happens, it can turn into an experience that helps others.
Among the signs of sepsis:
Fever above 100.4°F, or body temperature below 96.5°F.
Signs or symptoms of a current infection (like a cough, painful urination, or a red wound).
Mental Decline: Extreme confusion, sleepiness, or trouble waking up.
Extremely Ill: Severe pain, shortness of breath, or a feeling like you might die.
Meredith Gerard (2nd from right), 1st Selectman Kevin Christie (holding proclamation), and family and friends.
Ruff to Radiant is a mobile pet grooming service in Fairfield and New Haven Counties.
The other day Katie, the owner, was working with a dog named Stella. When Katie was done, Stella ran into her back yard.
She fell into a pool, and was drowning.
When the owner jumped in and got her out, she was not breathing. Katie laid her on the driveway, and performed chest compressions and “mouth to snout” CPR.
Within a minute, she regained her pulse.
Stella was taken to the vet. She went home that day, with oxygen and a heating blanket.
Earth Animal has asked Katie to teach a class on dog CPR. We’ll provide more details when we get them. (Hat tip: Jann Colabella)
Mark Mathias writes: “A big, noisy, yellow truck came down Juniper Road this morning.
“It was cleaning and filling cracks in the road with tar. Then another worker put some sand or other abrasive on top of the tar to give it some traction.
“Hopefully, this will keep water from getting into the roads, freezing (and expanding), and then cracking the roads during the winter.
“Thanks to our Public Works department for making this investment in our roads!”
Three Indigenous grandmothers lead a day of conversation and learning tomorrow (Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport).
Indigenous grandmothers: Nana Williams (Mayan spiritual guide), Marsha Forest (Wisdom Keeper of Mohawk ancestry), and Nancy Andry (Algonquin and French heritage).
This Sunday (September 20, 9 to 11 a.m.), ALT executive director David Brant leads a hike of its newest addition: the 15-acre Plummer property, formerly owned by actor Christopher Plummer and his wife Elaine. The hike is of intermediate difficulty. Click here for more information.
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The next Staples High School sports team fundraising car wash is tomorrow (Saturday, September 19, 12 to 4 p.m., 176 Post Road West — former Carvana property opposite Kings Highway School)
Clarendon Fine Art’s next exhibit features Brian Keith Stephens.
His paintings use familiar creatures to explore human emotion and behavior. His work has appeared in more than 100 exhibitions internationally since 1996.
Stephens will be at the opening reception (October 3, 6 to 8 p.m.).
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Barboletta — a Santana tribute band — brought their powerhouse music to the Levitt Pavilion last night.
They’ve become a Levitt tradition. The band includes local musicians from different national and international touring acts, including Lotus, Twiddle, The Machine, Deep Banana Blackout and Kung Fu.
Special guest Jason L Terry was an added attraction.
The final event listed on the Levitt calendar is this coming Wednesday (September 23, 7:30 p.m.; free). King Stingray plays “Yoluu surf rock” — with indie and funk influences — that has captivated all of Australia. (Hat tip: Matthew Mandell)
Barboletta rocks the Levitt. (Photo/Susan Garment)
After 3 years they’re concentrating on their other restaurants, including a new one in Darien.
Several “06880” commenters questioned whether any operator can succeed at the 107-year-old beach neighborhood location.
Jim Hood and Ian Warburg say they can.
As 2 of the principals of Soundview Empowerment Alliance — the owners of the property — they write:
There has been a lot of thoughtful discussion since Dan’s post about the transition at Old Mill Grocery & Deli. We thought it might be helpful to add a little history and context, particularly around the question of whether a business can succeed at 222 Hillspoint Road.
We believe it can, and the history gives us good reason to feel that way.
Elvira’s was profitable for more than 2 decades. It supported Stacy and Nick, their family and employees, and helped them build meaningful equity in the property.
When they sold in 2019, it wasn’t because the business had failed. They were ready to retire after many years of extraordinarily hard work.
Nicky and Stacey Yiovanakos at their familiar spot. Under their ownership, Elvira’s was profitable.
Romanacci has also been profitable at Old Mill.
Their decision to move on doesn’t mean a business can’t succeed here. It simply means that, for a growing company with several locations and other opportunities, the return at Old Mill hasn’t been enough to justify the considerable time and attention the location requires.
That’s an important distinction.
The last several years have also brought challenges that earlier operators didn’t face to the same degree. Unfortunate legal disputes consumed a great deal of time, money and energy that otherwise could have gone into improving and growing the business.
Legal disputes involving a gelato cart, outdoor tables and alcohol sales consumed time, money and energy. (Photo/Dan Woog)
But there is another side to that story.
Thousands of residents, neighbors and visitors have supported preserving Old Mill. Many hundreds contributed financially to save it back in 2022.
And many more continue to show, through their ongoing donations, patronage and affection for the place, how much they want this neighborhood institution to remain part of the community.
It’s also worth remembering what this place has been for more than a century.
The property has operated commercially since 1919. For generations, it wasn’t simply a place to buy a sandwich.
Old Mill Grocery has stood — and served — for over 100 years.
It was opened as The Old Mill Store, and soon after became The Old Mill Grocery & Deli, always a place for groceries, prepared food, beverages, ice cream and the everyday things people needed. Stopping there was simply part of living in the neighborhood.
Some of that habit has been lost over the years. COVID changed routines. The neighborhood changed. Delivery services changed the way all of us buy food and household necessities.
Those are real challenges. But we don’t think they mean a business there is no longer viable.
We think the opportunity is to create an updated version of the neighborhood market that worked here for generations: great prepared food, groceries, beverages, convenience items and other permitted offerings, with reasons for people to stop in throughout the day and throughout the year.
Saturday morning, at Old Mill Grocery & Deli.
There is also one very important difference between Old Mill and most commercial properties.
Its owner, Soundview Empowerment Alliance, is a nonprofit.
SEA was created by this community for 2 purposes: to preserve this historic neighborhood institution, and to create opportunities for young people with disabilities.
“Preserving History. Serving Good.”
SEA didn’t acquire 222 Hillspoint Road as a real estate investment. And our goal isn’t to maximize the financial return on the property.
We measure success differently.
If Old Mill remains a thriving neighborhood gathering place, and if it also creates opportunities for young people with disabilities to learn, work and grow, then we are accomplishing what the community created SEA to do.
That matters economically as well.
We can offer the next operator a modest, commercially reasonable rent designed to help the business succeed, rather than trying to extract the maximum possible return from the real estate.
So for us, the question isn’t really whether Old Mill can work.
It’s whether we can find the next right operator to create the 2026 version of the neighborhood market Westport has embraced for more than a century, one that respects what this place has been while adapting to the way people live today.
Based on the history of the property, what we’ve learned over the last several years, and the conversations we’re having with prospective operators, we believe we can.
We’re not out to recreate Elvira’s, or Kenny’s before it.
Our aim is to support the next generation of operators of the Old Mill Grocery & Deli, enabling it to remain the special place – the heart and hub – this community will continue to embrace for decades to come.
With gratitude,
Jim Hood and Ian Warburg
On behalf of Soundview Empowerment Alliance
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Staples High School girls soccer.
