Category Archives: Local business

Roundup: Al Fiore Services, Frank Pepe’s Pizza, Assumption’s Lights …

Posted on December 9, 2025 | Comments Off on Roundup: Al Fiore Services, Frank Pepe’s Pizza, Assumption’s Lights …

Visitation for Al Fiore —Westport’s former police chief, who died Saturday — will take place this Thursday (December 11, 4 to 7 p.m., Harding Funeral Home).

A funeral Mass will be held Friday (December 12, 11 .m., Assumption Church).

Al Fiore

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Frank Pepe’s pizzas are coming to Westport.

The iconic New Haven restaurant will open its 18th location this summer. The Italian apizza place takes over the spot previously occupied by an Indian eatery, The Naan.

It’s a full circle moment. Before The Naan and Kibberia (Mediterranean), the first tenant in the space was John’s Best Pizza.

The closest Frank Pepe Pizza Napoletana right now is in Fairfield. There are 7 in Connecticut, with others in New York, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Maryland and Florida.

There will be 90 seats, and takeout too.

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Add one more display to Westport’s Christmas lights.

Assumption Church lit theirs Sunday night — the building, as well as the handsome tree beside it.

(Photo/Mary Sikorski)

Slow down and admire the lights.

Or enjoy while stuck in a long line of traffic…

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Also Sunday: Birchwood Country Club’s annual Gingerbread Brunch.

The family buffet was followed by decorating. Each youngster got their own basic gingerbread house, and decorations.

The crowd of 125 had a great time. These are gingerbread houses that will not be re-gifted.

Or used as doorstops. (Hat tip: Mel Sokotch)

Lookin’ good!

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The Pop Shop holiday market returns Saturday to the Westport Museum for History & Culture (December 13, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.).

Among the items sold by the 25 vendors: global accessories and gifts, vintage jewelry with a modern twist, antique treasures, women’s clothing, treats for dogs, and tableware.

The Honey Bee Flower Truck will be there too, with wreaths, winter arrangements and  holiday botanicals.

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Alert “06880” reader Rick Leonard noticed some changes at Fred’s Car Wash, just over the line in Southport.

A full dumpster and cones in the parking lot; vacuum hoses pulled.

He dug a bit, and learned that Fred’s is becoming Russell Speeder’s. That’s similar to transformation of the one just over the other line, on Westport Ave in Norwalk.

The Speeder’s chain has nearly 100 locations, in Connecticut, New York, New Jersey — and Missouri and Nebraska.

Fred’s Car Wash — soon to be Speeder’s. (Photo/Rick Leonard)

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The deadline for submissions to Mo\CA CT’s high school art show has been extended. The new final date is February 13.

The 11th annual high school exhibition is “The Sound of Us: Youth Culture Now.” It coincides with the Westport Public Art Collections’ exhibition, “Art, Jazz + the Blues.”

The exhibition explores the effects of contemporary music on today’s youth culture. Music is a catalyst for conversation, inspiring political awareness and mobilizing youth-led movements. It influences how young people speak, what they stand for, and how they connect with one another.

Students will be prompted to select a song from 2020 to today, and create a work of art that shows its effects on youth culture through fashion, social interactions, speech, education, political alertness and activism, or life in general.

Click here for the application, and more information.

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Comedy comes to the VFW this Friday (December 12, 8 p.m.).

Joe Pontillo stars in a Christmas show — “or whatever you celebrate.” Click here for tickets, and more information.

Joe Pontillo

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Speaking of the VFW: This week’s Jazz at the Post (December 11) there features guitarist Ed Cherry. He performed with Dizzy Gillespie from 1978 until shortly before Gillespie’s death in 1993, winning a Grammy together for “Live at Royal Festival Hall.

Cherry will be joined by bassist Matt Dwonszyk, saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall, and Jason Tiemann.

Shows are 7:30 and 8:45 p.m. Guest chef Dan Frye serves a buffet with chicken piccata, seared tuna, broccoli, rice and dessert starting at 7. Click here for tickets.

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Longtime local orthodontist Dr. Steven Scher died at his Weston home, with his wife Susan at his side. He was 82. .

The Brooklyn native graduated from Brooklyn College. He served 2 years in the US Army at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, then earned his orthodontic certificate from New York University, graduating at the top of his class.

He opened a practice in Westport where, his family says, “he touched the hearts and teeth of countless members of the community.”

Steven loved tennis, golf, skiing the Rocky Mountains, and vacationing in the sun — all with his family. He was a fixture at the sports events of his children and grandchildren.

Steven is survived by his wife Susan; their children Peter (Lesley) and Alexander (Dylan); his children Jon (Robyn) and Lara (Mike) from his first marriage to Joan; sister, Gloria (Gerald, and grandchildren Scarlett, Brooke, Jordan, Jake and Astrid.

A celebration of Steven’s life will be held at Temple Israel tomorrow (Wednesday, December 10, 11 a.m.). Donations in his name can be made to the American Cancer Society.

Dr. Steven Scher

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Baby, it’s cold outside.

That includes Winslow Park.

But at least in “Westport … Naturally” image, the sun is shining.

(Photo/Duane Cohen)

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And finally … the news about Fred’s Car Wash got us thinking about …

(A reminder this holiday season: “06880” is supported by readers like you! Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution to Westport’s hyper-local blog. Thank you — and happy holidays!)

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Posted in Arts, Entertainment, Local business, Obituaries, Restaurants

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Bittersweet News: Le Rouge Chocolate Shop Is Closing

Posted on December 8, 2025 | 3 comments

Le Rouge — the great chocolate-and-more shop tucked in the lower level of 190 Main Street, just past Avery Street — has been a Westport mainstay for nearly 12 years.

Sadly, this is their last holiday season. The store is closing in February (after one final Valentine’s Day). Fortunately, they’ll continue online.

Owner Aarti Khosla writes this valentine to Westport:

When I first opened Le Rouge Handmade Chocolates in 2014, I thought I was simply opening a chocolate shop.

I didn’t know I was opening a chapter of my life that would shape me in ways I could never have imagined.

Aarti Khosla has given a lot of love, to many local causes. 

I didn’t know I would meet families who would become friends.

I didn’t know I would watch children grow up through chocolate: tiny hands reaching for truffles, then returning years later as teenagers asking for the same ones, and even learning how to make chocolate and work with me.

I didn’t know how many stories, celebrations, and quiet moments people would invite me into.

And I certainly didn’t know that Westport — this beautiful, creative, generous little town of ours — would become a home for my heritage, my craft, and my heart.

From the first days, Westport embraced Le Rouge with a warmth that still astonishes me. You welcomed the flavors of my culture — saffron, cardamom, rose, chili — into your homes and your holidays.

 

A few of Aarti Khosla’s Le Rouge creations.

You made my chocolates part of your traditions: birth announcements, graduations, engagements, 99th birthdays…

You trusted me with your milestones. The memories you have given me are treasures that I will carry for the rest of my life.

Over the years, many of you asked why I wasn’t always in the shop. I never hid it, but I never fully explained it either.

For 5 years before COVID, my husband’s job brought us to Switzerland, and I commuted back and forth constantly.

Then 4 years ago, after selling our home here, I began living 2 hours away (on a good traffic day). I tried to be in Westport as often as possible. But I was also trying to hold together two lives, in two different places.

Le Rouge has always felt like my child. And like any mother, I gave it everything. Even when it meant being exhausted, stretched thin, and constantly in motion.

This year, when I turned 60, I realized something important: I needed to start giving myself the same love and care I pour into every handmade piece of chocolate.

And so today, with a full heart, I want to share that this Christmas will be our last holiday season at 190 Main Street. We will continue in this space until February 2026: one final Valentine’s Day together.

Quite a chocolate cake!

Closing the storefront is bittersweet. It is also gentle, and right for this moment in my life.

This is not an ending; it is a transition. Le Rouge is not going anywhere.

Our newly refreshed website will continue to bring chocolates — handmade with love, artistry and global flavors — right to your doorstep. Corporate gifting, seasonal collections, custom creations… everything you know us for will continue.

The only thing changing is the place where you pick it up.

So to everyone who ever stepped inside my shop, told me a story, shared a memory, brought a friend, introduced a child or grandchild, recommended me to a neighbor, or simply picked up a box of chocolates “just because”: Thank you!

Thank you for giving me a place in this town’s story. Thank you for letting Le Rouge become part of your story. Thank you for the love, loyalty and warmth you have shown me for more than a decade.

I am at the store, creating chocolate magic every day until the 24th of this month.

Stop in, say hello, come taste a truffle or two, share your life moments and add to my treasure chest of beautiful memories.

With all my gratitude and all my heart,
Aarti

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Roundup: Toy Drive, Land Trust, Longshore …

Posted on December 8, 2025 | Comments Off on Roundup: Toy Drive, Land Trust, Longshore …

The biggest toy drive in town is underway.

The Westport Police Department, Police Athletic League and Westport Police Benevolent Association are once again collecting new, unopened and unwrapped toys for all ages and genders — along with cash donations — in the ASF Sports parking lot.

It began this weekend. The next dates are Saturday and Sunday (December 13-14, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.).

There are also collection boxes at ASF, Westport Police headquarters on Jesup Road, Awesome Toys and Gifts, and the Toy Post.

The police, PAL — and hundreds of youngsters — thank you!

Westport Police, PAL — and Yogi Bear — collected toys for underprivileged youngsters last year, at ASF. (Photo/Cat Malkin)

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The Aspetuck Land Trust has preserved another link in their 750-acre Weston Wilton Forest Reserve assemblage project.

A 16-acre property acquired from the estate of Christopher Plummer — including a significant donation of land by his widow Elaine — will now be open space, benefiting wildlife and the public forever.

For more information on the Aspetuck Land Trust — which includes 8 preserves in Westport, and 21 in Weston — click here.

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The Longshore golf course closed for the season yesterday.

If you haven’t been golfing — or at Longshore for any other reason — lately, you may not realize that the Inn renovation project is underway.

Among other things, the white cladding is gone. Here’s a shot from this weekend:

(Hat tip and photo/Scott Smith)

Work should be completed in time for next summer.

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David Pogue no longer lives in Westport.

But he still has plenty of friends here. That’s a good enough reason to link to his annual “CBS Sunday Morning” Techno Claus gig.

Taped for years at his Woody Lane home — and now in his new Bedford, New York digs — it’s a very clever look at some very cool tech-type holiday gifts.

Ho ho ho!

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On Friday, the Staples High School Orphenians wowed a Radio City Music Hall crowd.

But they’re not the only Westporters with a connection to the famed venue.

yesterday, the Camp Broadway Ensemble a cappella group — 50 singers ages 10-17, from 18 states, Canada and England — performed.

Their “Let’s Hear it for the Holidays!” medley was written by former resident Doug McCormick. It’s available on all music streaming platforms. (Hat tip: Barry Kresch)

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo is an especially “reflective” one, from Ford Road.

(Photo/Pat Saunders)

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And finally … today is the birthdate of Jerry Butler. The National Rhythm & Blues Hall of Famer was born in 1939. He died earlier this year.

(Another week — and another start to our daily Roundups. If you enjoy this — or any other “06880” feature — please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Entertainment, Environment, Local business, Longshore, Police

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Holiday Stroll: Santa, S’mores, Songs … And So Much More!

Posted on December 7, 2025 | 3 comments

Over 2,000 Westporters (and out-of-towners) of all ages (especially kids) filled downtown yesterday afternoon (and evening).

They posed for photos with Santa (and Buddy and his elves) (and in a photo booth), roasted s’mores, petted piglets, caroled with the Orphenians, sent letters to Santa, dropped off toys for the Police drive, got face paint, shopped and enjoyed store giveaways, met neighbors and friends — and did it all in perfect almost-winter weather.

The 5th annual Holiday Stroll was by far the biggest and best yet.

S’mores by Nômade, elves and more. (Photo/John Walker)

Co-sponsored by the Westport Downtown Association and “06880,” it’s our gift to the town. And the town embraced it.

Thanks to all who made it happen — especially the hard-working WDA crew (Maxx Crowley, Beth Meyer, Huong Belpedio, Brian Spurr and others). Thanks to Santa; the fabulous Staples Orphenians, characters and face painters; the retailers and restaurants and non-profits who welcomed all and handed out “stuff” — and everyone who strolled.

Staples Orphenians’ first stop, above Brandy Melville. Other caroling spots: the clock, “Tunnel of Love,” and Bedford Square courtyard. (Photo/Dan Woog)

Westport sure rocked around the Christmas tree.

And the brand-new, but looks-like-its-been-there-forever, Main Street clock.

At the clock: 1st Selectman Kevin Christie, Westport Downtown Association president Maxx Crowley, “06880” founder Dan Woog. The WDA donated the clock to the town; the WDA and “06880” co-sponsor the Holiday Stroll. (Photo/John Walker)

A classic shot. (Photo/John Walker)

Staples Players Scarlett Shope, Claire Kresser, Ellis Maroney and Seamus Brannigan are all in character. (Photo/Dan Woog)

Riverside Realty’s piglets were favorites. (Photo/Thomas Samaranayake)

Senior Cat Betit conducts the Orphenians. The day before, they sang at Radio City Music Hall. . (Photo/Dan Woog)

Orphenians singing at the clock. (Photo/John Walker)

Listening to the Orphenians. (Photo/John Walker)

(Photo/John Walker)

Annette Norton’s Savvy + Grace mailbox was filled with dozens of letters to Santa. The popular downtown store also sponsored the photo booth. (Photo/Dan Woog)

(Photo/John Walker)

(Photo/John Walker)

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Posted in Downtown, Local business, Staples HS

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Roundup: Clock & Stroll, Orphenians & Radio City, Fire Department & Coats …

Posted on December 6, 2025 | 3 comments

Just in “time” for the Holiday Stroll, the new Main Street clock has been installed, and wired.

The new attraction in front of the Gap is a gift to the town, from the Westport Downtown Association.

Today’s Holiday Stroll is another gift too, from both the WDA and “06880.”

For the 5th year in a row, everyone is invited downtown. From 4 to 7 p.m. today (Saturday), Main Street and environs is the site for caroling by Staples’ Orphenians, photos with Santa, Buddy the Elf, other characters (and a Riverside Realty piglet), face painting, a “letters to Santa” mailbox (Savvy + Grace), s’mores at Nômade, a collection box for the Police Department’s toy drive, and much more.

Over 60 stores, restaurants, vendors and non-profits will offer giveaways, promotions and more. They include:

American Colors by Henry Lehr: 20% off Hampton Wash and American Colors clothing
Bartaco: Hot chocolate table
Bella Bridesmaids: $25 off per dress
Bloom Salon: Holiday treats, and discounted hair tinsel
Bridgewater Chocolate: Raffle for $50 gift card, with purchase
Brooks Brothers: 30% off nearly everything
Candle Caboodle: TBD
Chait Gallery/Photography Studio: 20% off all artwork, portraits in studio; $200 for 1-hour session, includes 8×10 print
Chocolatieree: Blissfully toasted & gooey S’morestick with every purchase (minimum $20)
Clarendon Fine Art: Holiday cheer; live music by Warren Bloom
Cold Fusion: Free wrapped chocolates
Core Burn Pilates: Discounted group class and private sessions (booked on day of Stroll)
Courtgirl: 15-30% off storewide
Earthplace: 10% off Winter Solstice Campfire on December 21 (register here on Saturday)
Eleish Van Breems: Raffles; cider in courtyard
Everything But Water: Fit sessions; $25 off $150+ with Beach Club signup
Faherty: Refreshments and cool vibes
Fred: Gift with purchase
Gabriele’s: Buy $500 worth of gift cards; get $100 extra
Gioiella Jewlery: Raffles
Hummingbird Healing Center: Light bites, wine, raffle
Il Pastaficio: Focaccia di recco, Italian hot chocolate, salame di cioccolata; gift card for 10% off purchases of fresh pasta boxes and sauces
Jimmy’s: Christmas-themed stocking fillers
Joe’s Pizza: Garlic knots
Johnny Was: 40% off sale; gift with purchase; free gift wrapping
Kerri Rosenthal: 25% off selected items
La Source: Enter to win a $500 gift card, with every purchase of $100 or more
Lululemon: Hot chocolate from Oggi Gelato; chance to win gift basket and gift card (1 free entry for every $200 spent)
Lux Bond & Green: Holiday cheer and treats
Massi Co: Hot cider
J. McLaughlin: Handbag raffle 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; cookies and Prosecco in the afternoon
Naturino Kids Shoes: 25% off single pair
Nômade: S’mores
Offline by Aerie: 10% off purchase; $25 off $125 if booking an appointment
Paper Source: Buy one; get 50% off holiday boxed cards
Rhone: Beverages; 15% off first purchase
Rowan: Buy 2 non-piercing pairs of earrings; 2nd is 15% off
Savvy + Grace: North Pole mailbox for letters to Santa; photo booth
Scout & Molly’s: Free gift with $200 purchase
Shoe-Inn: Up to 75% off
Sorelle Gallery: 20% off original artwork and prints all day; Champagne and holiday treats
Southern Tide: $50 off $150 or more
Splash of Pink: Gift with purchase over $200
Swarovski: TBD
SWTHZ: $10 off 60-minute contrast therapy session, in a private luxury suite
Theory: Holiday sip and shop
Toy Post: Small gifts for children
Vince Westport: 25% off
W Hair & Color: Raffle for package of 3 blowouts
Walrus Alley: Happy hour, featuring Glüwein
West Elm: General promotions
West Out East: 15% off all accessories
Westport Book Shop: Gift with purchase of children’s picture books
Westport Centerpiece: Holiday gifts
Westport Country Playhouse: Raffle for prizes; discounts on tickets
Zoomin Groomin: 25% off any mobile grooming booked the day of the Stroll.

See you at the Stroll! (Photo/Ryan Allen)

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Speaking of the Orphenians: When you hear them later today at the Holiday Stroll, you’ll know how great they are.

Yesterday, thousands of others found out too.

Staples High School’s elite singing group was at Radio City Music Hall.

And not just to watch. They took the stage as a warmup act for the world-famous Rockettes.

But that’s not all.

Right after a group photo in front of the Rockefeller Center tree, they broke into song.

A crowd quickly gathered. They listened, filmed and celebrated the Orphs’ impromptu performance.

Passersby could not believe what they were hearing.

“They sound incredible!” they said. “Their harmonies are amazing!” “They’re doing this without a conductor!” (Choral director Lauren Pine — who led the group in Radio City — stood proudly off to the side.)

Well done, Orphenians! We’re honored you’ll join us in a few hours downtown.

Staples Orphenians and parents, at Rockefeller Center. Director Lauren Pine is in front, 5th from left.

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The temperature was cold. But there were warm feelings yesterday on Post Road East.

The Westport Fire Department welcomed Bridgeport Rescue Mission. They picked up 1,887 winter coats. All were donated by community members. Each was inspected, folded, and prepared with care by firefighters and volunteers.

The WFD thanks everyone who made the mission a success. “When our neighbors need help, Westport shows up,” the department says.

Taking a break from loading nearly 2,000 winter coats. Front row, from left: Fire Chief Nick Marsan, Bridgeport Rescue Mission’s John DaCosta, Human Services director Elaine Daignault, BRM’s Laurie Molner, 1st Selectman Kevin Christie, Deputy Chief Matthew Cohen, Human Services’ Cynthia Pérez-Hernández. Rear: BRM’s Brian Stern, WFD’s Jennifer Petrosinelli, BRM’s Bennie Davis.

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Westporters already know and love Faith Sargent for her high tea parties, and her Wreathing for the Community (through which donated florals are transformed into wreaths, given away to spread cheer).

She’s got a new project: Faith’s Cottage Kitchen.

Her licensed home-based bakery offers small-batch breads, brownies, marshmallows and seasonal treats.

Faith Sargent (bottom right), and her creations.

Everything is made fresh in Westport. Faith uses simple ingredients — and the same warmth that goes into every gathering and every wreath.

See below for a full list of offerings, and prices. For orders and questions, text or call 603-219-2773.

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Christ & Holy Trinity Episcopal Church’s annual Christmas 9 Lessons and Carols service is set for December 14 (5 p.m.).

The CHT Parish Choir of choristers, adults and soloists will be accompanied by organ and cello. From the first notes of “Once in royal David’s city,” sung by a lone chorister, to the soaring descants of “O come, all ye faithful” and “Hark! the herald angels sing,” the spirit of Christmas will be everywhere.

Admission is free; donations are gratefully appreciated. A reception follows the service.

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Tomorrow (Sunday, 2 to 4 p.m.), “make” your way to One River’s Maker’s Market (833 Post Road East).

Creative, entrepreneurial students will sell their handmade artwork, jewelry, prints and more. The afternoon includes treats, music and more.

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With cold weather here, Westport has activated its “severe cold weather protocol.” It’s in effect through noon Tuesday.

Warming centers open to the public include:

  • Senior Center (Weekdays, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)
  • Westport Library (Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, 1 to 5 p.m.; weekdays, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.).
  • Westport Museum for History & Culture (Saturday, Tuesday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.).
  • Westport Weston Family YMCA (Weekend, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.; weekdays, 5:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.)

 Residents experiencing hardships due to the cold — including those without adequate heat — should call Westport Human Services (203-341-1050; weekdays, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.). For other times, dial 211.

The Westport Y is a warming center.

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The Westport Astronomical Society is the space. December 16, 8 p.m. is the time.

The event is a free lecture by Yale physics professor Larry Gladney. The topic is “A Survey for the Ages: the Vera Rubin Observatory Legacy Survey of Space & Time.”

The talk will also be livestreamed, on YouTube and via Zoom.

Professor Larry  Gadney

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Westport resident Mildred Bunche died peacefully on November 16. She was 92, and was diagnosed with lung cancer 8 years earlier.

The Alabama native taught biology in Chicago and Connecticut. Her husband Oscar was also a teacher.

They married in 1959, and moved to South San Francisco. Oscar worked for United Airline and IBM.

Mildred studied for degrees in social work and counseling, but those ambitions were put on hold with the arrival of her son Steven in June of 1965.

The family moved to Westport in 1972, when Oscar was transferred to White Plains. She headed the Young Parents Program, a group for unwed teen mothers, and Hall Neighborhood House for troubled girls.

After her divorce in 1975 she returned to teaching. She earned several counseling and hypnotherapy degrees during that era.

In her 50’s Mildred became involved with Christ & Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, feeling a sense of community and belonging with the clergy and congregation. She spent her last decades working with the church.

Mildred was also president of the Y’s Women, active in the Senior Center, a patron of the Quick Center for the Arts, and an avid bridge player.

Mildred also had a passion for travel. Her obituary says, “the girl from rural Alabama traveled to places her family could only have imagined, gaining wisdom and insight into cultures that enriched her mind and pursuits.

She is survived by her son Steven. A celebration of her life will be held today (Saturday, 10 a.m., Christ & Holy Trinity Church).

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New timber at Burying Hill Beach — stretching far into Long Island Sound — highlights today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature photo.

(Photo/Pam Docters)

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And finally …  in honor of today’s “06880”/Westport Downtown Association Holiday Stroll (story above):

(“06880” is proud to co-sponsor today’s Holiday Stroll. We’re also glad we can bring Westport together in many ways.  And we’re especially grateful to all who support our work. Thank you)

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Photo Challenge #570

Posted on November 30, 2025 | 26 comments

There’s a lot to love about Trader Joe’s.

And a lot to hate about its parking lot.

The clusterf***edness of the layout — the convergence of the entrance and exit (merging with traffic from Compo Acres shopping center); the narrow lanes; the shoppers walking through — is legendary.

The back of the lot is much calmer (though the exit that way, onto Compo Road South, is no prize).

Savvy customers know to park there — away from the chaos — and walk a few extra yards. You can leave via the Wells Fargo exit, then make a U-turn through the Exxon gas station if you need to.

Meanwhile, back there, Compo Acres management have put up a couple of quasi-helpful “Additional Parking” signs. They point to “Route 1 East” and “Route 1 West” — names by which no one ever calls the Post Road. (Click here to see.) 

Alfred Herman, Sal Liccione, Clark Thiemann, Seth Schachter, Dave Eason, Peggy O’Halloran, Andrew Colabella, Jonathan McClure and Martha Witte all know where those signs are. Congratulations — and stay safe!

Interestingly, our Trader Joe’s is not the only one with a teeth-gnashing parking lot. It seems to be a chain-wide thing.

In fact, the company’s lots are so notoriously bad, Food & Wine wrote an entire story about it. Click here to read.

We head back indoors for this week’s Photo Challenge. If you know where in Westport you’d see this, click “Comments” below.

(Photo/Susan Garment)

(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!)

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Roundup: Dogs And Wheels …

Posted on November 30, 2025 | 25 comments

A number of social norms have been broken lately.

Public language is coarser. Dress codes for Broadway shows are looser.

And dogs are having their day.

We see them everywhere: Stores. Supermarkets. Even restaurants.

(And no — they are not all service animals.)

Most are on the small side.

Some are not.

This was the scene yesterday, at Barnes & Noble:

Let’s crowd source this.

What’s the appropriate etiquette for dogs in public indoor spaces? Does it vary by size, or type of establishment? Why do owners want to bring their dogs everywhere? Why would others object? And who should make the call?

Click “Comments” below. Please use your full, real name — and let us know whether you own a dog, or not.

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Speaking of dogs: Cat Malkin writes, “Yogi Bear enjoyed seeing Santa and eating delicious treats at Earth Animal yesterday. He (Yogi) supported supported their holiday wreath sale — with 100% of the proceeds going to CT Foodshare.

“Yogi wants all pet-loving Westporters know they can bring pet food — and old towels and blankets — to Earth Animal. They’ll make sure it goes to pets in need.

“You can also bring dog and cat food to the Homes with Hope food pantry (Gillespie Center on Jesup Road, behind Barnes & Noble) and the Connecticut Humane Society (now at 863 Danbury Road, Wilton).

“Yogi says, ‘Woof, woof, woof. Happy Holidays to all!'”

Yogi and Santa. (Photo/Cat Malkin)

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Speaking of Santa: The transition from Thanksgiving to Christmas occurs smoothly.

And everywhere.

This was the scene yesterday, at Compo Beach:

(Photo/Regi Kendig)

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Last month marked the 5th anniversary of Wheels2U service.

From its beginning in 2020 during the early months of the COVID pandemic — serving a handful of riders in a portion of Westport — it has grown to cover the entire town, providing a record 3,069 rides in October alone.

Wheels2U is projected to book over 31,000 rides in the fiscal year ending June 30.

Commuters to and from Westport, seniors and families across Westport rely on it every weekday.

For just $2, the service offers curb-to-curb and curb-to-platform transportation to destinations including the Saugatuck and Greens Farms train stations, Senior Center, Jesup Green and Imperial Avenue Farmers’ Market.

Key features include:

  • Seamless technology: An app-based booking system allows riders to schedule trips and track vehicles in real time.
  • Sustainability impact: Transitioned in November to more comfortable and fuel-efficient vehicles, saving an estimated 4,100 gallons of fuel and reducing 80,000 pouds of CO₂ emissions annually (equivalent to the yearly energy use of 5 homes). A switch to electric vehicles this spring will further reduce emissions
  • Expanded service hours: Extended morning service to and from the 2 train stations to 10:30 a.m., and evening service to 9:30 pm.  Added service Tuesday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. to downtown locations.
  • Exceptional rider satisfaction: Maintains a 4.9/5 average ride rating, with 95% of all reviews at 5 stars. The average wait time for a pickup is under 12 minutes.

Wheels2U

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Oyster Turkey tail mushrooms make their first appearance in our “Westport … Naturally” series today.

Nancy Axthelm spotted these edible fungi at Winslow Park.

(Photo/Nancy Axthelm)

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And finally … you may have guessed this was coming:

(Yogi Bear says, “You don’t need to be smarter than the average bear to help ‘06880.’ You just need to click here, to support the hyper-local blog that every person and dog loves. Arf!”

 

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Posted in Beach, Local business, Transportation, Westport life

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Taking Care Of Business: Life After Private Equity

Posted on November 29, 2025 | 11 comments

Evan Sameroff has had a successful career in private equity.

But after more than a dozen years — and since moving to Westport in 2022, and with 2 children, almost 3 and 1, just starting to grow up here — the Harvard MBA graduate is looking for other challenges.

His father and grandfather were small business owners.

Now Sameroff wants to be one too.

Evan Sameroff

This area is fertile, for one to buy. His goal is to find an established company, with 5 to 50 employees, annual profits of at least $750,000, and an owner who does not have a family member interested in taking over (or without a clear succession plan).

It would be a services business, with “good bones, a strong reputation, and low turnover.” He is not looking at a retail store or restaurant.

Sameroff will be a hands-on manager, taking the business he buys to the next level.

Private equity professionals work in short time frames, he notes. This new venture would allow him to “steward a legacy,” while keeping whatever made the company special intact.

His interest began several years ago. But Sameroff did not have the experience to management a team then, or handle supplies or manage a facility. Now, he feels comfortable doing so.

Westport is fertile territory for his quest. Sameroff has met many entrepreneurs here. A growing number of residents are, like he, ready to move on from finance to other pursuits. Others have already done so.

“People here want to help,” he says. “They have substantial business and investing experience, and a deep network across the region.”

Sameroff is in discussions with several prospects. He’s taking it slow, and is interested in hearing from “06880” readers who might know a business that would be a good fit. If interested, email evan@melodeeholdings.com.

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Posted in Local business

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In Tough Job Market, College Students And Grads Grow Professional Networks

Posted on November 28, 2025 | 1 comment

It’s great having college kids and recent graduates home for Thanksgiving.

You learn all about their interesting lives. Their current relationships.

And their job prospects. From finding someone who can open a door to getting a foot in it, then closing the deal, today’s job market is tough.

Kind of a buzz kill around the turkey and trimmings, right?

Despite the strong headwinds, plenty of people can help.

Lisa Cukier and Katie Gervasio want to connect them to those who need it.

Katie Gervasio and Lisa Cukier

The women are well positioned. Cukier — who runs an HR consulting firm, after 20 years in the field — is the mother of 3 Staples High School graduates. One, now 22, is a paralegal. The others are a college junior and freshman.

Gervasio, a former rehabilitation engineer, now tutors at Huntington Learning Center. She too has 3 children: a college graduate, college student, and Staples senior.

In conversations with themselves and other parents, they recognized the need to give young grads, and people still in college, a way to network with seasoned professionals; to talk about strategies and learn skills, in an informal environment.

Colleges do a bit of this, through career centers. Yet there are few opportunities to practice those skills, with successful men and women who may not be looking to hire someone — but are eager to help connect young people with those who are.

Dave, Matt and Brooke Gervasio …

Westport is filled with “smart, caring go-getters who want to help,” Cukier says. Many are her and Gervasio’s friends and peers.

They want to offer advice, and perhaps shadowing opportunities. They are eager to be mentors.

The first event — a Westport Professional Networking Mixer — is December 17, at VFW Post 399 on Riverside Avenue. The 6:30 p.m. event includes an informational panel, and informal networking.

A broad range of professions is included: business owners, finance, arts, education, healthcare, non-profits and more.

Interested college students and recent graduates should register by email: WPNMixer@gmail.com. The Instagram is @wpnmixer.

Cukier and Gervasio are not stopping after one event. In the works: a Signal app, for continued interactions.

(“06880” often covers business — and the lives of young people. If you enjoy stories like this, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

… and Ethan, Sarah and Ben Cukier. Like many young people, they’re looking to learn networking and job search skills.

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Posted in Local business

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Roundup: Tech, Tees, Transportation …

Posted on November 23, 2025 | 11 comments

Staples Players’ astonishing production of “Les Misérables” concludes its 10-show run this afternoon (Sunday, 2:30 p.m.; click here for information).

Before the (spectacular) set is struck, however, it’s worth praising Players once again.

Today, kudos go to the tech crew: the young men and women who seldom get the credit they deserve, but without whom there would be no show at all.

These very talented, tremendously hard working, incredibly dedicated students build sets, oversee lighting and sound, create costumes, and do much, much more.

Once the play begins, it’s run entirely by students. They are responsible for keeping things moving smoothly — even when they go awry.

Colin Walker says, “I have the fortunate privilege of being the technical director. I get to be with these students on a daily basis. I see how hard they work. They make invaluable contributions to the success of the show.”

They sure do. Take a bow, “Les Mis” tech crew!

Staples Players tech crew, on set. (Photo/Colin Walker)

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The Zoning Board of Appeals is looking for a registered Democratic alternate for the board.

An alternate serves for 4 years, and is called to sit for a member who is absent or needs to recuse themselves from a specific application.

If interested, email jimezzes@gmail.com.

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Jillian Elder’s Westport Holiday Lights Collection features local landmarks like the Cribari Bridge, Minute Man monument and Compo Beach cannons. Each piece is available on shirts, prints, mugs and totes.

New at the online shop: Westport Is my Happy Place. It’s a tribute to the town’s charm and creative spirit.

A few suggestions.

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The “stop sign ahead” sign on Bayberry Lane, near Easton Road, has a new look these days:

(Photo/Baxter Urist)

It doesn’t mean the stop sign is gone.

Just that this old sign is ready for a replacement.

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Meanwhile, here’s the scene at Sherwood Mill Pond.

I sure would not want to be the guy that had to climb down that ladder, all the way to the bottom.

(Photo/John McCarthy)

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Esterina D’Amico, who was born in her parents’ Westport home, and was a lifelong resident, died Thursday, in Norwalk Hospital. She was 95.

Ester spent more than 40 years as an administrative secretary for PerkinElmer in Norwalk. She was a faithful parishioner of Assumption Church. She loved traveling the world, and was an accomplished skier.

She is survived by her brothers Anthony and Peter D’Amico; sister Geraldine Stauss; 17 nieces and nephews; and many grandnieces and grandnephews.

She was predeceased by her brothers Edward, Rudolph and Anthony, and sisters Adeline Coviello, Margaret Incerto, Mary Aldrich and Josephine D’Amico.

A funeral Mass of Christian Burial is set for Tuesday (November 25, 11 a.m., Assumption Church). Interment will follow in Assumption Cemetery on Greens Farms Road.

The family will receive visitors at Harding Funeral Home from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Condolences may be left online at www.hardingfuneral.com. Contributions in Ester’s memory may be made to a charity of one’s choice.

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The crowds are gone from Sherwood Island.

But there are still visitors. They enjoy a very different state park — quiet, cold, and beautiful.

Pam Docters captured the scene the other day, for our “Westport … Naturally” feature.

Dress warmly — and enjoy!

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And finally … in honor of one of the items above:

(While someone’s been working on the railroad, we’ve been working on “06880.” Our daily Roundup — and everything else — doesn’t fall from the sky! Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Local business, Local politics, Obituaries, Staples HS, Teenagers, Transportation

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