Category Archives: Local business

Roundup: Get Growing … And Prepare For Disaster

Posted on September 4, 2025 | 3 comments

Just in time for today’s Westport Farmers’ Market (Thursday, Imperial Avenue parking lot, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.), there’s a fresh look and expanded offerings for their very popular “Get Growing” children’s programs.

With more young visitors than ever, the WFM has added new (and sturdy) tables and chairs, creating a welcoming space for creativity and learning.

Since starting on a blanket 7 years ago, the kids’ area has grown steadily. A Drew Friedman Foundation donation has made several upgrades — and the entire program — possible.

Get Growing’s hands-on activities keep children engaged, while helping them connect with local farmers, businesses and the greater community.

Weekly craft sessions help children understand the importance of supporting small, sustainable farms, as they explore and express their creativity.

Programming over the coming weeks includes:

  • Kids’ yoga
  • Create Grow Flow – Sound bath and Reiki
  • Mud & Nature Kitchen – Hands-on outdoor play
  • Earth place activities
  • Apple Blossom and Housatonic Valley Waldorf School programming.

When there is not a guest host, Mae Farrell will continue to lead creative fun, through arts and crafts projects.

For more information about Get Growing, or to learn about hosting a week of activities, click here.

Get Growing, at the Westport Farmers’ Market.

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Several area organizations are preparing for a large-scale mass casualty drill.

The September 16 event (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.) will test the ability of local Emergency Medical Services, hospitals  and volunteer organizations — including the Community Emergency Response Team, Medical Reserve Corps, American Red Cross and State Animal Rescue Team — to respond to and manage a simulated disaster scenario.

Members of the Westport Astronomical Society’s amateur radio station K1WAS will join the Connecticut Amateur Radio Emergency Service, Aspetuck and Trumbull Health Districts, and area police, fire and EMS groups in the drill.

Sherwood Island State Park will be part of the “incident command.”

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Congratulations to Scotty Coleman!

The 2022 Staples High School graduate — now a senior, and a star on the Johns Hopkins University soccer team — is one of just 20 student-athletes nationwide chosen for the 2025-26 Fall Allstate NACDA Good Works Team. The honor recognizes exceptional community service.

Scotty is fundraising chair for Baltimore Scores in STEM. The program provides scholarships and mentorships to students pursuing education in science, technology, engineering or math.

Scotty — a dean’s list student majoring in neuroscience — is also a research  assistant at Johns Hopkins’ Department of Pediatrics and Center for Psychedelics and Consciousness Research.

Scotty Coleman

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Speaking of student-athletes: TOPSoccer — the program for youngsters with physical or learning differences — returns for a fall season. It follows a successful reboot last spring.

Blake Serotta — a freshman player at Staples — leads the program, in conjunction with the Weston Soccer Club and Westport Soccer Association.

TOPSoccer is open to boys and girls in grades K-8. High schoolers are welcome as volunteers and buddies.

The program runs Saturdays from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Morehouse Farm Park in Weston, from September 13 through October 25. Click here to register, and for more information. Questions? Email blake.serotta@gmail.com.

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After years of searching for a solution to downtown parking, some random person found it.

And it’s so simple, I can’t believe it’s taken this long.

Just park two cars in every spot that’s lined for one!

Check it out:

(Photo/Diane Lowman)

Duh!

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Speaking of vehicles:

The Department of Public Works’ annual roadway crack seal program begins Friday. It will involved up to 10 miles of roads throughout town, and will last 2 weeks.

Traffic will not be detoured, but alternating 1-way flow will be used around the continually moving work zone. The roadways will be open for two-way traffic as the work crew progresses.

Crack sealing

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Singer/songwriter/2007 Staples High School graduate Drew Angus’ first single comes out tomorrow.

Drew says, “‘Patterns’ is self-reflection, an acknowledgement of bad habits and traps I’ve let myself fall into when the going gets tough and sticking through seems impossible.

“I think it’s a pretty universal feeling for a relationship in just beyond the infatuation phase. ‘Patterns’ also takes on another meaning for me: that of the completely independent artist knocked around plenty, but too stubborn to give up.

“Well, I can confirm I’ll be here making art and writing songs until the pen runs out of ink.”

The track includes drummer Fred Eltringham (Sheryl Crow) keyboardist Billy Justineau (Eric Church, Maggie Rose), and Drew on acoustic guitar, and lead and backing vocals.

Click here to download “Patterns,” on a variety of platforms. Click here for Drew’s upcoming tour dates. Click here for Drew Angus’ website.

Drew Angus

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For a decade, Circle of Care has hosted a 5K run/walk in Wilton. The event supports Connecticut families facing childhood cancer, with practical, emotional and financial help.

This year, the event moves to Sherwood Island State Park.

The timed 5K for runners and joggers, untimed walk for all abilities, and other activities for all ages takes place Sunday, September 28 (9 a.m.). To learn more and register, click here. 

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Former Westporter Douglas Moser has just published “James & Jim” — a “darkly comic thriller.”

Set in this area, and Manhattan’s “ruthless corporate towers,” it “plunges readers into the cutthroat world of management consulting in 2007 — just before the financial crash and tech revolution …. it’s a world where ambition turns deadly, success has a body count, and the rules are made to be broken.”

Moser was named artistic director of the Boston Post Road Stage Company in Fairfield and Westport at age 26. His adaptation of “A Christmas Carol” played sold out theaters for 2 years, and won the Connecticut Critics’ Circle Award. He has directed regionally and in New York, including an opera debut at Lincoln Center.

Since then (and COVID), he’s focused on writing, coaching and teaching. For more information, click here.

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MaryEllen Hendricks is this month’s Westport Book Shop guest exhibitor.

The photos on display come from her book “Thin Places Project,” in which she captures “the spiritual dimensions of the physical world.” She uses antique lenses, toy cameras, and other old and new technologies.

A reception is set for September 20 (6 to 7:30 p.m.). All artwork is available for purchase.

MaryEllen Hendricks, at the Westport Book Shop.

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Westport Police made no custodial arrests between August 27 and September 1.

They issued these citations:

  • Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 7 citations
  • Driving while texting: 6
  • Driving over the posted speed limit in a school zone: 3
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 2
  • Failure to drive in the proper lane: 2
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 2
  • Passing a standing school bus: 1
  • Texting, 2nd offense: 1
  • Distracted driving: 1
  • Transporting a child without restraints: 1
  • Motorcycle infraction: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 1
  • Failure to renew registration: 1.

Passing a standing school bus, and speeding in a school zone, are major infractions.

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For many Westporters, this is the best time of year.

The humidity is gone. The air is slightly cooler, but we still wear shorts (and no jacket). Sunshine is bountiful.

It’s not only people who feel that way. This guy was enjoying early September, at Ned Dimes Marina.

And he was happy to share his pleasant day with “Westport … Naturally” photographer Eric Bosch.

(Photo/Eric Bosch)

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And finally … congratulations to Drew Angus, on his new release “Patterns.”

He’s too young to remember, but:

(Whew! We crammed a ton o’ stuff in again today. But that’s how we roll. A Roundup of everything, every day. If you appreciate our hard work, please click here to support “06880.” Thanks!)

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Posted in Children, Entertainment, Local business, Police, Staples HS

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Westport Downtown Association: Much More Than Main Street

Posted on September 3, 2025 | 5 comments

First came the name change.

The Westport Downtown Merchants Association became simply the Westport Downtown Association.

For good reason: their membership included more than retailers. Real estate, financial services, marketing, tutoring — all those firms were helped by the non-profit, whose mission is to promote the economic interests of the entire downtown business community.

But now the WDA is expanding. They’re not changing their name. But they are serving organizations beyond the Main Street/Elm Street/Church Lane/nearby Post Road East footprint.

Across the west bank of the Saugatuck River, and into Saugatuck; from Playhouse Square and the Compo Shopping Centers; as far east as  The Clubhouse near Southport, the Westport Downtown Association offers perks to members.

They take part in digital marketing campaigns. They have booths and a presence at events like the Fine Arts Festival, Westoberfest, Sidewalk Sales and the Holiday Stroll. And they tap into the skills and expertise of the WDA’s staff.

The goal is to show that downtown Westport is alive and thriving.

And that there’s more to Westport than just the relatively small downtown.

“We help everyone feel more a part of the community,” says WDA president Maxx Crowley.

Though a couple of miles from Main Street, Naturino is part of the Westport Downtown Association. 

The monthly WDA newsletter — recently revamped and reimagined by marketing and communications director Brian Spurr — offers information on sales, upcoming events all over town and more.

It’s a great way, Crowley says, for a small business like Naturino Kids Shoes — in the shopping plaza next to Big Y — to spread the word about special offers.

Other businesses outside the downtown footprint that the WDA works with include Winged Monkey, Hammer & Nails, Stifel wealth management, Cobs Bead, Blossom + Stem, Millie Rae’s, Scout & Molly’s, Splash of Pink, The Post, and a variety of fitness studios and hair salons.

Recently, the WDA partnered with Content Studio — Chirag Shah’s event space on Riverside Avenue — for a meet-and-greet, networking, here’s-who-we-are social.

Even members without a location downtown can participate in WDA events.

Stylist Felicia Catale set up a chair and gave haircuts during this summer’s Sidewalk Sales.

Felicia Catale set up a “mobile salon” during this Sidewalk Sale. (Photo/Dan Woog)

And Pierluigi Mazzella brought an espresso cart from Fatto a Mano, to the delight of thirsty shoppers.

The Westport Downtown Association isn’t changing their name again.

But even if you’re not a downtown business, organization or shopper: They’re there for you.

(To learn more about the Westport Downtown Association, click here.)

(“06880” covers every aspect of the local business scene. But we rely on our readers’ support to do it — and to help all our coverage. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Downtown, Local business

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[OPINION] A College Student Looks At Westport

Posted on August 31, 2025 | 13 comments

Westport is a great town for young kids, teenagers and their parents. It’s pretty good for empty nesters too. There are plenty of thngs to do, and plenty of places to do them.

But if you’re college-age? 

Hannah Portman — a Westport native, Greens Farms Academy graduate and current Boston University junior — just spent a summer here. She reports:

Many of my college friends didn’t grow up in areas like Westport. Often when I tell them where I’m from, or describe Westport, I can see it register: They realize I’m lucky.

Their first reactions are usually something like, “Westport has the best shopping!” Or, “It’s so pretty there!” 

Hannah Portman (2nd from left) and friends, at a Westport 4th of July party.

Having lived here my whole life, I think I started to overlook the great qualities of Westport. I always understood I was privileged to grow up in such a beautiful town. But it wasn’t until I left for college that I truly understood what I had left behind.  

I always feel safe here, even walking home from the beach at 11 p.m. I love walking Soundview Drive and saying “hi” or “good morning” to the people I pass, whether I know them or not.

I love how much dedication the town puts into events like the annual fireworks and the various festivals downtown.  

The fireworks is one event that draws Westporters of all ages together.

Westport’s sense of safety goes beyond just the physical. It’s a place where people can genuinely be themselves, which isn’t a given in a lot of communities. You can have a protest downtown and it’ll stay peaceful, without fear of violence or backlash.  

I think Westport does a great job creating a welcoming environment to all generations. But when it comes to my specific demographic — young adults –there’s still room to grow. 

At school, especially in a city like Boston, there’s constant stimulation. Restaurants are open until 2 a.m.. There are late-night spots to hang out, and endless things to do.

There’s always a place to go with friends, an activity to participate in. Of course I don’t expect that same energy from my small coastal hometown. But I do think there could be a bit more.  

Main Street has plenty of stores. But Hannah Portman would like to see more variety. (Photo/Hannah Portman)

For example, the cost of a good time in Westport is not sustainable for a college student on their own budget.  

It’s always fun to go downtown, do some shopping, and grab something to eat, but every time I do, I spend more than I budgeted. There aren’t any affordable hangout spots. Growing up, places like Rye Ridge Deli and Westport Pizza were cheap, easy options to hang out with friends. Now, it feels like GG & Joe is one of the only spots left with that vibe.  

Hanging out — with friends or work — at GG & Joe. (Photo/Hannah Portman)

I often find my friends and I heading to nearby towns like Fairfield, where places like Firehouse Deli and Colony Grill serve as both a spot to eat and hang out.  

The same goes for nightlife. Most restaurants close by 11. If you want to be around other 20-somethings you’re going to areas like SONO, or even into the city. Late nights in Westport usually means a backyard, or someone’s car at Compo.  

There are ways to make Westport more inclusive and exciting for young adults. The Levitt Pavillion, for example, has so much potential. It’s a great space, right in town, with free shows in the summer. But when I look through their calendar, it’s rare I find something that really excites me.

Most bookings are catered toward adults or children. It’d be great to see them bring in some DJs or indie bands that appeal to my crowd.  

A recent Levitt Pavilion audience. (Photo/Susan Garment)

Similarly, the Westport Library hosts great events and speakers, but they seem geared toward older and young audiences. If they brought in authors or creators that my friends and I follow, it could become another draw for young adults, and further differentiate Westport as a cultural center.  

I know Westport already offers some leadership opportunities through groups like the Youth Commission and Toquet Hall, but most of these are geared toward high school students. For those who have left for college but still consider Westport home, there’s no clear space to get involved. That’s the gap I’m talking about.  

Of course, it’s not all on the town. A lot of it comes down to my generation stepping up. We need young voices in Westport’s leadership that can represent our age group, and work with the programming in the community to help shape a community we want to participate in.  

Westport is great, and I wouldn’t want to have grown up anyplace else. There’s so much to love as a 20-year-old, but there’s also room for growth.

The infrastructure is already here. Now we just need representation and initiative to make it even better. 

 (“06880″‘s Opinion pages are open to all. Email 06880blog@gmail.com. Thank you!)

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Posted in Entertainment, Library, Local business, Restaurants

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Roundup: Craig Schiavone, Larry Silver, Jamie Mann …

Posted on August 28, 2025 | 7 comments

The Democratic Town Committee’s Nominations Committee has recommended Craig Schiavone to run for the Planning & Zoning Commission.

If selected by the full DTC on Thursday, she’ll join Michael Cammeyer and Bre Injeski on the slate. They were nominated last month. Neil Cohn was nominated too but opted not to run for re-election, necessitating a replacement.

Schiavone’s career spans the public, private and nonprofit sectors, with experience in real estate development, town planning and architectural preservation. She has co-chaired the Saugatuck Transit Development Master Plan Commission, served on the Connecticut Trust for Historic Preservation, and was a member of the Westport 2020 Task Force & Implementation Committees.

Craig Schiavone

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Internationally noted photographer (and longtime Westport resident) Larry Silver will discuss his 7 decades of work at MoCA CT on September 6 (5 p.m.). The event is in conjunction with the current exhibiton of Tod Papageorge’s beach and pool photos.

Silver’s images range from the streets and subways of his native New York, to iconic shots of Santa Monica’s Muscle Beach. That 1954 series captured  bodybuilders flexing, gymnasts soaring, and beachgoers basking in the sun.

Silver’s Connecticut photos, meanwhile, use natural framing, weather and light to capture this region’s character.

Silver’s photographs are held in over 50 major museum collections, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Whitney Museum of American Art, and the Smithsonian American Art Museum. To learn more, click here for Silver’s website.

Larry Silver’s 1980 “Beach Showers, Westport, CT.”

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Meanwhile, on Broadway: Staples High School Class of 2021 graduate (and former Players star) Jamie Mann — a cast member of Broadway’s “Stranger Things: The First Shadow” — steps on as James Hopper, Jr. next month. He’ll star in all 4 performances the weekend of September 13-14.

Players directors David Roth and Kerry Long say, “Break legs, Jamie!”

Jamie Mann

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Congratulations to 4 new Westport Fire Department lieutenants!

Deputy fire marshal Robert Lenois, and firefighters Michael Peck, Ronald Burgess and Todd Hall were promoted Tuesday, in a ceremony at the Post Road fire station.

(Photo courtesy of Westport Fire Department)

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Westport Police made 2 custodial arrests between August 20 and 26.

A 41-year-old Bronx man was chared with larceny, burglary and criminal mischief, following an investigation into a break-in at the Longshore golf pro shop last September. Clubs and bags with a value of nearly $12,500 were taken. The suspect was identified after an arrest in New York, following similar golf pro shop burglaries. He was held on $100,000 bond.

A 30-year-old Norwalk woman was charged with larceny, following an investigation into a 2023 shoplifting incident at Ulta Beauty.

Westport Police also issued these citations:

  • Driving while texting: 9 citations:
  • Failure to renew registration: 7
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 5
  • Speeding: 4
  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 4
  • Distracted driving: 3
  • Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 3
  • Speeding in a school zone: 2
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 2
  • Breach of peace: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 1
  • Driving while texting (2nd offense): 1
  • Driving wrong way on a 1-way street: 1
  • Failure to drive right: 1
  • Failure to drive in the proper lane: 1
  • Failure to obey stop sign: 1
  • Improper passing: 1
  • Following too closely: 1
  • Improper use of markers: 1
  • Failure to renew registration: 1
  • Failure to cancel registration within 10 days: 1
  • Failure to comply with state traffic commssion regulations: 1.

Infractions in a school zone bring added penalties.

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Speaking of our Police and Fire Departments:

At 7:45 a.m. yesterday, a motor vehicle rolled over on Riverside Avenue.

Three people — including one child — were taken by Westport Emergency  Services to Norwalk Hospital for evaluation.

Five vehicles were damaged. Fortunately, all were right in front of Westport Auto Craft body shop.

Riverside Avenue was closed in both directions for a while.

Several “06880” readers ask: How do you manage to roll your car on Riverside Avenue — during rush hour.

It’s a great question.

Be careful out there!

Rollover on Riverside Avenue. (Photo courtesy of Westport Fire Department)

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Looking ahead to the day before Halloween?

CLASP Homes — the non-profit that provides care, support and services to adults with autism and other intellectual and developmental disabilities — hosts a “wickedly fun concert” fundraiser on October 30 (6:30 p.m., FTC Stage One, Fairfield).

Band Central — CLASP’s favorite group — plays the best of the ’80s and ’90s. There’s a pre-party too, with light bites.

Tickets go on sale September 1; click here to purchase, and for more unformation.

Band Central.

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Eleish Van Breems Home second sale is set for next month — at the Westport Country Playhouse barn.

Items include Gustavian and mid-century Scandinavian furniture, rugs, accessories, books and signature designs.

After a sneak preview for the trade (September 12, 3 to 5 p.m.), the sale opens to the public on Saturday and Sunday, September 13 and 14 (10 a.m to 6 p.m.)

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Speaking of sales: The 4th juried PopShop Market is set for the Westport Museum for History & Culture on September 20 (10 a.m. to 3 p.m.).

Vendors will sell handcrafter jewelry, vintage and antique finds, adult and children clothing, gifts and lifestyle goods.

PopShop Market site.

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Kenneth Klein — a 1978 Staples High School graduate, and member of the family that owned Klein’s Department store on Main Street — died unexpectedly on August 21. He was 65.

The son of Stanley Klein, and grandson of Henry Klein, he studied business administation and played football at Roger Williams College.

After working at Klein’s, he ran his own landscaping and plowing business. Hen then worked at Pitney Bowes and General Electric.

Ken loved the Dallas Cowboys, snowmobiing in Vermont, and hosting poker games.

He is survived by his wife Carol; daughter Richelle Salvas of Charleston, South Carolina; sister Carol of New York; stepmother Phyllis of Westport, and nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by his sister Susanne Klein-Hertzel, and his parents.

Services will be held September 4 (1 p.m., Abraham Green & Son Funeral Home, Fairfield), followed by burial at Congregation Beth El Memorial Park in Norwalk. For the ivestream and to send condolence message,  click here. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a favorite charity in the name of Kenneth R. Klein.

Ken Klein

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Roses of Sharon attract many pollinators: bees, butterflies and hummingbirds.

They can also be invasive.

Whatever they are, they’re gorgeous. Check out this one, from Joan Poster:

(Photo/Joan Poster)

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And finally … in honor of Larry Silver and Tod Papageorge’s beach photos at MoCA CT (story above):

(Summer’s almost gone. Fall will be here soon. Whatever the season, it’s always a good time to support “06880” with a tax-deductible donation. Please click here. And thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Beach, Local business, Local politics, Obituaries, Police

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Scans By Me: Young Entrepreneur’s Picture-Perfect Venture

Posted on August 28, 2025 | 1 comment

Jay Babina is many things.

He’s entrepreneurial. He’s passionate about technology. He’s creative.

And he’s a very quick learner.

At 12 years old in the summer of 2018, the young Westporter wanted to make money. He found a few water bottles in the pantry, and tried to sell them on his driveway for $1. A couple of people “pity bought” them.

His father John said, “If you want to do this, do it right.”

They created an LLC in his name: 88mphEnterprises (a “Back to the Future” reference).

He got a permit to sell snacks at youth soccer games, and loaded up at Costco. “Standastic” accepted credit cards. He wheeled his goods around in a wagon for “mobile delivery.”

A young — but entrepreneurial — Jay Babina.

A couple of years later at an estate sale with his father, he saw Healthkit radio meters for $10 each. Jay bought them, then resold them on eBay. He learned a lot about listings — and here is his thriving online store today.

He branched out to Amazon, and just hit the $100,000 mark.

That business funds his Westport Tech Museum.

One of the most fascinating hidden gems in town — and it will stay that way, because it’s not open to the public — the museum is a large attic filled with over 500 computers, video games, calculators, cameras, radios and more.

Jay Babina’s Westport Tech Museum.

From a Commodore Amiga 1000, Osborne 1, Apple IIe and an original Macintosh, to a 1914 Victrola that still plays, 1910 Edison light bulb that still shines, and a 1905 crank telephone that still rings, Jay scoured the world (and eBay) to find rare, important, classic, quirky and historic products.

(Read all about it here. Then click here, for a virtual tour.)

Last spring, Jay’s dad bought a photo scanner, to scan family photos.

You or I would say, “Meh.” Jay thought: Ka-ching!

He ran the numbers, researched the competition, and developed a pricing model.

No matter how the photos were taken, Jay can digitize them.

He tested the concept with family and friends. He quickly realized they wanted more than just photo scanning — for example, transferring CDs to thumb drives.

Some of the types of media Jay accepts for digitizing and transfer.

And it wasn’t only photos. Someone asked about scanning old documents. Jay bought a flatbed scanner, for that service.

Jay Babina, at his workstation.

Jay is now a sophomore at Manhattanville College. He devotes weekends to his new business. He calls it Scans by Me.

Yes, that’s an homage to the Ben E. King classic. Jay is not only creative; he’s also a fan of great music.

(To learn more about Scans By Me, click here; email jay@scansbyme.com, or call 475-444-3040.)

(“06880” often covers businesses in town, the creative endeavors of Westporters — especially young people — and, like today, their intersection. Please click here to support our work. Thanks!)

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Posted in Local business, technology, Teenagers

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Roundup: Instagram Live, Little League Loss, Recruits & Retirees …

Posted on August 24, 2025 | 16 comments

“06880” continues our Instagram Live conversations with the first selectman candidates tomorrow (Monday, August 25, 4 p.m.). Dave Briggs and I will chat with independent David Rosenwaks.

You can find us on Instagram @06880danwoog. We welcome your questions!

The series began with Republican candidate Don O’Day. Still to come: Democrat Kevin Christie.

David Rosenwaks

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Oh no!

The Fairfield National Little team’s storied run in the Little League World Series ended yesterday.

They lost 8-2 to Las Vegas, in the US championship game. Fairfield had come from behind to beat the same team 3 days earlier, sending the Nevadans to a must-win contest in the losers’ bracket.

Fairfield boasts 4 players with direct Westport connections: Ben Herbst, Colin Curley, Boden Dunlap and Tommy D’Amura.

The defeat in the American title game matches the achievement of a Westport team 12 years ago. They fell to a California squad in the championship.

Congratulations, Fairfield, on a great run. You represented yourselves, your town and our state wonderfully!

Three Fairfield players with Westport ties (from 2nd left to far right).

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Congratulations too to Tom Atkinson, Vance Harrison, John Rhodes, Bill Whidden and John Yingling.

The longtime friends — who met 60 years ago, at Cedar Point Yacht Club’s sailing school, and reunited last week to participate in the Atlantic Class National Championship, hosted by CPYC — finished a hugely respectable 6th overall.

John Kantor — the highly regarded former Longshore Sailing School owner, who knows an enormous about about the sport — calls that result “very impressive. There were a lot of pros in the top 10.”

First place was won by David Peck of Niantic.

At Cedar Point Yacht Club, standing, from left: Bill Whidden, Vance Harrison, John Rhodes, Tom Atkinson. Front: John Yingling. (Photo/Bonnie Housner Erickson)

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Speaking (still) of sports: Today’s (Sunday) Staples High School boys basketball 2nd annual Summer Slam Jam 3-v-3 Tournament for 3rd-8th grade boys of all skill levels runs all day at Bedford Middle School.

There is also a 3-point shooting competition for everyone. Trophies will go to kids (high school and younger), as well as adults.

There are 3 45-minute slots: 11 a.m., 1:45 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. Anyone can enter any of them.

Meanwhile, the boys basketball program seeks contributions, to help imrpove the facilities at Staples. Click here to donate.

Meet and hang out with the FCIAC champs!

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Five new recruits joined the Westport Fire Department on Friday.

William O’Rourke, Stephen Marsan, Drew Haig, Joseph McKay and Patricia Quinn were sworn in, at the Post Road headquarters.

Congratulations. Thank you for your service. And welcome to Westport!

Westport’s newest firefighters.

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From new recruits to older retirees.

After decades of teaching at Staples High School — and now, a decade or two later — a group gets together regularly.

They call themselves ROMEO: Retired Old Men Eating Out.

On Friday — as their still-working colleagues were setting up classrooms, attending meetings and planning lessons — these guys enjoyed their annual “We’re Not Going Back to School” breakfast.

How many can you identify? Their names are in the caption below.

Clockwise from far left: Jim Wheeler, Al Jolley, Jim Honeycutt, Stan Rhodes, John Pepe, Ed Bludnicki, Drew Strauss, Fred Choromanski, Brian Kelley, Bruce McFadden, Pete Van Hagen, Bob Selverstone, Werner Liepolt.

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As summer ebbs, and night falls a little earlier, the days — and evenings — are better than ever.

Perfect weather, low humidity, just the right amount of breeze: These are exquisite times.

And plenty of folks were at Compo Beach yesterday, to enjoy it.

Compo’s South Beach, last night. (Photo/Jerry Kuyper)

Today will be partly cloudy, with a high of 82.

On the other hand, this was the Ned Dimes Marina yesterday, at 2:30 p.m.:

(Photo copyright DinkinESH Fotografix)

It was the most beautiful day of the year (perhaps the decade).

If you didn’t take your boat out yesterday: What are you waiting for?!

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Speaking of the beach: A few days ago, our “06880” Roundup noted that the Remarkable Bookcycle’s shelves seemed a bit bare.

You guys came through! Look at it now:

(Photo/John Richers)

However, there are 2 sides to every story.

And to this Bookcycle.

The other side — the one facing the Sound — is still fairly empty.

Come on, Westport. Help out once more. Take a book … bring a book. It’s only fair!

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Sorelle Gallery’s next 2-person exhibition, Serene Moments,” showcases new work by Connecticut artists Tracie Cheng and Stephanie Johnson.

It opens next Saturday (September 6). A reception is set for 3-5 p.m.

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Most of our “Westport … Naturally” images show peaceful, serene scenes: gorgeous flowers, beautiful bushes, cute creatures.

Today we offer this shot, from Jacque O’Brien’s Greens Farms back yard:

(Photo/Jacque O’Brien)

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And finally … in honor of the new recruits, sworn in Friday (story above):

(You know what else is fire? Supporting “06880” — your hyper-local, 24/7/365 blog. Please click here to warm our hearts. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Beach, Local business, Local politics, Media, Sports, Staples HS

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Photo Challenge #555

Posted on August 17, 2025 | 38 comments

For some reason — probably having to do with Viva Zapata’s long association with good (drinking) times — several readers thought that the handsomely carved wooden sign reading “It’s Wine o’clock” that was last week’s Photo Challenge could be found at the Riverside Avenue restaurant. (Click here to see.)

Nope!

It’s at Gilbertie’s Herbs & Garden Center.

I don’t know why — you can’t buy wine there.

But who cares? It’s a great sign. We’ll drink to that!

And we’ll toast Diane Bosch and Martha Witte, the only 2 readers who nailed the Challenge.

This week’s Photo Challenge is here. If you know where in Westport you’d see this — (hint: It’s not where you might think) — click “Comments” below.

(Photo/Andrew Franco)

(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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Posted in Local business, Photo Challenge

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Roundup: Jose Feliciano, Working From Home, Growing Tomatoes …

Posted on August 16, 2025 | 6 comments

Singing and bantering in English and Spanish (and a little Italian), José Feliciano enterained a full and adoring crowd last night, at the Westport Country Playhouse.

The historic theater was the venue for the legendary, Grammy Lifetime Achievement-winning artist. It was a benefit for the Church of the Assumption, which next year celebrates its 150th anniversary. (That’s almost as old as the 94-year-old Playhouse and 80-year old Feliciano combined.)

The guitarist was accompanied by his sons Mikey (bass) and Jonnie (drums), and a band that — along with Feliciano — played a wide range of songs, in genres including Latin, rock, blues, Motown, Dylan and jazz (plus a smooth Sam Cooke tune).

José Feliciano (right), Hawkins French (left), and 3 other musicians in the 11-member band. (Photo/Dan Woog)

The 2-hour show ended with 2 of Feliciano’s best-sellers: “Light My Fire” and (of course) “Feliz Navidad.”

He’s sung that tune at Assumption’s Christmas Mass for over 3 decades. He and his wife Susan — who took a deserved bow — have been longtime parishioners and supporters of the Riverside Avenue church.

José Feliciano and his wife Susan. (Photo copyright DinkinESH Fotografix)

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If you think more people in Westport are working from home after COVID: You’re right.

According to data released by the CT Data Collaborative and AdvanceCT, and reported by CT Mirror, 36% of residents here work from home. That’s up from 15% in 2019.

Weston saw a similar increase: 39%, also up from 15%.

Meanwhile, 59 businesses opened iin Westport between 2021 and 2024. The number fwas just 30, between 2016-19.

Click here for many more statistics, available by town. (Hat tip: Peter Gold)

GG & Joe opened during the pandemic. They’ve been crushing it ever since.

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Jimmy Fallon knows tomatoes.

But Sal Gilbertie knows a lot more about them.

I’m not sure of the back story behind all this. Here though is a Gilbertie’s video starring a “celebrity tomato”:

It was followed by a Facebook video, from patriarch Sal Gilbertie (click here to see).

Both are delicious to see. (Hat tip: Mary McGee)

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The Board of Education begins meeting again on Thursday (August 21, 7 p.m., Staples High School cafeteria), following its summer break.

The first order of business will be the introduction of its new junior student representative on the BOE: Anwara Olasewere.

Click here for the full agenda.


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Looking for a great activity for your son or daughter?

Look no further than Scouting.

Westport Troops 39 (boys) and 139 (girls) welcome new potential members and their families in grades 5-12 for homemade pizza making and a bonfire (September 11, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., Compo Beach).

Current members and adult leaders will answer questions, and share their excitement about plans for 2025-26 They include:

  • Ziplining
  • Downhill mountain biking
  • Camping
  • Whitewater rafting
  • Climbing
  • A trip to Fort Adams in Newport, Rhode Island
  • Leadership and service opportunities
  • And more.

Questions? Email Troop39Westport@gmail.com.

Troops 39 and 139.

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George C. White — the driving force behind the famed Eugene O’Neill Theater Center in Waterford, who died August 6 at 89 — was not a Westporter.

But he nurtured and influenced many residents.

Werner Liepolt was playwright-in-residence at the O’Neill theater — twice.

Liepolt says that Westporter Arthur Kopit was also a resident playwright. Max Wilk was a dramaturg there for several summer sessions.

And Michael Douglas — who lived with his mother on Whitney Street, in a house that Kopit later rented — was a frequent actor on the Eugene O’Neill Theater stage.

Eugene O’Neill Theater Center

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This crepe myrtle catches Topsy Siderowf’s eye, very time she passes it on Compo Road South.

She sends it along as today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature photo, adding, “They are more often seen in the south. But this specimen is thriving in Zone 7.”

(Photo/Topsy Siderowf)

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And finally … Bobby Whitlock — a keyboardist and singer-songwriter who helped found Derek and the Dominos, and played with stars like Eric Clapton and George Harrison — died Sunday in Texas. He was 77, and had been diagnosed with cancer.

Click here for a full obituary.

(As we gear up for the start of school, add this to your checklist: Please click here to support “06880.” We’ll keep providing all the news you need — with your help. Thank you all!)

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Posted in Arts, Education, Local business, religion, Westport Country Playhouse

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“For Rent” On Post Road: The 2025 Survey

Posted on August 16, 2025 | 2 comments

Beginning in 2017, Bob Weingarten has regularly surveyed the Post Road commercial scene.

He drives the length of US 1 — from Norwalk to Southport — and counts “For Rent” and “For Sale” signs.

In  2017, the number of units available — single offices, showrooms and entire buildings — was 50.  As of August 1, 2025, it is 59 units.

That number — 59 — is exactly the average number of available units, from 2017-25.

Since the last count, in December 2023 — when 4 bank properties were available — 2 have been reused. One is the Saatva mattress store (Saatra), next to Walgreens. The other — the former Bank of America next to Starbucks — is  under renovation as a Montessori school.

Repurposed space: from bank to upscale mattress store.

There are several major vacancies. They include the former Christian Siriano space, the Bond Veterinary space next to the downtown Starbucks, and the 2 largest: Patagonia and Carvana (previously Dragone Classic Motorcars.

New construction continues, in areas like the foot of Long Lots Road near Pizza Lyfe. Some — but not all — of that commercial space has been rented.

(“06880” often covers Westport’s ever-changing commercial real estate scene. Please click here to help support your hyper-local blog. Thank you!)

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Posted in Local business

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Don’t Sweat It: Mobile Sauna Unit Comes To You

Posted on August 14, 2025 | 11 comments

First came the Good Humor man.

That was followed by food trucks. Pizza, hot dogs, tacos, gyros — all (and much more) now comes to you.

But those are small potatoes compared with the newest service: a mobile sauna.

Yep.

You can summon a sauna right to your beach (or corporate event, or party).

The newest addition to your beach party.

And — while you’re at it — you can make it a real Finnish experience, adding a cold plunge.

Plus a shower.

Kiin Sauna may be the hottest (and coolest) new business idea of the year.

Ginger Richardson, with her mobile sauna.

Kiin Sauna is the brainchild of Ginger Richardson. A Canadian native who moved to Texas, she and her husband came to Westport in 2010 for his New York job.

That was “before everything got fancy,” she says. They lived here — loving the nature and this “adorable town” — and in Weston for 11 years. After their divorce, she moved to Fairfield.

By profession, Ginger was an interior designer. She also worked at Local to Market (the former Main Street store across from Cold Fusion), and helps the Westport Farmers’ Market with sponsorships.

But she was always interested in wellness. In 2017 she earned certification as a health coach.

All along, she was a sauna-goer. She was a faithful visitor to an infrared one (now closed) near Jesup Green; then she bought one for her home.

Three years ago, a friend invited her to a cold plunge at Fairfield’s Jennings Beach. She was hooked.

She organized a group to jump in the water all winter long, followed by a sauna at her home.

She began coaching cold plunging. She helped people “tap into their breathing, and find inner strength.”

Native American, Scandinavian and Japanese cultures all understand the benefits of contrast therapy, Ginger says. Coincidentally, she learned that she has Finnish heritage. (Also coincidentally, her son’s name is Finn.)

All the stars aligned.

A mobile sauna (and cold plunge) is a way for people to “do something good for themselves, outside in nature.” Dopamine, adrenaline and norepinephrine flood a user’s nervous sytem. they feel alert, but also calm.

Kiin Sauna’s cold plunge tub. 

A year and a half ago, she bought a sauna tent. It was a start — but flimsy.

Ginger wanted more. She learned of a woman in Maine with a mobile sauna business.

“I was 52 years old. I sold my house, and invested in myself,” Ginger says.

She found a contractor, and designed her own mobile sauna.

Now she’s upgraded to a full mobile unit. It comes complete with a wood-burning stove, solar battery-powered LED lighting and sound system, and shower with a hose hookup. A compressor chills the water in the inflatable cold plunge tub.

Ginger designed the mobile sauna herself. It is a way, she says, to create a beautiful space, one that travels to other beautiful spaces.

Kiin Sauna rolled out — literally, hitched on a trailer to her Toyota 4Runner — 6 weeks ago.

She did a private birthday party at Compo Beach. Guests cold plunged, took a sauna, then watched the sunset. It was “magical,” Ginger says.

Her first big public unveiling was last weekend, at Nod Hill Brewery in Ridgefield. Ginger offered several 1-hour sessions. The sauna seats 7.

When the last group was done, Ginger joined them in the beer garden for dinner.

“It was a pinch-me moment,” she says. “Everyone chatted about their lives, in a casual, joyful way.”

For her and her clients, Kiin Sauna offers a safe space for a healthy activity, and a chance to share human connections.

Fairfield officials have already approved a permit for Southport Beach. She’ll offer regular hours there, after Labor Day.

Meanwhile, Ginger is lining up private events all over the area. Along with her mobile sauna and cold plunge tub, she can arrange for food trucks, yoga sound baths, massages and more.

To take the plunge, follow her on social media: @kiinsauna. The website www.kiinsauna.com will be live soon. Email: ginger@kiinsauna.com.

(“06880″often covers new businesses — the more interesting, the better — and established ones too. If you enjoy stories like these, plesae click here to support our work. Thank you!)

A post-sauna and cold plunge shower.

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Posted in Beach, Local business

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