Category Archives: Local business

Roundup: LobsterFest, Lightning, Longshore …

Posted on July 16, 2025 | 9 comments

Save the date! This year’s LobsterFest — the early fall fun-fest (and fundraiser) at Compo Beach — is September 20.

All the food and family-friendly entertainment features of past years return. The Westport Rotary Club promises a few new additions, along with new beverage options.

Right now, the Westport Rotary Club is signing sponsors. It’s a great opportunity to align with one of the town’s most lively and popular events.

It’s all for a great cause. The Rotary Club is celebrating its centennial with a major contribution to the Compo Beach playground renovation.

They awarded $385,000 to the project from last year’s Lobster Fest. Another $285,000 went to 46 local and regional causes — and $100,000 more to support international projects. The largest is outfitting a new dental and vision building in rural Uganda.

To learn more about sponsorships, click here.

PS: Tickets go on sale next month. Be sure to watch “06880” for an announcement — and then pounce. They go fast!

Save the date — September 20 — for the Rotary Club LobsterFest. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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It’s not easy capturing lightning (on camera, of course).

But Meredith Holod was in the right place, at the right time — and a safe distance away — Monday.

Here’s her view during the quick but intense storm, from Compo Beach.

(Photo/Meredith Holod)

But lightning did strike twice, elsewhere in Westport. The Fire Department responded to 2 incidents.

One struck a home on Joanne Circle, igniting a fire on the second floor. Crews swiftly contained the fire before it could spread further. No injuries were reported.

Meanwhile on Bayberry Lane, lightning struck a pet “invisible fence.” The surge caused electrical damage, and posed a risk to the property.

“Summer storms can be dangerous, and things can go wrong quickly,” says Fire Marshal Terry Dunn.

“Electric pet fences are especially vulnerable, because they’re wired underground and usually connected to your home’s electrical system. If lightning strikes nearby it can travel through that wiring, damage your home, and potentially start a fire. It takes just a few seconds to unplug the system when a storm is on the way. It’s a smart precaution.”

The Westport Fire Department urges residents to take precautions during thunderstorms:

  • Unplug electric fences.
  • Use surge protectors for important electronics; unplug non-essential devices.
  • Avoid using wired appliances or electronics during a storm.
  • Stay indoors and away from windows when thunder or lightning is present.

For more safety tips and emergency updates, visit www.westportct.gov/fire.

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Saturn —  the wildly successful calendar app for high school and college students, which began as a Staples High venture when Class of 2017 member Dylan Diamond was a teenager there — has been acquired by Snap.

The new owners — the company behind Snapchat — did not disclose terms of the day. But most of Saturn’s 30 full-time employees will join their new owner.

Engadget, which first reported the news, says: “It’s not clear what exactly Snap has planned for Saturn, but … the calendar app will continue to operate as a standalone service.”

Saturn may help introduce calendar-related features into Snapchat.

Saturn is available at more than 17,000 high schools. And Snap is used by more than half of US teenagers.

Click here for the full Engadget story.

Dylan Diamond

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John McCarthy was the most recent “06880” reader to send a photo of the camera mounted at the Longshore entrance, and wonder why it’s there.

(Photo/John McCarthy)

“Seems a little out of place,” he writes.

Not really. Parks & Recreation Department director Erik Barbieri explains: “This is a license plate recognition camera, for cars entering Longshore.

:There have been break-ins in the past, but the cameras in the parking lot couldn’t always catch the plates.

“This helps us know who came in, if there are any other issues in the future. A good recommendation from the Police Department.”

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For years, Staples High School Class of 2024 graduate Ethan Walmark entertained Westporters, with his many musical talents.

But not just us.

Ethan was on the “Today Show.” He helped Yoko Ono flip the switch to light the Empire State Building blue for World Autism Awareness Day. His performance of “Eminence Front” rocked a Who show. He sang the national anthem in front of 25,000 fans at Red Bull Arena.

As a 12-year-old Coleytown Middle School student, Ethan followed Emerson, Lake and Palmer, Billy Joel and Elton John at the 1st-ever Autism Awareness Gala Fundraiser at the Kennedy Center in Washington.

Now — a rising sophomore at the University of Southern California’s Thornton School of Music — Ethan is back in town.

Tonight (Wednesday, 6 to 9 p.m.), he performs outside the Spotted Horse — on keyboards, and electric and acoustic guitar.

He won’t sing all of the 3,000 songs in his repertoire. But you’ll recognize many of your favorite Beatles, Billy Joel, Elton John, Motown, John Mayer, Simon & Garfunkel and Four Seasons favorites.

And Ethan will take requests.

Ethan Walmark

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Speaking of entertainment: Country music rocks the VFW this Saturday (July 19, 8 p.m.).

Grady McAuliffe — with his new single “On the Edge” at #4 on the Hot Disc/All Country Radio chart — and his band bring their high-energy, country grit, Southern Soul and rock-infused sound to the Riverside Avenue venue.

The bar features specials sponsored by Bubba’s Whiskey and Spacecat Brewing Company. Click here for tickets ($15 in advance, $20 at the door), and more information.

Grady McAuliffe

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Mitchells held their annual Compo Beach party last night, for company members and their families.

As always, it was first class: lobster and shrimp, Colony Pizza, hot dogs and much more.

Jack and Bill Mitchell — the second generation, after their parents Ed and Norma — were joined by their sons and daughters-in-law, and their kids. The 4th generation is well on its way to making its mark on the Westport store — and those in Greenwich, Long Island, on the West Coast, and now Dallas.

The fifth generation was there too. Their time will come!

Of course — befitting two Westport town jewels (Mitchells and Compo) — the weather was perfect.

Bill Mitchell, at the company picnic. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Today’s spectacular “Westport … Naturally” image comes from Michael Chait, via the Saugatuck River:

(Photo/Michael Chait)

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And finally … on this date in 1935, the world’s first parking meter was installed. The site was Oklahoma City.

(Don’t follow leaders … but please support “06880.” Just click here — and thank you!)

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Posted in Entertainment, Local business, Longshore, Police, Restaurants, Staples HS, technology, Weather

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Roundup: West Parish Work, Telly Awards, Heat Warning …

Posted on July 15, 2025 | 4 comments

Hillandale Road residents were stunned earlier this year, when the state Department of Transportation clear-cut large swaths of land on the Sherwood Island Connector, in preparation for a new maintenance facility behind Walgreens.

More work will be done, this time on West Parish Road. But now, town operations director Thomas Kiely has given neighbors some warning.

He writes: “As part of a broader infrastructure improvement initiative, the DOT will be removing trees along a portion of the roadway over the coming weeks. The work will take place from the corner of Post Road East, to the area across from 7 West Parish Road.

“In place of the removed trees, the DOT will construct a 10-foot land berm. This will be landscaped with new vegetation, to enhance the visual appeal of the area and create a natural buffer for nearby properties.

“Additionally, the project will eliminate the old salt shed and adjacent facility entrance on West Parish Road, further improving privacy and separation for adjacent homes.

“We understand that changes to the neighborhood landscape may raise questions, and we want to ensure residents are aware. Please be assured that the work is being planned with consideration for safety, improved visibility, and long-term aesthetics.

“I will continue to work with the DOT and advocate on behalf of the Westport community. Please know that the plantings will be towards the end of the project after final grading is complete, to avoid damage.” (Hat tip: Jonathan Steinberg)

The DOT maintenance facility, as seen from West Parish Road.

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Westport Library’s Verso Studios have hosted Emmy, Grammy and Tony Award winners.

Now they’ve got an honor of their own.

Actually, 4. “Crew Call” — the Verson program that gives community members the chance to be trained in live, hands-on video production — recently earned 3 silver and 1 bronze Telly Awards.

Created in 1979 to honor local, regional and cable television commercials, with non-broadcast video and television programming soon, Tellys have evolved with the rise of digital video to include branded content, documentary, social media, immersive and more.

The contest draws more than 13,000 entries annually, from 6 continents and all 50 states.

Verso’s silver medals were awarded for “Read to Grow: 25 Years of Building Literacy from Birth”; “Andrew Wilk Presents, The Westport Library Medical Series Part III: Cardiac Valve Disease”; and “The Night a Library Got Stoned,” which celebrated Rolling Stones guitarist Keith Richards receiving the Governor’s Award of Excellence at The Westport Library.

The bronze was for “BOOKED for the evening with Billie Jean King.”

Crew Call began as a 6-week training course, led by Emmy-winning Verso Studios video producer David Bibbey. Community members are trained to record and edit programming and events produced on the Library stage, and occasionally on location.

Participants currently range in age from 14 to 80. To learn more about Crew Call, fill out this online form.

Verso Studios video producer David Bibbey (far right), assistant producer Fred Lavins (center, 3rd from left), and Crew Call members, before a recent program.

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Speaking of entertainment: Perhaps the Westport Country Playhouse tempted fate last night by screening the film “Singin’ in the Rain,”

Rain pelted down, and there was a power blip at the 7 p.m. showtime. But the tech crew got it up and running, just a few minutes late.

The Playhouse’s celebration of timeless films continues with “Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory” (August 6, 6 p.m.), “The Sting” (August 18, 7 p.m.), and Alfred Hitchcock’s “Psycho”(October 10, 7 p.m.).

Tickets are $20 each; $10 each for 3. For tickets and more information, click here.

Last night at the Playhouse — reminiscent of Gene Kelly’s iconic 1952 scene.

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A combination of heat, poor air quality and the potential for flash floods this week prompted Governor Lamont to activate Connecticut’s “extreme hot weather protocol.”

It begins at noon today, and runs through at least 8 p.m. Friday.

Westport has activated its cooling centers and will monitor conditions closely, says Fire Chief and emergency management director Nick Marsan.

Cooling centers include:

Need help or transportation? Call 211, or visit www.211ct.org.

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Hearts in Harmony is a foundation created by Mark and Kira Greenfield. The mission is to find better treatments (and a cure) for Long QT Syndrome, a heart rhythm disorder that affects their daughter Shea.

But the non-profit’s impact extends far beyond researchers and patients.

Last week, Hearts in Harmony partnered with Coastal Bridge Advisors, to offer CPR and AED (automated external defibrillator) training to residents.

Over 6o people — many of them parents with young children — learned from EMS professionals, at Coastal Bridge’s Wilton Road headquarters. The event included special infant and toddler training.

Click here to learn more about Hearts in Harmony.

Hearts in Harmony CPR and AED training.

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Make-Modern’s grand opening is tomorrow (Wednesday, 3 to 6 p.m.).

The open house at their 180 Post Road East location includes free crafting stations for adults and kids, plus giveaways.

Make-Modern is a crafting and sewing studio “for people  with a passion for design, and a deep respect for the art of making … rhe opposite of (a) glitter-and-glue setup. Every class, workshop, party and camp is built around thoughtful curriculums, age-appropriate skill building, and elevated materials sourced from around the world.”

Click here to learn more about Make-Modern.

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An alert — and grossed-out — “06880” reader writes:

“I was returning an item at Lululemon today, and experienced a poorly mannered dog owner.

“Three cashiers were handling customers. I was in the middle. The lady to my left had a cocker spaniel on a leash. I just had a pedicure, and tried to avoid him stepping on my toes. The owner saw that, and pulled him to her front.

“It was busy and noisy. When the dog owner left I smelled something foul, and looked down to see several pools of vomit.

“Another woman almost stepped into it before I called for her to stop. I told the manager. It took 3 young women to clean the floor. They put up a cone so no one would fall.

“There was no way the owner didn’t realize her dog threw up. I say that as a dog owner myself. While accidents can occur, to not report it was negligent.”

For sure. And that brings up a fairly new trend: Dog owners who bring their pets everywhere.

I’ve seen them in stores, supermarkets and restaurants. What’s up with that?

I understand owners’ desires to bring their dogs with them. But do they really belong everywhere?

Am I being overly sensitive? I want to hear all sides of this. Click “Comments” below.

Sure, you take your pooch paddleboarding. But into a store? (Photo/Matt Murray)

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Construction on Greens Farms Academy’s 29,000-square foot multipurpose athletics/wellness center is moving along.

Here’s a view of the newest building on the handsome private school campus:

In addition to modern amenities, it is located closer to the athletic fields than the current gym. It was built in 1964.

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Every Thursday, Jazz at the Post welcomes noted musicians from around the globe.

But there are plenty of homegrown talents too.

At the top of any list is Chris Coogan. The Weston native is a mucha-admired composer, performer, teacher, choir director and producer, rooted in both jazz and gospel.

He headlines this week’s shows (July 17, 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner service at 7; VFW Post 399; music charge $20; $15 for veterans and students).

He’ll be joined by John Mobilio, his bassist for decades. Also sitting in: drummer Scott Latzky, who has worked with Tito Puente, Lionel Hampton and Bob Dorough. Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Nothing is more natural than a bee collecting pollen.

And nothing fits better for our “Westport … Naturally” feature than this “busy bee” shot, of Tracy Porosoff’s sunflower:

(Photo/Tracy Porosoff)

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And finally … on this date in 2006, Twitter was launched. In 2023, it was rebranded as X.

(Sure, “06880” rocks in the treetops all day long. But we depend on you birds — our loyal readers — for support, all day and night. You can make a tax-deductible contribution by clicking here. Thanks!)

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Posted in Entertainment, Library, Local business, Sports, Weather, Westport Country Playhouse

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E3 Advisors: “Know What You Own. And Why.”

Posted on July 13, 2025 | Comments Off on E3 Advisors: “Know What You Own. And Why.”

John Nelson has a mantra: “Know what you own. Know why you own it. And know what you’re paying for it.”

Sounds simple. But even in a financially savvy town like Westport, there are plenty of people who may not have clear insights into their portfolios.

Many are women, in the baby boom generation. Which is why Nelson and his financial services partner, Stacy Thomson, work closely with that cohort at their E3 Wealth Advisory Group, in the Wright Street building overlooking downtown.

Those 3 E’s stand for “Engage, Educate, Empower.” It’s telling that the pair — who are affiliated with Stifel, a 135-year-old St. Louis-based firm — did not name their company the traditional wealth management way: after themselves.

“Every firm uses last names. But that means nothing,” Nelson explains.

“They’re middle-aged white men in suits who say, ‘Trust us. We’ll take care of it.'”

Stacy Thomson

“That’s so old-school,” Thomson adds. Clients need “empathy, education, the ability to understand their finances. That has nothing to do with a man behind a curtain.”

They lack that “trust us, we know what’s right for you” mentality, because wealth advisory is not their first careers.

Nelson spent 20 years as a pilot and intelligence officer in the Marine Corps, and 10 more as a United Airlines 767 pilot.

Thomson had a 20-year career in marketing and advertising agencies, with clients like Nestle and Unilever. She joined Nelson — a long-time friend — with the intention of “fixing the (financial services) brand.” As an outsider — and a woman — she wanted to “break the mold” of what clients expect.

The advisors say that the much-ballyhooed “great wealth transfer” from boomers to the next generation is not what it seems.

In fact, Nelson notes, the first transfer is often from a man to his wife, since women generally outlive their husbands. Boomer women are expected to receive $30 trillion in assets by 2030.

“They have sophisticated needs: attorneys, CPAs, caregivers,” Nelson says. “The first thing we try to do is educate them. We don’t sell products.”

One client — a 65-year-old artist, whose husband had dementia — felt stressed, because their advisor had never talked to her. She had no idea how to locate any documents.

John Nelson

Nelson worked with her to find an appropriate assisted iving facility, where her husband could receive the care he needed. Nelson helped her negotiate the rates, and executed her long-term care policy.

Another group targeted by Nelson and Thomson is 40- to 65-year-olds. They may have a parent to take care of, along with their own children. That “sandwich generation” includes younger boomers, GenXers and millennials.

“They’re paying bills for their parents, who forget passwords, can’t find their wills. have 5 different bank, with safe deposit boxes,” Thomson says.

“Meanwhile, they’re looking at college tuitions for their kids — and maybe even still paying off their own student loans. There’s a lot going on.”

One other reason for stress: People in this area spend a lot of time making a lot of money. But they may not have a lot of time to take care of it.

So John Nelson and Stacy Thomson engage. They empower. They educate.

And they help clients understand what they own, why they own it, and what they’re paying for it.

(“06880” often shines a light on local businesses — what they do, how they do it, and why. If you appreciate our coverage of everything Westport, please click here to support us. Thanks!)

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Roundup: Sundance, Merritt, Mussels …

Posted on July 12, 2025 | 4 comments

Westport’s Sundance store will close soon.

A representative of the Main Street outlet inferred to “06880” that the entire chain is in liquidation. She passed our contact info on to the national office, which never called back.

(Photo/Sal Liccione)

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Lisa Seidenberg read yesterday’s Roundup item about renumbering the Merritt Parkway exits with interest. She writes: “This is historic for those of us who are Merritt fans.

“In 2008 I made a documentary, ‘The Road Taken …The Merritt Parkway.’ So now that film truly becomes a time capsule.

“Actually it already was, as many of those I interviewed in the film are no longer with us. The list includes Henry ‘Buzz’ Merritt (a grand-nephew of Schuyler Merritt, the Stamford congressman the parkway is named after), and humorist Alan Abel, a longtime Westport resident.”

Interested? Click here or below, to watch this 33-minute fascinating video.

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Alert — and environmentally conscious — “06880” reader Rick Benson writes: “Someone is dumping mussel and oyster shells, with lemons and forks, into Sherwood Mill Pond by the kayak launch, and at Old Mill Beach by the boat ramp.”

(Photo/Rick Benson)

Definitely not cool.

Rick suggests “neighbors should report suspicious activity to the police.”

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VFW Post 399 reaches out to veterans in many ways.

Next up: a Veterans Benefits Luncheon on July 17 (11 a.m. to 1 p.m.).

It’s free, and open to all veterans as part of an ongoing effort to check in on all veterans’ welfare, and connect them with the benefits and support they earned.

Representatives will answer questions, and provide information on services and assistance available to veterans.

RSVPs are encouraged (but not required). Email vfw399ct@gmail.com, and include the number of attendees, or call (203) 227-6796.

PS: If you’re not a veteran, but know one: Please pass the word!

All veterans are invited to the VFW’s free June 12 luncheon.

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The Levitt Pavilion drew another large crowd last night, for Umphrey’s McGee.

(Photo/Copyright DinkinESH Fotografix)

Tonight’s free show features Indie folk-rocker Sway Wild (Satruday, 7:30 p.m.),

Michael Franti & Spearhead, with Cimafunk take the open-air stage tomorrow(Sunday, 5 p.m.), for a paid-ticket concert.

Click here to purchase tickets, and for more information.

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Meanwhile, both Jimmy Izzo and Jamie Walsh spotted this new way of ensuring your mailbox does not get knocked over, on Gorham Avenue:

(Photo/Jimmy Izzo)

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Here’s a first for our “Westport … Naturally” feature: a wasp nest.

(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

Johanna Keyser Rossi spotted it at the Senior Center.

For a cool look at what can be done — artistically — with these amazing works of nature (once the creators move on), click here.

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And finally … Dave “Baby” Cortez — whose 1959 song “The Happy Organ” was the first instrumental song to top the Billboard Hot 100 — died 3 years ago.

But his death — and his burial in a Bronx potter’s field — only recently came to light, thanks to the work of a 15-year-old doo wop fan in Australia. Click here to read the full story, and obituary.

(The weekend is here! But “06880” never takes a break. We’re here for you: 7/24/365. If you appreciate our multi-daily work, please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!

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Posted in Beach, Environment, Local business, Transportation

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CastleKeep: Celebrating 25 Years Of Service To Westport

Posted on July 10, 2025 | 6 comments

In 2000, the private bank Charlie Haberstroh worked for downsized.  He had 4 college-aged children. The dot-com era was crashing.

“What better time to start a new wealth management firm?!” he laughs.

It may not have been the best timing. But Haberstroh was the right man.

This year, CastleKeep Investment Advisors celebrates its 25th year. And the Westport-based firm is doing it the way they’ve done business for a quarter century: by giving back to the community.

The CastleKeep team (from left): Christy Pasqua, Lauren Quesada, Steve Haberstroh, Charlie Haberstroh, Chuck Haberstroh, Mary Hackett.

The highlight of their anniversary celebration at The Bridge at Saugatuck — a few yards away from their Riverside Avenue office — was the announcement of long-term financial support for 2 local groups: Westport’s Department of Human Services, and Staples Tuition Grants.

Both choices were no-brainers.

Patty Haberstroh — Charlie’s wife, and the mother of Chuck and Steve Haberstroh, 2 of her 4 children who are partners in their dad’s firm — died 2 years ago this month, after a long battle with ALS.

She was (among many other activities)  a beloved family program coordinator for Human Services.

Patty Haberstroh

Patty ran and supported important initiatives like their annual Back-To-School program that offers backpacks, school supplies and shoe store gift cards to children from low-income families; the Westport Mentor program; summer camperships; after-school scholarships; Thanksgiving dinner donations; MLK Day basketball clinics; Minds in Motion, and Prom and Graduation Gowns programs.

In 2000 Steve was a beneficiary of Staples Tuition Grants — the 83-year-old organization that this year awarded $400,000 to over 100 graduating seniors and alumni.

Chuck served for 4 years on STG’s board. Years ago, a friend established a Staples Tuition Grants fund in the Habestrohs’ family name. Charlie continues to support it. Now there will be an additional scholarship, named for CastleKeep.

CastleKeep’s gifts are not their first to the community. In December they supported Human Services’  Holiday Giving Program with a donation that ensures that all graduating seniors who need help will attend college with their own laptops.

Like many small family-owned businesses — albeit on with nearly $1 billion in invstments under management to clients around the world — CastleKeep reflects the values of its founder. In this case, community service is key.

Charlie chairs the Levitt Pavilion Committee. He’s also chaired the Parks & Recreation Commission; been 2nd selectman; served on the Board of Finance and Representative Town Meeting, and was president of the Sunrise Rotary Club.

His children have followed their parents’ lead. Chuck, for example, is very involved in his own kids’ Westport sports program. He also co-founded and co-heads the Lou Gehrig Day Committee, which works closely with Major League Baseball.

Chuck joined CastleKeep soon after graduating from Fairfield University’s Dolan School of Business. At the time, he says, “I wasn’t really sure what I wanted to do, except I wanted to succeed Theo Epstein as general manager of the Boston Red Sox.”

That seemed unlikely.

“I knew my father needed help at CastleKeep,” Chuck says. “I was willing to do whatever he needed. I had seen what my family had done for each other, and for others. I really wanted to treat colleagues and clients as family, which to me means going above and beyond.”

Steve joined the company afer 5 years with a publicly traded financial planning firm. He gained valuable experience and leadership training there. But, he says, the family aspect attracted him — and helps him attract clients.

Over 25 years — through good times and bad — the firm has grown. They’ve added employees. Every partner began as an intern.

The CastleKeep “family” — blood relatives and others — is proud of that quarter century.

They’re even prouder of the role they play in their community. Both Human Services and Staples Tuition Grants agree: They’re a keeper.

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Netta Levy: Westport’s Eldercare Concierge

Posted on July 9, 2025 | 3 comments

American adults 65 and older will outnumber children under 18 by 2035, for the first time in history.

70% of people turning 65 today will need some form of long-term care in their lifetime.

Over 53 million Americans are unpaid family caregivers — and 61% of them also work full- or part-time.

23% of US adults are caught in the “sandwich generation” middle. Primarily women in their 40s and 50s, they care for aging parents, while also raising children. The dual caregiving role often leads to financial stress, and burnout.

Who you gonna call for help?

Netta Levy.

Netta Levy

The Westport mother of 3 is herself part of that target demographic. At 51, she and her 2 sisters have faced the very real pressures so many of their cohort already have.

Or soon will.

In early 2021, their father was 92. He worked out every day, was in great health, and relished his independence.

Then, in the middle of the night, he fell.

“We hear it all the time: Families are one fall away from a crisis,” Levy says.

Her father fractured bones in his back. He knew the risks, but opted for surgery. He began rehab by himself, near his Philadelphia home — it was the pandemic, and his family could not see him.

When his recovery faltered, Levy’s mother and sisters worked together to make dcisions. Netta already had power of attorney, and was his healthcare proxy.

“He was clear on the direction he wanted to take. We were clear too,” Levy says. “There were a lot of silver linings.”

Her father died quickly, in hospice care at home, surrounded by love.

Levy’s mother is now 85. She has fallen, and feels lonely. She wants to move to an assisted living facility. Levy and her sisters are figuring out how to balance what she wants, with the financial realities of care. (Medicaid pays for skilled nursing, but not assisted living.)

Netta Levy, her sisters and father on his 90th birthday.

Knowing her own experiences, friends have asked Levy for advice about their own aging parents.

She has always enjoyed helping people. Earlier this year — after a freelance marketing job ended — Levy decided to formalize her work.

She now operates LifeCare Concierge. She provides a single point of contact for all caregiving needs. She helps streamline complex processes, in an unbiased way.

Levy is not affiliated with any care providers, facilities or vendors. She focuses solely on a family’s unique needs.

Among her services: assistance with hospitalizations, transitions, or crises; coordination of home care, assisted living or nursing facilities; and proactive planning (including healthcare directives, legal considerations, and ensuring that wishes are documented before a crisis hits).

Levy also offers guidance on transitioning to a new living environment; evaluations on the safety, functionality and quality of life for aging adults; referrals for attorneys, hospice and palliative care, and Medicaid applications; adjustments, as needs evolve; family counseling and mediation — and support to get through each day with peace of mind.

“Should we bring in an aide? How do we assess different facilities? What do we have to think about next?”

Those are some of the difficult questions that family members must think about — often while managing their own homes and families.

Many individuals and organizations address some of them. Levy covers them all, guiding families through what can be  confusing, overwhelming morass.

The sandwich generation. (Graphic courtesy of Verywell/Adriana Sanchez)

She has learned that “no two situations are the same.” But in Westport, she says, there are often similarities.

For example, aging parents of many residents do not live here. She helps clients assess the best option: Move their parents here? Or look for the right facility near where they already live?

One local woman wondered whether her mother’s assisted living facility in Florida was the right place. Levy explored a number of alternatives, and recommended she stay.

“Downsizing and moving are always complex and hard,” she notes. “Add in finding the right senior living facility, and financial issues, and the challenges multiiply.”

On top of which, Levy says, “some places are already full. We’ll see more of that in the future.

“People are getting older. Assisted living can’t take care of all fo them.”

The result, she predicts, will will be an increase in in-home services. She makes sure homes are properly equipped for aging men and women — and that the aides best suited for care are there too.

We are fortunate, Levy adds, that there are many resources in this area. Yet navigating through and among them is not easy.

Levy is concerned with more than the elderly.

“I want people my age to think proactively about our own care,” she says. “We shouldn’t burden our own kids with questions about decisions and finances. We  have to unburden our loved ones, and save our own legacy.

“No one wants to talk about death, Levy notes. “But we have to talk about uncomfortable things.”

(Click here for more information on LifeCare Conceirge. The website includes a link to Levy’s blog, with stories on topics like hiring a caregiver, understanding dementia and the health risks of loneliness.)

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Roundup: Soleil Toile Closes, Parking Limits Reconsidered, Mahj Players Meet …

Posted on July 8, 2025 | 4 comments

Soleil Toile — the Post Road East lingerie/swimwear/accessories/and more shop — is closing soon.

They started in 1990, with 1,400 square feet specializing in fine lingerie from the US and Europe.

A 1997 move to their 3,400-square foot store enabled them to expand into swim and resort wear.

They opened a second store in New Canaan. It closed last September.

News of the closing — at the end of July — has disappointed many longtime customers.

Until then, many items are 30-60% off.

PS: If you have forgotten your French, Soleil Toile means “sun canvas” or “sun cloth.” (Hat tip/Sal Liccione)

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Of the 6 agenda items for tomorrow’s Board of Selectwomen meeting (Wednesday, 9 a.m., Town Hall auditorium), the one with the most direct impact on most Westporters is a proposal by the Downtown Plan Implementation Committee to lower parking limits on Main  Street, Elm Street, Church Lane, Bay Street and Jesup Road from 3 hours to 2.

The change would affect on-street parking only. Parking lots — including Parker Harding Plaza, the Baldwin lot, and the Taylor and Jesup lots near the Library — would remain at 3 hours.

Parking lot limits would not change. But street parking would.

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Pride Month is over. But Bill Shakos is back, with a podcast focusing on LGBTQ+ youth.

The Westporter — who dives deep into important topics, in his “What Do I Know?” series — speaks in Episode 10 with Kayla Ianetta. The Staples High School science teacher chairs the Westport Public Schools’ Pride Coalition.

GenXer Bill and Millennial Kayla chat explore the world of GenZ queer youth. Kayla discusses her own journey, along with the importance of safe spaces, DEI backlash, and much more.

Click here for various ways to download the podcast.

Kayla Iannetta

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What can be better than a morning coffee and treats, outside at The Blondinit?

How about a chance to play mahjong too?

The Church Lane restaurant has partnered with the Haus of Mahj. They’ll host a “Monday Morning open play” next week (July 14, 10 a.m. to noon; experienced players only).

The $30 fee includes coffee or soft drink (food is available for purchase). Grab your quad or sign up solo. All materials — including tiles, racks and mats — are provided. Click here for more information, and to reserve a spot.

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One last look back at the holiday weekend — specifically, the Levitt Pavilion.

On Sunday, Westport’s outdoor entertainment venue featured Jake Swamp & the Pine.

The Americana/folk/pop/country/and more band was joined by Kaliloops, and emerging folks artists Simon Robert French and Harrison Goodell.

Jake Swamp recently played the Greenwich Town Party — the same festival as Alanis Morissette.

Looking ahead at the Levitt:

  • Tonight (Tuesday, 7 p.m.): Westport Community Band
  • Wednesday (7 p.m.): Children’s Series, with Joanie Leeds
  • Thursday (7:30 p.m.): Richiman and Groove Nice (7:30 p.m.; American-style blues band from South Korea).

All 3 shows are free, but tickets are required. Click here to reserve tickets, and for more information.

Jake Swamp & the Pine, and friends, on the Levitt Pavilion stage.

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Jazz at the Post swings into summer with pianist/composer Sarah Jane Cion. She’s joined in a classic trio with bassist Alex Safy and drummer Mike Camacho.

It’s Thursday (July 10, VFW; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner service at 7; $20 music cover, $15 for veterans and students). Click here for reservations.

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Former Westport resident and store owner Michael Nappa III died June 30. He was 75, and lived in Milford.

Michael  helped run the family business, Nappa Sales, with his father Michael Jr. and brother Robert from 1971 to 1981. After their father died, Michael and Robert ran it until they closed their doors in 2018.

They also managed 15 apartments behind the storefront on Main Street in Westport, which served low-income tenants. Some kept in touch even after moving away.

Michael enjoyed movies. He also rescued cats, and nursed them back to health.

He is survived by his sister Marion of Westport; brother Robert (Linda) of Wilton; nieces and nephews Linda and Diana DeMattia, and Katherine and and Robert Nappa Jr. and great-nephews and nieces Daniel Landan, and Emma and Louis Parnes.

The Family will receive friend in the Harding Funeral Home on Thursday (July 10, 10-11 a.m.). A graveside service will follow in Assumption Cemetery, 73 Greens Farms Road at 11:15 a.m.

Contributions in lieu of flowers may be made to the American Heart Association. Condolences for the family can be left online here.

Michael Nappa III

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Most “Westport … Naturally” photos are gorgeous, inspiring, cute or fun.

Occasionlly, they’re all of those in one shot.

Today’s image is none of the above.

Spotted lanternflies can be seen all over town.

Tammy Barry “spotted” this scene on Hillspoint Road. Neaby, the invasive bugs can be seen all over the trunks of another invasive species: trees of heaven.

Ugh.

(Photo/Tammy Barry)

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And finally … in honor of Soleil Toile (story above):

(What does “06880” need? Well, not lingerie. But we really could use a tax-deductible contribution or two, to support our 24/7/365 hyper-local work. Please click here. Lizzo and I thank you.)

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NeuroMind: Unlocking Neurodiverse “Superpowers”

Posted on July 8, 2025 | 2 comments

For neurodiverse people, “masking” is a way to find acceptance — in social situations, school and the workplace.

Forcing eye contact and making small talk, for example, or hiding repetitive behaviors, enables those on the autism spectrum, people diagnosed with ADHD and others, to navigate a neurotypical world.

But creating a façade, or acting in a way that does not feel authentic, can be difficult, exhausting — even detrimental to emotional health.

Lauren Rosenblum

Lauren Brown Rosenblum and Chelsea Elkind take a different tack. They believe in “neuro-affirmation” — helping neurodivese people of all ages stay true to themselves, and embrace their “superpowers.”

Through individual and group coaching and support, career development, educational consulting, cognitive rehabilitation and more, they do not “improve” clients’ lives.

They prefer to say, “We help get people where they want to go.”

On their own, neurodivergent terms.

The Westport professionals do it through NeuroMind. Their collaboration embraces neurodiversity, prioritizes autonomy, and builds skills and confidence.

Their backgrounds are complementary. Rosenblum — a Staples High School Class of 2010 graduate, who earned a master’s in communication science and disosrders from Columbia University — worked in speech therapy, in New York schools.

Chelsea Elkind

Elkind — a New Jersey native, and competitive gymnast at the University of New Hampshire, where she earned a bachelor’s and master’s in occupational therapy — worked at large hospitals in Chicago and New York.

Both moved to Westport with their families during the pandemic. Rosenblum and her boyfriend (now husband) Jake came to live with her parents for what they thought would be a couple of weeks. They’re still here (in their own home, with one child and another on the way).

Elkind was pregnant. She and her husband had friends and relatives here.

Both have been invigorated by the influx of young families. “It’s like the first year of college,” Rosenblum says. “Everyone is making friends, and doing things together.”

The women met socially a couple of years ago. They share similar interests and work ethics.

Realizing a shared passion, they created NeuroMind.

They and their staff of speech pathologists, occupational therapists and licensed counselors offer a range of services, from executive functioning support for organization and planning, to career coaching, educational readiness, independent living skills and social skills training.

Clients include youngsters to men and women in their 60s and 70s. Some parents of neurodiverse youngsters have realized they may be neurodiverse too.

Neurodivergent “superpowers.”

“There’s a lot of neurotypical ‘projecting'” in today’s world, Rosenblum says.

Children are told, “you need to sit still so you can learn math, and succeed in life.”

But here are many ways to succeed, Elkind notes. Someone obsessed with, say, Dungeons & Dragons can earn a good living as a livestreamer.

“We help them advocate for their diagnoses, and find areas of growth,” Rosenblum explains.

“They often say ‘no one really understands how my brain works.'” The neurodivergent therapists on the NeuroMind team do.

One client, suffering from depression, lived at home with their parents. Eventually they got a job, joined a dating app, found a partner, and moved to Colorado to enjoy the outdoor lifestyle. “All it took was a bit of support to achieve their goals,” Elkind says.

Olivia McGuffog, working with young clients.

A woman in her mid-20s, diagnosed with autism and obsessive-compulsive disorder, was burned out at work — not uncommon for neuro-divergent people.

NeuroMind’s staff helped her find a fulfilling career. Her “superpower” was seeing minute details. She is now a superb professional organizer.

A woman with ADHD — raising 2 children, and working as a New York attorney — struggled to manage her work and home lives.

NeuroMind helped her use an app to take mental rests. She also reduced her nighttime sensory overloads, allowing her to sleep better.

Much of their work is virtual. But they’ve reached out to local groups like Uniquely Mothering and Tilt, and will add more in-person support. In the works: home visits, and perhaps a brick-and-mortar location.

Autism, ADHD and OCD have been stigmatized for years.

Now — thanks to words like “neurodiversity,” and the public embrace of their neurodivergence by famous figures like Elon Musk — that stigma is fading.

“Superpowers” are having their moment. At NeuroMind, Lauren Rosenblum and Chelsea Elkind make sure that everyone gets a chance to show off theirs.

(To learn more about NeuroMind, click here. Their Instagram is @NeuroMindServices.)

(“06880” regularly covers interesting trends — and services — in Westport. We are your 24/7/365, full-service, reader-supported blog. Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

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Book It! Westport’s Boutique Hotel Welcomes Guests

Posted on July 7, 2025 | 13 comments

Westport seems to have everything.

Beaches. A town-owned country club. A historic Playhouse and popular Pavilion. A kick-ass library. A wide array of interesting restaurants, a vibrant downtown and high-achieving school district.

And when out-of-town friends and family want to enjoy any of that — a show, shopping, graduation, whatever — they settle into a hotel in … Southport.

Or Norwalk. Or Stamford.

Not counting the dozen or so rooms at the Inn at Longshore — now being renovated — Westport has had zero hotel rooms.

There were 100 or so until a couple of years ago, when the Westport Inn closed. But they were decidedly meh. (Though they were a step up from their predecessor, the really forgettble New Englander “Motor Hotel.”)

That puzzling hole in our hospitality heart has now been filled.

Last week, guests began arriving at the Delamar Westport.

Delamar Westport.

The newest addition to a small group that includes boutique properties in Greenwich, Southport, West Hartford, Mystic and (why not?) Traverse City, Michigan, the Delamar Westport will quickly become one of the buzziest spots in town.

Earlier this week, before the soft opening — only about half the rooms are ready; the restaurant won’t open until next month, the pool next year — I got a quick tour.

My mind was in New Englander/Westport Inn mode. I should have been thinking Delamar brand.

Each room — there will be 86 when finished — is big, but homey. The goal was to combine “classic New England hospitality and modern luxury,” and — at least in the rooms I saw — the designers succeeded. From hardwood floors to the definitely non-Hyatt bathrooms, these are not typical hotel rooms

A Delamar Westport room.

Three of the most luxurious are luxury suites. They were created by Christian Siriano.

The internationally known fashion designer has stepped successfully into a new realm. He also designed the lobby, a fun and welcoming space that includes a whimsical sketch wall.

Siriano did not have far to go for this project. He lives 2 miles away.

Christian Siriano, in the lobby.

The Westport Inn was in Westport, but never really part of it. The Delamar hopes to be very involved in the community. There are meeting rooms and private event spaces, for corporate meetings, weddings and special occasions.

They flank the restaurant, called Dandelion. The cuisine will be “coastal Mediterranean,” with Moroccan influences. It’s a stunning space, with outdoor seating. It’s at the back of the property, with plenty of greenery all around.

Dandelion restaurant.

Also in the works: a bocce court and fire pit nearby. And, in the atrium, a giant olive tree.

Besides filling a (desperate) need for a hotel, the Delamar will benefit from its location diagonally across the Post Road from The Clubhouse.

The golf and other sports simulators, huge-screen TVs and rooftop lounge attract the same type of guests who will enjoy the hotel.

As the first guests arrive, workers are putting finishing touches on the Delamar. They, and the staff who will be the public face, seem genuinely excited for the reveal.

When Westporters step inside, they’ll be excited too.

Finally, we won’t have to send out-of-town guests out of town.

(Click here for the Delamar Westport website.)

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Roundup: Electric Boat, Jeremy Schaap, DexaFit …

Posted on July 6, 2025 | 4 comments

Westport is a very electric vehicle town.

Now alert “06880” reader Jamie Walsh has seen his first Candela — all-electric — boat. It was moored yesterday at Compo Beach’s Ned Dimes Marina.

(Photo/Jamie Walsh)

Jamie says: “Pretty cool! Those 3 things protruding in the air are the hydrofoils. They lower into the water as the boat accelerates, greatly reducing drag and rocking normally associated with most boats.

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14-time Emmy-winning ESPN reporter — and 1988 Staples High School graduate, and current resident — Jeremy Schaap has covered just about every event.

In 30 countries, on 5 continents.

Including, in our (almost) back yard, the annual 4th of July Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest.

Is it a sport? Is Joey Chestnut the Tiger Woods of eating?

Yesterday, another noted Westport journalist — Dave Briggs — sat down with Jeremy to chat about that topic.

And much more.

Their wide-ranging talk included Caitlin Clark envy, transgender sports in America, and much more.

Click here or below, to see and hear it all.

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Last fall, I had myself scanned — and underwent other tests — at Longevity Powered by DexaFit.

The company — nestled inside Sherpa. the personal fitness and training gym across from Border Grille (not their health food partner) — uses those analyses to help people understand their bodies, and improve fitness.

A Dexa scan is a quick analysis of body composition, detailing muscle mass, bone mass, fat and visceral fat. The report provides insights into a person’s T-score (bone density), ALMI, FFMI, A/G Ratio, and BMC (bone mineral content).

If you don’t know what all that means — neither did I.

But manager Amy Julien explained it all.

The other day, I went back for a follow-up. I had taken some of Amy’s recommendations to, um, heart — and the results showed improvements in areas like muscle gain.

Whew! My improved fitness regime had paid off.

Plus, I did not want to disappoint Amy.

I had not taken up a couple of her other recommendations though, like walking with a weighted vest. She (very) gently tsk-tsked me, and provided a few options.

The good news: I’m in pretty good shape.

On the other hand, I’m not Mr. Olympia.

On the third hand, I don’t want to be. I still have my day job, which keeps me from spending 5 hours a day at the gym.

In the meantime, I’ll keep working out. I’ll follow a few of Amy’s other recommendations. I may (or may not) buy that weighted vest.

And in 6 months, I’ll go back to Longevity to see how I’m doing.

Amy Julien and yours truly. Long may we both live.

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Westporters are not pleased with the state Department of Transportation maintenance facility construction project, off the Sherwood Island Connector behind Walgreens.

But at least the DOT got into the patriotic holiday spirit this weekend:

(Photo/Tammy Barry)

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Early Clover — the former Coasters’ lead singer, and Apollo Theater favorite –brought his soul/R&B/Motown show to the Levitt Pavilion last night.

The youngsters he brought up on stage were born decades after Marvin Gaye, Sam Cooke, Nat King Cole and Otis Redding were alive.

But — with a little encouragement — they got right into those legends’ classic grooves.

(Photo/DinkinESH Fotografix)

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Bert Reisman — an accomplished journalist, businessman, and longtime Westporter whose volunteer efforts ranged from the Library to Little League —  died June 25, at his Southbury home. He was 96.

The Brooklyn native (and passionate Dodgers fan) graduated from New York University in 1941 with a degree in journalism.

At NYU he met his first wife, Sydelle Silver. They were married for 43 years before her death.

They left New York for Colorado, where he was a reporter for the Durango Hearld. Bert then wrote for the St. Joseph (Missouri) Gazette and Rochester (New York) Times Union. His feature subjects included Willie Mays, Jonas Salk and Robert Oppenheimer.

Bert left journalism in 1959 for corporate communications. He spent 30 years at IBM, where he spearheaded the public relations launch of the IBM 360.

He was also responsible for award-winning campaigns that featured Charlie Chaplin and the M*A*S*H characters.

In his final position, Bert he oversaw IBM’s advertising, media relations and market research. After reaching mandatory retirement age, he spent 6 years as a senior consultant at Burton Marsteller.

During his 35 years in Westport, Bert was active in local politics, served on the Westport Library board of directors, and was a Little League organizer, umpire and manager.

He met his second wife, Louise, when he moved to Stratford. They were married for 16 years, before her death in 2021.

Bert split his time between Connecticut and Carefree, Arizona, where his passion for golf flourished. He enjoyed being part of the Mulligans, a group devoted to golf, community service and laughter.

He is survived by his children Robin of Westport, Jodie (Mark) Naber of Sanibel Island, Florida, and Mike of Westport, and grandchildren Samantha Sydelle of Providence and Charlie Reisman of Los Angeles.

A funeral service will be private. Donations in Bert’s name can be made to the Amazin’ Mets Foundation. Type in mikereisman@outlook.com when prompted.

Bert Reisman

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Slava Leykind died Wednesday, from complications after participating in a mountain endurance event earlier in the week. He was 43.

Born in Minsk, USSR, in 1982, he emigrated with his family to Minneapolis in 1988.

In 20024 he earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Michigan Ross School of Business.

Slava joined General Mills. In 2006 he joined the boutique investment banking firm Sawaya Segalas, and rose one 3 senior partners at what became Sawaya Partners. When it was acquired by Canaccord Genuity in 2021, Slava became co-head of US consumer investment banking for the broader firm.

Yet Slava’s role as a husband and father was his greatest achievement, passion and pride. He is survived by his wife Amy Keller Leykind; children Charlotte, Eloise and Jonah Leykind; parents Art and Nelly Leykind; brothers Gene and Max; parents-in-law Bonnie and Alex Keller; in-laws Nina Leykind, Laura and Alan Isenberg, and Rachel Leykind, and nephews and nieces Deia Leykind, Coby Leykind, Jackson Isenberg, Esme Isenberg and Blake Leykind.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. July 8 at Temple Israel. A private burial will follow at Willowbrook Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, a fund in Slava’s name is being established at the University of Michigan Ross School of Business. Details will follow.

Slava Leykind

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It was hard not to have fun this weekend.

And that goes not just for guys and gals. Gulls, too.

Wendy Levy spotted this pair at Burying Hill Beach. They swooped past, posing just long enough for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Wendy Levy)

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And finally … happy 50th birthday, to 50 Cent!

(“06880” relies on support from readers like you. Whether it’s $500, $50 — or 50 cents — your donation is important. Please click here, then follow the prompts. Thank you!)

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Posted in Beach, Environment, Local business, Obituaries, Sports

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