Category Archives: Local business

Roundup: StartUp Pitch Competition, Fulbright Scholar, Westport Community Theatre …

Posted on June 1, 2025 | Comments Off on Roundup: StartUp Pitch Competition, Fulbright Scholar, Westport Community Theatre …

Less than 2 weeks remain to enter StartUp Westport’s first-ever Pitch Competition.

The event — for innovators and entrepreneurs, not baseball players or musicians — offers early-stage startups a chance to win a non-dilutive, 5-figure cash prize

It’s also a great way to plug into our town’s vibrant network of mentors, business leaders and passionate supporters.

Eligibility is simple: pre-institutional funding, a scalable business model, and a founder with Connecticut roots or strong state ties.

Applications are now open (click here for details). The deadline is 11 p.m. June 12.

In September, 4 finalists will be chosen to pitch “live shark tank-style” (though with more encouragement and, perhaps, less drama).

Winners will be announced November 20, at the Westport Library.

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Congratulations to Wes DeOreo!

The 2021 Staples High School graduate (and former lacrosse player) has been awarded a Fulbright Scholarship for 2025-26.

The program offers 400 positions in over 135 countries. Awardees teach, conduct research and carry out professional projects.

DeOreo — who just graduated from Bates College with a double major in politics and German — will teach in Germany.

At Bates he served as an AESOP leader, rugby club president, athletics student assistant, and fitness attendant.

He is no stranger to Germany. DeOreo has studied transatlantic history at the University of Freiburg; and taught English and coached club lacrosse in Freiburg.

He looks forward to joinng community sports teams, and reconnect with German friends and family. After his Fulbright, DeOreo will pursue a career in public service. (Hat tip: Linda Smith)

Wes DeOreo (Photo/Phyllis Graber Jensen for Bates College)

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The curtain rises Friday on the Westport Community Theatre’s new show, “The Gods of Comedy.”

The show — about a young classics professor who calls on Greek gods for help after a priceless manuscript goes missing — is full of “chaos, confusion, and divine mischief.”

The cast includes Jacqueline Carlsen, Henry Durham, Bob Filipowitch, Carin Freidag, Martha Hegley, Paula Lacy, Marcy Sansolo, David Victor and Virgil Watson.

“The Gods of Comedy” plays weekends through June 22, in the lower level of Town Hall. Curtain times are 7:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, 2 p.m. on Sundays. There is one Thursday show: June 12, 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available here.

Marcy Sansolo and Bob Filipowich, on stage.

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No one wants to hear “DNR.”

Unless they playing.

Doctors know the initials stand for “Do Not Resuscitate.”

Music lovers know it stands for one of Fairfield County’s favorite rock bands.

And — surprise! — nearly all the musicians are physicians.

On Saturday, June 14 (7 p.m.), they take their show to the Westport Library. It’s a fundraiser, for the Library’s great community programming.

Get your tickets ($40) here. There is also a cash bar.

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Speaking of Library music: Dan Bikel filled the bill last night.

By day a computer scientist and AI leader at Meta, he’s also a very talented singer, songwriter and composer. (With great genes: He’s the son of Theodore Bikel, the folk singer who played Tevye in “Fiddler on the Roof” over 2,000 times._

Dan entertained the Trefz Forum crowd with  original songs on piano and guitar. He also performed the second movement of his Piano Concerto No. 1, showing his classical side.

Dan Bikel (Photo/DinkinESH Fotografix)

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Jim Naughton has shared his enormous acting talent, and the celebrity that comes with it, to advocate — and raise millions of dollars — for many excellent causes.

He has been active in areas ranging from animal welfare to the death with dignity movement. in Fairfield County and beyond.

He has been a special friend of the Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County, including hosting every ACE Awards ceremony.

This year, the tables are turned. The longtime Weston resident (and Tony Award winner) will be honored with the Citizen Impact Award, for his contributions to arts and culture here.

The event is June 17 (5:30 p.m., Norwalk Art Space, 455 West Avenue). Tickets and more information are available here.

Jim Naughton, hosting another event — the Staples High School Pops Concert. He took a turn on the triangle too. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Speaking of the Westport Pops Concert: It’s this Friday (June 6, 7 p.m., Levitt Pavilion).

If you’ve been before, you know it’s a kick-off-the-summer highlight, featuring a couple of hundred talented teenage musician, under the stars. Free tickets are available here.

But note: If you’ve been before, you may have had dinner from food trucks in the Library parking lot.

There are no food trucks this year. So eat before you go — or better yet, bring a picnic. The lawn opens at 6 p.m.

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Speaking of theater: Sure, the Westport Country Playhouse’s gala — celebrating 95 years of history and entertainment — is more than 4 months away.

But save the date: October 4.

And get ready to celebrate the evening’s honoree: Anne Keefe.

A cornerstone of the WCP since 1973, she has been involved in nearly every facet of the famed stage.

Key achievements include a pivotal role in the 1999 campaign to renovate and preserve the Playhouse, and her leadership as associate artistic director and co-artistic director (alongside Joanne Woodward).

For over 35 years. she’s supported the Hole in the Wall Gang Camp Gala. She has been honored with an award for lifetime achievement in stage management, selection to the Connecticut Women’s Hall of Fame’s 10 Women of Distinction, the Westport Arts Award for Theatre, and the Connecticut Critics Circle’s Tom Killan Award.

Keefe has taught at the Yale School of Drama, and served on the boards of the Playhouse and Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County.

Tickets and more information will be available soon.

Anne Keefe

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Sure, the bar is high for entitled parking.

But this shot — from yesterday’s dance recital at Bedford Middle School — clears that bar.

Note the arrogance of simply parking in the middle of the lot, forcing drivers in 2 directions to creep around.

Stopping right across the white line is a bonus.

The coup de grâce, of course, is that the driver is facing the wrong way. Impressive!

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo also includes a caution.

The American oystercatchers are back nesting at Compo’s South Beach, near the cannons.

As always, the fragile birds hope we humans don’t get too close.

The Audubon Alliance has laid out a protected nesting area. Please honor it!

American oystercatchers, seen with a zoom lens (Hat tip and photo/Jeffrey Mayer)

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And finally … happy June 1!

(The days keep getting longer. Which means you have even more daylight to support “06880.” Please click here to make a contribution to this hyper local blog. Thank you!

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Unsung Hero #384

Posted on May 28, 2025 | 11 comments

Ellen and Mark Naftalin write:

Bill Evans — the owner of William Evans Painting — is an unsung hero.

His crew, who have been with him for 20+ years, painted our little ranch house 2 years ago, and did a great job.

They caulked, repaired, replaced rotted fascia board, and worked together like a well-oiled machine. Under his watchful eye, everything was finished perfectly.

He’s also done lots of work inside our house. He comes up with solutions to seemingly unsolvable problems. A sliding barn door to block off Mark’s music room is just one.

During COVID, he kept his crew working. While other companies were laying off workers, he took care of them. He took jobs for less money than usual, but paid them their usual wages.

I see Bill’s signs all over Westport, and think what a good choice those homeowners made.

Meanwhile though, he is also president of Connecticut Quest for Peace. He devotes much of his time traveling to Nicaragua for this non-profit, delivering donated goods and overseeing programs and services.

His house is filled with music, food, and people who work for him and visit from Nicaragua. We walked by one evening, and were invited into a feast and music event. The language barrier did not stop the joy.

Bill first traveled to Nicaragua in 2002. It was a life-changing experience. He loves the people — especially the children — and has worked with CT Quest for Peace ever since.

His organization is a wonderful way to donate items no longer needed here, but greatly needed in Nicaragua. I gave them my mother’s sewing machine, an old model that works without electricity.

Bill Evans

Bill is as good and modest a human being as you’ll find. We need his kind of selflessness in the world more than ever.

Bill first traveled in 2002 with Randy and Linda Klein and eight other Americans to Nicaragua to visit missions and centers supported by Connecticut Quest for Peace.

Today, the warehouse of William Evans Painting Company in Bridgeport — which manages a wide variety of residential, commercial and industrial projects — is also the storage center for CT Quest’s humanitarian aid cargo. It is often overflowing. Bill continues to pick up many of the donations himself.

“We give so much,” Bill says. “But we get back much more.”

(“06880” is proud to honor Unsung Heroes — and tell many other tales of town too. Please click here to support your hyper-local blog.)

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Roundup: Sherwood Island, Aspetuck Land Trust, Sourcery …

Posted on May 26, 2025 | 2 comments

Friends of Sherwood Island plan a great “Trails Day Weekend” for early June.

And you don’t have to be a member to join the fun.

Kayak Paddle: Survey Terrapins and Birds in the Marsh (June 7, 8:30 a.m., end of East Beach parking lot). Count diamondback terrapins (with a guide), and document birds using iNaturalist.

Bring your own kayak, canoe or other paddlecraft, life vest and whistle/horn (required by state boating regulations), and kayak cart if you have one. Optional: waterproof binoculars for spotting birds, and/or a waterproof camera. Free; registration requested.

Butterfly Walk (June 7, 12 noon, Nature Center). Join Michele Sorensen to explore the gardens and natural areas in search of caterpillars, skippers, moths and butterflies.

Bring binoculars and a camera or smartphone, to learn to report your findings on iNaturalist. Children are welcome. Free; registration requested.

A Walk Through Historical & Archaeological Time (June 8, 1 p.m., Nature Center).

A family-friendly, educational walk on the Sherwood Island History Trail, led by archaeologists. Start at the Ice Age, when Long Island Sound was formed. Examine traces of past inhabitants of Sherwood Island, from Native Americans in 1000 BC to onion farmers of the 1940s. Artifacts, maps, old photos and recent recoveries bring the island’s past inhabitants to life. Free; registration requested.

Beach to Beach Walk (June 8, 3 p.m., Nature Center). Discover habitats, inhabitants and special features, including the 9/11 Memorial, model airport, wetlands and pine forest. Free; registration requested.

Shewood Island State Park: 232 acres of prime real estate, right here in Westport.

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More environmental news: Aspetuck Land Trust and Wild Ones present a “Lunch & Learn” webinar, “Creating Beautifully Designed Food Forests for Migrating Birds” (May 30, noon to 1 p.m.).

Eva Monheim discusses edible forest gardens — intentionally created, self-sustaining ecosystems that provide food and other resources for humans and wildlife — and proper plant selection.

Aspetuck Land Trust and Wild Ones members can register for free; $10 for non-members.


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Memorial Day is the unofficial kickoff to summer.

And — right on cue — today marked the first unfriendly and unethical “saving” of a Compo Beach picnic table.

At 8 a.m.

(Photo/Matt Murray)

A reminder — more gentle than it deserves: Those notices on the top of each table that “Picnic Tables May Not Be Reserved” are not there for decorative purposes only.

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Despite losing 3-0 to St. Joseph in the FCIAC tournament quarterfinals this weekend, the Staples baseball team are champions.

They showed up en masse to support, and buddy with, the Westport Challenger baseball team.

It was a great event for all. Now it’s on to the state tournament. Go Wreckers!

Staples baseball coach Jack McFarland (2nd from left), his team and the Challenger athletes.

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Last week’s Westport Library spring book sale was one of its biggest indoor sales ever.

But it wouldn’t have been possible without all the volunteers, book donors and patrons who participated.

Westport Book Sale Ventures says is grateful “for the scores of dedicated volunteers who commit their time, energy and enthusiasm to processing the tens of thousands of books and other media our community generously donates each year, and to the scores more volunteers who help set up and operate our 4-day sales.”

The organizers add a shoutout to volunteers from M&T Bank, Westport Rotary and Sunrise Rotary, the Y’s Men, Staples High School’s SLOBs and SLOGs, and the National Charity League.

Proceeds from the book sales support the non-profit’s dual missions: to provide employment and volunteer opportunities for adults with disabilities, while raising funds for the Westport Library.

Since opening the Westport Book Shop on Road, Westport Book Sale Ventures has provided over 10,500 hours of employment and job training for more than a dozen adults with differing abilities, at the store and in their eBay online sales operation. They’ve contributed over $200,000 to the Westport Library too.


Library Book Sale collage.

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Sourcery — a VC deal and startup trend newsletter and podcast — is a must-read-and-listen in the industry.

Founder Molly O’Shea is a 2014 Staples High School graduate. She’s always on the lookout for interesting interviews.

No suprise: From time to time, they’re fellow alums.

The most recent is Whop CTO Jack Sharkey. The 2018 SHS grad’s platform connects buyers and sellers in the digital economy, focusing on influencers and content creators.

With a million customers and 3,000 sellers, Whop has facilitated $100 million in transactions.

Molly and Jack gave nice shoutouts at the start and end to Westport, and their alma mater. You can click the Sourcery link here, or click on the video below.

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Saturday’s Roundup noted the compelling presentation by Dmitry Kamensky on Friday. The Ukrainian law professor met a small group at Larry and Mary-Lou Weisman’s house, where he described the dire situation in his war-torn nation.

But Professor Kamensky also talked about the strength and will of his countrymen.

And he must have been bolstered by the show of support from the Westporters, whom he met through his work on constitutional law with Larry Weisman and Ken Bernhard.

Not to mention, the beautiful bouquet — in Ukrainian colors — arranged by Mary-Lou Weisman.

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature highlights the first sighting of baby swans on Lee’s Pond this year.

Kevin Gasvoda was there, as Mom and Dad took their 7 new ones out for a swim.

(Photo/Kevin Gasvoda)

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And finally … for all who gave their lives, so that we could be here today: We honor and salute you.

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Posted in Beach, Environment, Library, Local business, Media, Sports, Staples HS, technology

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Saugatuck Business Owners Assess Hamlet’s Impact

Posted on May 24, 2025 | 19 comments

Many Westporters have weighed in on the Hamlet at Saugatuck — the retail/residential/hotel/marina complex proposed for the area near the railroad station and river.

We have not heard a lot from Saugatuck business owners and employees, however. “06880” intern Katherine Phelps reports:

The ROAN Ventures project could have a dramatic impact on our town’s original commercial center. Some restaurateurs and workers believe it will benefit them; others fear it will destroy all they have worked for.

Patrick Camaro, general manager of The Bridge at Saugatuck, is optimistic.

“It’s good for the area, it’s good for us, it’s good for business,” he says. 

The Bridge at Saugatuck opened last fall. 

Others fear the project could do more harm than good.

Paul Nessel, owner and butcher at Saugatuck Provisions, supports thoughtful development, but is skeptical about the project’s impact on local infrastructure.

“Traffic is already at a standstill coming through Saugatuck for several hours pretty much every day,” he says.

“If anything is wrong on 95 or the side roads, we’re really shut down. It hurts my business, and makes it hard for people to get through.” 

Parking and congestion are longstanding challenges in Saugatuck — issues critics say The Hamlet may worsen. Nonetheless, proponents argue that the developer is equipped to address them.

“ROAN can help figure out the traffic situation because they can hire engineers,” Camaro said. 

Charles Street traffic, at Railroad Place.

 

At the May 19 Planning & Zoning Commission meeting, Fiona Flynn of SLR — representing the traffic planning side — noted that the state approval for traffic volume had already been cleared. 

Byron Alonso, an employee at Kneads, is passionate about the Hamlet development, specifically the long-term vision of the plan.

“I think it’s important to have better construction and the best future in Westport,” he says.

“So many people say it’s not good because we lose the natural elements and there will be traffic. But I agree with improving the future of Westport.” 

Still, numerous concerns persist — particularly, for restaurant owners, about traffic.

Congestion along Charles Street and Riverside Avenue is a longstanding issue that could be worsened by new development.

Bill Rizzuto, founder and owner of the restaurant that bears his name, adds, “Saugatuck already suffers from a significant parking shortage, especially in the evenings.

“Despite this, we continue to add capacity without adequately addressing infrastructure — particularly parking.” This impacts residents as well as visitors.  

Rizzuto’s’ parking lot is larger than most in the area.

When Rizzuto opened his restaurant in 2009 he struggled to secure a variance, because even his large lot did not meet required parking ratios.

In the 15 years since, Rizzuto says, while traffic is more dense, parking issues seem to have become less of an official priority.

Rizzuto notes that issues like those are crucial.

“If we want mixed-use developments in Saugatuck to thrive, we must put parking and access at the forefront of planning discussions,” the restaurant owner says.

“Ignoring these fundamentals risks undermining the long-term success of any project before it even begins.”

The debate over The Hamlet at Saugatuck — including its potential effects on parking, traffic and the impact on restaurants and businesses beyond its boundaries — continues next month.

The Flood & Erosion Control Board considers its wetlands application June 4  June 4 (7 p.m., Zoom; meeting ID 864 1571 7675; passcode 407757). The Planning & Zoning Commission is expected to again address the Hamlet at its June 9 meeting.

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Posted in Local business, Restaurants, Saugatuck

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Dr. Mark Oestreicher: Legendary Physician Retires

Posted on May 23, 2025 | 12 comments

The cards keep coming.

In the days since Dr. Mark Oestreicher announced his retirement from his dermatology practice of 46 years, the popular physician has been inundated with letters and emails from grateful patients, and their families.

They describe his caring, compassionate manner. They recall important — even life-saving — diagnoses. They say, “You were the best doctor I ever had.”

The praise is well deserved. (Full disclosure: Dr. Oestreicher is my dermatologist. I agree with all the kudos.)

Dr. Mark Oestreicher

In his near half century of practice, Dr. Oestreicher has treated tens of thousands of people. He worked in 2 offices — Westport and Trumbull — from 6:45 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.,  6 days a week.

He saw the parents of patients, and their children — and grandchildren.

The age range, and variety of cases, is what made dermatology so initially appealing, and ultimately so satisfying.

The Bronx High School of Science graduate was the first person in his family to go to college.

After SUNY-Stony Brook, his first choice for medical school was Georgetown. But New York state offered him a $150 Regents scholarship, so he headed to Albany Medical College.

He was interested in internal medicine. A few dermatology cases, though — and conversations with dermatologists — convinced him to switch specialties.

Dermatology involves immunology, physiology and surgery. “You never get bored,” Dr. Oestreicher says.

He did his residency at UCLA. (California is also where he saw his only case of leprosy.) But an earthquake in 1979 sent him and his wife Marilyn back east. He never regretted the move.

Dr. Mark Oestreicher, and his wife Marilyn.

He knew Westport from his aunt and uncle, who built the first home on Pequot Trail. (He visited in the early 1960s to watch New York Giants football games; blacked out in the city, they could be seen here on Hartford’s Channel 3.)

Early in his career, he met highly respected internists like Paul Beres, Harold Steinberg and Robert Altbaum. He gained their trust by diagnosing difficult cases they had sent him. His practice grew.

“I didn’t want to be a technician,” Dr. Oestreicher says, explaining why he has never specialized in Botox and laser treatements.

“I have nothing against cosmetic work. It just wasn’t for me.”

Instead he earned a reputation as a master diagnostician. He recalls with satisfaction a newborn with a high fever, whose body was blistering. She had been tested for fungus and herpes. Dr. Oestreicher realized it was a staph infection. Antibiotics saved her life.

He diagnosed lupus in a woman whose skin was peeling off. He moved her to the burn unit, and saved her life.

His early detections of skin cancer have saved countless livs.

When the AIDS crisis hit in the 1980s, Dr. Oestreicher was the only dermatologist who would see those patients.

For 3 decades, he was the only one to run a dermatology clinic for Medicaid patients at Bridgeport Hospital — for free. He’ll continue there for the rest of the year, even after retiring.

Until 2 years ago Dr. Oestreicher even made house calls, to infirm patients. “She treasured those visits,” the former caregiver of one woman told him recently.

He treasured them too.

Still — in addition to his practice, and teaching at Yale, Bridgeport Hospital and Albert Einstein College of Medicine — Dr. Oestreicher somehow found time to be a Cub Scout master, and soccer and Little League coach.

The Oestreicher family.

He and Marilyn raised 4 children. Their son Matt is a singer/songwriter, who toured with Lady Gaga, worked with Rihanna and Alicia Keys, and is now assistant musical director of the Apollo Theater. Jeffrey is a pediatric emergency doctor at Long Island Jewish Medical Center, while Adam — who gets married next month — manages a tennis club in Trumbull.

Their daughter Amy — a very talented artist, performer and writer — died 4 years ago, after a multi-year battle with rare stomach problems. “She was surrounded by a circle of excellence,” her father says, of support from doctors and the community.

Two cancers — and chemotherapy, which destroyed 70% of his lungs — have forced Dr. Oestreicher to retire. His last day in the office is June 30.

Until then he sees patients in the morning, 3 days a week. He gets in early, takes oxygen, then does what he has done for 46 years.

“I spend plenty of time with each one,” Dr. Oestreicher says. “We kibbitz. We laugh.”

Dr. Mark Oestreicher, mid-career.

His cancer has limited some of what he will do in retirement. But he plans to join the Y’s Men, join Marilyn at their favorite restaurant (Sakura), and continue to make a difference in his community.

He’ll have time with his wife, too. He and Marilyn celebrate their 53rd anniversary in July. “I’m the luckiest guy,” he says.

“I always stress to my staff: We’re here to make a difference in people;s lives. They’re often scared. Our job is to let them know what’s going on, and feel okay. I never compromised. I always put them first.”

In his retirement letter to patients, Dr. Oestreicher expressed his “deepest gratitude to every one of you for entrusting me with your health over the years.

“It has been an honor and privilege to serve as your doctor, and I am grateful for the relationships we have built. Your trust and support have been the driving force behind my commitment to excellence.”

“I just love being a doctor,” Dr. Oestreicher says.

His patients love having him as their doctor, too.

Which is why the thank-you cards, letters and emails keep pouring in.

 

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Roundup: Fine Arts Festival, Long Lots School, StartUp Westport …

Posted on May 22, 2025 | 2 comments

Westport’s Fine Arts Festival is just 2 days away.

On Saturday and Sunday (May 24 and 25, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.), the national Top 20 show draws 165 fine artists from 19 states to Main Street and Elm Street. As always, there are returning faces. This year, 41 artists are new.

The Westport Downtown Association event includes plenty of family activities. They include Elmo and friends, facepainting, crafts, games, dancing and photo ops.

There’s wine and beer for adults, plenty of food vendors, and lots of great music. Lots more information is available here.

Of course, “06880” will add more details, as the Fine Arts Festival nears.

Dozens of artists, tons of fun at the Fine Arts Festival. (Photo/Talia Varsano)

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The new Long Lots Elementary School is on the agenda for a joint Conservation Commission, and Flood & Erosion Control Board, meeting June 4 (7 p.m., Zoom; meeting ID 864 1571 7675; passcode 407757).

Later in the meeting, the Flood & Erosion Control Board, meeting separately, will consider the wetlands aspects of the application for the Hamlet at Saugatuck project.

 Muddy Brook, near Long Lots Elementary School. (Photo/Peter Swift)

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If you’ve been to a StartUp Westport social event, you know how much fun — and productive — it is.

If not: You’ve got your chance.

The town’s public/private organization for tech, innovators and entrepreneurs hosts its not social on June 5 (6:30 p.m., La Plage restaurant).

No panels, no presentations — just good people, great conversation, waterfront views (and a cash bar). RSVP here.

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Michele Sorensen and horseshoe crabs are the main attractions at Friends of Sherwood Island‘s annual general meeting Sorensen on June 8 (4 p.m.).

Sorensen — a longtime volunteer — receives the “True Friend Award.”

Jo-Marie Masinak of Sacred Heart University will speak about horseshoe crab research, conservation and education.

There are refreshments, and the meeting is open to all.

(Photo/Lauri Weiser)

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Westport Police made no custodial arrests between May 14 and 21.

They issued these citations:

  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 11 citations
  • Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 10
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 3
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 3
  • Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 3
  • Driving while texting: 2
  • Failure to renew registration: 2
  • Speeding: 1
  • Texting, 2nd offense: 1
  • Distracted driving: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 1
  • No passing zone violation: 1
  • Failure to grant right of way: 1
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 1
  • Disorderly conduct: 1
  • Disobeying the signal of an officer: 1

Do not disobey a police officer!

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Eleish Van Breens Home celebrates “Glorious Gardens and Styled Interiors,” with a meet-and-greet and book signing with author Dara Caponigro and interior stylist Mieke Ten Have on June 4 (June 4, 4 p.m., 177 Main Street).

“Botanical beverages” and lite bites are provided by Allium. A portion of the proceeds will benefit local garden clubs.

Dara Caponigro’s book.

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Everyone has heard of the Lindy, twist and electric slide.

But the grizzly bear? Maxixe? Lulu fado?

Susan de Gardiola has. And the social dance historian brings her knowledge to the Weston History & Culture Center on May 31 (2 p.m.). Her “May I Have This Dance?” celebrates the openng of an exhibit on the changes in dance and music in the years from the sinking of the Titanic through World War I.

She’ll talk about fads, and the musicians of that era too. Free for members; $10 for non-members.

The companion exhibit — from her private collection — includes original early 20th century dance manuals, rare sheet music, and dance cards.

The next day (June 1, 2 p.m.), the Weston History & Culture Center hosts a Ragtime Tea Dance. De Guardiola will teach the 1-step, 2-step, foxtrot, tango and other dances from the ragtime era. No partner or experience needed! Tickets are $25 for members, $35 non-members. Only 25 spots are available.

Irene and Vernon Castle.

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Spring is finally — and fully — here.

Greenery is everywhere. Including today’s “Westport … Naturally” view, in the Old Hill neighborhood.

(Photo/Rowene Weems)

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Amd finally … Norm died.

His real name is George Wendt. But everybody knows his name.

(Like “Cheers” years ago, “06880” is something you trust will always be there. We rely on reader support to make that happen. Please click here to make sure we keep serving ’em up for you.)

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Posted in Arts, Downtown, Environment, Local business, Police

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Roundup: Parks & Rec Summer Kickoff, Saatva Olympic Mattresses, Startup Westport Networking …

Posted on May 21, 2025 | 1 comment

This Saturday marks the start of Memorial Day weekend.

And — thanks to Westport’s Parks & Recreation Department — it’s also the kickoff to summer.

Plus the grand reopening of the Compo Beach playground.

The full day at Compo begins with an “unveiling” at the playground, at 10:30 a.m. There’s a special invitation to all who helped renovate it. Wear your team shirts, for a group photo.

From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., the family-friendly “Kickoff to Summer” includes:

  • Touch-a-Truck, with vehicles from Westport Police, Fire, EMS, Public Works, and Parks & Recreation Maintenance
  • Face painting
  • Obstacle courses
  • Program info and demonstrations
  •  Raffle prizes, with giveaways from Longshore Golf, Longshore Sailing School, and IST Camp
  • Food trucks: Good Burger. The Parlor Pizza, The Milk Truck, LobsterCraft, Fork in the Road.

But wait! There’s more!

At 8:15 p.m., a bonus Movie Night at the Beach — “Trolls” — begins. Bring a blanket and chairs, for the grand finale of the Kickoff to Summer.

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The “06880” tagline is “Where Westport meets the world.”

It doesn’t get more worldly than the Olympics.

Saatva — the  luxury mattress company whose made-to-order products are hand-delivered by white-glove teams; whose founder and CEO Ron Rudzin is a longtime Westporter, and which last summer opened a store across from the Sherwood Diner —  will be the official provider of mattresses and bedding for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Los Angeles.

The cardboard bed frames used in Tokyo in 2020 and Paris last year — selected for sustainability and, some reports said, to collapse under the weight of 2 people enjoying more than sleeping — did not win any medals. (Hat tip: Dave Briggs)

You can get the same bedding as Olympians, right next to Walgreens. (Photo/Bob Weingarten)

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It may rain tomorrow.

But the Westport Farmers’ Market is still on: Thursday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Imperial Avenue parking lot.

“Farmers don’t head inside when it rains,” the Market says. “Produce does not press pause — nor do we.

“While we might not have the perfect sunny day, we have the perfect array of food for your kitchen.”

In addition to 36 vendors, the market features “Get Growing” — educating kids on the value of shopping local through art projects and activities — plus music and more.

A little rain won’t stop the Farmers’ Market. (Photo/Quinn Fitts)

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Vibrant Health — the Westport-based Vibrant Health premium superfood formulas and dietary supplements company — will not officially launch its rebrand until January.

But the new logo design and assorted branding has already won 3 awards.

None of it would have happened though, without Startup Westport.

The town’s public/private organization for tech, innovators and entrepreneurs has a strong networking component.

At one meeting, Ted Schachter introduced Vibrant Health owners Ted and Paige Parker to CJ Yeh from Cinda Media, and their design team.

The design “conveys growth, innovation, and the synergy between science and holistic well-being.” It even includes a new typeface.

Many more success stories can be traced to StartUp  Westport. Learn more about the organization — including upcoming events — here.  (Hat tip: Jay Norris)

From left: Vibrant Health owners Ted and Paige Parker, and the Cinda Media design team, with the rebrand award.

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Speaking of awards: Congratulations to Chloe Robbin, Olivia Whee and Charlotte Naughton.

The Bedford Middle School 6th graders took 2nd place in the international World of 8 Billion student video contest.

More than 3,200 videos were created this year, from around the world. Students could choose to focus on Child Well-being, Rainforest Ecosystems or Sanitation, with at least one idea for a sustainable solution.

The BMS youngsters filmed “The Scoop on Poop.”

Olivia says, “We love animals, and we knew that deforestation was destroying a lot of their homes in the rainforest.”

Research was inspired by Chloe’s grandparents, who had a notebook from Thailand made from elephant feces.

Workshop instructor Sean Murphy helped his students bring their ideas to life. Click on the video below to see their work.

The 2nd place winners!

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Like anyone getting ready to move, longtime residents Carl Addison Swanson and JoAnn Miller are getting rid of some belongings.

Unlike many, that includes several large outdoor sculptures, by 1971 Staples High School graduate Kelley Spearen.

They’ve already donated one to Wakeman Town Farm.

There’s another for sale. It’s $5,000. If interested, email carladdisonswanson@yahoo.com.

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Yesterday’s Westport Rotary Club guest speaker was a familiar face: Westport Library executive diretor Bill Harmer.

He spoke about the effect of technology (research queries are up, because Google does not have all the answers), the success of Verso Studios and Verso University, and an exciting new creative project to be announced soon.

Westport Library director Bill Harmer, at the Rotary Club. (Photo/Alec Foege)

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature — a swallowtail butterfly — was found warming itself by the side of the Sherwood Diner.

(Photo/Clarence Hayes)

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And finally … in honor of the sculpture for sale by Carl Addison Swanson and JoAnn Miller (story above):

(There’s no question about it: “06880” relies on reader support. Here’s the answer: Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution.  Here’s the follow-up: Thank you very much!)

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Roundup: Sports Panel Is Wednesday, Mrs. London’s, Social Justice …

Posted on May 13, 2025 | 1 comment

Attention, youth sports parents: The “06880” panel on that very topical topic is tomorrow night (Wednesday, 7 p.m., Staples High School cafeteria).

We’ve partnered with Tommy Greenwald — the famed youth adult sports fiction writer, former Staples athlete (and father of 3 athletes) — to present “Fair Play and Foul Behavior: Issues Facing Youth Sports in Today’s World.”

We’ll talk about the achievement/pressure balance, referee abuse, sport specialization, cost, the “academy” syndrome, myths and realities of college recruiting, and more.

I’ll moderate the event, and include time for audience questions. Panelists are:

  • VJ Sarullo, Staples athletic director
  • Dave Smith, father of 4 athletes who writes frequently on youth sports topics
  • Caleb Smith, former Staples quarterback and lacrosse star, now playing football at the University of Connecticut
  • Heather Talbott, PAL girls lacrosse co-president and basketball organizer; former lacrosse player at Lehigh University
  • Mark Pressman, longtime football and softball official
  • And of course Tommy Greenwald himself.

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Sunday marked the end of Mrs. London’s Westport run.

The popular bakery closed at 7 p.m. It will reopen soon under new ownership: Maman, the New York-based café and bakery chain.

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The Democratic Town Committee inadvertently omitted the name of one candidate, in a press release announcing its Nominating Committee selections for November’s elections.

Bre Injeski has been selected as one of 3 Planning & Zoning Commission nominees. She is a current P&Z alternate, and a municpal and administrative law attorney.

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One of the main tenets of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Westport and Weston is social justice.

Responding to recent developments on immigrants and their communities, the church’s Immigration and Refugee Committee is hosting an “Accompaniment & Volunteer Information Session.”

Attendees will learn how to support refugee and immigrant communities in Fairfield County.

The event — in partnership with Make The Road CT — is next Monday (6 p.m., UU Westport). Here’s more information, and a registration form.

Questions? Email melanie.wyler@gmail.com, or call 203-856-9490.

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It’s ladybug season … and the first-ever appearance of this insect in our “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Cohl Katz)

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And finally … happy 75th birthday to Stevie Wonder!

We could have picked dozens of great songs. Here are just 3:

(It would be “wonder”-ful if every reader supported “06880.” Or just half! Or a quarter, even. Please click here to show some love for this hyper-local blog. Thank you!)

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Posted in Local business, Local politics, Politics, religion, Sports, Staples HS

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Roundup: Cribari Bridge Meeting, DTC Candidates, Whippets …

Posted on May 12, 2025 | 6 comments

It’s been a while — 6 years, in fact.

But the Connecticut Department of Transportation is rousing itself, for another stab at the William F. Cribari Bridge.

Rehabilitation or replacement has been discussed — fitfully — for well over those 6 years. May 8, 2019 marked the last meeting of the “Project Advisory Committee,” established “to assist CTDOT in its decision-making process.”

“We recognize it has been some time, and since then, there have been significant developments both within the community and concerning the project itself. CTDOT is now scheduling a new PAC meeting to provide updates and discuss the project’s progress,” wrote project manager James Barrow II, in an email to a select group.

It includes the 1st Selectwoman; chair of the Planning & Zoning Commission; fire, police and public works officials, some Representative Town Meeting members, and nearby residents.

The meeting — which appears to be open only to those invitees — is this Thursday (May 15, 4 to 6 p.m., Town Hall auditorium).

CTDOT officials have said they will hold a public meeting in the future.

More information on the project — including a description, map, and details of previous meetings — can be found here. (Hat tip: Werner Liepolt)

William F. Cribari Bridge (Photo/Ferdinand Jahnel)

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The Democratic Town Committee’s Nominating Committee has recommended 10 candidates to run in November’s election.

If approved July 15 by the full DTC — along with Board of Selectperson candidates Kevin Christie and Amy Wistreich — they’ll be on the municipal election ballot.

The Nominating Committee has chosen:

Board of Education: Lauren Karpf, RTM Deputy Moderator and Education Committee chair; Abby Tolan, current BOE member and former PTA Special Education co-chair.

Board of Finance: Allyson Stollenwerck, current BOF member and international nonprofit executive; Elaine Whitney, former BOE chair and healthcare management executive.

Planning & Zoning Commission; Michael Cammeyer, current P&Z secretary and mergers and acquisitions consulting executive; Neil Cohn, current P&Z vice chair and sustainable finance and digital technologies executive.

Board of Assessment Appeals: Ifeseyi Gayle, current BAA member and DTC volunteer; Lynette Pineda, current BAA member and commercial real estate executive.

Zoning Board of Appeals: Sheri Gordon, Former BOF chair and current ZBA alternate. Joe Scordato, current ZBA member and legal and compliance executive.

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On Saturday, Hannah Schneewind posted this photo on Facebook:

She wrote: “Does anyone know if there is a trend or dare involving whipped cream cans? Every day, I see them when I go for a walk. I have seen them in a variety of locations. Any ideas?”

There were plenty.

The nitrous oxide in the canisters is being inhaled. Called “whippets,” it produces a short high. But it can also cause oxygen deprivation, leading to fainting, brain damage, even death.

A Staples High School graduate died several years ago, from inhalation.

Diane Lowman — who alerted “06880” to the post — notes that finding cans on the roadside means teenagers and young adults are probably doing whippets while they or their friends are driving.

More information on whippets and nitrous oxide is available here.

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FoundHer is a Westport-based, female-focused recruiting company. They specialize in women re-entering the workforce after a brief career break, and commuters looking for a local or flexible position.

Tomorrow (Tuesday, May 13, 6:30 to 8:30 a.m.), you can find FoundHer at Steam Coffee Bar, on Railroad Place by the train station.

You’ll also find, to your delight, that your first cup of coffee or tea is on them.

“Arrive for your train a little early and chat about the current job market,” FoundHer says.==================================================

he RTM Environment and Health & Human Services Committees meet jointly tomorrow (Tuesday, May 13, 7 p.m., Town Hall Room 201).

There is one agenda item: “discussion about artificial turf ordinance.”

There are 4 artificial turf fields in Westport: Paul Lane (above) and Jinny Parker Fields at Staples, Wakeman adjacent to Bedford Middle School, and PJ Romano behind Saugatuck Elementary School.

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Plenty of Westporters celebrated Mothers Day yesterday with a trip to Compo Beach.

The weather was mid-May nice. Time to take off all those layers!

(Photo/William Weiss)

When the crowds were gone, what remained was a scene we’ll see repeated often, over the next few months:

(Photo/Copyright DinkinESH Fotografix)

Of course, not everyone left.

These scenes too will be familiar — as they have been for years — in the months ahead:

(Photo/Sunil Hirani)

(Photo/Copyright DinkinESH Fotografix)

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Staples High School junior Jade Reejhsinghani has had a life-threatening peanut allergy since she was 2.

In elementary school she felt isolated at the nut-free table. In 7th grade she was diagnosed with allergies to eggs, dairy and soy.

Eating at a restaurant with friends puts her in danger of anaphylaxis. People have told her, “just eat at home.”

Classmate Claire Harris is also allergic to peanuts. In 2020 she started oral immunotherapy. That’s changed her life for the better.

The two girls run a Staples club called Food Allergy Education. May is Food Allergy Awareness Month. They help students — especially younger ones — feel empowered living with their food allergies.

On June 1 (9 a.m. to noon Staples High School track), they’re joining with the non-profit FARE (Food Allergy Research & Education) to sponsor a walk. The goal is to raise both awareness and funds.

Sign up for the walk here. Donate to the fundraiser here.

Claire Harris and Jade Reejhsinghani.

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Frank Sinatra is coming to the Westport Country Playhouse.

Also Carrie Bradshaw.

Okay, one is dead. The other was never alive.

But both are “starring” on the historic stage.

On June 27 (8 p.m.), Cary Hoffman turns his “My Sinatra” PBS special into a one-man musical play.

It’s a hilarious, poignant show about his love for Ol’ Blue Eyes, and the perils of wanting to be someone else. Learn more and order tickets here.

On July 9 (8 p.m.), Candace Bushnell — creator of “Sex and the City” — takes the Playhouse audience on a tour of New York, from Studio 54 to the Lipstick Jungle. “Meet the real Carrie Bradshow!” the WCP says.

Learn more about “Sex, Success, and Sex and the City,” and order tickets, here.

One more attraction: on July 20 (7 p.m.), Grammy Award-winning bluegreass/ Americana band Steep Canyon Rangers bring their mountain music to the Playhouse. Here’s more info on the show, and tickets.

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My Lucky Penny — a children’s clothing story at 8 Church Street South, just behind Little Barn — has its grand opening May 31 (noon to 5 p.m.).

Penny is owner Rhoda Schwartz’s daughter. Born with a brain deformity, she had 4 surgeries. Today she is a gifted artist, who also sews all types of clothing.

Rhoda Schwartz’s daughter, in My Lucky Penny.

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Congratulations to Staples grads Emma Ashe (Class of 2022) and Kate Smith (’23).

Both play on the Boston College women’s club lacrosse team — and yesterday, they won the Women’s College Lacrosse Association Division I national championship, in Wichita, Kansas. Here is the full report.

Emma is the team’s vice president. Kate will be captain next year, as the team goes for a two-fer.

Emma Ashe and Kate Smith: national champs!

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Speaking of former Staples athletes: George Robbins’ Raleigh Bombers team just won the Over-50 Triangle Adult Soccer League championship.

George — a 1990 SHS grad, and former soccer captain — plays central midfield.

And he could probably play pretty well with today’s much-younger-than-50 crowd too.

George Robbins

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Another season of live music on Church Lane begins May 22.

Featured artists are Staples senior Vivian Shamie and her sophomore sister Willa. They sing contemporary pop, and covers. (Hat tip: Andrew Colabella)

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What would we do without the month of May?!

Today’s “Westport … Naturally” super-spring foliage shot comes from Ellen Wentworth, on Highland Road:

(Photo/Ellen Wentworth)

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And finally … Yogi Berra was born 100 years ago today. The Hall of Fame catcher and homespun philosopher may not have said everything he said he said, but who cares? Happy birthday, Yogi!

(Yogi once said, “The future ain’t what it used to be.” We say, “The future ain’t the future if you don’t support ‘06880.’” Yogi joins us in saying, “Please click here to help!”)

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Photo Challenge #541

Posted on May 11, 2025 | 10 comments

Last week’s Photo Challenge showed a familiar scene.

But it was also very challenging.

Jerry Kuyper’s image of the edge of a gray building, with a lower one next to it, reminded many readers of the Post Road East/Imperial Avenue corner, dominated by Harding Funeral Home (ground floor) and the Masonic temple (above). (You can see it here.)

I would have said that too. But I’d be as wrong as most readers.

Jerry took the shot from the second floor of Clarendon Fine Art. It shows the Pottery Barn building across Main Street, and next to it West Elm (whose arched windows are the giveaway).

Andrew Colabella, Lynn Untermeyer Miller, Morley Boyd and Matt McGrath are the 4 readers who did not take the funeral home/Masons bait. Well done!

Meanwhile, “who” knows where this week’s Photo Challenge is?

If you know where in Westport you’d spot this owl, click “Comments” below.

(Photo/June Rose Whittaker)

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Posted in Categories, Downtown, Local business, Photo Challenge

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