Category Archives: Local business

Roundup: Beach Resiliency, Scarice Awards, Pink Aid Kickoff …

Posted on September 29, 2026 | 9 comments

After one rain bomb and one nor’easter this month, beach resiliency is an important topic.

This Thursday (October 1, 6:30 p.m., Town Hall auditorium), the Parks & Recreation Department hosts their 2nd forum on RACE Coastal Engineering’s Comprehensive Beach Resiliency Planning Studies.

The studies — involving Compo, Old Mill, Burying Hill and  Canal Beaches — cover existing site conditions, potential beach profiles, and anticipated regulatory requirements.

This forum follows one on July 13. Residents can learn more, and ask questions about beach resiliency.

How resilient are our beaches? We’re about to find out. (Photo/Andrew Colabella)

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Congratulations to Tom Scarice!

Westport’s superintendent of schools is a finalist for not one, but two awards from the National Association of School Superintendents: Superintendent of the Year, and the Technology and AI Award.

The Superintendent of the Year honor recognizes extraordinary leadership and contributions to public education. Board of Education chair Lee Goldstein says his nomination “reflects his leadership of Westport Public Schools, and his focus on creating robust opportunities and stellar outcomes for our students.”

The Technology and AI Award honors his “thoughtful work to help our schools use artificial intelligence intentionally and responsibly, while keeping students and educators at the center of teaching and learning.

Recipients will be announced October 7.

Superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Breast Cancer Awareness Month begins Thursday.

Pink Aid is wasting no time kicking it off.

At 11:45 a.m., they’ll host of a free outdoor Pilates class with Sarah Sadie Newett. All levels are welcome. Mats and props are provided.

At noon, the Pink Aid flag will be raised (with snacks from The Granola Bar).

The heart of Westport is an appropriate spot. Pink Aid started right here in town, 16 years ago.

It’s grown into a national organization providing compassionate support and rapid emergency financial assistance to patients in treatment, supporting them and their families during a critical time.

Click here to register.

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A reminder: The first event in “06880”‘s newest venture — community celebrations of local businesses — comes up soon. Everyone is invited.

On October 10 (5 to 7 p.m), “06880” and Kiin Sauna host “Community, Connection and Contrast.” KiiN is at 1555 Post Road East, next to Sherpa, Longevity, Zion and CT Sports Recovery — all wellness businesses too.

You’ll see friends and neighbors. Enjoy complimentary beverages. Meet KiiN founder Ginger Richardson, who will tell you all about the benefits of a sauna and cold plunge.

Ginger Richardson

If you feel adventurous, you can try a sauna and cold plunge yourself. (Sauna and plunge space is limited; click here to sign up.)

Ginger and her crew are great hosts. It’s a fun way to learn about a new spot in town.

Dave Briggs and I will host more events soon, all over town. We look forward to this new series. If your business would like to collaborate with us, email us: 06880blog@gmail.com.

Kiin Sauna

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Security continues to be a major concern for the local Jewish community.

On  October 6 (7:30 p.m., TCS Westport). the Jewish Federation of Greater Fairfield hosts “The State of Security in the Jewish Community.”

Featured speaker Michael Masters is national director and CEO of Secure Community Network, the official safety and security organization for the Jewish community in North America.

An expert on homeland and national security, terrorism, law enforcement, antisemitism and targeted violence, he has testified before Congress and appeared regularly in national media.

Masters will discuss lessons learned since October 7, the current threat landscape, and the work being done locally to help keep the Jewish community safe.

Click here to register. 

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Westport elections are always fair — and transparent.

For example: When the registrars of voters begin flash media stick and tabulator testing on October 7 (10 a.m., Town Hall room 212D), the public is invited to observe. Residents can watch until testing is complete.

Questions about anything voting related? Contact the registrars: Deborah Greenberg (Democrat), dgreenberg@westportct.gov (203-341-1116); Maria Louise Signore (Republican) msignore@westportct.gov (203-341-1117).

Voting tabuloator

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There are new show times for Jazz at the Post.

The popular Thursday series now kicks off 30 minutes earlier: 7 and 8:15 p.m.. The venue is still VFW Post 399. Dinner service begins half an hour sooner too: 6:30 p.m.

Westport’s own Melissa Newman headlines this week. She’s joined by 3 regulars: guitarist Tony Lombardozzi, bassist Phil Bowler and drummer Bobby Leonard.

Melissa Newman

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Girls are on the run!

Girls on the Run is an after-school program. It’s part of a national positive youth development project for grades 3 to 7.

Twice a week, girls learn about and practice skills and positive mindsets, including positive self-talk, friendship, and the importance of individuality.

Each session includes running. Girls build endurance, culminating in that celebratory 5K.

This fall, the program “runs” at Kings Highway Elementary School. It runs for 8 weeks, beginning October 7. Wednesdays, it’s 3:45 to 5 p.m.; on Fridays it’s 7:45 to 9 a.m.  The team is led for the 3rd yearby Todd Suchotliff,

One of the Girls on the Run highlights is a 5K at the end of the season. Girls recognize their growth, celebrate their accomplishments and experience the power of working toward a goal together.

Click here to register, and for more information.

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Westport resident Kathleen Weiss died peacefully on Thursday, with her family at her side. She was 84. 

The New Jersey native graduated from nursing school at Saint Francis Medical Center. She moved to Westport in 1975 and worked as a nurse at Norwalk Hospital, the Westport public school system, and for several home healthcare companies.

She returned to school to earn her bachelor’s and master’s degrees at Sacred Heart University. She later taught home healthcare at Western Connecticut State University, retiring recently. 

Kathleen was a devout parishioner at Saint Luke Church for 51 years. She taught catechism, was a lector, assisted with charitable efforts, and attended Mass without fail until she was physically unable. 

Kathleen married Timothy Weiss in 1965. They enjoyed dancing at the Fairfield County Cotillion Club, Gaelic American Club, and wherever else the spirit moved. They traveled widely, and especially enjoyed their time in Ireland and Italy. 

Kathleen is survived by her husband; sons Timothy Jr. (Laura Barron-Weiss), David (Tracy Karlbergs) and Matthew Weiss; grandchildren Adele, Watson and Kathryn; step-grandchildren Thomas Barron and Gabrielle Barron; sister Ann and brother-in-law Thomas Weiss; brother Joseph and sister-in-law Virginia Smith, and brother Leo and sister-in-law Kathleen Smith. She was predeceased by her sisters Mary Woodrum and Susan Ingersoll, and several nieces and nephews.

A funeral mass is set for Friday (October 2, 11 a.m., St. Luke Church). Burial will be private. 

Donations may be made to the Regional Hospice of Danbury. Kathleen’s family is grateful to the staff and volunteers for their wonderful care during her final days. 

Kathleen Weiss

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What do bobcats do when they think no one is watching?

Play around — just like any other cats.

This pair — our featured photo for today’s “Westport … Naturally” series — frolicked off Long Lots Road.

(Photo/Rebecca Acselrod)

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And finally … Happy National Coffee Day!

(Pour yourself a hot coffee. Enjoy the morning. Read “06880.” Learn all about Westport. Then remember that we rely on readers’ support — so please click here, then go about your day. Thank you!)

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Posted in Beach, Education, Environment, Local business, Local politics, Obituaries, religion

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“06880” Podcast: Sam Disraelly

Posted on September 28, 2026 | 6 comments

October is Cyber Security Awareness Month.

Timing is everything. Last week I suffered a major email hack — and a harrowing identity theft.

Which are 2 great reasons why this podcast with Sam Disraelly is so timely.

Not to mention, vitally important.

After careers in the military, and working with firefighters and 911 dispatchers, Sam found another way to help people.

He founded Your Tech — a 1-stop cybersecurity firm that is the gold standard in the field.

Sam is creative, passionate, and whip smart. He knows how to stalk and beat the bad guys. And he did it all without making me feel like I was the dumbest creature on the planet.

If you use the internet at all — and by reading this, you do — you need to learn as much as you can about cybersecurity.

This podcast is a fantastic way to start. Click here or below to begin.

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Posted in Local business, Media, technology

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Roundup: Married At The VFW, UN Event In Westport, Lyman On The Attack …

Posted on September 28, 2026 | Leave a comment

Love conquers all, at VFW Post 399!

The nor’easter washed out Jan Pucci and Lew Pennell’s outdoor wedding, at Sherwood Island State Park.

But the VFW — Westport’s great veterans’ club and multi-purpose community center — happily hosted the couple’s big event Saturday.

It was a very appropriate venue.

Jan is an avid member of the Westport Weston Family YMCA’s popular Aqua Fitness classes — taught by VFW senior vice president Patty Kondub, and Auxiliary president Joan Evon.

And Lew is a Navy veteran.

Making this a true Westport affair: Andrew Colabella — American Legion Post 63 leader, Representative Town Meeting member and a justice of the peace — served as the officiant.

“06880” joins the VFW in wishing clear skies and smooth sailing to the newlyweds.

Newlyweds Lew Pennell and Jan Pucci, with officiant Andrew Colabella.

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Speaking of the nor’easter: Eversource made good progress last night, addressing outages.

At 6 a.m. today, 49 Westport customers remained without power. That’s 0.38% of the town.

Weston reported only 9 outages (0.23%).

Statewide, 2,728 customers still had no electricity. That’s 0.21%.

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United Nations Day is October 24. Westport has always hosted an event that day, honoring the founding of that international body.

This year, the date is October 6 (7 p.m.; reception at 6 p.m.). That’s when a high-level diplomat comes to the Westport Library.

The UN Secretary-General’s representative in Washington, William Davis, will speak “The United Nations’ Path Forward in a World in Crisis.” The public is invited to attend and admission is free. Click here to register.

The event is part of the Ruth Steinkraus-Cohen Memorial Lecture Series, sponsored by the United Nations Association of Southwestern CT (unaswct.org) in cooperation with The Westport Library.

Davis represents the UN Secretary-General and Secretariat to US policymakers, civil society, the news media and broader public. He has a deep understanding of the complex relationship between the US and the United Nations system.

Throughout his career, Davis has championed international cooperation and public engagement with the multilateral system, forging trusted relationships across governments, international organizations, academia, civil society and the media.


William Davis

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Good news from Westport’s sister city of Lyman.

Ukrainian troops have pushed back about 9 kilometers against Russian invaders.

They’ve taken 200 square kilometers in the last 10 days, in the Donetsk oblast (province).

Of course, the town still needs our help.

To donate to Ukraine Aid International — the boots-on-the-ground non-profit co-founded by Westporters Marshall and Brian Mayer —  click here. Click the “I want to support” box; then select “Support for the City of Lyman.” Scroll down on that page for other donation options (mail, wire transfer and Venmo.)

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Year after year, more and more parents pick up their elementary school students. Fewer and fewer ride the bus.

The numbers grew especially rapidly after both COVID, and the change to a later school start time.

It’s impossible, many parents say, for youngsters who take the bus to get home in time for their after-school activities.

We don’t know how Susan Garment got home, when she was a Westport kid. But she’s an adult now, and was struck by the daily afternoon scene on Post Road West, near Kings Highway School.

Not far away, this was this scene on Sylvan Road North, at Pierrepont School.

(Photos/Susan Garment)

Of course, every parent has to drive their kid there and back (or carpool).

The private school does not offer bus service.

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We’ve posted plenty of storm shots recently.

Ginormous waves, impassable roads, flooded yards — you name it, we saw it.

Here’s one more image from the weekend, as our “Westport … Naturally” featured photo.

You can’t really tell there’s a nor’easter.

But nature’s creatures gonna do what they do best: figure stuff out.

(Photo/Richard Fogel)

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And finally … well, it wasn’t Sherwood Island.

It wasn’t a chapel either.

But Jan Lucci and Lew Pennell pulled off a great wedding on Saturday, despite plenty of, um, headwinds.

Congrats!

(And finally … as we start a new week, with hopefully a lot less weather to report, we’d like to remind you: We’ve been working like dogs to cover this stuff. Please click here to support us. Thank you!)

 

 

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Need An Intern? Staples Can Help!

Posted on September 27, 2026 | Leave a comment

Staples High School’s Internship Program is a win-win-win.

Every spring, talented and eager seniors leave school 3-4 weeks before graduation. They spend the final month out in the real world.

They work everywhere: retail, salons, restaurants, non-profits, medical offices, financial firms, design shops, farms, marketing companies, photography studios, publishers … you name it. If there’s a job to be learned and done, they do it.

(And not just in Westport. Interns head to New York City — even beyond.)

Luke Della Valle and Anderson Seo interned with the Westport Conservation Department last year.

The work and real life experience they gain is invaluable. The energy, creativity — and help — they bring to the workplace is huge. And the internships get them out of high school at a time when senioritis would otherwise kick in (that’s the third “win”).

Sadie Katzner and Freya Harvey worked with Strong Girls Training.

But as hard as they work, the program coordinators work equally hard right now arranging 420 or so internships.

So they’re asking the greater “06880” community: Can you help?

Do you need a senior (or two, or three) for daily onsite (or remote) work? Perhaps you’re beefing up your social media presence. Or looking for research help, design work, web content, data entry. Or hundreds of other tasks.

You can be a small, medium or large size firm– or a single proprietor. Maybe you were an intern once yourself, and want to give back.

Matthew Anto rocked the School of Rock.

Internships begin May 17, and run through June 7. Students are expected to work 5 hours a day onsite, remotely or in a hybrid model. Program leaders provide guidance and oversight.

If interested, or to learn more, email program directors Lauren Goldshore and Jessica Larit: shsinternship@westportps.org.

Hannah Bitsky interned at the Westport Police Department.

(“06880” often covers Westport businesses and non-profits, and of course our schools. Sometimes — like today — they all intersect. If you like stories like this, please click here to support us. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Nor’easter Nears …

Posted on September 26, 2026 | Leave a comment

As we begin our nor’easter watch:

High tide last night brought seaweed right up to the Compo Beach parking lot.

(Photo/Jay Petrow)

Low tide was 7:25 a.m.

The forecast calls for continued rain today through tomorrow, with winds of 25-35 miles an hour (and higher guest).

Flooding is likely, particularly along the coast.

Meanwhile, the Parks & Recreation Department has closed all fields, parks, beaches and racquet facilities today.

Boat owners are responsible for securing their vessels. This includes:

  • Use additional lines to secure vessels.
  • Remove canvas, sails, Bimini tops, and enclosures.
  • Remove loose items, valuables, extra fuel tanks, and fishing equipment.
  • Charge batteries and ensure bilge pumps are functioning properly.

Stay dry and safe!

Red flags flying yesterday, at Longshore’s ER Strait Marina. (Photo/Jennifer Johnson)

 

 

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The Westport Weston Family Y Fall Festival has been canceled today. As of 8:30 a.m., the Y was open for all other activities.

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Timing is everything.

This couple chose Friday evening — not Saturday or Sunday — to be married at the Inn at Longshore.

(Photo/Diane Lowman)

Let’s hope the rest of their married life is as lucky!

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Earthplace staff — and the raptors — are ready to greet visitors again!

After extensive renovation, the great Birds of Prey exhibit reopens officially next Saturday.

It takes place during the Fall Festival (October 3, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.). A ribbon-cutting is set for 11:30 a.m.

Enjoying raptors at Earthplace.

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Eleish Van Breems celebrates books, design and “The Rooms with a View Class of 2026” on Monday (6 p.m.). The public is invited.

The authors of 4 new design books will be on hand, to sign books: Cathy Kincaid (“Memorable Rooms”), Douglas Wright (“From Hand to Home”), Isabel Molster (“Beyond Color”) and Patrick Sutton (“Tailored Interiors”).

Got design books to donate? Bring them in!

A portion of the evening’s book sales will be donated to Rooms with a View.

Eleish van Breems

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As we head into a tough weekend, we’ll leave you with a whimsical “Westport … Naturally” image.

We’re not sure what’s going on here, but a brief smile is better than nothing!

(Photo/Rowene Weems)

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And finally … in honor of the happy (and lucky) couple married last night (item above):

(Stay dry! Stay safe! And if you get a chance, take a minute to click here to support “06880.” It will help us continue our coverage of this storm — and everything else we do, 24/7/365. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Flood & Erosion Board, Historic Homes Tour, Home Heating Help …

Posted on September 23, 2026 | Leave a comment

When the Flood & Erosion Control Board meets October 7 (7:30 p.m., Zoom), the first agenda item will be the biggest.

Both physically. and in terms of town impact.

Members will hear an application to subdivide the property at 55-57 Greens Farms Road, to demolish an existing office building and replace it with a 250-unit housing development. The proposed activity is within the waterway protection line area of Pussy Willow Brook.

Meeting materials have not yet been posted on the town website.

Plan for “The Fitzgerald” (lower center, which would replace an existing office building. A pond, fountain and other waterways are shown in blue.

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The “06880” Historic Homes Tour is back — and bigger than ever.

By which we mean: This year, we’re adding a 5th home to the annual look-at-Westport’s-amazing-heritage event.

With our friends from KMS Team at Compass, we’ve put together 5 amazing homes.

All have been around for decades — even centuries.

All have been lovingly maintained.

And all are as remarkable inside as out.

We’ll roll out the big reveal next week. But right now, save the date: Sunday, November 1, from 1 to 4 p.m.

See you on the tour!

This house was on a previous “06880” Historic Homes tour. This year, we’ve got 5 very intriguing new — as in “old” — ones.

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Worried about paying for this winter’s heat?

Applications for the Connecticut Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) open October 1.

Westport residents can apply through the Department of Human Services by confidential appointment only. Calll 203-341-1050 or email humansrv@westportct.gov. Home visits are available for homebound residents. Returning applicants will receive instructions by mail.

Eligibility may be established if your household receives SNAP, TANF, SSI, qualifying means-tested Veteran’s benefits or other qualifying benefits, or if your gross annual household income is at or below 60% of Connecticut’s State Median Income (SMI).

The maximum annual income ranges from $48,714 for a 1-person household, to $129,279 for 8.

Residents who heat with oil or propane are encouraged to apply early in the heating season to help ensure they receive the full benefit for which they qualify.

For more information, click here.

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Put money in the pot.

Gat a pot.

That’s the idea of Pippa Bell Ader’s 2nd annual fundraiser.

Set for a week from tomorrow (Thursday, October 1, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.), it’s a chance for Westport Farmers’ Market shoppers to donate to the Green Village Initiative. The Bridgeport-based (and Westport-born) gardening, farming, sustainability, education and advocacy non-profit

Donors receive in return a homemade pot. Perfect for — of course — growing something, and keeping the circle of life alive.

Last year’s Pippa’s (and Friends) Pots event raised over $1,600. Let’s blow past that this year!

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Planning on getting married?

Not so fast!

Sal Liccione — a Westport justice of the peace — notes that as of October 1, there will be a minimum 48-hour waiting period from a time the couple completes their marriage license application in the Town Clerk’s office where the marriage ceremony will take place, until they can be issued their license.

In addition, the marriage license will now be valid for 65 days from the date it is handled to the couple.

Longshore is a popular spot for Westport weddings. The rainbow is extra. (Photo/David Dellinger)

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It happens a lot more rarely than a Cribari Bridge opening.

But when the railroad bridge over the Saugatuck River, a few yards south, opens for maintenance, it’s always an impressive sight.

It tilted upward yesterday, to allow a barge with a large crane underneath. Jonathan Alloy caught the action.

(Photo/Jonathan Alloy)

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he Westport Rotary Club had 2 featured speakers yesterday.

Dr. Scott Kellermann, founder of the Bwindi Hospital in Buhoma, Uganda described its growth to become one of the best hospitals in East Africa. Westport Rotarians have provided substantial assistance since 2009.

Sara Kempner, director of creative campaigns and collaborations at the US Vote Foundation, spoke about her nonpartisan organization that educates people on the logistics of voting in every state. A recent campaign involved placing a QR code linked to voter registration on pizza boxes.

Dr. Scott Kellermann shows Westport Rotarians in Uganda. (Photo/Alec Foege)

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Nature can be both beautiful and vicious. Today’s “Westport … Naturally” image shows both. Photographer Jamie Walsh calls it “the web of life.”

(Photo/Jamie Walsh)

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And finally … in honor of Connecticut’s new wedding laws (item above):

(If you’re not getting married — and have, say 20 seconds to spare – please click here to support this hyper-local blog. And you don’t even have to get us a present. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Hacker Alert! Plus EMS, Arts Collective, Pink Cadillac

Posted on September 22, 2026 | 1 comment

This Roundup was posted in error yesterday. It is reposted here today.

“06880” apologizes for the error. This email hack has completely screwed up our workflow. We might be a little wonky for a few days, as we spend hours battling to get our life back from financial institutions, merchants and more.

A reminder: Please use 06880blog@gmail.com as our only email. Thank you!

There are many ways Westporters can volunteer to help our community.

One of the best is through Volunteer Emergency Medical Services.

It’s a big commitment. With a big payoff: helping people at a stressful time, and actually saving lives.

The next Emergency Medical Technician course begins October 5. It provides students with topics ranging from basic bandaging to childbirth and multi-system trauma care. The course runs through January.

No prior experience is necessary. For more information and to register for the EMT class, click here.

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The Artists Collective of Westport’s annual trunk show is much more than, well, art sold from actual car trunks.

There’s music and food (and easels, panels and tables too).

The next one is Sunday, October 4 (11 a.m. to 4 p.m.), at the Westport Library’s lower parking lot.

Bring a large vehicle, to haul away your purchases.

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Westport has a Minuteman Yacht Club. A Cedar Point Yacht Club. A Saugatuck Harbor Yacht Club.

But no “Compo Yacht Club.”

That didn’t stop Merlin Classics — the Greens Farms company that creates original designs with a retro and vintage feel, customized by city and state — from designing one.

The website calls it “Westport’s ‘finest institution since 1920,’ founded the very week the taps ran dry and dedicated ever since to seamanship, navigation and the six o’clock gun.

“The club burgee flies a martini where lesser clubs fly a star, and in 100 years no member has ever been observed actually sailing — although many tell tall tales. This is the ship’s store: everything below carries the flag, everyone who wears it holds the rank of Commodore, and dues are one olive. Every piece is printed to order in the USA, and profits support hunger relief.”

The design can be purchased on t-shirts, caps, shot glasses, coffee mugs and more. Click here to see. 

And though the Compo Yacht Club does not really exist, Merlin does. And they’re absolutely donating some of the proceeds to local hunger relief organizations.

Ahoy, mates!

Some of the Merlin merchandise.

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There’s a new speech pathology service for teenagers and adults in town.

Melissa Katz recently launched Beyond Words Language & Cognition. She specializes in helping adults with communication, language (aphasia), cognitive, voice and swallowing difficulties related to neurological conditions including stroke, traumatic brain injury, brain tumor, concussion and more.

She also provides care partner support and educational lectures regarding healthy aging and cognitive wellness.

Before moving to Connecticut, Katz worked as a Senior Speech-Language Pathologist at Magee Rehabilitation Hospital in Philadelphia on the stroke and brain injury unit. She co-initiated the music therapy program and led the Cancer Care Committee.

“After moving to Connecticut, I realized that it can be challenging for adults and families to navigate life when returning home from a hospital or rehab after having a neurological illness. Many people who are ‘higher functioning’ may not even go to the hospital and aren’t set up with any resources.” she says. “I wanted to create a practice where therapy is personalized and focused on helping people communicate and function more confidently in everyday life.”

For more information, click here or email melissa@beyondwordslc.com.

Melissa Katz

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Huw Jones — new executive director of the 87-year-old Norwalk Symphony — spoke to the Sunrise Rotary Club on Friday.

He offered historical highlights, like the 1966 Itzhak Perlman performance of Tchaikovsky.

They’ll showcase the same work Festival in their season opener  October 24 (7:30 p.m,, Norwalk Concert Hall). They will perform his “Pathétique{ Symphony, his virtuosic “Violin Concerto” with Sirena Huang as soloist, and 3 songs by Nicolas Flagello. Click here for tickets, and more information.

Sunrise Rotarian Katie Augustyn and Jim Ezzes, with Huw Jones.

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Miller Motorcars continues its support of breast cancer awareness this Thursday (September 24).

They’ll host the American Cancer Society’s annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk, and the Men Wear Pink Campaign, at Maserati of Westport (5:30 to 8 p.m.).

The evening includes music from Old Exit 19, raffles, and more.

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A former Westporter, who returns occasionally, has noticed that some things never change here.

Literraly.

He writes: “In Green’s Farms, if you drive down Westway Road about 150 feet before the bridge over Sasco Creek crossing into Fairfield, a sign reads ‘Construction Ahead, Road Use Restricted, State Liability Limited.'”

“There is no actual construction, but the sign has been there forever. Google Maps can trace it back about a decade and a half.

“But I place the installation of the sign decades earlier. I think it’s been there since about 1989 or so.

“I was in grade school at the time. and the sign prompted me to ask my parents what ‘liability’ means.

“Maybe your readers remember the actual construction project it was put up for. It could be the bridge over Sasco Creek. Perhaps it can be designated an official landmark due to longevity.”

Long-lived sign.

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Trumpeter Andy Gravish is a Jazz at the Post favorite.  His decades of experience reach back to the big bands of Buddy Rich and the Village Vanguard Jazz Orchestra.

He and 5 frequent collaborators — pianist David Morgan, bassist Yuriy Galkin, drummer Erik Halvorson and saxophonist Greg Wall — join him this Thursday at the VFW (shows 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner at 6:45). Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Michael Szeto sends today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo of a juvenile cooper hawk with its prey, on a bench in his backyard.

“Cooper hawks are agile hunters, frequently found in yards with bird feeders,” he says.

“Unfortunately, this bench is located next to my feeder. So regrettably, I have to assume that is where the prey met its demise.”

(Photo/Michael Szeto)

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And finally …. this is not a pink Maserati (story above). But it’s close:

(Another day, another Roundup … and another gentle reminder that this hyper-local blog relies on reader support. If you appreciate what we do, please click here to help. Thank you!)

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“06880”‘s Newest Venture: See You At The Sauna!

Posted on September 21, 2026 | 5 comments

“06880” is so much more than a blog.

Sure, we post 3 to 5 (or more!) stories a day, about anything and everything.

We’ve added a podcast, 2 Strolls (summer and winter), and Instagram Lives and reels.

Today we roll out our latest community-building innovation: celebrations and collaborations with some of Westport’s most interesting people, places and businesses.

The first one is at Kiin Sauna. It’s both a hot event — and very, very cool.

On October 10 (5 to 7 p.m., 1555 Post Road East), “06880” invites you to “Community, Connection and Contrast.” KiiN is next to Sherpa, Longevity, Zion and CT Sports Recovery — all wellness businesses too.

Kiin Sauna

You’ll see friends and neighbors. Enjoy complimentary beverages. Meet KiiN founder Ginger Richardson, who will tell you all about the benefits of a sauna and cold plunge.

If you feel adventurous, you can try a sauna and cold plunge yourself. (Sauna and plunge space is limited; click here to sign up.)

Ginger and her crew are great hosts. It’s a fun way to learn about a new spot in town.

Dave Briggs and I will host more events soon, all over town. We look forward to this new series.

We have just 2 requests: If your business would like to collaborate with us, email us: 06880blog@gmail.com.

And we need a clever name for this series. If you’ve got one, send it along: 06880@gmail.com.

See you October 10 at KiiN Sauna!

 

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Roundup: Green’s Farms PO, Beach Flooding, Sepsis …

Posted on September 18, 2026 | 4 comments

Closure of the Green’s Farms post office after Sunday’s storm has been an inconvenience to patrons.

And not just because it’s an easy-to-park-it, always-uncrowded alternative to the always-busy Playhouse Square location.

Locked doors meant people with PO boxes could not access them.

Now, a note alerts all box holders to knock on the side door. Postmaster Suzannie Swaine will hand you your mail.

The building suffered serious damage. At the height of the storm, the interior was inundated with up to 5 inches of water. In nearly 25 years at Green’s Farms, Swaine had never seen that.

She and a fellow postal worker spent Monday and Tuesday cleaning up, and throwing away water-damaged materials. Not a single piece of mail was lost.

A postal technician was scheduled to reset or replace the server that works the computerized mail and postage equipment. Until that is done, the branch is closed to walk-in traffic.

Box holders may get their mail weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

Green’s Farms post office, in dryer days.(Photo/Bobbie Herman)

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Yesterday, Department of Public Works director Larry Roberts addressed concerns of Compo Beach neighborhood residents that check valves and pumps might not have worked as intendent, during Sunday’s 7-inch “rain bomb.”

He said that DPW is also reviewing reports of lingering standing water near Bradley Street and Fairfield Avenue, and debris in nearby drainage structures.

A homeowner on nearby Norwalk Avenue — one of 4 roads between Soundview Drive and Bradley Street — wants to make sure that town officials know about their plight too.

He writes: “The drains in front of 6 Norwalk have backed up several times this summer, even before this most recent storm.

“I’ve been in contact with the town engineer. He assured me everything operated as intended, but I want to be sure the right town officials are aware that the marina pump situation responsible for the drains on our street should be evaluated as well.”

Here are 2 photos of the flooding on Sunday, after the rain ended.

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Westport resident Meredith Gerard is a sepsis survivor.

She has worked hard to bring more awareness to the life-threatening medical emergency: knowing the signs, understanding how quickly it can happen, and the importance of getting treatment fast.

Her advocacy to get the state to recognize September as Sepsis Awareness Month has paid off.

Locally, Westport declared September 14 Sepsis Awareness Day. 1st Selectman Kevin Christie presented the proclamation to Meredith and and her family at Town Hall.

The effects of sepsis did not end when she left the hospital. It has had a lasting impact on me and my family over the past several years. She is proud that her children see that when something difficult happens, it can turn into an experience that helps others.

Among the signs of sepsis:

  • Fever above 100.4°F, or body temperature below 96.5°F.
  • Signs or symptoms of a current infection (like a cough, painful urination, or a red wound).
  • Mental Decline: Extreme confusion, sleepiness, or trouble waking up.
  • Extremely Ill: Severe pain, shortness of breath, or a feeling like you might die.

Meredith Gerard (2nd from right), 1st Selectman Kevin Christie (holding proclamation), and family and friends.

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Ruff to Radiant is a mobile pet grooming service in Fairfield and New Haven Counties.

The other day Katie, the owner, was working with a dog named Stella. When Katie was done, Stella ran into her back yard.

She fell into a pool, and was drowning.

When the owner jumped in and got her out, she was not breathing. Katie laid her on the driveway, and performed chest compressions and “mouth to snout” CPR.

Within a minute, she regained her pulse.

Stella was taken to the vet. She went home that day, with oxygen and a heating blanket.

Earth Animal has asked Katie to teach a class on dog CPR. We’ll provide more details when we get them. (Hat tip: Jann Colabella) 

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Speaking of dogs: The Parks & Recreation Department reminds everyone  that they are prohibited from town beaches through September 30.

In less than 2 weeks, dogs will be allowed back.

They’ll romp for 6 months. On April 1, they’ll be banned again.

Yogi can’t “bear” it. (Photo/Cat Malkin)

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Mark Mathias writes: “A big, noisy, yellow truck came down Juniper Road this morning.

“It was cleaning and filling cracks in the road with tar. Then another worker put some sand or other abrasive on top of the tar to give it some traction.

“Hopefully, this will keep water from getting into the roads, freezing (and expanding), and then cracking the roads during the winter.

“Thanks to our Public Works department for making this investment in our roads!”

Road work, on Juniper. (Photo/Mark Mathias)

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Three Indigenous grandmothers lead a day of conversation and learning tomorrow (Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport).

The event — called “Lighting the Fire in Our Hearts” — is free. Donations are accepted. Click here to register. For more information, click here.

Indigenous grandmothers: Nana Williams (Mayan spiritual guide), Marsha Forest (Wisdom Keeper of Mohawk ancestry), and Nancy Andry (Algonquin and French heritage).

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Aspetuck Land Trust has a new preserve.

The Weston Wilton Forest Reserve encompasses 750 acres of interior forest land, on the Weston/Wilton border.

This Sunday (September 20, 9 to 11 a.m.), ALT executive director David Brant leads a hike of its newest addition: the 15-acre Plummer property, formerly owned by actor Christopher Plummer and his wife Elaine. The hike is of intermediate difficulty. Click here for more information.

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The next Staples High School sports team fundraising car wash is tomorrow (Saturday, September 19, 12 to 4 p.m., 176 Post Road West — former Carvana property opposite Kings Highway School)

The suggested donation is $20.

  Staples High School girls soccer.

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Clarendon Fine Art’s next exhibit features Brian Keith Stephens.

His paintings use familiar creatures to explore human emotion and behavior. His work has appeared in more than 100 exhibitions internationally since 1996.

Stephens will be at the opening reception (October 3, 6 to 8 p.m.).

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Barboletta — a Santana tribute band — brought their powerhouse music to the Levitt Pavilion last night.

They’ve become a Levitt tradition. The band includes local musicians from different national and international touring acts, including Lotus, Twiddle, The Machine, Deep Banana Blackout and Kung Fu.

Special guest Jason L Terry was an added attraction.

The final event listed on the Levitt calendar is this coming Wednesday (September 23, 7:30 p.m.; free). King Stingray plays “Yoluu surf rock” — with indie and funk influences — that has captivated all of Australia. (Hat tip: Matthew Mandell)

Barboletta rocks the Levitt. (Photo/Susan Garment)

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The renovation of the Inn at Longshore is complete.

Guests are back. Weddings are on.

And that means many more visitors can enjoy scenes like today’s “Westport … naturally” featured photo,

(Photo/Patricia McMahon)

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And finally … in honor of Katie, who saved a dog using CPR (story above)

(I’ll be watching you. And I’ll be especially glad if you click here, to support “06880” with a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Beach, Entertainment, Environment, Local business, Sports, Staples HS, Weather

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[OPINION] Old Mill Grocery: Embracing History, Adapting To Future

Posted on September 18, 2026 | 20 comments

As “06880” reported Sunday, Romanacci will not renew its lease at Old Mill Grocery & Deli.

After 3 years they’re concentrating on their other restaurants, including a new one in Darien. 

Several “06880” commenters questioned whether any operator can succeed at the 107-year-old beach neighborhood location. 

Jim Hood and Ian Warburg say they can. 

As 2 of the principals of Soundview Empowerment Alliance — the owners of the property — they write:

There has been a lot of thoughtful discussion since Dan’s post about the transition at Old Mill Grocery & Deli. We thought it might be helpful to add a little history and context, particularly around the question of whether a business can succeed at 222 Hillspoint Road.

We believe it can, and the history gives us good reason to feel that way.

Elvira’s was profitable for more than 2 decades. It supported Stacy and Nick, their family and employees, and helped them build meaningful equity in the property.

When they sold in 2019, it wasn’t because the business had failed. They were ready to retire after many years of extraordinarily hard work.

Nicky and Stacey Yiovanakos at their familiar spot. Under their ownership, Elvira’s was profitable.

Romanacci has also been profitable at Old Mill.

Their decision to move on doesn’t mean a business can’t succeed here. It simply means that, for a growing company with several locations and other opportunities, the return at Old Mill hasn’t been enough to justify the considerable time and attention the location requires.

That’s an important distinction.

The last several years have also brought challenges that earlier operators didn’t face to the same degree. Unfortunate legal disputes consumed a great deal of time, money and energy that otherwise could have gone into improving and growing the business.

Legal disputes involving a gelato cart, outdoor tables and alcohol sales consumed time, money and energy. (Photo/Dan Woog)

But there is another side to that story.

Thousands of residents, neighbors and visitors have supported preserving Old Mill. Many hundreds contributed financially to save it back in 2022.

And many more continue to show, through their ongoing donations, patronage and affection for the place, how much they want this neighborhood institution to remain part of the community.

It’s also worth remembering what this place has been for more than a century.

The property has operated commercially since 1919. For generations, it wasn’t simply a place to buy a sandwich.

Old Mill Grocery has stood — and served — for over 100 years.

It was opened as The Old Mill Store, and soon after became The Old Mill Grocery & Deli, always a place for groceries, prepared food, beverages, ice cream and the everyday things people needed. Stopping there was simply part of living in the neighborhood.

Some of that habit has been lost over the years. COVID changed routines. The neighborhood changed. Delivery services changed the way all of us buy food and household necessities.

Those are real challenges. But we don’t think they mean a business there is no longer viable.

We think the opportunity is to create an updated version of the neighborhood market that worked here for generations: great prepared food, groceries, beverages, convenience items and other permitted offerings, with reasons for people to stop in throughout the day and throughout the year.

Saturday morning, at Old Mill Grocery & Deli. 

There is also one very important difference between Old Mill and most commercial properties.

Its owner, Soundview Empowerment Alliance, is a nonprofit.

SEA was created by this community for 2 purposes: to preserve this historic neighborhood institution, and to create opportunities for young people with disabilities.

“Preserving History. Serving Good.”

SEA didn’t acquire 222 Hillspoint Road as a real estate investment. And our goal isn’t to maximize the financial return on the property.

We measure success differently.

If Old Mill remains a thriving neighborhood gathering place, and if it also creates opportunities for young people with disabilities to learn, work and grow, then we are accomplishing what the community created SEA to do.

That matters economically as well.

We can offer the next operator a modest, commercially reasonable rent designed to help the business succeed, rather than trying to extract the maximum possible return from the real estate.

So for us, the question isn’t really whether Old Mill can work.

It’s whether we can find the next right operator to create the 2026 version of the neighborhood market Westport has embraced for more than a century, one that respects what this place has been while adapting to the way people live today.

Based on the history of the property, what we’ve learned over the last several years, and the conversations we’re having with prospective operators, we believe we can.

We’re not out to recreate Elvira’s, or Kenny’s before it.

Our aim is to support the next generation of operators of the Old Mill Grocery & Deli, enabling it to remain the special place – the heart and hub – this community will continue to embrace for decades to come.

With gratitude,

Jim Hood and Ian Warburg
On behalf of Soundview Empowerment Alliance

(“06880” Opinion pages are open to all. Send submissions to 06880blog@gmail.com. To support this hyper-local blog with a tax-deductible contribution, please click here.)

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Posted in Beach, Local business, Looking back

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