Category Archives: Local business

Roundup: Westport Arts, Staples Basketball, Tooker Campaign …

Posted on March 7, 2025 | 4 comments

Since 2002, the Malloy Lecture in the Arts — sponsored by the late artist Susan Malloy — has brought major creative voices to Westport. Speakers included Arthur Miller, Joyce Carol Oates, Christopher Plummer, Clive Davis and Salman Rushdie sparking thought-provoking and engaging conversations.

Now, through the Malloy Fund for the Arts, The Westport Library has relaunched the series. A new event celebrates Westport’s artistic legacy, while looking toward its future.

A large crowd attended last night’s reimagined concept. Weston actor James Naughton moderated a panel with graphic artist Miggs Burroughs, Staples High School graduate and Broadway director Gina Rattan, artist/singer/actress Lissy Newman, and arts leader Melody James.

Ann Sheffer — the passionate arts advocate, philanthropist and Malloy’s niece, whose family’s contributions have helped shape the cultural fabric of Westport, opened the evening.

From left: Melody James, Lissy Newman, Gina Rattan, Miggs Burroughs, James Naughton last night. Behind them on the Westport Library stage are posters of Westport Country Playhous shows. (Photo/Dave Matlow)

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Also last night: the Staples High School boys basketball season came to an end.

The Wreckers — ranked #4 in the state Division I basketball tournament — fell 67-56 to #5 St. Bernard-Uncasville, in the quarterfinals. The game was played before a large, raucous crowd at Fairfield Warde High.

The loss was bitter. The Saints edged Staples earlier in the regular season, and topped them 2 years ago in the state championship.

But the future is very bright. The blue-and-whites graduate only 2 seniors who saw substantial time: Adam Udell, the MVP of the FCIAC title game who led his squad to their first league championship in 62 years, and Charlie Bowman

All the other retutnrees — and the deep bench — are underclassmen.

Congratulations to coach Dave Goldshore, and his team, on a superb year!

Adam Udell. (Photo/Ryan Allen)

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Last night was filled with activity. StartUp Westport (the town’s public/private tech entrepreneur/innovator partnership) packed The Clubhouse (the town’s neweset and coolest event space) for their annual networking and social get-together.

Among the energetic crowd (below, from left): Nat Brogadir, Sam Hendel, Jay Norris, Noah Fenn and Dan Bikel.

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As “06880” reported first on Monday, 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker is running for governor of Connecticut.

Her campaign just released her first official video. Click below to see:

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The Grand List is out. Got a gripe?

The Board of Assessment Appeals meets Monday (March 10, 7 p.m., Town Hall room 201) to hear from taxpayers who are “aggrieved by the doings of the assessor on the Grand List of October 1, 2024, and the 2023 Supplemental Motor Vehicle list.”

Residents should bring supporting documents to the session.

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After very successful events focused on women, minorities and young entrepreneurs, StartUp Westport is planning its next major event.

This time, it’s “Innovation in Sports.” The event is April 30 (6:30 p.m., Westport Library).

Among the topics: emerging technologies in athlete performance and data analytics; advancements in fan engagement, sponsorships, and media, and how startups and leaders are reshaping the sports business landscape.

Moderator Andrew Marchand is senior sports media columnist at The Athletic (and a 1986 Staples High School graduate). Panelists include NBC Sports president Rick Cordella, and Westporter Rob Simmelkjaer, CEO of the New York Roadrunners Club.

Click here to register, and for more information.

In other StartUp Westport news, the mentorship program continues to thrive. This month’s session — “Legal Bootcamp for Startups and Founders” — will be led by Jack Sousa, partner at Wiggin & Dana, on Monday (March 10).

Next month’s Mentorship Circle is on “The Key Steps to Launching a Successful Non-Profit.”

To register and for more information, click here.

StartUp Westport’s special interest groups are very active too. Upcoming:

Investor SIG: Advanced Startup Due Diligence (March 24, 2025, 6 p.m., Serendipity Labs). Connect with other experienced investors; gain advice on how navigating the world of startup due diligence and fundraising.

Women in Tech & Innovation SIG: BRAND YOU: Creating and Managing Your Personal Brand (April 24, 6 p.m., Serendipity Labs). Insights, tools and tips to help build a strong, authentic personal brand. Click here to learn more about Startup Westport’s special interest groups.

Andrew Marchand

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“Pink Chicken” does not sound particularly appetizing.

But that’s the name of a new children’s clothing store — “renowned for its vibrant colors, original prints and family focused designs” — opened yesterday in Sconset Square.

The boutique is Pink Chicken’s ninth US store, joining those in New York, Maryland, North and South Carolina, and California.

A “Flock Party” is set for Saturday (March 8, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.). The event includes special offers, face painting, florals and sweet treats.

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It’s great that your kids play sports.

It’s not great that they grow out of their equipment. It just hangs around, cluttering your house.

Sustainable Westport can help. They’ve launched a “Play It Forward” program, giving used sports equipment a new life.

They’re kicking off with soccer. Westporters can drop off shoes, shin guards and balls at the Westport Weston YMCA from today (March 7) through March 22.

On March 24 (4 to 7 p.m., Christ & Holy Trinity Church), residents can brose for needed items. It’s not necessary to have donated anything to shop.

Any remaining items will be donated to the Bridgeport Field of Dreams Foundation. For more information, click here.

The program may expand to other sports.


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Online registration begins at 9 a.m. Tuesday (March 11) for 2 of the most popular Parks & Recreation Department summer programs: Camp Compo and RECing Crew.

Registration opens the next day (March 12, 9 a.m.) for all other spring and summer offerings.

Parks & Rec officials urge residents to log in now to their online accounts, to verify family information.

Log in and select “Manage Family Member” (bottom right). Click the first name in the column under “My Family Members” to check key details. Verify date of birth and ensure your child’s grade (as of September 2025) is correct. Click “Save” at the bottom.

Go to the “Contact Information” tab and review/update your contact details. Click “Save” again. Repeat for each family member in your profile.

Address Change? Email us at recreation@westportct.gov with updated information.

Login issue? Don’t create a new profile. Email recreation@westportct.gov, or call 203-341-5152.

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Speaking of Parks & Rec: It’s that time of year again.

(Photo/Karen Como)

Contractors are busy preparing Compo Beach for the upcoming season.

The sand is looking good. Let’s hope the weather gods are with us, and that there’s no late-winter storm to wreck all that good work.

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Westport Police made 5 custodial arrests betwen February 26 and March 5.

A 26-year-old Westport man was charged with assault, strangulation, unlawful restraint, threatening and interfering with an emergency call. A complainant reported that over the course of the past few years, they were the victim of mental and physical abuse by their live-in boyfriend. He was released after posting $100,000 bond.

A 57-year-old Fitchburg, Massachusetts man was charged with larceny, payment card theft and identity theft, following an investigation into valuables taken from a locker at the Westport Weston Family YMCA.

A 52-year-old Norwalk man was charged with identity theft and criminal attempt at larceny, after an investigation intoto 2 checks stolen from a mailbox in September. He was held on $25,000 bond.

A 40-year-old Bridgeport woman was charged with failure to appear. She was pulled over for a motor vehicle violation, and was found to have an active rearrest warrant for an incident that occurred in Newington in 2013.

A 41-year-old Eastchester, New York man was charged with failure to appear, after being pulled over for a motor vehicle violation. He had an active rearrest warrant for an incident that occurred last year in Westport.

Westport Police also issued these citations:

  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 6 citations
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 4
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 3
  • Speeding: 2
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 2
  • Evading responsibility: 1
  • Driving while texting: 1
  • Failure to drive in the proper lane: 1
  • Failure to obey stop sign: 1
  • Failure to display lights: 1
  • Improper marker lights: 1
  • Failure to obey traffic commission regulations: 1
  • Failure to insure a motor vehicle: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
  • Failure to renew registration: 1

Turn on those headlights!

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Tammy Barry provides today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo, and wonders: “Compo Beach or Jersey Shore?”

It’s Compo, of course. (Cockenoe Island gives it away).

Wednesday — when this image was taken — was blustery. Today should continue windy, with gusts of perhaps 40 miles an hour.

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And finally … in honor of Westport’s newest store, Pink Chicken (story above):

(Seriously, where else but “06880” would you find all this stuff? And in one place?! Crazy. But it’s here — every day — on your hyper-local blog. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

 

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Posted in Beach, Children, Library, Local business, Police, Politics, Sports, Staples HS, technology

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Roundup: Hamlet Application, Seniors’ Writing Contest, #EndJewHatred …

Posted on March 6, 2025 | 19 comments

Tonight’s (Thursday) boys basketball state tournament quarterfinal between Staples and St. Bernard has been moved to Fairfield Warde High School. Tip-off is 7 p.m.

The Wreckers — ranked #4 in Division I — are the host team, against the #5 easterners. The site was changed because Warde’s gym is larger than Staples’.

Staples and St. Bernard have developed a great rivalry. In 2023, #1 ranked St. Bernard-Uncasville topped the #7 Wreckers 63-50, in the state Division II finals at Mohegan Sun.

Earlier this year, in a non-league game, St. Bernard beat Staples 63-56 in Uncasville.

The Wreckers are betting that the third time the charm — especially at “home.”

The FCIAC champion Staples boys basketball team hope to advance in the state tournament tonight.

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Discussions about The Hamlet — the new Saugatuck project — begin Monday (March 10, 6 p.m.; Zoom).

The Planning & Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing on a request for special permit/coastal site plan approval for 601, 606 and 609 Riverside Avenue, 91 and 96 Franklin Street, and 2 and 16 Railroad Place, for “a mix of non-residential, hotel and residential uses as part of an integrated site development, for property located in the General Business District/Saugatuck Marina.”

The public may observe and participate in the hearing.

Part of the land under consideration for The Hamlet at Saugatuck.

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You’ve heard of the TEAM Westport Diversity Writing Contest, open to local teenagers. And the Farmers’ Market Young Shoots photo contest, also for kids.

What about older residents?

If you’re 60 or older: You’re in luck.

The Westport Library, the Westport Center for Senior Activities, and Meryl Moss Media Group have just announced the first-ever Jackie Robinson Essay Contest.

Organized by the Library’s Common Ground Initiative, it invites submissions (800 words or less) based on this prompt: “Jackie Robinson stands as an icon of equality and civil rights. What does that say about the power of his legacy, of the place of sports in our culture, and about our modern-day society?”

Click here to submit essays. The deadline is March 24. A panel will choose the winners, to be announced on April 15 — Jackie Robinson Day.

Winners will receive Jackie Robinson memorabilia, a chance to be featured by the Jackie Robinson Museum, and tickets to a New York Mets game at Citi Field — home to the Jackie Robinson Rotunda.

Jackie Robinson. He was a longtime resident of Stamford.

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Earthplace continues to have a full calendar, for children, adults and families. They include:

  • Garden Planting & Seed Starting (tonight, March 6, 6 p.m., $35)
  • Family Campfire: Spring Equinox (March 22, 1 p.m.; member family $30, non-member $40)
  • Rain Gardens 101 (March 20, 7 p.m.; free)
  • Parents’ Night Out (March 28, 6 p.m.; member child $50, non-member $60)
  • New drop-off programs for kids
  • Vacation days and summer camp.

Click here for details.

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If you wonder what lies beneath your property or under your floorboards, check out “Hidden History in Your Backyard.”

The Weston History & Culture Center hosts Instagram-famous Maryclare Roos for a March 30 presentation (3 p.m.; $5).

It’s followed by a wine and cheese closing reception of the exhibit, “Weston…What Lies Beneath.” The show features many treasures excavated by Roos on her antique property. Click here for more details.

Maryclare Roos

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Human rights attorney Brooke Goldstein — founder and executive director of The Lawfare Project — is the special guest at a March 27 fundraiser (6:30 p.m., private home).

Called “An Evening of Impact to #EndJewHatred,” it benefits that Lawfare Project program of the same name.

Yale University student Sahar Tartak will be there too, discussing a recent antisemitic attack she experienced,  and how The Lawfare Project is fighting to protect her and the rights of Jewish students across the country.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Donna Disch dished on her role as Westport poet laureate, at Tuesday’s Westport Rotary Club lunch meeting.

She described initiatives like the poetry box on Soundview Drive (there’s a new poem every day), and a weekly poetry workshop. \

“If I didn’t have poetry, I’d feel quite hemmed in,” Disch said. “Poetry offers a focus, a refuge, a respite. It gives me a great deal of contentment.” She encouraged Rotarians to open their minds to the benefits of verse.

The laureate also read poems by Homer Winslow, Wendell Berry, Robert Frost and others.

Donna Disch, at the Westport Rotary Club meeting. Her poetry box is on the slide in the background. (Hat tip and photo/Dave Matlow)

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The Stradivarius Chamber Orchestra — a Staples High School elite musical ensemble — entertained the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston at Saugatuck Congregational Church on Tuesday. The concert was arranged by the Y’s Men Classical Music Society.

Carrie Mascaro conducts the group. The program included music by Mozart, Telemann, Copland, Joplin and others.

Stradivarius Chamber Orchestra, at Saugatuck Church. (Hat tip and photo/Dave Matlow)

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Coming soon to Westport: Everything But Water.

The women’s swimwear and resort wear retailer will move into Elm & Main (formerly called Brooks Corner) downtown.

Everything But Water has been in business for over 35 years. They currently operate over 85 stores across the United States. The closest location now is in Greenwich.

“One piece wonder,” from Everything But Water.

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State Senator Tony Hwang delivered the invocation at Tuesday’s Representative Town Meeting session.

He said “we are better together,” and expressed the importance of community involvement and public service.

State Senator Tony Hwang (right) and RTM moderator Jeff Wieser, before Tuesday’s meeting. (Photo/Jimmy Izzo)

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Coleytown Middle School’s Company is hard at work on their spring production.

“Matilda The Musical” — inspired by the beloved Roald Dahl novel — runs for 4 performances, April 4-6.

Coleytown Company promises “colorful characters, rousing songs, and an inspiring storyline.” The show will entertain audiences of all ages — especially elementary school, with its “relatable and magical” story.

Tickets go on sale tomorrow (March 7). Click here to order, and for more information.

Coleytown Company presents “Matilda The Musical.”

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Westport native and 1961 Staples High School graduate Jonathan Jaeger died peacefully on Tuesday, at the VA Hospital in West Haven. He was 81, and had been in failing health for several months. He was very grateful for the wonderful care and heartfelt attention he received from excellent doctors and nurses there.

Jon attended Greens Farms Elementary and Assumption Schools before Staples. After graduation he joined the Air Force. He served from 1961 to 1965 in New Jersey and Newfoundland.

Jon then spent 8 years working at Norden Systems in Norwalk. In 1973 he joined his father Andre in the family business, Greens Farms Cut Flower Exchange. In 1981 Jon and his sister Sara bought it from their father, and operated it for the next 28 years. They sold their business and Hyde Lane greenhouses in 2003, and moved to a new location in Norwalk. With changes in the sourcing of wholesale flowers, they closed it in 2009.

Jon loved everything about flowers. He was a passionate gardener, and he enjoyed the fascinating people he met through business.

After retirement, Jon continued to work with East Coast Wholesale Flowers of
Norwalk and at the Fort Hill Farmer’s Market Stand, until shortly before his death.

He is survived by 3 of his 8 siblings: Rene of Woodinville, Washington; Sara of Fairfield, and Jalna of Norwalk.

Jnathan Jaeger

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During the pandemic, many Westporters discovered the beauty of Sherwood Island State Park.

It continues to draw plenty of residents every day — all year long.

Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo shows one of many intriguing scenes, at this jewel in the heart of our shoreline.

(Photo/Molly Alger)

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And finally … in honor of Westport’s first-ever Jackie Robinson Essay Contest (story above):

(Politics, religion, the Library, poetry, music, the environment, seniors … just another Roundup, jam-packed with info you can use. Please click here to support your hyper-local blog. Thank you!)

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Posted in Entertainment, Environment, Library, Local business, Local politics, Obituaries, Staples HS

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Roundup: Riverside Avenue Trees, Mitchells Stores, Players Spelling Bee …

Posted on March 5, 2025 | 14 comments

Riverside Avenue and Lincoln Street neighbors fought hard.

But on Monday 2 large trees — perhaps over 200 years old — at 125 Riverside Avenue were cut down. Hours later, the oak at 79 Riverside Avenue next to Eloise Ray Park was also removed.

A  home will be built adjacent to the park, on the Saugatuck River at the foot of Lincoln Street.

Nearby resident Charles Tirreno spent the afternoon helping his mother re-home newborn baby squirrels, whose nest was removed along with the tree.

“This has been a grave loss of habitat for countless species of mammals, insects, critically endangered turtles and protected birds,” he wrote in an email to his Representative Town Meeting District 9 members.

He urged his representatives to closely monitor the situation, to ensure that stipulations voted on by the Planning & Zoning Commission are adhered to.

Scene after trees were removed, adjacent to Eloise A. Ray Park. (Photo/Charles Tirreno)

Asked to comment by “06880,” RTM member Jennifer Johnson said, “This is a terrible loss for our entire community.  It is an in-our-face reminder of how little Westport is doing to protect our town’s limited open space.

“Across Westport we are bearing witness to the systematic loss of cherished natural resources. From the assault on Jesup Green to the wiping out of the Community Gardens, and now a proposed 35,000-square foot area of asphalt, steel and concrete in the middle of Longshore.  What’s going to happen to that giant sycamore gracing Charles Street when the Hamlet plows through?

“Sadly, the redevelopment of the property on 125 Riverside is a perfect example of community-wide inaction. We have an open space fund. Did anyone ever try to purchase the site for open space?

“Unfortunately, we waited to blame the person who eventually came forward to redevelop the site. That’s too late. We now must confront the loss of more glorious trees, and the missed chance to add parkland to our riverfront.”

“Please do not take any more trees!” added RTM member Sal Liccione.

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Mitchells — the small mom-and-pop men’s store that has grown in nearly 70 years to include 8 of the leading luxury retail stores in the US  — has just gotten bigger.

Stanley Korshak — the leading luxury retailer in Dallas — is joining the Mitchell Stores family.

In addition to Westport — where Mitchells is headquartered — the group includes Richards in Greenwich; Mitchells in Huntington, New York; Wilkes Bashford stores in San Francisco and Palo Alto, and 3 Marios stores in Seattle, Portland and Bridgeport, Oregon.

The Mitchells have been close personal friends with former owner Crawford Brock and his family for over 20 years. Stanley Korshak is a 32,000-square foot store Dallas’ Uptown neighborhood.

Most important, Mitchells says, the store “shares our family’s vision to bringing customers the most exquisite luxury fashions in the world, with unequaled personalized service.” In addition to the main store, Stanley Korshak has one of the top bridal salons in the country.

“Stanley Korshak is a jewel in Texas. We will do everything to continue to offer world-class products and services that are perfectly tailored to Dallas customers,” says Chris Mitchell. The 3rd generation owner will spend half his time in Dallas, working closely with Crawford.

Meanwhile, the 4th generation of Mitchells has begun working with the company.

Ed and Norma Mitchell — who founded that original men’s store in a former plumbing supply building at the corner of Post Road East and Compo Road North in 1958 (now M&T Bank) — would be very proud.

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Staples Players actors are as close to professional as you can get, without an Equity card.

When the curtain rises Friday for “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” — Players’ spring production — they’ll be joined by a couple of legit Broadway actors, like Kelli O’Hara and Chris Sarandon.

Former Staples principal John Dodig (who had a memorable role in Players’ “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying”) and former State Senator Will Haskell — a Player himself in his high school days — will be onstage too.

But so will a few definite non-actors, like First Selectwoman Jen Tooker, Principal Stafford Thomas, and Wrecker boys basketball coach Dave Goldshore.

Plus “06880”‘s own Dan Woog.

We’re all “guest spellers.” We have no idea what we’re in for. We’ll just go with the flow.

And we’ll be guided by the very talented Players themselves. They’ve prepared well, for schmoes like us.

They’ll lead. We’ll follow. And we hope that audiences will laugh with — not at — us.

The full guest cast:

Friday, March 7 (7 p.m.): First Selectwoman Jennifer Tooker, Principal Stafford Thomas, “06880”‘s Dan Woog, Bedford Acting Group ‘s Ryan Smith.

Saturday, March 8 (2 p.m.): Actor Chris Sarandon, former State Senator Will Haskell and more.

Saturday, March 8 (7 p.m.): Coach Dave Goldshore and more.

Sunday, March 9 (2 p.m.): Tony Award winner Kelli O’Hara, former Staples principal John Dodig, Staples choral director Lauren Pine and more.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

“25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” (Photo/Kerry Long)

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The Read to Grow Bookmobile arrives in Westport tomorrow (Thursday, March 6, 3 to 5 p.m., Compo Beach cannons).

Youngsters can climb aboard the bookmobile (not the cannons) to pick out a free book. The selection includes new board books, picture books and chapter books, for youngsters birth to age 7.

Kids LOVE climbing aboard to pick out a free book to take home! Their shelves are packed with new board books, picture books, and chapter books for kids birth to age 7—so there’s something for everyone!

To learn more about Read to Grow, click here.

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The Animal Awareness Night scheduled for this evening (Wednesday, March 5) has been postponed. The new date is March 19 (7 p.m., police station classroom).

Topics include wildlife (with officer Peter Reid), pet adoption (with Westport Animal Shelter Advocates’ Julie Loparo), and dog licensing guidelines. The event is free.

Westport Animal Control officer Peter Reid is a featured speaker at Wednesday’s Animal Awareness Night.

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Sure, you can teach your kids how to decorate cookie cakes.

But on March 25 (7:30 p.m., The Blondinit restaurant), Jess Leventhal will teach adults how to create “a stunning 2-layer mini cookie cake that feeds 6-8 people, and is almost too beautiful to eat.”

The $125 ticket a choice of signature cocktail, and light fare by The Blondinit. Click here for details and registration.

Blondinit cookie cake.

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Johanna Keyser Rossi spotted today’s “Westport … Naturally” subject — a juvenile mute swan — swimming alone in the Saugatuck River, near Riverside Park.

(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

That’s such a rare sight in Westport. No, not a swan. I mean a young one, playing without an adult nearby.

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And finally … in honor of Staples Players’ production of “25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee’ (story above):

(Contributing to “06880” is as easy as … well, you know. Just click here. That’s it! Thank you!)

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Posted in Beach, Children, Environment, Local business, Real estate, Restaurants, Staples HS

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Rhodie Lorenz’s Joyful Ride To Coaching Success

Posted on March 4, 2025 | 5 comments

Rhodie Lorenz and Amy Hochhauser’s partnership in JoyRide began as a “blind date.”

A business consultant introduced Rhodie — who had fitness expertise– and Amy, whose background was background was in business and law.

Their skill sets meshed. They opened their joyfully named cycling studio in 2011. It pedaled past all of Rhodie’s expectations, expanding to 7 locations.

Clients and instructors formed close bonds. The studios became integral parts of local communities, hosting fundraisers and contributing to any cause, whenever asked.

But the pandemic, combined with the rise of national chains, forced JoyRide to close in 2022.

Now Rhodie — whose first career was as a high school English teacher, after earning a master’s in education at Stanford — is ready for her next act.

The Westport resident of 2 decades is combining her interest in fitness, her talent for teaching, and her certification in executive leadership coaching.

The result is a coaching business that builds confidence in leaders of all kinds, as well as athletes of all types.

Rhodie is going beyond the studio, she says. “Physical strength leads to mental strength.”

Rhodie Lorenz, at JoyRide.

Her certification course, done remotely through Georgetown University, included a wide variety of students, from diplomats and military personnel to business executives.

She was the only student with a fitness background. She realized that many of the leadership skills she was building could also be applied to athletes.

Her 3 sons had all run at Staples High School. Two competed collegiately, at Middlebury and Washington University.

Last fall, Rhodie began working remotely with runners at Cornell and Syracuse.

“I was surprised at how little support they had, even at the D-I level,” she says.

“Coaches were focused on athletic performance. They didn’t have a lot of time for the mental side.”

But, she notes, there are parallelsl between physical and mental fitness.

“Athletes are dedicated to the gym. They do their reps, they run every day. Mental fitness also requires repetitions, and habit building.”

Rhodie Lorenz

There are countless books about developing mental toughness. But, Rhodie says, “there is a gap in how you actually apply that knowledge to your life.”

Two of the runners she worked with were injured. One had lost confidence.

“We broke down what was in her head,” Rhodie explains. The goal was to anticipate her “mind chatter” before a race: “Everyone is faster than me.” Or, “I didn’t get enough sleep.”

Being prepared for negative talk means it’s less scary to hear. Rhodie helped the runner prepare a script: “I’ve prepared well … My strides are excellent…”

Even if the woman did not win every race, Rhodie says, she had the tools to compete confidently.

Rhodie looks forward to working with younger athletes. She knows the pressures they feel — academic, athletic, peers, parents — and can help them their performance, as well as building life skills.

She points to an athlete whose coach does not believe in her. “We can’t control other people’s behavior,” Rhodie says. “But by focusing on what we can control, we’re prepared for, say, a boss later on we don’t see eye to ey with.

“We have to take responsibility for our own actions. We can’t rely on other people for our success.”

(To learn more about Rhodie Lorenz’s mental performance coaching for athletes and high performers, click here. Her email is rhodie@rhodielorenz.com.)

(“06880” often covers Westporters with interesting careers — and sports. If you enjoy stories like this — or any other feature of our hyper-local blog — please click here to support our work. Thanks!)

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Roundup: Porch Space, Outer Space …

Posted on March 3, 2025 | Comments Off on Roundup: Porch Space, Outer Space …

The Porch at Christie’s closed in December.

Though 2 potential buyers came close to taking the space, it is still available.

Owners Bill and Andrea Pecoriello spent months restoring the Cross Highway space, before opening in 2021.

“This very special place deserves a special new proprietor,” they say. Interested parties can email andrea@theporchatchristies.com.

The Porch at Christie’s: Space available.

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Visitors to Compo Beach — and many other places — were treated to a rare planetary lineup Friday.

Mars, Jupiter, Uranus, Neptune, Mercury, Saturn and Venus were all visible simultaneously after susnet — and all looked like they were all aligned with Earth.

Some of the planets were best viewed with binoculars. But Ferdinand Jahnel captured this interesting shot.

Next to the moon is Venus. Just above the horizon is Mercury (zoom in a bit).  The top right looks like Saturn, but Ferdinand thinks it is a plane in motion.

(Photo/Ferdinand Jahnel)

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The Westport Book Shop’s Short Story Book Club meets March 27 (6 p.m.) at the Jesup Road store.

They’ll discuss ” Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been?” by Joyce Carol Oates, and ” A Good Man Is Hard to Find” by Flannery O’Connor,

Registration is required. Call 203-349-5141, or email RSVP@westportbooksaleventures.org.

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Looking for free kids’ entertainment?

Long Lots Elementary School students perform “Willy Wonka Kids” this Friday (March 7, 7 p.m.) and Saturday (March 8, noon and 3 p.m.). Click here to reserve tickets.

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Another day, another flooded Burying Hill Beach entrance.

Ed Simek’s photo from yesterday afternoon is today’s “Westport … Naturally” featured image.

And we are nowhere near full moon. The next one is not until March 14.

(Photo/Ed Simek)

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And finally … give a yell for National Cheerleading Week!

(Be true to “06880”! Please click here, to make a tax-deductible contribution to your favorite hyper-local blog. Thank you!)

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Photo Challenge #531

Posted on March 2, 2025 | 15 comments

Most Photo Challenges show a Westport scene that’s been here a while.

That’s why it’s a “challenge.” The goal is to be difficult — not impossible.

But every once in a while, you get a curveball.

Last week’s Photo Challenge showed a sign (“A Life Without Anything Good is Bad”) inside a place that serves food. (The hint: a napkin dispenser on a table. Click here to see.)

I figured since the Van Leeuwen ice cream shop opened to large crowds on Church Street last month, it would be familiar to many “06880” readers.

Then again, it’s still winter. We’re not exactly in mid-ice cream season.

Still, 3 readers — Andrew Colabella, Rachel Sara Halperin and Joelle Malec — nailed the challenge.

If I ran this a few months from now, many more would have.

Speaking of winter: It’s been 67 days since Christmas. We’re closer to May Day than to that holiday.

Yet a wreath and lights still decorate one very popular Westport institution. If you know where you’d see this week’s Photo Challenge, click “Comments” below.

(Photo/Dan Woog)

(Every Sunday, “06880” hosts this Photo Challenge. We challenge you too to support your hyper-local blog. Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

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Posted in Local business, Photo Challenge

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Roundup: Women’s Rally, Animals’ Night, Kids’ News …

Posted on February 28, 2025 | 3 comments

International Women’s Day is Saturday, March 8.

A “Unite and Resist” rally is set for 11 a.m., at the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge downtown.

Organizers say, “we’re taking to the streets to fight back against the fascist takeover. Join us to defend our rights, our bodies, and our future. No permission needed—just show up, bring signs and friends!” Click here for more information.

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If you’re not aware of AWARE: You should be.

The organization — Assisting Women through Action, Resources and Education — spends an entire year helping one female-focused non-profit, both collaboratively and financially.

Next Thursday (March 6), Studio 45 on Main Street sponsors a special event, with shopping (6 to 8 p.m.) and an integrative yoga and restore session with Menna Olvera (6:30 to 7:30 p.m.). A portion of the proceeds goes directly to AWARE.

To RSVP and for more information, email hello@mennaolvera.com.

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Speaking of “aware”: Westport Animal Control hosts an Animal Awareness Night next Wednesday (March 5, Westport police station upstairs classroom, 7 p.m.).

Topics include wildlife (with officer Peter Reid), pet adoption (with Westport Animal Shelter Advocates’ Julie Loparo), and dog licensing guidelines. The event is free.

Westport Animal Control officer Peter Reid is a featured speaker at Wednesday’s Animal Awareness Night.

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On the crowded calendar of springtime fundraisers, one event has always stood out: Taste of Westport.

At the benefit for CLASP, a lineup of great restaurants presents special selections and drinks. There’s music and a silent auction too. 100% of proceeds go directly to the non-profit, which for over 40 years has provided homes and support for adults with autism and intellectual disabilities.

This year’s event is June 5 (6 p.m., The Inn at Longshore). The theme is “A Night at Studio 54.” Tickets go on sale April 14, at tasteofwestport.com.

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“Kids’ Night on Broadway” — a program to spark a love of theater in the next generation — turns into “Kids’ Night at the Playhouse” this Tuesday.

Children and teenagers 18 and under receive free admission to the hit comedy “Native Gardens,” when accompanied by a full-paying adult.

The show — about a dispute over a suburban property line that spirals into a war over taste, class, personal identity (and gardening) has earned great reviews.

To redeem the “Kids’ Night” offer, call the Playhouse box office: 203-227-4177.

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Speaking of kids: Boys and girls in grades K-7 are invited to an instructional clinic, hosted by the Staples baseball program. It’s this Tuesday (March 4, 6 to 8 p.m., Staples fieldhouse).

Little Leaguers can dust off their gloves and brush up on their hitting, fielding and base running skills before the first pitch this spring.

High school coaches and players will run drills and games. Youngsters will be separated by skill and grade level. Players should bring a bat, glove and water bottle.

The $40 fee ($50 after March 1) includes a slice of pizza. To register, Venmo @StaplesBBDiamondClub by March 1. Questions? Email baseball@staplesdiamondclub.com.

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Speaking still of kids: VFW Post 399 Auxiliary is spreading the word about 2 national art contests for elementary through high school students. There are cash awards, and scholarshps of up to $2,500.

Two- and 3-dimensional art is accepted. Entries will be judged on originality, presentation, and patriotic themes.

Submission deadline is March 31. For complete rules, email Patty Kondub: nortonpk@aol.com

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On Wednesday, dozens of Westport boys’ Instagram feeds were flooded with graphically and violent video reels. They included street fights, school shootings, murder, and gory accidents.

They were sent even to users who had enabled “sensitive content” controls.

Though parent company Meta said it fixed the “error,” the reels appeared to be targeted at teenagers and young men.

The mother of a Staples student said that many local parents were not aware of the incident. She added, “the videos were so violent, many of the boys were discussing them. Some kids were really traumatized.”

She hopes that parents who learn of the video can talk with their children about it.

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The Mahogany Brass Quintet comes to town Monday (March 3).

After spending the day with Staples students in an immersive chamber music workshop, they’ll give a free concert at 7:30 p.m., in the Bedford Middle School auditorium).

It’s a homecoming for Sam Atlas. The 2018 Staples graduate is in her final year at the Manhattan School of Music’s Orchestra Performance Program.

She has already made a name in the professional world, as a frequent substitute with the New York Philharmonic.

After its founding at the University of Massachusetts, MBQ has grown into an accomplished performing group, dedicated to artistry and music education.

The concert — with selections ranging from Mozart and Bach to Hoagy Carmichael and Leonard Bernstein — is free.

Mahogany Brass Quintet

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Someone had a guilty conscience.

For a long time.

The Merritt Country Store on Main Street recently received this letter, with a Santa Barbara, California postmark:

Enclosed was a $20 bill.

At a quarter each, that’s 80 candy bars. Today, that Jackson would buy about 10.

The letter is now on the front counter, under glass.

It’s an object of interest.

Or a great deterrent. (Hat tip: Carl Addison Swanson)

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Birddogs — the mens’ shorts/pants/polo shirts shop that opened in the spring of 2023 in Brooks Corner — has closed.

This was their 3rd brick-and-mortar store. According to their website, only 1 remains, in Paramus, New Jersey.

(Photo/Stacey Henske)

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Westport Police made no custodial arrests between February 19 and 26. They issued these citations:

  • Failure to renew registration: 12 citations
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 7
  • Speeding: 5
  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 5
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 4
  • Failure to drive in the proper lane: 2
  • Disorderly conduct: 1
  • Following too closely: 1
  • Failure to grant right of way: 1
  • Failure to obey stop sign: 1
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 1
  • Improper use of markers: 1.

Lots of drivers have not registered or renewed their vehicles.

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No buds yet.

But soon!

You can almost smell the first whiffs of spring, in today’s “Westport … Naturally” image of the Saugatuck River, from Grace Salmon Park.

(Photo/Patricia McMahon)

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And finally …  in honor of the anonymous person who finally fessed up to stealing candy bars from the Merritt Country Store (story above):

(Don’t be sorry! Help “06880” stay alive. Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution.  The blogosphere thanks you.)

3 Comments

Posted in Children, Local business, Police, Sports, Staples HS, Westport Country Playhouse

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WDA To Recommend Shorter Church Lane Closure

Posted on February 27, 2025 | 23 comments

In the desperate days of COVID, outdoor dining popped up as a way to help restaurants survive.

What began as a temporary town measure has become a popular permanent feature.

It’s especially institutionalized on Church Lane. The road has been closed every year since 2020. Musicians play, and tables fill the short stretch between Elm Street and Post Road East.

Summertime, on Church Lane.

Not everyone eats up the idea. Some merchants and residents — including nearby neighbors — oppose it. They cite the length of the clousre (mid-May to late October), the spillover effect on downtown traffic, and the loss of 16 parking spots.

This year, before submitting a request to the Board of Selectwomen, the Westport Downtown Association surveyed stakeholders.

An online survey drew 2,204 responses.

Over 2,000 — 92.24% — agreed that the closure of Church Lane is a benefit to the town during the summer, and something they would like to continue.

Responses were closer about closing the street in summer 7 days a week (69.96%) or only Friday 8 a.m. to Monday 8 a.m. (30.04%).

Another question asked for preferences for closure: May 1 to Octoer 15 (74.18%) or Memorial Day to Labor Day (25.82%).

However, after considering issues like the weather, and patronage before and after the traditional start and end of summer holidays, the WDA will request street closing only from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

The Board of Selectwomen will make the final decision, at an upcoming meeting.

(“06880” regularly covers town politics, restaurants and more. If you enjoy our hyper-local stories, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

Live music livens up weekends. (Photo/Dan Woog)

23 Comments

Posted in Downtown, Local business, Restaurants

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Pic Of The Day #2870

Posted on February 26, 2025 | 2 comments

Old Mill Grocery & Deli (Photo/Jim Hood)

2 Comments

Posted in Beach, Local business, Pic of the Day

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Unsung Hero #372

Posted on February 26, 2025 | 2 comments

Last weekend, Seamus Brannigan roared through the semifinals of the state “LL” (extra large schools) wrestling championship.

But along the way, he hurt his back. It looked like he might have to forfeit his chance at a state title.

Luckily, Dr. Josh Lander was in the stands.

The neurologist runs Lander Sport + Health Sciences, at the Willows medical complex on Kings Highway North.

An accomplished athlete himself, he knows medicine.

And he knows athletes.

He examined Seamus. With 2 hours to go before the finals, he sent Seamus’ dad Terry — a very successful former Staples wrestler himsef (Class of 1979) — off to CVS for a heating pad, extension cord, lidocaine patches and Motrin.

Dr. Lander proceeded to get Seamus ready — physically and mentally — to compete.

Which he did, almost completely pain-free.

Dr. Josh Lander, working his magic with Seamus Brannigan.

“He’s an incredibly generous guy, who absolutely knows what he’s doing. He’s a fan of all Westport sports,” Terry says.

“And Seamus isn’t the only one on the team he’s helped. He opens up his practice off-hours, to work with other kids too.

“Not all heroes wear capes.”

The ending was a wee bit short of storybook. Seamus — a junior — fell in the finals to a senior from Hall-West Hartford, to finish as runner-up.

But he qualified for the state open. The 126-pounder will be back on the mat this weekend, at Hillhouse High in New Haven.

He’ll be joined by fellow Wreckers Gavin Donaldson, Jessiah Jones and Damian Rousseau. The top 6 there advance to the New England tournament, in Providence.

Good luck, Staples. And thanks again, Dr. Lander!

(Unsung Hero is a weekly “06880” feature. To nominate a hero, email 06880blog@gmail.com. To support our work, please click here. Thank you!)

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Posted in Local business, Sports, Staples HS, Unsung Heroes

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