Category Archives: Local business

Roundup: Lifeguard Olympics, Common Ground, Challenger Baseball …

Posted on July 28, 2024 | 1 comment

The Parks & Recreation Department held its annual Lifeguard Olympics yesterday morning, at Compo Beach.

Under the direction of Michael Giunta (waterfront foreman) and Danilo Sierra-Giraldo (lead lifeguard), the guards competed in a friendly competition that utilized all their skills.

Operations director Carm Roda notes: “In the eyes of Parks & Rec, all of our lifeguards are gold medal winners.”

A Lifeguard Olympics competition begins …

… and the crew poses. (Photos/Rick Giunta)

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Common Ground — the Westport Library’s project to bring civility back to civic discourse — sponsors a timely topic next week.

“Communicating to Open Minds” (Monday, August 5, 7 p.m.) features Steve Parrish in conversation with Sally Susman, Pfizer’s chief corporate affairs officer. They’ll discuss ways to share information in ways that encourage agreement, and avoid confrontation.

During the pandemic, Susman was charged with rolling out Pfizer’s vaccine to an anxious and polarized world. She’ll offer insights learned about leadership and connectivity.

The event is free. Click here for tickets, and more information.

Sally Susman’s book.

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The Westport Winners and Fairfield Red Storm — both Little League Challenger teams — attended a private Junior Mets clinic on the Citi Field diamond yesterday.

The day included hitting, fielding and base running — plus high fives for all after the clinic.

The Challenger athletes, at Citi Field …

… and a special day for all.

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The Westport Book Shop Short Story Book Club meets August 22 (6 p.m.). They’ll discuss 2 authors’ manifestations of technology in the future:

One is “The Veldt” by Ray Bradbury, published in 1950. The other, “Mika Model” by Paolo Bacigalupi, was published nearly 70 years later, in 2016.

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

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First Folk Sunday — the monthly Saugatuck Rowing Club afternoon of good music and a fun vibe — always showcases excellent talent.

It’s even better when it’s local.

Singer/songwriter Lisa Bastoni — a Westport girl now living in Northampton, Massachusetts — comes “home” on August 4.

Rozanne Gates and Suzanne Sheridan, who created First Folk Sunday, saw Bastoni perform in 2023 in Northampton. They were impressed with her songwriting, musicianship and connection to her audience.

They invited her to be a guest artist at First Folk Sunday — not knowing she is from here.

Lisa knew them both. She had heard Sheridan sing at a 2001 anti-war rally on Jesup Green.

Bastoni has had great success since then. Click here for her website. Click here for tickets to the August 4 First Folk Sunday, and more information.

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Whether it’s waterfowl or humans, the story’s the same: Guys preen, trying to impress the ladies.

It seldom works.

Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo comes from Burying Hill Beach, courtesy of Ed Simek.

(Photo/Ed Simek)

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And finally … Jerry Miller, a guitarist and founder of Moby Grape, the San Francisco group that never achieved the success many predicted for them, died last Sunday in Tacoma, Washington. He was 81.

Click here for a full obituary.

(Here’s common ground all Westporters can agree on: click here, to support “06880.” Your hyper-local blog relies on readers like all of you. Thanks!)

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Posted in Beach, Entertainment, Library, Local business, Politics, Sports

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Roundup: Bayberry & Cross Highway, Alisyn Camerota, Michael Douglas …

Posted on July 27, 2024 | 55 comments

One of the most dangerous intersections in Westport — Cross Highway and Bayberry Lane — just got (hopefully) quite a bit safer.

The town has installed new warning and stop signs in all 4 directions. All flash brightly. The aim is to attract the attention of drivers before they plow onward.

It’s a great start. And a great reminder to pay attention! 

You can’t see the flashing stop sign. But it sure stands out. (Hat tip and photo/Carl McNair)

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The weather was perfect. The vibe was cool.

And every seat was taken last night, at the 3 Church Lane restaurants with outdoor dining: Spotted Horse, The Blondinit and Pink Sumo.

Live music added to the fun.

Just another reason to love summer in Westport — and more proof that downtown has its mojo back.

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Sure, it’s still July.

But school will be open before we know it.

To make sure everyone has what they need, the Westport Domestic Violence Task Force is collecting supplies. They’ll go to residents of the 2 Domestic Violence Crisis Center safe houses that serve our area, and DVCC’s clients.

The Westport Rotary Club and Positive Directions are important partners. The collection begins tomorrow (July 28), and runs through August 4.

Among the new items needed: backpacks, notebooks, pens, pencils, highlighters, crayons, lunch boxes, 3×3 sticky note pads, 3-ring binders, graphing calculators, and gift cards (Target, Walmart, Amazon, Staples, etc.).

Donations can be left in collection bins at the Westport Police Department (50 Jesup Road) and Positive Directions (90 Post Road West).

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Westporters know Alisyn Camerota as a CNN anchor/ correspondent.

She recently branched into memoir writing. In “Combat Love: A Story of Leaving, Longing and Searching for Home,” the Westport resident explores her teenage years in the 1980s music scenes of the Jersey Shore and New York City, along with her difficult relationship with her mother.

Soon, we’ll see “Combat Love” on film and TV screens. It’s in development by the producers of Broadway musicals like Alanis Morisette’s “Jagged Little Pill” and Green Day’s “American Idiot.” (Hat tip: David Meth)

Alisyn Camerota

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Speaking of writing: Here’s something to write home about: The Westport Writers’ Workshop is 20 years old.

The non-profit celebrates the milestone September 6, with a bash at the Saugatuck Rowing Club.

The event includes dinner, drinks, dancing to the Dylan Connor Trio, a silent auction, and tributes to important people like founder Jessica Bram and former Executive director Valerie Ann Leff.

Tickets are $150, and include an open bar. Click here, then scroll down to purchase.

Funds raised help underwrite WWW’s outreach programs that serve underrepresented populations, like the Bigelow Senior Center, Moms of Children with Disabilities, and STAR. These programs allow students to discover their voices, guided by accomplished faculty members. 

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Longshore golfers were surprised yesterday to see a cart, sporting a political message:

It looked like a Parks & Recreation Department vehicle.

But it wasn’t.

Parks & Rec officials said it belonged to a nearby resident, out for a spin.

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Michael Douglas spent his youth in Westport. (He did not graduate from Staples High School; after junior high, he was shipped off to boarding school.)

The veteran film and television actor and producer returns to the area October 22. Stamford’s Avon Theatre will present him with its Lifetime Achievement Award

Click here for tickets.

A young Michael Douglas lived on Webb Road.

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When Team Velominati sets a goal, they don’t mess around.

On August 3-4, Coastal Bridge founder and Westporter Bill Loftus will ride with the group — many of whom are local residents — across Massachusetts, in his 7th Pan-Mass Challenge, to fund cancer research at Dana-Farber in Boston.

Team Velominati’s goal: $750,000.

This year is particularly exciting. The Pan-Mass Challenge will pass $1 billion in donations over its 44-year history, making it the largest athletic fundraiser in the country.

This year, Loftus is dedicating his ride to his teammate Scott Logie, who is battling cancer.

To help Team Velominati, click here.

Dave Hazard and Bill Loftus (right) crossing the finish line at mile 192 in Provincetown during the Pan-Mass Challenge.

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“Freedom is a Feast” by Alejandro Puyana, “How to Read a Book” by Monica Wood, and “skin & bones” by Renée Watson are the 3 finalists for the 2024 Westport Prize for Literature, The $10,000 is awarded for an original work of fiction that explores issues in contemporary society.

This year’s winner will be announced next month, and honored at The Westport Library on September 21, in conjunction with StoryFest, the annual literary festival.

The recipient will also sit on a StoryFest panel. Confirmed authors for the event include Roxane Gay, Christopher Golden, Joe R. Lansdale, Claire Messud and Peng Shepherd. Click here for the full list.

Submissions for the 2024 Westport Prize for Literature were vetted by nearly 50 volunteer readers. A jury will then select the winner.

From left: Alejandro Puyana, Renée Watson, Monica Wood.

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Alice and her baby Apricot are today’s “Westport … Naturally” subjects.

They — along with baby Raisin — live at Wakeman Town Farm. The public can visit (and snuggle) with them. Click here for reservations, and more information.

(Photo/Michelle Cardello)

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And finally … on this date in 1890, Vincent van Gogh shot himself. He died 2 days later.

(Van Gogh cannot contribute to “06880.” But you can! Please click here to support your hyper-local blog. Dank u wel!)

 

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Saugatuck River West Bank: No Longer A Bridge Too Far?

Posted on July 25, 2024 | 12 comments

In walkable cities around the world, bridges connect one side of a waterway to another.

Venice’s Rialto, Florence’s Ponte Vecchio, Pari’s Pont Neuf, and just about any bridge in Amsterdam, are wonderful connections for strolling, shopping and dining.

In Westport, the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge might as well be the George Washington or Triborough, in terms of pedestrians’ willingness to cross it.

It does not unite the two sides of the Saugatuck River. Instead — in our minds, at least — it separates them.

The Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge spans — but does not really connect — two sides of the river. (Photo/Harrison Gordon)

Try this test: When you hear “downtown,” what comes to mind? Main Street, Church Lane, Parker Harding Plaza, the Library — right?

You probably don’t think of the west bank, just a few yards away.

However, a few recent developments might bring a new focus to the other side of the river.

Stephen Kempson is expanding. The British custom tailor is adding 700 square feet, in space previously occupied by Age of Reason.

Several years ago, Kempson inquired about the property. Then COVID hit. As parents searched for educational toys for their homebound children, business boomed.

But in April, after 40 years, owner Nina Berger closed her store.

Kempson is now adding a custom women’s collection, with exciting colors and textures. Renovations should be completed by mid-September.

Post Road West, reflected in the Stephen Kempson window. (Photo/Dan Woog)

A replacement for Winfield Street Delicatessen, next door to Stephen Kempson, will open before that.

The owners of Arezzo — the Italian restaurant around the corner — were eager to take that space. They’re adding salads, sandwiches, paninis and more to the breakfast and lunch menu.

That’s not all. Bella Bridesmaids took over the place next door to it. The Lifeworx eldercare agency expanded too.

Westport River Gallery and Laura Bazante Stylist continue to thrive. So does Noya Jewelry, across Riverside Avenue.

Across the street, work continues on National Hall. The former site of several restaurants — before that, a boutique hotel, furniture store, and (much earlier), a bank, newspaper office and the town’s meeting hall — will soon become corporate offices for AIG.

That won’t bring anyone through its doors. But it will provide a steady base of customers for businesses nearby.

National Hall (Photo/Dave Dellinger)

The changes on the west bank of the Saugatuck River are exciting. They’ll be followed (at some point) by new parking options at the Parker Harding and Jesup Green lots.

Will all that be enough to entice folks to walk a few yards over the Saugatuck River bridge — about the same distance as from Anthropologie on Main Street, to Cold Fusion?

I don’t know.

And I know the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge will never be as beautiful as the Rialto, Ponte Vecchio or Pont Neuf,

But it’s a lot nicer than the George Washington or Triborough.

(Every day, “06880” covers Westport retail, restaurants, real estate and more. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

Will humans follow dogs across the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge? (Photo/Maxx Crowley)

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Posted in Categories, Downtown, Local business, Restaurants

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Roundup: Children’s Library, Woodstock, Loving …

Posted on July 24, 2024 | 5 comments

The Westport Library’s children’s section bursts with great materials.

Now it’s even fuller. They’ve added 379 new books and audiobooks to their digital collection.

Among the authors: Kwame Alexander, Dhonielle Clayton, Beverly Cleary, Suzanne Collins, Kate DiCamillo, Sarah J. Maas, Rick Riordan, Lemony Snicket, Jasmine Warga and Laura Ingalls Wilder.

Oh yeah: Westport’s own Tommy Greenwald is in there too.

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WPKN-FM (89.5 in Bridgeport) — called by the New Yorker “the greatest radio station in the world” — will air the complete original recording of the 1969 Woodstock festival next month.

Not the double album released as the “Woodstock” movie soundtrack.

Not some outtakes, added later.

The entire concert. Complete musical performances by every band — all 32 sets, from Richie Havens, Joan Baez, the Who, Sly & the Family Stone, Johnny Winter, Ten Years After, Blood, Sweat & Tears, Santana, Joe Cocker, Canned Heat, The Grateful Dead, Janis Joplin, The Band, Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, Jimi Hendrix and more.

Every stage announcement. The entire 4-day affair, 55 years after it happened.

The show runs August 15-18, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.

What makes this “06880”-worthy is the Jim Motavalli connection. WPKN’s publicity director — a 1970 Staples High School graduate — was at Woodstock.

He drove to Max Yasgur’s farm with his twin brother John (also a longtime WPKN DJ) in their first car, a 1962 Chevy Nova convertible.

Jim Motavalli recalls: “I had a wonderful time. I was 17. People always ask me about the music, but a big part of what made it special was the tribal gathering, Woodstock Nation if you will. Just being there was exciting, though the music wasn’t half bad.”

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The Westport Artists Collective’s opening reception at the Ethan Allen Design Center was packed, earlier this month.

There should be a great crowd too, at the closing party (August 1, 5 to 7 p.m., Fresh Market shopping plaza opposite Mitchells).

Ten members’ works are displayed through several room settings, on the walls and easels. The public is invited.

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Set your alarm. (Or program your device.)

“Loving” — the 1970 film about a successful illustrator, his mistress and alcohol — will air on TCM this Friday (July 26), at 12:15 a.m.

It’s of interested to “06880” readers for 3 reasons. The film was based on “Brooks Wilson Ltd.,” a novel by Westporter John McDermott.

It was filmed in part here, at the Saugatuck train station, Greens Farms Elementary School, Main Street, and a private home on 27 Long Lots Road.

And it starred George Segal and Eva Marie Saint (a Westport Country Playhouse regular). Local residents Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward appeared as extras. Westporter Diana Douglas also had a role.

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Westport resident Peggy Lovro — a native of China, and a Mandarin teacher at Brien McMahon High School’s Center for Global Studies in Norwalk — was the guest speaker at the Westport Rotary Club’s Tuesday meeting.

She discussed the benefits of international study tour programs for cross-cultural learning. CGS — a magnet school focused on languages — attracts students from throughout Fairfield County.

Peggy Lovro

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This may not be where you and I — or even many birds — would perch.

But there’s no place like home, for these Cockenoe Island residents.

Carl McNair snapped today’s “Westport … Naturally” image.

(Photo/Carl McNair)

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And finally … Abdul “Duke” Fakir, the last surviving member of the legendary Four Tops, died Monday in Detroit. He was 88, and suffered from heart failure.

The group — founded in the 1950s and active through the 2000s — achieved its greatest fame with a string of ’60s Motown hits. Fakir’s tenor blended well with lead singer Levi Stubbs’ baritone.

There are way too many great Four Tops songs to include here. These are just some of my favorites. (Click here for a full obituary.)

(I can’t help myself: I’ve got to ask readers to click here to support “06880.” Thank you, sugar pie honey bunch.)

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Posted in Arts, Children, Entertainment, Library, Local business, Media

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Roundup: Zenia Gordon, MoCA CT, Clarendon …

Posted on July 21, 2024 | 2 comments

Three couples — Jamie and Phil Rubin. Michelle Ahoubim and Greg Krieger, and
Richelle and Greg Kalnit — have organized a GoFundMe drive for a wonderful nanny and caregiver.

They write: “Our beloved Zenia Gordon, who has been a pillar of strength and love in our community for decades, is facing a profound health crisis.

“This past week, Zenia suffered a severe heart attack that required the insertion of 4 stents. However, the situation quickly escalated as doctors discovered multiple tears in her coronary artery, necessitating urgent airlifting to Hartford on July 19. Her condition is critical, and she is now preparing for what will likely be a complex and lengthy journey, which may include open heart surgery.

“Zenia’s impact on our lives, and the lives of many in our community, is immeasurable. Zenia has been a caregiver for our children. You may know her from Temple Israel, The Learning Community, Gan Izzy, various sports events. She was a pillar of stability during COVID, and has been a trusted caregiver for sick family members during difficult times. Zenia has been there for all of us. Her warmth, kindness and unwavering dedication have touched the lives of so many.”

The GoFundMe page seeks donations for medical and related expenses.

“Zenia is more than just a caregiver; she is family to many of us,” the 3 families write.

“Let’s rally together and show her the same love and support she has given to our community for years. Your contribution, no matter the size, will make a meaningful difference in Zenia’s journey toward recovery.”

Click here for the GoFundMe page.

Zenia Gordon and her husband Kollen.

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While the Gillespie Center is renovated, Homes with Hope has relocated its food pantry to Sasco Creek Village.

The Post Road East site works well. It’s bright and airy, easily accessible, and very welcoming.

It’s also diagonally across the street from Stop & Shop. The supermarket often hosts Westport Sunrise Rotary food drives.

The latest was yesterday. Shoppers gave generously yesterday, to support Homes with Hope’s pantry.

Volunteers collected non-perishable food and personal hygiene items. Donors also gave $690.10 in cash.

Sunrise Rotary — in coordination with the Westport Police Department and other volunteers — plan another drive this fall.

Sunrise Rotarians (from left) Katie Augustyn, Joe Renzulli, Charlie Haberstroh and Liz Wong, outside Stop & Shop yesterday.

Meanwhile, at the other entrance, Westport Police members joined Chief Foti Koskinas (2nd from left), Homes with Hope CEO Helen McAlinden (2nd from right), and other volunteers.

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Clarendon Fine Art — the very cool Main Street gallery — hosts a fun and informative event this Thursday (July 25, 4 to 6 p.m.).

Three speakers — Karen Frome of Rise Project, Jen Berniker of Designport, and Clarendon’s Eve Gianni — will talk about art as “an integral component to interior design.”

The subject matter is intriguing. There will be drinks and snacks. And of course, you’ll get to see the latest art hanging on the gallery walls.

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Upcoming events at MoCA CT:

Fairfield County Dance Festival (July 25, 6:30 p.m.).

MoCA Some Noise: Open Mic Night (Friday, July 26; 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.). Acoustic music, poetry, and slam poetry. Everyone is invited to participate.

The Artisan Marketplace Summer Series (Sunday, July 28; noon to 4 p.m.). A great place to support the talent and creativity of local artisans

Artisan Workshop Series and art classes:

  • Ceramic Multi-Bowls, with Leah Corbett (August 2, 9)
  • Faces in Clay, with Bianca Barroca (August 2, 9)Thursdays (5:45 to 7:15 p.m.):
  • Sunset Plein Air (BYOB)
  • Summer Toddler Tuesdays
  • Summer Toddler Thursdays
  • Summer Art Workshops for Kids (Ages 8-12; Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays)
  • Candle Making with Oh D’Luxe Candle Company  (September 25, October 16; 6 to 8 p.m.).

Charles Ives Music Festival Presents: “INFINITE,” performed by the CIMF artists & guest musicians (August 6, 7 to 9 p.m.).

Family Day Featuring Oran Etkin: Timbalooloo (August 18; noon to 2 p.m.); jazz performance (and an ice cream truck).

Click here for more information.

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Dogs are not allowed on Compo Beach, from now through October 1.

But these 2 canines seem to be figuring out a way to get around the ban — while, meanwhile, posing for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Theresa Anovick)

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And finally … On this date in 1861, the First Battle of Bull Run — the first major battle of the Civil War — began. It was a victory for the Confederate army.

(“06880” is your hyper-local blog. We are “where Westport meets the world.” But we can’t do it without our readers’ help. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Local business

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How Do Your Flowers Grow?

Posted on July 21, 2024 | Comments Off on How Do Your Flowers Grow?

Westport is filled with flowers, all spring and summer long.

They’re everywhere: gardens, roadsides, farm stands and stores.

But 80% of flowers sold in the US are imported. That’s not good news, for florists and designers who want to support local growers.

Local flowers, after all — those sold within a few days of harvesting — are fresher and more fragrant than those flown in, then trucked around from overseas.

Local flowers last longer in vases, and are untreated by harsh preservatives. (They also usually cost less.)

From April through November, Westporters have access to a huge range of local flowers.

That means a lot to Michele Sinacore. The owner of Blossom + Stem Floral Design is dedicated to supporting local growers. (Many are female-owned businesses, which is also important to her.)

Michele works through the Connecticut Flower Collective. Based in Meriden, it enables florists and designers to order local flowers from over 100 growers each week, for delivery or in-person pickup.

Michele Sinacore, shopping at the Connecticut Flower Collective.

In addition, local growers like the Westport Flower Garden sell to both florists and customers. Marisa Zer’s “home micro flower farm” in Greens Farms grows sustainably, and sells flowers to local customers and florists for weddings, events and bouquets. 

The Westport Flower Garden can tell a florist like Michele what they have ready to harvest each week, and how many bunches. Varieties change each week.

They include peony style double tulips, Italian ranunculus, anemones, Iceland poppies, garden roses, various hydrangeas, and (coming soon through the fall) dahlias.

Think globally. But grow — and buy flowers — locally.

(Blossom + Stem also offers a subscription program, and private workshops. Click here for details, or email hello@blossomstem.com, or call 203-293-4275. Follow Michele on social media: @blossomstem. Click here to learn more about Westport Flower Garden, or follow on social media: @westportflowergarden. 

Westport Flower Garden.

 

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Roundup: After The Storm, After The Diesel Spill …

Posted on July 19, 2024 | 2 comments

Some Westporters were surprised that Compo Beach was closed to swimmers yesterday.

Others were not. Heavy rains — like the ones the night before (Wednesday) — often lead to closure.

“06880” reader and environmental activist Toni Simonetti wrote: “I learned something, thanks to Mark Cooper, director of health for the Aspetuck Health District.

“Swimming is closed at town beaches for 24 hours after a very heavy rainfall (as we all witnessed into the night yesterday). Because of the excessive runoff of surface water, and all it collects along the way, it  ends up in Long Island Sound.

“In Westport it takes 3 tides, or 24 hours, to cleanse the water tidally.

“The 24-hour waiting period is state protocol. Norwalk and Fairfield, on either side of Westport, have longer water cleansing times. Mark thinks that’s because we benefit from the ebbs and flows of the clean Saugatuck River.

“Just another benefit to living in Westport!”

Serene. But not safe after a storm. (Photo/Sunil Hirani)

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Speaking of that brief but intense storm: In addition to fouling our waters, it brought down power lines and trees.

But there were bright spots, amid the bad weather. Chris Vatis writes:

“Both Eversource line people and Gault electritians were on site within 1 1/2 hours after I reported the storm ripped both my meter and electricity pole attached to my house right off, leaving live wires all over my property.

“They worked diligently to restore it.

“I and we often complain about how much money we now pay for services. But both companies deserve praise for their excellent communication and lightning speed response to my plea for immediate help. I’m very impressed with both companies.”

 

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Also yesterday: No, you were not imagining things.

Traffic throughout town was worse than usual.

Way worse.

The culprit was a diesel fuel spill on I-95 southbound, between Exits 18 and 17.

As often happens, more spillage followed. Car and truck drivers got off the highway, and — in a futile attempt to move more quickly — clogged our main roads and side streets.

This Bridge Street scene was repeated at many other spots:

(Photo/Susan Garment)

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Speaking of drivers: We’re not sure how this accident occurred, but someone clipped the sign — in the middle of the traffic island at the Sherwood Island Connector, by the Post Road.

(Photo/Josh Berkowsky)

Coming from I-95, we’re now welcomed to “Estport.”

On the way out, it’s “Westpor.”

Be careful out there!

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Bob Newhart — the supremely talented, always understated but very hilarious comedian who died yesterday at 94 — may not have had any connections to Westport. (Though I’m sure several commenters will note otherwise.)

But this much is certain: When he gave a speech at the Kennedy Center, upon accepting his Mark Twain Prize, he referenced a Westport icon: Paul Newman.

Click below, then fast forward to 4:13 when the story begins.

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The Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce held a “Business After Hours” event last night, at the Levitt Pavilion.

Members and town officials celebrated the outdoor theater’s 50th anniversary — and the Chamber’s 93rd year.

At the Chamber of Commerce event last night (from left): Paul Lebowitz, Planning & Zoning Commission chair; RTM member Jay Keenan; 2nd Selectwoman Andrea Moore; RTM member Sal Liccione; Chamber director Matthew Mandell; 3rd Selectwoman Candice Savin; 1st Selectwoman Jen  Tooker; RTM members Don O’Day and Melissa Levy. (Photo/Dan Woog

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Congratulations to Westport author Diana Sussman!

Her first novel, “The Neighbors’ Secret,” was named an American Fiction Award finalist, for pre-teen fiction.

Last year, the book was a Tassy Walden Award Finalist in 2023.

The novel takes middle school readers on “an adventure filled with puzzles, secrets, and unexpected twists,” press materials say.

“With her background as a litigation attorney and her passion for storytelling, Sussman weaves an intricate tale that keeps readers guessing until the very end.”

Diana Sussman

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Spotted lanternflies are back.

We fight them with traps and white vinegar.

But we’re not the only ones. Praying mantises are natural predators.

So — as today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature photo shows: Pray for mantises.

(Photo/Gabriela Hayes)

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And finally … Dave Loggins died last week, in Nashville. He was 76.

The songwriter had only one hit of his own: “Please Come to Boston.” But he wrote songs for many other artists, including Willie Nelson, Tanya Tucker, Wynonna Judd and Toby Keith.

Non-country music fans knew him too. He wrote the Masters golf tournament theme, a staple of spring sports telecasts for over 40 years. Click here for a full obituary.

(Whether you’re from Westport — or Boston, Denver, LA or anywhere else — if you enjoy “06880,” please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

 

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Posted in Beach, Environment, Local business, Local politics, Transportation, Weather

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Local Sunscreen May Hold Broader Solution

Posted on July 16, 2024 | 5 comments

Skin cancer is among the most preventable of all cancers.

It’s simple: Avoid exposure when the sun’s rays are strongest. Wear protective clothing. Apply sunscreen.

But it’s also the most common cancer. One in 5 Americans will develop it in their lifetime.

Melissa Franklin’s mother was one of the 9,500 people diagnosed with skin cancer every day. She was diagnosed with stage 4 melanoma.

Against stiff odds, she beat it. But her struggle made a huge impact on Melissa, who moved back to St. Louis with her husband and 2 young sons to care for her mother.

After she recovered, the Franklins decided to fulfill a dream: to live near the shore, but not far from ski mountains.

Melissa Franklin

They knew nothing about Connecticut, but fell in love with Westport because of its beaches, location, and amenities. “It’s a hidden gem,” Melissa says. Arriving here during COVID, and being able to do so many outdoor activities, was “a lifesaver.”

She continued her career in consumer packaging and branding. But her mother’s battle with skin cancer gnawed at her.

Why — despite our knowledge of sunscreen — are so many people reluctant to wear it?

There are 2 reasons, Melissa says. Most sunscreen is “thick, nasty stuff no one wants to wear.”

Buying good quality sunscreen, on the other hand, “breaks the bank.”

With her background in product development, Melissa decided to create something that people actually want to use. It had to be clear, non-sticky — and affordable.

After many iterations, she came up with a gel. It’s non-alcohol, so it does not burn the eyes. It’s 80-minute water- and sweat-resistant, so it feels good. It’s fragrance-, oil- and paraffin-free. And non-comedogenic.

It works with all skin tones — an important consideration for Melissa.

“It makes every reason that people don’t want to use sunscreen go away,” she says.


During her career, with companies like Anheuser-Busch and Nestle, Melissa had multimillion-dollar marketing budgets.

Now, she jokes, “it’s only the Franklin family” funds.

Melissa launched Visor Skin Care last August. The timing was not great — summer was winding down — but she waited until all the bugs were worked out.

After selling online for several months, she approached retail outlets. ASF in Westport was first; they’re now on their fifth order. They’ve added Visor to their Fairfield and New Canaan stores.

Visor is also sold at Achorn Pharmacy, and Old Mill Grocery & Deli.

She’s approaching smaller chains — and hopes eventually to sell on Amazon.

She has not yet sought outside investors. That may happen in the future.

Feedback has been “tremendous,” Melissa says.

Many customers first heard of Visor when Melissa set up a stand near the brick pavilion, at this year’s Compo Beach fireworks. One woman tried it for her children and grandchildren — and bought 7 bottles.

Franklin’s sons are 11 and 8. She is proud they can watch her build a company from scratch, combining her business acumen with hard work, determination and passion.

She is gratified too, of course, that they always wear sunscreen.

(To learn more about Visor sunscreen, click here.)

(“06880” covers everything in Westport — including your skin. If you like our work, please make a tax-deductible contribution by clicking here. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Dems, Reps React To Shooting; Billie Jean King Tickets …

Posted on July 15, 2024 | 20 comments

Yesterday — in the aftermath of the assassination attempt in Pennsylvania — the Democratic Town Committee said:

Dear Westport Community,

The Westport Democratic Town Committee denounces the violence perpetrated against former President Donald Trump, and all other acts of political violence.

We live in unusually divisive times, where conduct has devolved both nationally and locally. This is unacceptable. The Democratic Town Committee is committed to civility, community, and above all – safety.

Sincerely,

Michelle Mechanic, Chair
Nicole Klein, Vice Chair
Robin Weinberg, Secretary
Alan Shinbaum, Treasurer

This was posted on a Westport Republicans social media account:

There’s no place for political violence in our republic.

Civility & respect.

God bless Donald Trump, America and those harmed by these actions.

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Tickets for this year’s “Booked for the Evening” — featuring tennis legend and social justice pioneer Billie Jean King, set for September 12 — go on sale today (Monday, July 15) at 10 a.m.

Click here to purchase, for this sure-to-sell-out-quickly fundraiser. Click here for a seat map of the event.

The library notes: “All tickets will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis, and we cannot guarantee access to tickets.” A livestream/watch-from-home ticket option is also available.

NOTE: If you don’t see tickets available on the website at 10 a.m., refresh your browser. The ticket link might be added to the page after you logged on.

King will come to the Library fresh off the 2024 US Open, whose grounds were named in her honor in 2006.

Onstage, she’ll chat with Chris McKendry, a Westport resident and host of ESPN’s tennis coverage.

Billie Jean King

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Decades ago, Functional Clothing sold used blue jeans in a basement-level Main Street store, near the current Gap.

Soon, a new used clothing store will open downtown this fall.

2nd Street takes over at 17 Main Street. Most recently, it was the site of Loft.

The chain’s originated in Japan in 1996. There are now more than 700 locations there.

The first 2nd Street in the US was in Los Angeles, in 2018. there are now about 3 dozen in the this country. The Westport and New Haven sites will be the first 2 in Connecticut.

The website boasts of “a huge selection of styles from street wear to vintage to Japanese designer and luxury accessories.” It also cites the company’s sustainability and waste-reduction efforts”
As part of our Hand2Hand project, we make sure to reuse all the clothing that arrives in our stores. Any items that we cannot sell are donated to a partner company that will recycle the clothing to clean up oil spills in factories, while other items are resold to create job opportunities and provide clothing to those in need.
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In other business news, Stop & Shop is closing 5 underperforming stores in Connecticut — and 27 others throughout the Northeast — by November.

The Westport location will remain open.

The 5 Nutmeg State stores to be shuttered are in Ansonia, Danbury, Milford, Stamford (West Main Street) and Torrington.

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Many readers enjoyed yesterday’s “06880” story on Westport road names.

Nancy Anderson adds: “My father, Dr Arnold Pearlstone, moved to Westport in 1963 where he lived until his passing in 2020.

“In 1963 he and his partner Leonard Flom (they were both well known ophthalmologists) purchased adjacent plots of land on a road without a name. It  is off North Ave extension, and was named “Arlen Road” after both of them.”

Dr. Leonard Flom

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Cali Carleton is a Westport mom of 5. A year ago, she launched Domino & Juliette.

They create high quality, safe, affordable and “educationally accurate” toys for children. Favorite items include alphabet and numbers puzzles. Made from food grade silicone, they are dishwasher safe (and great for crafts and messy play).

The toys are hailed by by parents of neuro-divergent children and therapists, because they are soft, flexible and chewable.

D&J also sells placemats for children of all ages to practice counting, spelling, sorting, geography and science.

With every order placed, the company donates a 24-pack of Crayolas to children in need, in places like Bridgeport.

Last month, Domino & Juliette entered retail space for the first time. They joined Honeypie, the children’s boutique on Riverside Avenue also run by a Westport mom.

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A bird found a home on Dave Briggs’ front porch.

Feeling safe, she hatched 5 tiny chicks. “It’s been amazing to watch,” he says of the process that led to today’s very cool “Westport … Naturally” photo.

(Photo/Dave Briggs)

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And finally … on this date in 2006, Twitter was launched. The world has never been the same.

(From local roads and stores to national politics, “06880” is “where Westport meets the world.” Please click here to help us keep those connections strong. Thank you!)

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Posted in Children, Downtown, Library, Local business, Politics

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Roundup: Westport’s Newest World Record Holder — And More …

Posted on July 14, 2024 | 4 comments

Congratulations to Westport’s newest world record holder.

And our oldest.

Yesterday afternoon, Norma Minkowitz set an 85-89-year-old age group mark in the mile.

The longtime Westporter ran a 9:46.55, at the Nutmeg Games in New Britain.

That’s not just a new world record. Norma demolished the old one — by over a minute. The previous fastest mile — 10:55.25 — stood since 2015.

Norma is certainly a great, and inspiring, athlete. But she’s much more — including a world renowned fiber art artist. Click here for a 2019 profile of our remarkable neighbor.

Jeff Mitchell — who filmed Norma’s race (above) — interviewed the world record holder too. Also in the clip below: David Wright (owner of Westport’s Fleet Feet) and Jesse McCray (Nutmeg Games meet director, and also head coach of the Staples High School girls track and field program.

You rock, Norma!

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There’s always something new at the beach.

The latest: this odd yet cool-looking vehicle.

(Photo/Dinkin Fotografix)

But it’s got nothing to do with our Parks & Recreation Commission.

As the door says, it belongs to Westport Public Schools.

Maybe it’s a new school bus. It’s exactly the right size for all the students who still take a bus to school.

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Marc Broussard brought his special mix of  rock, blues, R&B, funk-pop and soul to the Levitt Pavilion last night.

Tonight’s show features Aiofe O’Donovan and Hawktail. Click here for tickets, and more information.

(Photo/Dinkin Fotografix)

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Jonathan Alloy sent this “Westport … Naturally” photo yesterday morning.

He notes: “Turns out birds don’t want to get wet any more than we do.”

(Photo/Jonathan Alloy)

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And finally … on this date in 1881, American outlaw and gunfighter Billy the Kid was killed, after allegedly committing 21 murders. He was 21 years old.

(“06880” is where Westport meets the world — and where you meet remarkable people like Norma Minkowitz. If you enjoy this hyper-local blog, please click here to support our work. Thanks!)

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Posted in Entertainment, Local business, Sports, Staples HS

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