Category Archives: Local business

Roundup: Carjacking Update, Mitchells Party, Earthplace Events …

Posted on July 10, 2024 | 4 comments

The 20-year-0ld Waterbury man arrested after last September’s carjacking of an Aston Martin from a Westport garage pleaded guilty yesterday, in Stamford Superior Court.

Vincys Baez was charged with second-degree robbery (with a carjacking enhancement),  first-degree burglary, conspiracy to commit first-degree larceny, and third-degree assault.

He may be sentenced to up to 8 1/2 years in prison.

A 16-yyear-old and 22-year-old were also charged in the crime. Baez and the 22-year-old also face charges related to a car theft the previous day. They are alleged to have stolen a BMW from Church Lane, when the owner was inside a restaurant picking up an order.

Screenshot from a security camera, during the carjacking. The driver is still in the vehicle, in his garage.

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It was the 25th (or so; no one is really sure) annual Mitchells company cookout at Compo Beach last night.

Over 200 employees and family members from the Westport and Greenwich (Richards) stores enjoyed lobster and steak, just a couple of miles from where the original men’s shop opened 66 years ago.

What made it special — and what makes Mitchells the company that it is — is that the grills were manned by the owners.

Mitchells now includes the 4th generation. But Ed and Norma’s 7 grandsons did what the family has always done: led by example.

And the founders’ sons, Jack and Bill — both now in their 80s — were there in their familiar roles: greeting the crowd; making sure everyone felt comfortable;  quietly and humbly, giving back in every way they could.

Bill Mitchell, welcoming everyone at Compo Beach. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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July is humming at Earthplace.

Westport’s non-profit science, conservation, environmental and education center has activities for all ages, all month. They include:

  • 2nd annual Moth Ball (July 12, 8-11 p.m.; $10 adults; under 21 free); nighttime celebration of summer.
  • “Books ‘n’ Bugs: Who’s Living in our Stream?” (July 16, 1-2:30 p.m.; $15 per family). Hands-on, with an Earthplace naturalist.
  • “Invasive Plant Removal” (July 22, 10-11:30 a.m.; free).
  • “Organic Vegetable Gardening for Beginners” (July 24, 2-3 p.m.); $5 members, $10 non-members).

In addition, there’s a photo contest for inclusion in Earthplace’s 2025 calendar. And a few spots are still available for summer camp.

Click here for details on every program and event.

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Speaking of enjoying the outdoors: Blau House & Gardens and the Norwalk Symphony Orchestra present “Music in the Garden” (August 18).

There’s a pre-concert tour of the magnificent property off Bayberry Lane from 4:30 to 5 p.m. The woodwind quintet plays in the gorgeous gardens from 5:30 to 7:15 p.m.

Bring your own picnic, blankets and chairs. There’s a shuttle from Coleytown Elementary School. Tickets are $75.  Click here to order.

A small section of the Blau Gardens.

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“Party School” is a coming-of-age teen romance that “reminds us that it doesn’t matter what college you go to, but what you make of the journey.”

Journalist Jon Hart says his debut novel, with a heavy dose of “school shaming,” was inspired by Fairfield County (his parents lived in Fairfield).

Hart grew up in New York, but says, “Westport is all over ‘Party School.’ One of the main characters, the crowd-pleasing ‘Spicoli with heart,’ was inspired by a Westport native.”

Click here for more information, and to order.

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Wendy Levy calls today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo “First Blush.”

We call it “mouth-watering.”

(Photo/Wendy Levy)

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And finally … happy 77th birthday to Arlo Guthrie.

Woody Guthrie’s son is best known for “Alice’s Restaurant.” But his 5 decades of work go far beyond that 20-minute Thanksgiving garbage dump talking classic.

I saw him at the Westport Country Playhouse many years ago. He was the consummate performer. And I really loved that great head of white hair.

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Posted in Arts, Children, Environment, Local business, Media, Police

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Roundup: Brand Nu Apparel, Bob Dylan, Greens Farms Garden Club …

Posted on July 9, 2024 | 2 comments

Westport has a brand-new pop-up apparel shop.

It’s called — coincidentally — Brand Nu Apparel.

Located at 170 Post Road West (opposite Kings Highway Elementary School), Bran Nu “combines the best of athletic wear and streetwear for men and women,” a press releases says.

It will “revolutionize how we express individuality and creativity through fashion.”

Brand Nu is the latest project of Marcello DeAguero. The professional break dancer, DJ and fitness instructor is well known locally.

The grand opening is Saturday (July 13, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.). There will be raffles, a entertainment, and 20% off the entire store.

Follow @brandnuapparel.official to enter for giveaways.

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First Folk Sunday songs were blowing in the wind last weekend, at the series’ new home.

Saugatuck Rowing Club welcomed the monthly concert. Host Suzanne Sheridan, Tim DeHuff and Bob Cooper played Bob Dylan’s songs, and shared stories about the singer and his music.

Between the beautiful views, great bar menu and gorgeous sunshine, it was an afternoon to feel forever young.

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The Greens Farms Garden Club’s “Growing for Good” initiative launched in 2021. It provides fresh, organically grown herbs and vegetables to women and their families.

Last summer, the project donated over 818 pounds of harvest to Mercy Learning Center.

In October, the club earned an Award of Excellence for Civic Development from the Federated Garden Clubs of Connecticut.

Now they’ve gone national.

The Greens Farms Garden Club recently won the national “Best of the Best” award from the Espoma Company, for their ongoing work, and use of the company’s organic plant foods and potting soil.

They’re well on their way to beating last year’s harvest total, too. Congratulations to all!

Members of the Greens Farms Garden Club and Prospect Garden landscape sesigner Cindy Shumate (front left) with the National “Best of the Best” Award from Karin Pyskaty, president of the Federated Garden Clubs of CT. GFGC members are (front, from left): Jacque O’Brien, Mary Lou MeGuire, Trish Levitt, Donna Hannay, Heather Rosenthal. Back: Linda Adelman, Terri Jennings, Asha Yoganandan, Judy Smith, Judy Hlawitschka.

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The resurfaced pickleball courts at Compo Beach have drawn raves.

Among the fans thanking Westport’s Parks & Recreation Department (below, left to right): Shari Brenner, Susie Kowalsky, Ciara Connolly, Pam Dedona.

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“Westport … Naturally” often features beautiful flowers, and/or cool-looking creatures.

But nature takes many forms — including non-native plants and animals.

Tree-of-heaven is a highly invasive species. It reproduces quickly, crowds out native species with its dense thickets, and secretes a chemical into the soil that is toxic to surrounding plants.

Plus, spotted lanternflies love it.

We see trees-of-heaven everywhere. Here they are, growing quickly at Compo Beach:

(Photo/Tracy Porosoff)

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And finally … in honor of our Brand Nu pop-up shop:

(Whether you’re a brand-new Westporter, or you’ve been here long enough to remember the Big Top, Clam Box and Crest: you’re part of our “06880” world. Thanks to ALL for supporting our blog!)

 

 

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Posted in Beach, Entertainment, Environment, Local business

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Pic Of The Day #2637

Posted on July 7, 2024 | 9 comments

A classic, for over 50 years (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

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Posted in Local business, Pic of the Day

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Roundup: Blue House, Sip & Shop …

Posted on July 6, 2024 | 8 comments

It was a red-letter day, for the blue house.

Siding was delivered yesterday to 233 Hillspoint Road. That’s the house at the foot of Compo Hill — the site of the former Positano restaurant — that has been swathed in Tyvek since approximately the Ford administration.

No word on when the next phase of construction will be completed. But for neighbors — and the thousands of people who pass by daily — it can’t come soon enough.

(Photo/Robin Tauck)

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Women entrepreneurs are invited to a business owners’ “Sip & Shop” event at The Post.

The July 9 event (5:30 to 7:30 p.m.; free) features both networking and shopping, along with light refreshments and unique products.

“Professional EOS implementer” Stefani Schwartz is the host. Click here for details.

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The quirky cottage at 246 Hillspoint Road bears a demolition notice.

The hydrangeas are (thankfully) next door. Let’s hope they frame whatever (big) house replaces this one as beautifully as they do, in today’s “Westport … Naturally” image.

(Photo/Dan Woog)

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And finally … on this date in 1957, a school pal invited 15-year old Paul McCartney to listed to 16-year-old John Lennon’s skiffle group, the Quarrymen, play at a Liverpool church event. Soon after, Lennon invited McCartney to join the band.

The world was never the same.

Though they shared writing credits on dozens of songs, most were written primarily by one or the other. Among the songs they both contributed equally to:

(It’s a holiday weekend. But “06880” never takes a day off. If you enjoy this hyper-local blog, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Local business, Real estate

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Roundup: Oystercatchers, Lanternflies, ADUs …

Posted on July 4, 2024 | 4 comments

Several “06880” readers want to know: How did the American oystercatchers — whose nests are protected on Compo’s South Beach — fare during the fireworks?

Jess Esposito-Halka — coastal water bird technician with Audubon Connecticut — reports: “Overall, the event went well. Everyone we chatted with was happy to know we were there to monitor the birds, and most were respectful of keeping their distance from the fence line.

“A couple of drone issues were resolved as the evening went on. No birds were injured.

“The actual display was quite traumatic for the chick, who was left alone while the parents fled the area. But all was okay after the display’s finale, and the parents returned.

“I went back yesterday morning to check in. The parents and chick were resting along the lower fence line, likely exhausted from the late night.

“Six fish crows were causing some disturbance due to some trash inside the fenced area, I removed it this morning before I left.”

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Speaking of the environment: Nikola Freeman writes with a message about a very common invasive plant — the tree of heaven — and the very invasive spotted lanternflies that feed on it.

In his yard, and throughout his neighborhood, Nikola saw them everywhere.

“Now is a great time to take action,” Nikola says. “The flies are still small and grouped together.

“Spray the flies with vinegar to kill them off, and cut down as many of these weeds as possible whenever you see them. This helps take their food source away.”

Spotted lanternflies on tree of heaven, at Winslow Park last year. (Photo/Michael Mossman)

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Accessory dwelling units are now legal.

What to know more about these detached structures, which open Westport’s housing stock to residents looking to downsize, those who cannot afford to rent larger homes, and those who want to move into a smaller place on their own property, while renting out their larger home? (They’re also great for au pairs and nannies.)

A Westport Library program (July 10, 7 p.m.) features Sheri Koones in conversation with Danielle Dobin, former Planning & Zoning Commission chair.

Koones’ book, “ADUs: The Perfect Housing Solution,” profiles 25 attractive, well-designed and energy efficient ADUs across North America.

Click here for more information.

Accessory dwelling unit, on Greens Farms Road.

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Sunday morning will be a quiet time at Compo Beach — especially compared to Tuesday’s fireworks, and today’s (dependent on the weather) holiday crowd.

But it’s the perfect spot for the summer 8:30 a.m. community worship service. This week’s host is the United Methodist church of Westport and Weston, led by Rev. Heather Sinclair.

Pivot Ministries — a faith-based residential treatment program in Bridgeport and Norwalk — will provide inspiring music and testimonies.  An offering will be collected to support their ministry.

Services run every Sunday through August 18, each week hosted by one of four churches: Green’s Farms Congregational, Norfield Congregational, Saugatuck Congregational Church and UMC.

A beach pass is not needed; tell the gate attendant  you are there for worship.  Bring a beach chair. Dress is casual. All are welcome.

Rev. Heather Sinclair leads a Sunday beach service last year.

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Speaking of Compo Beach: By yesterday morning — just hours after the last blast — Parks & Recreation crews had cleaned every pizza box, flip-flop, tent and table left behind.

It’s a remarkable transformation. And it meant that couples like this one could go back to enjoying the sun and sand, without sharing their space with 10,000 other people.

(Photo/Pam Kesselman)

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Google says there are 42,998 Subway locations worldwide.

It would have been just 1 shy of 43,000, but the Westport location closed a couple of years ago. (It’s now Savvy Smoker. Go figure.)

But there’s one fewer Subway on that list. The Southport location, a few yards over the border — where Westport teenagers and others craving a turkey, tuna or other have had to go — closed Monday.

The nearest one now is on Route 1 in Norwalk, near Marshalls, Truly Greek and the Staples office supply store.

Southport Subway. (Hat tip and photo/Seth Schachter)

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Jolantha — Weston’s favorite pig — celebrates today. Looking red, white and cute!

(Photo/Hans Wilhelm)

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Photographer Julie O’Connor is the Westport Book Shop exhibitor for July. A reception is set for July 17 (6 to 7:30 p.m.).

Julie O’Connor

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Ruth Hartmann Kaufman — a longtime Westport resident, and former Staples High School teacher — died last month. She was 93.

The Passau, Germany native arrived with her family in June 1938 through Ellis Island. She lived in Troy and Albany, New York from 1938 until 1948, when she received a scholarship to Cornell University.

After graduating she married Arthur Kaufman. They were together for 77 years ,and married for 72.

Ruth earned a master’s degree from New York University in 1970. That year she began teaching new and somewhat controversial courses at Staples High School: Values Clarification, Family Relations, and Human Sexuality.

She continued teaching for more than 2 decades at Staples with her mentor and friend, Robert Selverstone.

Her family calls Ruth “a good teacher,  listener and friend to hundreds of young students as they flourished in their lives, relationships, ambitions and personal development.”

After teaching at Staples she became a travel agent. She explored the world with her husband, visiting cities, forests and countries on every continent.

She enjoyed tennis, rollerblading, skiing, hiking and baking desserts. Ruth and Arthur moved to Seattle in 2000, joining their daughter and grandchildren for another 25 years of hiking in the Pacific Northwest.

Ruth was grateful for the beauty of Westport all her life and spoke warmly of her many friends, the town’s beautiful beaches, and her family’s homes on West Ambler Road, High Point Road, and Covlee Drive.

Ruth is survived by her husband; their children Kenneth, Ronald, Douglas, Theodore and Catherine, and 18 grandchildren. Ruth’s family can be reached by email: Ron@RonKaufman.com.

Ruth Kaufman

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It’s Fresh Market osprey time again at “Westport … Naturally.”

Nearly every photo we’ve run has shown a color close-up of the magnificent raptors.

This one is different.

But still majestic.

(Photo/William Weiss)

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And finally … in honor of the upcoming forum on accessory dwelling units (story above):

Bonus local connection: The animation above was created by Westport’s own Jeff Scher.

(Our blog is a very, very, very fine blog. To help keep it going, please donate by clicking here. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Beach, Environment, Library, Local business, Obituaries, Real estate, religion, Restaurants

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Roundup: Fireworks, Sweetgreen, Brooks Corner …

Posted on July 2, 2024 | 5 comments

At 6 a.m., the first spots were already reserved for tonight’s fireworks.

(Photo/Pam Kesselman)

This was the scene at 6:30:

(Photo/Jonathan Alloy)

At 6:40, there was this:

(Photo/Susie Kowalsky)

Ghost encampments will continue to sprout all morning long.

Some will be normal, considerate-of-neighbor-sized. Others will be the Compo Beach equivalent of McMansions.

The upside: The trend of setting up for a party ahead of time has lessened the traffic trying to enter the beach the moment it opens to ticket-holders, at around 4:30 or 5.

NOTE: As of 7:30 a.m., only 15 tickets for tonight’s show remained. They’re being sold today at police headquarters on Jesup Road only.

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Nearly 2 years ago, “06880” broke the news that Sweetgreen was coming to Westport.

Organic Krush — the property they were replacing — vociferously said “not true!”

It was. But it took 2 years for it to happen.

The sign is now up. The targeted opening date is the end of this month.

(Photo courtesy of WestportMoms)

As “06880” reported in early June — and WestportMoms alluded to yesterday, in the Sweetgreen announcement — Just Salad is likely to replace Salsa Fresca “before the end of the year.”

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Brooks Corner — the 23,945-square foot retail and office complex in the heart of downtown Westport — has been sold.

ARC — a Concord, Massachusetts-based real estate acquisition, development and management firm — bought the property from Westfair Inc., the Brooks family company.

The purchase price was $12,750,000.

Brooks Corner is anchored by Brooks Brothers (no relation to the family that built it), and Lux Bond & Green.

Brooks Corner

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There was no wind, rain or any other precipitating factor.

But a large tree fell just before 9 a.m. yesterday on Easton Road, near Coleytown Elementary School.

Branches hit a car driving past. The driver veered into a stone wall. There were no reported injuries.

More than 50 Eversource customers lost power.

(Photo/Mark Mathias)

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The Residence at Westport is a senior living community.

But they’ve adopted our town’s youngsters as a cause.

From now through August 31, they’re collecting backpacks and school supplies, to support students in need.

Items can be dropped off in the lobby. The Residence is at 1141 Post Road East, opposite Greens Farms Elementary School.

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Westport Rotary Club outgoing president Kenny Epstein passed the gavel to new president Goldie James at the annual traditional dinner on Friday, at Ned Dimes Marina.

Over 70 members ate lobsters, watched the new board sworn in, and enjoyed awards and gifts, as Rotary rang in its 101st year.

Kenny Epstein passes the gavel to Goldie James. (Photo/Dave Matlow)

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Ewen Rainer grew up in New Jersey. Jennifer Leigh is from the Branford area. They now live in Charleston, South Carolina.

They planned a religious wedding in Italy. But they wanted a civil one in the US, before heading overseas.

What better place than Westport?

But where? And who would perform it?

They got a list of justices of the peace from Town Hall. They chose Andrew Colabella, based on his close associations with Westport.

In May, the Representative Town Meeting member performed the ceremony on Veterans Green. A dinner, with family members who could not travel overseas, followed at Saugatuck Rowing Club.

The couple is back in the States. They’ve got great memories of Italy — and Westport.

Justice of the peace Andrew Colabella (left), with Ewen Rainer and Jennifer Leigh.

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Wondering how space environments threaten exoplanet habitability?

Dr. Ofer Cohen — an associate professor at the University of Massaschusetts -Lowell Center for Space Science & Technology — answers that question July 16 (8 p.m.), in a free Westport Astronomical Society webinar.

Click here for the Zoom link. Click here to watch on YouTube.

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The other day, Michele Sorensen spotted a monarch butterfly landing on leaves of flowering milkweed. It found one tiny egg.

“They usually lay only one at a time, often on the bottom of a leaf, which this one is,” Michele says.

She sends along this fascinating “Westport … Naturally” photo.

(Photo/Michele Sorensen)

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And finally … in honor of Ewen Rainer and Jessica Leigh’s wedding:

(“06880” is your hyper-local blog. We rely on reader support for all we do. To make a tax-deductible contribution, please click here. Thank you!)

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Posted in Beach, Downtown, Local business, Police, Real estate, Restaurants

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Roundup: Longshore Cleanup, American Oystercatchers, Port-a-potties …

Posted on July 1, 2024 | 7 comments

Yesterday, “06880” offered tips on keeping pets safe and calm during tomorrow’s fireworks.

But what about American oystercatchers, the bird species whose nesting area is roped off and protected just west of the Compo Beach cannons? What happens when hundreds of people descend on the area for the pyrotechnics — which then go BOOM! for a solid half hour?

Jess Esposito Halka posted this yesterday, on Facebook’s “Westport Front Porch” page:

Please try to keep at least a 25-foot buffer along the fenced nesting area, so that staff are able to move freely around the fenced area to monitor the birds before and during the event.

Nothing should hang, hover or lean against or over the fencing. If something accidentally blows into the area and you need to retrieve it, please locate an Audubon staff member to retrieve the item.

“The area behind the nesting area (closer to the sidewalk) is still a safe place to set up. But please keep space between your belongings and the fence for staff and other attendees to walk by along the outside of the fence.

“Please avoid walk through the water below the fence.

“Thank you all so much for your extra efforts this season. It has made a significant difference.

This nesting pair of American oystercatchers are the only successful mainland breeders in the entire state this season, with 1 healthy 3-week-old chick!” (Hat tip: Andrew Colabella)

Protect our American oystercatchers! (Photo/Jess Esposito Halka)

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Speaking of the environment: Longshore Sailing School cares about the water — and the coast.

On Saturday, they sponsored a coastal cleanup.

Kayaks were free — so long as kayakers removed garbage and debris from the shoreline and Saugatuck River.

Nearly 4 dozen concerned cleaner-uppers found dozens of golf balls — presumably from the nearby driving range at Hendrick’s Point.

Two folks found industrial construction material. They won t-shirts, for the largest trash pickup of the day.

From golf balls to building materials: Thank you, all who helped.

And thanks to  Longshore Sailing School too!

PS: Don’t worry. They’ve sponsored these events before. There will be more to come.

And more trash, unfortunately, to haul out.

Kayak cleanup (Hat tip and photo/Brandon Malin)

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We’re just a day away from the fireworks.

This morning, one of the most important parts of the preparation began:

(Photo/Matt Murray)

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Thirteen years ago, People Magazine covered the marriage of actress Eva Amurri and Kyle Martino, the 1999 Staples High School graduate/former US men’s national team player.

The couple moved to Westport and had 3 children, but divorced 5 years ago.

Now People has covered her second marriage. This weekend, Amurri — the daughter of Susan Sarandon, who is also a lifestyle blogger and still lives here — married chef Ian Hock, in the Hudson Valley.

Click here for the full story.

Eva Amurri and Ian Hock (Photo/Taralynn Lawson for People magazine)

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Hey! Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo shows the side that’s supposed to be recycled. Not the one you’re using!

(Photo/Robert Mitchell)

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And finally … Kinky Friedman — the singer/humorist/quasi-politician best known for his band, the provocatively named Texas Jewboys — died Thursday near Austin. He was 79, and suffered from Parkinson’s disease.

Click here for a full obituary.

(“06880” is your hyper-local blog. We rely on support from readers like you. To make a tax-deductible contribution, please click here. Thank you!)

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Posted in Beach, Environment, Local business, Sports, Staples HS

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Roundup: Great Duck Race, Sidewalk Sale, Blood Drive …

Posted on June 30, 2024 | 1 comment

Non-ducky weather did not dampen yesterday’s Great Duck Race.

The annual Sunrise Rotary Club fundraiser drew its usual large crowd of bettors, kids, and everyone else looking for a family-friendly, offbeat way to have fun.

Over 3,000 small plastic ducks were dropped from a giant front loader, then raced down a 160-foot sluice course constructed by Rotary members with help from the Westport Fire Department.

Here’s some of the race action:

Before the start. (Photo/Mark Mathias)

The crowd waits. (Photo/Mark Mathias)

And they’re off! (Photo/Mark Mathias)

It’s a very crowded field. (Photo/June Rose Whittaker)

First Selectwoman Jen Tooker provides play-by-play. (Photo/Mark Mathias)

The winner nears the finish chute. (Photo/Mark Mathias)

The big — as in $5,000 — winner was Will Augustyn.

George Masumian’s duck came in second, earning him $1,000.

Eight other winners picked up $500 each: Stephen Pianka, Jim Marpe, David Moore, Michael Paul, Steven Benardete, Jason Rich, Aimee Monroy Smith and Judith McBride.

It was all for a great cause.

Sunrise Rotary will give away 100% of all proceeds to local and international charities. Officials estimate that $70,000 was raised.

Congrats to all Rotarians, for a great day of entertainment and good works.

Congrats to the winners, too. You trained your ducks well.

Meanwhile, there was plenty else to do, before the actual race, like a Nerdy Derby, pin making, bubble machines and more, plus sponsors’ tents and food trucks.

Here are a few scenes:

Cub Scout Pack 39 sponsored a “Rainbow Regatta.” (Photo/James Delorey)

Kids’ activities were bubble-icious. (Photo/Mark Mathias)

In just a few months, Alina’s Cakes & Cookies has become an important part of the community. Owner Alina Dancho got into the spirit, with duck-themed treats.

Ducks know that the earth is nearly 75% water. The Great Duck Race shared Jesup Green with jUNe Day, when guests from around the globe came to town. Many stayed for the Sunrise Rotary fun. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Of course, the Westport Downtown Association Sidewalk Sale was part of yesterday’s fun.

It continues today, on and around Main Street (including Sconset and Playhouse Squares).

It may rain this afternoon. So get there early!

Rhone — and many other downtown merchants — invites you to their sidewalk sale.

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VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399/August Matthias American Legion Post 63 just passed a milestone:  4 straight years of monthly Red Cross blood drives. Over 2,220 donors have participated.

On Friday, the drive sponsored by the Goddard Schools in Westport drew over 80 donors.

VFW quartermaster Phil Delgado says, “thanks to sustained partnerships with other community non-profit organizations, we have become the premier Red Cross Blood donor site in Fairfield County

“Remember: One unit of blood can save up three lives.”

The next blood drive is July 31 (noon to 6 p.m). Click here for an appointment. (use this sponsor code: VFWWESTPORT), or call 800-733-2767.

Four straight years of monthly blood drives.

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On Friday, Lynn Bishop glanced out her dining room window, near Clinton Avenue — and saw this young bear ambling toward her kids’ slide.

“Barely” concealing her surprise, she snapped this “Westport … Naturally” photo:

Other “06880” readers reported seeing it nearby, in Willowbrook Cemetery, and shuffling along that stretch of Main Street.

Yesterday it was seen on Easton Road and then Northside Lane, off North Avenue.

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And finally … Florence Ballard was born on this date in 1943. A founding member of the Supremes, she sang on 10 #1 hits.

Motown owner Barry Gordy removed her from the group in 1967. She struggled with alcoholism, depression and poverty, and died of a heart attack in 1976, age 32.

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Roundup: Downtown Today, Levitt Yesterday, Art Next Month …

Posted on June 29, 2024 | 1 comment

Happy Great Duck Race and jUNe Days!

A reminder: the family-friendly, fun Westport Sunrise Rotary Club Duck Race event begins at 10 a.m. today on Jesup Green, and runs until 2 p.m. The ducks themselves cascade down a chute at 1 p.m. Raffle tickets — with a top prize of $5,000, and many others — will be available there.

Also at 10:30 a.m. today on Jesup Green: a brief welcoming ceremony for our 200 United Nations guests. Before heading off for a day of recreation, shopping and (if the sun comes out) beach activities, they will be greeted officially. The public is invited.

And of course all day long, the Westport Downtown Association sidewalk sale rocks Main Street and environs.

jUNe Day flags on the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge. (Photo/Nancy Lally)

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Lulada Club: NYC’s All-Women Salsa Orchestra got the women — and men — dancing last night, at the Levitt Pavilion.

(Photo/Dinkin Fotografix)

The free weekend entertainment continues tonight (Saturday), with blues trio Buffalo Nichols (7:30 p.m.), and tomorrow (Sunday), with the NYC Ska Orchestra (7 p.m.).

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The (somewhat) new Ethan Allen Design Center in the Fresh Foods shopping plaza chose 10 members of the Artists Collective of Westport to exhibit their work for a month.

The art will be displayed throughout the separate room settings, on the walls and easels. The intiative originated with EA’s design director, Westporter, Melissa Mack.

A reception is set for July 9 (5 to 7:30 p.m.).

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Several osprey pairs continue to enjoy Westport. Betsy Kravitz spotted 2 in one day.

One was at the Saugatuck train station, where the nest is atop a trestle.

The other was our town’s most visible, with its very large nest between Fresh Market and Terrain. She snapped this photo, for our “Westport … Naturally” series:

(Photo/Betsy Kravitz)

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And finally … today is the first day of the Tour de France.

The 111th edition begins in Florence, Italy, and ends in Nice, France, on July 21. The race will not finish in Paris for the first time ever, because of preparations for the Olympics.

(Happy jUNe Day! “06880” accepts currencies from around the world. Dollars, euros, yuans, rials, dinars … we honor it all. Please click here to support your hyper-local blog, Thank you!)

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Roundup: Sidewalk Sale, Sanitary Cleaners, Michael Phelps …

Posted on June 28, 2024 | 3 comments

The Westport Downtown Association’s Sidewalk Sale starts today (Friday).

Now through Sunday, merchants on Main Street, Elm Street, Church Lane and Riverside Avenue, and in Sconset Square and Playhouse Square, set up tables outside, overflowing with merchandise.

Everything there is on sale. Except the sidewalk.

Click here, then scroll down for a list of participating stores.

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In April of 2023, “06880” reported that Sanitary Cleaners — right over the Norwalk line, on Route 1 — would close that month.

The business began in 1929. It served local residents (including many Westporters) cleanly, sanitarily and with great spirit, for half a century.

But it — and the Wine Cellar next door, plus 7 homes — were going to be torn down. In their place: 136 new apartments.

The “06880” story focused on Ann and Ben Chung. The South Korean couple were a classic immigrant success story. (Click here to read.)

The need to close came as a shock. It appeared that demolition was imminent.

Fourteen months later, the building stands vacant. The “Store Closing” sign remains. Not one thing has changed.

Except for the Chungs. They were forced to retire more than a year — and counting — before they had to. (Hat tip: Arthur Hayes)

Ben and Ann Chung, days before Sanitary Cleaners closed.

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Michael Phelps is one of the most famous people on the planet.

PopUp Bagels’ motto is “not famous, but known.”

And “06880”‘s tagline is “Where Westport meets the world.”

Yesterday — a month before the start of the Olympics — the man with the most medals in the Games’ history stopped by PopUp’s Greenwich Village site, on Thompson Street.

It was a very Westport event — and not just because PopUp Bagels is one of our town’s most, well, well-known exports.

Westport resident Meghan Lally was there. She’s PopUp’s director of events and partnerships (and, her resumé says, “senior executive bagel bouncer.”

That’s not all. Westport media personality Dave Briggs was there too. He was shooting a story for Cheddar business news.

Which are Phelps’ favorite bagels and schmears?

Unknown.

Meghan Lally and Michael Phelps. (Hat tip and photo/Dave Briggs)

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Timing is everything.

The day after an intense debate on “06880” about Westport’s gas-powered leaf blower ban, the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston dropped a “Westport … What’s Happening” podcast about the very same subject.

This one features an interview with Conservation Department director Colin Kelly. His office is in charge of enforcing the ordinance.

Click below to listen:

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Renovations continue on Saugatuck River Caffe.

Taking over the Winfield Street Coffee & Deli spot on Post Road West, and operated by nearby Arezzo restaurant, the new place will have more salads, and takeout items made to order or pick up to go.

Estimated opening date is about 3 weeks.

Also on that short block, just over the river from downtown: Stephen Kempson London tailor is expanding into the former Age of Reason toy store, next door.

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Among its many programs to stimulate minds and bodies, the Westport Senior Center also provides practical help in a very important area: technology.

The Tech Hub offers open computer hours, along with 45-minute sessions on special topics.

During open hours, student interns are available for assistance all summer long. Hours are 8:30 a.m. to noon on Wednesdays, and 1 to 4:30 p.m. Thursdays.

Laptops and a printer are available to use.

The special sessions are held on Thursdays at 2 p.m. Topics include:

“Navigating the New Senior Center Website, and How to Register on MyActiveCenter” (July 11). Bring your key tag.

“Using Google Maps” (July 18). Learn how to use Google Maps on your phone to find directions (and reverse directions) by car or walking, and how to look up an address or search for places of interest near you.

“Using FaceTime” (July 25). FaceTime on your iPhone or tablet is a great way to connect with friends and family.

 

Tech help time yesterday, at the Senior Center.

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Alysha Brilla starred at the Levitt Pavilion last night.

The multi-instrumentalist “weaves together rhythmic global roots sounds with a flourish of esoteric lyricism, presenting an entire universe of music as healing medicine for the listener.”

Upcoming free shows include Lulada Club: NYC’s All-Women Salsa Orchestra (tonight — Friday, June 28,  7 p.m.), blues trio Buffalo Nichols (Saturday, June 29, 7:30 p.m.) and NYC Ska Orchestra (Sunday, June 30, 7 p.m.).

Click here for free ticket information.

Alysha Brilla (Photo/Dinkin Fotografix)

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Carole Rubenstein died Tuesday at her family home, after a long illness with dementia. She was 87.

Though she lived in Norwalk for 62 years, Carole was a fixture in Westport. She spent 35 years at the Nature Center (now Earthplace).

She was a pioneer in early childhood education, helping start one of the first preschool programs that incorporated learning with nature.

She served as director and teacher, and was loved by many children and parents.

She also created and implemented all other children’s programs at the Center.

After retiring, Carole was very active in Westport’s Sunrise Rotary Club for over 25 years, particularly on the Charitable Giving Committee. As a Sunshine Lady she welcomed new members, and reached out to current and former Rotarians for birthday wishes and in times of need.

Carole also belonged to Y’s Women in Westport, where she helped plan the annual holiday luncheon. She also spent many years as a Norwalk Hospital volunteer.

Carole enjoyed traveling, with her husband of 60 years, Bob. They took 20 trips to Hawaii.

Besides her husband, Carole is survived by her son Andy (May) of Virginia, daughter Sue (Joe) Collin of Norwalk, brother Robert (Pat) Levin, and step-granddaughter Apisara Deejai of New york.

Private funeral services will be held at Willowbrook Cemetery. Shiva will be observed at the home of Bob Rubenstein in Norwalk on Tuesday (July 2, 4 to  7 p.m.).

Memorial contributions may be made to Westport Sunrise Rotary and the Alzheimer’s Association.

Carole’s family wishes extends their gratitude to Carole’s aide and friend, Sandra Spence.

Carole Rubenstein

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Most trees grow naturally in Westport.

Some are transplanted.

These definitely came from somewhere else.

(Photo/Richard Fogel)

One day they’ll shield the Aquarion water tanks.

When they do — if we’re still here, and if we’re still posting our daily “Westport … Naturally” series — we’ll run another photo of it.

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And finally … on this date in 1838, Victoria was crowned Queen of England. Her reign of 63 years and 216 days — longer than any predecessor — was called the Victorian Era. It was a period of enormous industrial, political, scientific and military change in the UK.

 

(You don’t need tech help — at the Senior Center, or anywhere else — to donate to “06880.” Just click here, and follow the prompts. Thank you for supporting your hyper-local blog!

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Posted in Downtown, Environment, Local business, Obituaries, technology

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