Category Archives: Local business

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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Roundup: Paul Newman’s Pizza, Cellphone Poll, Susan Fund …

Posted on June 25, 2024 | 8 comments

Last week, Newman’s Own launched a “Pay What You Want” Pizza truck.

All proceeds go to the Newman’s Own Foundation, which gives 100% of its profits to help children facing adversity.

The first stop was New York City. It will travel across the country all summer long, offering several varieties of Newman’s Own pizzas.

Today it’s Westport’s turn.

That’s particularly fitting. The non-profit has been headquartered here since 1982, ever since its founding by our own Paul Newman and his family.

The Pay What You Want Pizza truck will be at Newman’s Own’s office (1 Morningside Drive North, just north of the Post Road) from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. today (Tuesday). From 3 to 6 p.m., it’s on Main Street (close to the Post Road).

Newman’s Own pizza truck.

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Yesterday, “06880” reported on superintendent of schools Tom Scarice’s proposal to ban smartphones from Westport’s schools.

Today, we’ve got an Instagram poll on it. Click here to vote. (If the link does not work, find us on Instagram: @danwoog06880).

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There was plenty of emotion Sunday afternoon, at Saugatuck Congregational Church.

The Susan Fund held its 43rd annual reception — and awarded 18 college grants to Fairfield County residents.

All have been diagnosed with cancer.

“They have, in addition to medical bills, the college bills, which are just enormous,” says Jeff Booth, Susan Fund chair.

“So whatever financial support we can give them is a huge help.”

Some of the Susan Fund recipients honored on Sunday.

Also honored: Ann Lloyd.

The Susan Fund founder and chair emerita was presented with a birthday cake. At 90, she is still actively involved with the non-profit.

The Susan Fund was established in 1980 in memory of her daughter Susan Lloyd, a Staples High School graduate who lost her battle with cancer. Since its founding, the organization has provided over $2 million in scholarships to more than 900 students.

To learn more about the Susan Fund, and to donate, click here.

Ann Lloyd. The podium is covered with photos and letters from Susan Fund recipients. 

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“06880” likes to post good news, whenever we can.

Like us, Jaime Bairaktaris knows there are many young people who do good things that go unnoticed. And that their parents never see.

Yesterday, he wrote on social media:

“Did your son and his friend go to Old Mill Grocery & Deli a bit ago?

“As I ordered my lunch, 2 ‘tweenage’ boys walked in. One went to get Peanut M&Ms, but immediately stopped to ask his friend if he had any allergies. The friend said no, so he grabbed his M&Ms.

“They went to the counter, ordered politely, paid with cash, counted their change, then made sure they both put money into the tip jar — stopping each other to make sure that they tipped.

“No phones, no TikTok dances, no skibidi Ohio rizzing. As often as I see negative posts about local kids doing dumb things, I hope the parents of these kids see this and know their sons did a great job of showing everyone in the deli that Westport’s future is just fine.

“Not to mention how well raised they were (to confirm allergies for their friend, and count change?!). In the words of TikTok-era youth: they were very sigma.

“I can only hope they never roll through a stop sign when they get their licenses.”

Good kids hang out here. (Photo/Dave Dellinger)

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An old favorite — First Folk Sunday — returns next month.

But the venue is different.

The series — afternoons of music in a relaxed, mellow atmosphere — kicks off July 7 (12:30 to 2:30 p.m.) at its new home: the Saugatuck Rowing Club.

Suzanne Sheridan (vocals, rhythm guitar), Tim DeHuff (lead guitar) and Bob Cooper (keyboard) offer a Bob Dylan retrospective.

The season continues with rising folk star singer-songwriter Lisa Bastoni (August 4), a Joni Mitchell tribute with Suzanne Sheridan (September 1), the return of The Flying Fingers Jug Band (October 6(, a Woody Guthrie homage featuring many performers and an audience sing along (November 3), and a special event December 3.

The music cover charge is $15; click here for tickets. An a la carte menu and open bar is available for audience members. For more information, click here or call 203-984-7562.

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The Parks & Recreation Department guest services team at Compo Beach hears just about every story imaginable.

But they keep smiling, and serving.

Here was yesterday’s crew. As always, they welcomed visitors, answered questions, solved problems, and put a happy face on Westport’s happy place.

(Photo/Ed Simek)

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Meanwhile, a reminder: Westport’s streets don’t clean themselves.

This machine was out yesterday on Bayberry Lane, sweeping up debris.

There’s not a lot of room to walk, jog, bike, skateboard or do anything else.

But thanks to our Public Works Department, it’s a lot less dangerous today than yesterday.

(Photo/Jonathan Alloy)

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The first heat wave of the summer has ended. It may be cool enough for Harbor Road residents to venture outside, and sit in these chairs looking out toward Longshore.

It’s an idyllic summer scene. And the reeds make it a great candidate for our  “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Pam Docters)

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And finally … in honor of Paul Newman’s “Pay What You Want” pizza truck, we remember the actor/philanthropist:

(Whether you lived here when Paul Newman did, or you just came yesterday, “06880” is your hyper-local blog. We rely on support from all our readers. Please click here to help. Thank you!)

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Posted in Beach, Education, Entertainment, Local business, Staples HS

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Content Studio: NY Tech Vibe In A Special Saugatuck Space

Posted on June 25, 2024 | 1 comment

Chirag Shah has spent his career building communities.

He’s done it as the number one coach for Compass, helping realtors work more efficiently, lead more fulfilled lives (and make more money).

He’s worked with clients in 38 states, including professional athletes. He has offered career and life lessons, inspired creativity, and unlocked passions.

But for years, the man who cared so much for community spent little time in his own.

The realization that many remarkable people in Westport and Fairfield County were spending unproductive hours commuting to and from New York — and, like him, leaving their families behind, in communities they barely knew — was a life-changing moment for the life coach.

And it led directly to the creation of Content Studio of Westport.

A launch party last week brought together many of the men and women Shah hopes will take advantage of his big, bold space on Saugatuck Avenue next to the Goddard School.

Chirag Shah, at last week’s party. (Photo/Charlie Scott)

He’s transformed a former mini-market into a cutting-edge podcast studio, event space, stage and bar.

It’s a place to produce content like podcasts, social media videos and livestreams; expand entrepreneurial ideas and networks, and grow businesses, right here in Westport. There’s no need to hop a train to the city.

Although it’s close enough to the station so that other creative folks can come to us.

Pro quarterback Chris Streveler uses Content Studio to deliver a keynote address for his business. He also recorded Instagram reels.

Shah is like many people who moved to Westport recently. He loves everything about this place: the schools, beaches, Longshore, library, restaurants, shopping and amenities.

“This is a magical place,” he says. “You can know your neighbors. You go to Compo, and see and feel the joy and happiness. Your kids can run around and play. You can see the sunsets.”

He grew up not far away. His parents owned a stationery store in Larchmont, They taught him the values of hard work and customer service, which he held true as he built up his own consulting businesses.

Shah moved here in 2019. A year later, the pandemic shifted work from office to home. He recognized the benefits of casting aside the daily commute. But he felt the need to separate his home and work lives.

Could he do it here?

He found vacant space across from Dunville’s. Though a prime location, no one had figured out how to use it effectively.

Content Studio occupies the space to the right of the Goddard School.

Shah envisioned it as an office for his coaching practice.

But he also built it out (with a warm, welcoming, New York/tech vibe). His vision was a place to come, be creative, build a brand, host or attend an event — and then head off to your kids’ activities, have dinner together and put them to bed.

He calls himself “a conduit of gathering people to foster relationships that wouldn’t exist — and to help them have dinner with their families. I want their lives to be fulfilled, professionally and personally. Every kid deserves to have their parents present.”

Over 100 people got a close look at Shah’s space last week. They came from all walks of Westport life, and from around the county.

Jay Norris — a co-founder of Content Studio — tapes a podcast and creates videos there. He addressed the launch party crowd. (Photo/Charlie Scott)

As they ate, drank, chatted, toured the production studio, and met Shah and Jay Norris, the Westport entrepreneur who is a co-founder of Content Studio, they glimpsed the possibilities for doing some of their own work — and hosting their own events — in the very cool space.

And just a few minutes after they left, they were home.

(Click here for the Content Studio website. Click here for the Instagram.)

Chirag Shah interviews a podcast guest …

… and a client uses the large screen for a Zoom meeting.

Content Studio production room. (Photo/Charlie Scott)

(“06880” provides its own content, 24/7/365. It’s all hyper-local — and it all is made possible by readers’ support. To make a tax-deductible donation, please click here. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Rye Ridge/159 Main, Row House, Staples Graduation …

Posted on June 24, 2024 | 1 comment

Yesterday, “06880” reported that Rye Ridge Deli was closing. A new place called 15 9 Main would take over.

In fact, Rye Ridge’s Westport location was sold to new owners in February. They have operated since, with a 4-month agreement to use the Rye Ridge name.

That’s ended. It is now officially 159 Main. It is open as usual.

Meanwhile, Rye Ridge’s 2 other locations — in Stamford and Rye Brook, New York — remain open under that name.

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However, there is definitely a vacancy in Compo Acres Shopping Center.

Row House — whose 25 erg (rowing) machines once hummed with activity, with people of all ages seeking a strong workout — has closed its doors.

Row House began in New York’s Columbus Circle in 2014. The Westport location opened 5 years later.

With the closing of Westport, the nearest location is Stamford.

Row House, in its heyday.

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Did you miss Staples High School’s 137th graduation ceremony this month?

Were you there, but want to relive it?

Jim Honeycutt — who retired after many years as a teacher, including director of the media lab — has posted the entire event online.

NOTE: Sharp-eared viewers will note that the “Pomp and Circumstance” processional music in the video is not the same as was played that day.

Staples now uses a recording, which is blocked by YouTube. Honeycutt substituted music played by the Staples band, back when they performed at fieldhouse graduations.

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Yesterday morning, 25 people from Saugatuck Congregational Church left for this year’s high school youth group mission trip. They’ll help Vermont residents recover from last year’s floods that devastated the state.

20 youth and 5 leaders will work on farms, assemble furniture, clean up areas in need, and meet people affected by the disaster.

The Saugatuck Church youth group is open to all students entering, in, or just graduated from high school. Attendance at Saugatuck Church or Staples High is not required.

Heading north: Saugatuck Church youth group. (Photo/Mark Mathias)

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Since his birth, Wakeman Town Farm has fostered an orphaned baby goat.

“Stuart Little” has now found a home. Time Out Foundation of Lakeville — a horse rescue/sanctuary that runs a free therapeutic program for children — adopted him.

Stuart Little and friend.

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Speaking of animals: After 4 years of hibernation, Sunny the Duck is back on Jesup Green.

The much-larger-than-life waterfowl advertises the Sunrise Rotary Club’s annual Great Race.

It’s this Saturday (June 29), at Jesup Green.

The fun begins at 10 a.m. on Saturday, with activities like Nerdy Derby, pin making, face painting, bubble machines, duck pond giveaway and more (plus food trucks!).

The duck race starts at 1 p.m. Thousands of plastic ducks are dropped from a giant front loader, down a 160-foot long sluice course on Jesup Green.

Each duck has a number, matching a $20 raffle ticket. The first 10 ducks across the finish line win money for their ticket holders. First place gets $5,000, second place $1,000, while the next 8 earn $500 awards.

All the fun is for a great cause. Sunrise Rotary donates the proceeds to local and international charities.

Tickets can be purchased online at westportsunriserotary.org, or from any Westport Sunrise Rotarian at any time — including the morning of the event.

Wendy Krueger — daughter of Ralph Krueger, for whom Little Ralphie is named — checks out her father’s namesake with Bruce Paul, Sunrise Rotary’s Great Duck Race chair.

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The Soundview Avenue streetscape is particularly beautiful this time of year.

Today’s “Westport … Naturally” image complements the sculpture that — all year long — draws plenty of attention, even without the flora.

(Photo/Sunil Hirani)

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And finally … in honor of Row House (story above):

(As we start another week — including our daily Roundup — we remind you: “06880” relies on readers’ support. Please click here to help. Thank you!)

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Roundup: “Which Is Which?”, WCP Interns, Winslow Park Statues …

Posted on June 22, 2024 | Comments Off on Roundup: “Which Is Which?”, WCP Interns, Winslow Park Statues …

Weston resident Roy Adams is in his 24th year of service as a New Canaan police officer. He spends his free time with his wife and 3 children (11, 3 and 21 months).

Roy always had a passion for writing. He’s written several screenplays of different genres, and reached the finals and quarterfinalist in screenplay contests.

He recently published “Which is Which? Which is Which” — an educational children’s book about homophones. The colorful illustrations and rhyme pattern of make it fun, and interesting for kids to learn.

The idea came during the nightly ritual of reading to his kids before bed. Roy reflected on a poem he had written in high school, titled “Which is Which.” It got him to thinking about vocabulary, and how the English language is more complex than many people realize.

Now Roy is sharing his love for words and writing with kids — and introducing them to the amazing world of homophones.

Click here for more information, and to order.

Roy Adams

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“06880” gets a dozen or so sunset shots nearly every day. Many are from Compo Beach. Unfortunately, we can’t use 99% of them.

We get fewer moon photos — but still a lot. Submissions spike during a full moon. They’re even harder to photograph, and they tend not to reproduce well in this blog format.

But James White captured a special image last night, over Sherwood Mill Pond.

The color makes it stand out. He writes: “I didn’t think with the weather I would catch the moon. But then I saw this red glow.”

(Photo/James White)

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Four aspiring theater professionals make up the 2024 Westport Country Playhouse Joanne Woodward Internship class.

The quartet will gain on-the-job experience working directly with  senior staff through July. They were selected from nearly 75 applicants.

Internships have formed a vital part of the Playhouse’s mission since the 1940s. Stephen Sondheim is the most famous alum.

In addition to immersive work in their departments, interns attend seminars with a variety of guest speakers. Interns receive a living wage stipend, and housing.

Interns include Ahnecia Gary (marketing; University of Connecticut ’24, from Stamford); Kiley Snobeck (development/fundraising; Concordia College ‘24.5, from Farmington, Minnesota); Jessi Stier (artistic/engagement; Muhlenberg College ’21, from New Jersey); Matt Thompson (production; Pennsylvania State University ’25, from Dallas/Fort Worth).

Westport Country Playhouse interns (from left): Ahnecia Gary, Matt Thompson, Kiley Snobeck, Jessi Stier. (Photo/Chris Conte)

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With 12 days to go before July 4th — and 10 until the fireworks — Winslow Park Animal Hospital is already ready.

Happy (early) birthday, America!

(Photo/Molly Alger)

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Most Compo Beach gull photos show them swarming on the sand, or swooping down to steal food.

Recent high school graduate Jay Babina spotted this pensive one, for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Jay Babina)

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And finally … on this day in 1633, the Holy Office in Rome forced Galileo Galilei to recant his view that the sun — not the earth — was the center of the universe.

(A quiet Roundup, for once. But “06880” still needs your support. Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thanks!)

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Roundup: OKA, Young Shoots, Safe Guns …

Posted on June 19, 2024 | 9 comments

For decades, Klein’s Department Store was a fixture at 44 Main Street.

Banana Republic lasted a couple of decades.

OKA didn’t even make their 2nd anniversary.

The British furniture and home accessories retailer moved in right before Christmas in 2022. It was their 3rd US store. And, they proudly proclaimed, “our flagship.”

Now they’re gone.

“Greenoaks42” posted on Reddit yesterday:

They charged me of +$700USD months ago for a lamp they never sent. Now they filed for chapter 7 bankruptcy.

Their website is gone. Phones disconnected. But they have the audacity to continue posting on social media.

They told me to wait for their bankruptcy rep to contact me about a refund “in due course.” Good riddance to unethical companies. I’m glad they’re gone from Westport.

Their website is non-functioning too.

“06880” could not contact anyone at OKA for information. Instead, we’ll offer this look back at their opening in Westport, less than 2 short years ago:

(Hat tip: Jonathan Alloy)

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Calling all student photographers!

The Westport Farmers’ Market’s Young Shoots Photography Contest, for students ages 5 to 18, begins Thursday.

The 8th annual event runs through August 3. Children and teenagers can demonstrate their love for local food — and their creative photo talents — to win cash prizes in 3 age categories, plus a chance to attend an art class at MoCA CT.

All photos must be taken at the Westport Farmers’ Market (Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Imperial Avenue parking lot). It’s an amazing place, filled with food, plants, food trucks, entertainers, the farmers themselves, shoppers — everything a young photographer could hope to shoot.

Local artists will judge. Age groups are 5-9, 10-14 and 15-18. An exhibit at Gilbertie’s Herbs & Garden Center will showcase the winners.

The contest is sponsored by the Farmers’ Market, the Artists Collective of Westport, and the Drew Friedman Community Arts Center.

Click here for rules, registration and more information.

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Calling all runners!

Fleet Feet will once again sponsor the Westport Summer Series Races.

The weekly events — now in their 62nd year — are held Saturday mornings, at various locations. The first race (June 29) is 2.3 miles. They get longer each week. The final is 10 miles, on Labor Day weekend.

Click here to register, and for more information.

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Speaking of sports: Steve Haberstroh teed off at 5 a.m. yesterday, at Great River Golf Club in Milford.

The former member of Staples’ 1997 state champion golf team played 100 holes — an astonishing 5 1/2 rounds — to raise awareness and funds for ALS research.

He was honoring his mother, Patty Haberstroh, Westport’s beloved Human Services Department social worker who died of the disease last year.

Dan Orlovsky — a Westport resident, ESPN analyst and former NFL quarterback — played a few holes too. Today he’s in the Travelers ProAm. Not too shabby!

The ALS event included a reception, and live and silent auctions.

 Patty Habestroh

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The town may soon put the “play” in playground.

On June 24 (6 p.m., Zoom), the Planning & Zoning Commission will review a request to expand 2 existing play areas at Coleytown Elementary School.

It includes a 665 square foot expansion of the existing southern area with a new carousel, and a 1,050 square foot expansion of the western area with a swing.

Funds will come from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).

Coleytown Elementary School, with existing play areas. (Drone photo/Brandon Malin)

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Congressman Jim Himes is a regular guest at Westport Rotary Club meetings.

Yesterday, he spoke mostly about the domestic environment. He said the main issue in the US today is the impact of social media, and the anger and rage between Americans with opposing views.

Himes said, “I don’t want my grandkids living as if we’re a third world country, where people are always fighting or verbally attacking one another.”  In the long term, he said, we “risk losing our self-confidence.”

He is deeply skeptical about how Americans seek their news sources. “With 500 channels anyone can tailor their own instincts about what news sources they select….If you elect someone bombastic, for instance, that’s the kind of government you’re really asking for.”

As for the Supreme Court, Himes favors 18-year term limits for justices.

Rep. Jim Himes (left) and Rotarian/RTM moderator Jeff Wieser, at yesterday’s Rotary Club meeting. (Hat tip and photo/Dave Matlow)

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Five years ago this month, Governor Lamont signed Ethan’s Law. It requires gun owners to safely and securely store their firearms — is named for a Guilford teenager killed by an unsecured weapon.

Staples High School students Aidan Lapatine and Logan Noorily mark the anniversary by bringing it to Westport’s attention.

In a letter last week to parents, signed by Superintendent of Schools Thomas Scarice and Police Chief Foti Koskinas, Aidan Lapatine and Logan Noorily — co-presidents of Staples Students Demand Action — highlighted the safe-gun legislation. awareness about local and national gun storage laws.

The students’ next steps include sharing the message with nearby towns.

“Members of SDA are committed to preventing gun violence,” Aidan says.

“Our safe storage campaign aims to educate parents and students on the risks associated with unsecured firearms. Over 75% of firearms used in youth suicide attempts and unintentional injuries originate from the residences of the victim, a relative or friend.”

Logan adds, “As students deeply concerned about school safety, we believe that impactful change can begin on a local level. Promoting safe storage is simply common sense.”

In addition, the Staples SDA is distributing gun locks, and engaging in grassroots lobbying to encourage lawmakers to support legislation to expand secure storage or child-access prevention laws beyond the 26 states that currently have laws or practices in place. Social studies teacher Cathy Schager is the club advisor.

For more information on firearm safety, click here.

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This flag flies outside Riverside Barber Shop, where Treadwell/Riverside/ Saugatuck Avenue intersection.

(Photo/Ed Simek)

It’s clever.

And also probably very illegal.

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The Saugatuck Rowing Club junior rowing program had a very successful showing at the recent USRowing Youth Nationals regatta in Sarasota, Florida.

SRC sent a club record 96 athletes to the event. Eight boats made the final. 

The women’s U17 4+ A boat, including Westporters Luka Kuokalas, Annie Bowman, Ashlyn Frey and Olivia Saw won gold. This was the 4th national title in a row for that race.

The men’s U17 8+ boat, with Westporter’s Elena Nasar, Daniel Arava, Jack Mello, Liam Wiegand and Alex Proctor (Westport), placed third, just one second behind historic rival RowAmerica Rye.

Next up for Saugatuck Rowing Club: the Henley Royal Regatta in London next month.

Women’s U17 4+ A boat (from left): left to right: Luka Kuokalas, Olivia Saw, Ashlyn Frey, Annie Bowman, Mackenzie Fosdick. All but Mackenzie are from Westport.

Men’s U-17 8+ boat (from left): Coach Alex Vogt, Samuel Turok, Alex Proctor, Liam Wiegand, Jack Mello, Elena Nasar, Henry Basham, Gavin Remley, Will Firmender, Daniel Arava.

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Nature can be a dog-eat-dog world.

Or bird-eat-blueberry, as today’s “Westport … Naturally” image shows.

(Photo/Tracy Porosoff)

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And finally … in honor of Juneteenth:

(Whether you’ve been here long enough to remember Klein’s, or arrived after OKA opened, “06880” is your place for hyper-local news. And everyone can click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Retreat Sweets: No Dunkin’ Your Mochi Donuts Here

Posted on June 18, 2024 | 4 comments

You can’t get more American than Dunkin’ donuts and coffee.

But the New England-based chain vacated their Post Road East store across from the Shell station last year.

Retreat Sweets has now moved in.

And you can’t get more Asian than their Japanese mochi donuts, Korean corn dogs, and tea drinks.

Sampling of Retreat Sweets’ mochi donuts. This box contains crème brûlée, brown sugar, ube (purple yam), icing, churro, and cookies and cream.

Wesley Zhang’s new business is a labor of love. Growing up in Trumbull, the 28-year-old 1st-generation Chinese-American loved Asian street food.

But he had to go to New York or Boston to get it.

He tried the corporate world, after graduating from the University of Connecticut. During COVID, when his family needed help running their renovation business, he lent a hand.

But he always wanted to be his own boss. Mochi donuts — fluffier and chewier than their American counterparts, made without yeast in small balls that easily pull apart — seemed a natural.

Three years ago, he started looking for a place near Yale University. When that did not work out, he tried Fairfield’s Brick Walk (near Mecha Noodle Bar).

But there was no space. Driving west, he and saw a “For Lease” sign on the Dunkin’ not far from the Southport line.

It’s taken a year to get ready. The interior has been completely redone, and modern codes met.

Last Thursday, Retreat Sweets opened its doors. A soft opening continues through Friday, with the grand opening next week.

Yesterday, at Retreat Sweets.

Zhang is hands-on. Like the “time to make the donuts” guy in Dunkin’s still-memorable commercials, he’s in the back.

But unlike that chain’s processed preparation, he’s actually baking.

Batches are small. Zhang uses purées — no extracts.

He’s there 12 hours a day. And not complaining.

“My parents worked day and night,” he notes. “They taught me to work hard.”

Retreat Sweets’ will have a dozen flavors of mochi donuts each day, drawn from a rotating list.

Right now there are 3 types of Korean corn dogs (which actually have no corn flour): hot dog and bread crumb, cheese and bread crumb, and a combination.

Mochi donuts, Korean corn dogs, and some other Asian street food and drink items that Zhang will add to the menu have been popular for a while on the West Coast. Slowly, they’ve made their way east.

But, Zhang believes, Retreat Sweets is the first shop of its kind in Fairfield County.

Wesley Zhang, with freshly baked donuts. (Photos/Dan Woog)

Customers are pleased. Zhang wants feedback — including suggestions. One idea: no-caffeine fruit drinks for kids.

Meanwhile, he’s preparing for next week’s grand opening. There will be a different promotion every day. On Monday, the first 100 customers who buy a dozen mochis get a limited edition hat.

Also in the works: a collaboration with his next door neighbor, Layla’s Falafel.

That should be a great Asian/Middle Eastern venture.

In the mini-mall once home to the donuts and coffee that America runs on.

(Click here for Retreat Sweets’ website. Online ordering will be available after the grand opening. The Instagram is @RetreatSweets. Search the iPhone or Android app store for the “Retreat Sweets” app.) 

(“06880” covers the Westport business scene — and everything else in town. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Jaime Bairaktaris, Sherry Jagerson, Saugatuck Church Pride …

Posted on June 17, 2024 | 8 comments

Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Service’s new president is a familiar face — but also a young one.

Jaime Bairaktaris has already served as a board member and crew chief. When he succeeds Michael Burns on July 1, the 26-year-old will be the youngest Westport EMS president in history.

He began volunteering in 2013 as a Staples High School freshman. He has logged
nearly 3,000 hours since.

Bairaktaris was named Volunteer of the Year in 2016, and Crew Chief of the
Year in 2022.

EMS is one of his many activities. Bairaktaris works full-time as a support staff member at Redding’s John Read Middle School, and recently finished a term on the Westport Representative Town Meeting for District 4. He also founded and publishes The Westport Local Press.

Bairaktaris hopes to add initiatives for current volunteers, while attracting and growing the next generation of EMTs.

Another goal is to strengthen public education, with new classes focused on mental health.

Current president Burns will transition to serve as vice president, continuing his work on the non-profit’s new endowment goals to allow long-term financial sustainability.

Burns’ leadership was crucial to WVEMS’s growth and stability following the pandemic.

For more information on Westport Volunteer EMS and its service to Westport, click here.

Jaime Bairaktaris

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Sherry Jagerson got the sendoff she deserved on Saturday afternoon.

Friends and admirers packed the Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport. They smiled and laughed as family members and colleagues told stories about the longtime Westporter’s many accomplishments, as a sailor, sailmaker and women’s sailing instructor; self-taught home renovator and repairperson; environmental activist and Nash Pond steward; human rights advocate; mother, grandmother, and role model to all.

The next day, 2 dozen family members and friends paid the ultimate tribute to the passionate woman, who died earlier this month at 80.

They gathered at the Sherwood Mill Pond Preserve — whose transformation from the former Allen’s Clam House to an idyllic spot for reflection and kayak launching Jagerson spearheaded over a decade ago — to weed, prune and replant the site.

As they worked, the crew told Jagerson’s story to curious passersby and preserve-goers. They included 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, who was there to go kayaking, and volunteered to take a group photo.

Sherry Jagerson’s family and friends, at Sherwood Mill Pond Preserve. (Photo/Jen Tooker)

“It was a fabulous few hours, giving us one more opportunity to show our appreciation and gratitude for our amazing mom,” daughter Stacy Fowle says.

Cleaning up Sherwood Mill Pond Preserve. (Photo/Stacy Fowle)

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Several dozen people enjoyed the warm sun and broad front lawn, at Saugatuck Congregational Church’s first-ever Pride event yesterday.

There was food, camaraderie, a bouncy house for kids, and more.

Including plenty of rainbows.

Saugatuck Church prepares for Pride. (Photo/Richard Fogel)

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Compo Shopping Center has the parking lot Westporters love to hate.

The front is narrow, confusing and dangerous. The rear is spacious, but — in part because it has been potholed and poorly maintained — underutilized.

Part of that problem has been solved. New owners Regency Centers recently repaved part of the back lot.

It’s a great improvement. Now, about rest of the place …

Compo Shopping Center repaving. (Photo/Rob Haroun)

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“Who” stopped by for a Father’s Day “Westport … Naturally” portrait yesterday?

This guy!

(Photo/Barry Kresch)

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And finally … on this date in 1631, Mumtaz Mahal died during childbirth. Her husband, Mughal emperor Shah Jahan I, spent the next 17 years building her mausoleum. Today it is called the Taj Mahal.

(Welcome to another week of Roundups: your best source each day for whatever has happened, is happening or will happen in the 06880. Please click here to support our hard work. Thank you!)

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