Category Archives: Local business

Roundup: VFW’s All-American Honors, MoCA’s Lost Places, Audrey Hepburn’s Sign …

Posted on July 18, 2026 | 4 comments

Congratulations to VFW Post 399!

For the 2nd year in a row, it’s earned All-American Post status.

The recognition, from the Veterans of Foreign Wars Department of Connecticut, honors the 106-year-old post’s commitment to serving veterans and the community.

All-American VFW posts demonstrate outstanding leadership, excellence in advancing the VFW’s core programs, meaningful service and sustained membership growth.

Post 399 quartermaster Phil Delgado calls the honor “a testament to the volunteers, members and partners who support our mission of serving veterans and our community.” To learn more about the Westport VFW, click here.

VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399.

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Ellen Harvey’s powerful, evocative works — dozens of “lost places,” from Ebbets Field and the Sutro Baths to the Remarkable Book Shop, Allen’s Clam House, the Cedar Brook Café and Bloodroot — formed the backdrop for an intriguing evening Thursday at MoCA\CT.

Harvey joined “06880” founder Dan Woog and Westport preservationist Ed Gerber in a wide-ranging discussion of the meaning of lost places, the importance of remembering them, and the meaning of absence.

Audience members participated avidly, recalling many parts of Westport’s past: restaurants like the Arrow, Ships and Big Top; stores like Klein’s, Selective Eye and Sally’s Place; Arnie’s Place, movie theaters and all of downtown, and much more.

From left: Ed Gerber, Dan Woog, Ellen Harvey … (Photo/Dave Matlow)

Each generation remembers the past differently, the panelists said, as they explored the meaning of memory, and the realities of the past and future.

Noting the inclusion of 4 local “lost places,” Harvey said, “I love that when this show travels next, it will bring a little piece of Westport with it.”

The program was sponsored by the CORA Foundation, the private foundation founded by philanthropist, travel business owner and advocate for culture and sustainability Robin Tauck.

CORA will sponsor 4 events in conjunction with the current MoCA exhibit, “Looking for History.” The next is Thursday, July 23 (6 p.m.)A : “Architectural Elegy: A Mourning Ritual for Lost Spaces.” Click here for details, and tickets.

… and Ellen Harvey, in front of her artwork. (Photo/Lewis Derogene)

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Also on Thursday: Nina Bentley was interviewed by fellow Westport artist Mark Yurkiw at the Westport Center for Senior Activities. Her humorously innovative exhibits of “typewriter art sculpture,” “Shoes” and “Marriage” is on display there throughout July.

Bentley, served as a Westport Arts Center board member, helped found the Westport Arts Collective, and is active with the Silvermine Guild Arts Center.

Nina Bentley and Mark Yurkiw. (Photo/Dave Matlow)

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On Thursday too, Eleish Van Breems Home hosted the most recent Westport Pride gathering.

Members of the LGBTQ community and allies enjoyed food from Nômade (across the street), and drinks from Black Bear Wine & Spirits.

The next social event is at Yuzu.

Westport Pride member, and friend. (Photo/Bethany Eppner)

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Many great scientists are also passionate musicians. (Far less often, the other way around).

On Tuesday (July 21, 8 p.m., Westport Observatory), Stephon Alexander will discuss “Cosmic Sound: the Emergence of Structure in the Universe.”

The director of the Center for Theoretical Physics and Innovation at Brown University revisits the interconnection between music, the evolution of astrophysics, and the origin of large scale structure in the universe.

He’ll explore new ways that music mirrors modern physics, like quantum mechanics, general relativity, and the physics of the early universe.

The talk will also be live-streamed on YouTube, shown as a Zoom webinar, and posted to the WAS YouTube channel afterward.

Dr. Stephon Alexander

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Yesterday’s Roundup included a photo of a sign from Turkey Hill Road South: Audrey Hepburn, warning drivers to “Slow Down.”

(Photo/Chris Grimm)

Pretty random, we thought. And quickly moved on.

Never underestimate the power — and knowledge — of “06880” readers.

Staples High School Class of 1971 graduate Bonnie Erickson soon sent a link to The New Journal, a Yale University publication.

It begins:

New Haveners have noticed, enjoyed, and sometimes stolen signs put up by artist Matthew Feiner. His most recent design is especially eye-catching: “SLOW DOWN,” it reads, over a stencil of Audrey Hepburn. The colors and stencils vary, but each sign features Hepburn in the center with her beehive haircut, staring straight at the viewer.

There are around 240 Audrey Hepburn signs made by Feiner in Connecticut. She glares from street signs near Feiner’s studio in West Haven, near his girlfriend’s place in Hamden, around bike routes, and across downtown New Haven.

“They’re a bright spot on the urban landscape,” Feiner proudly remarked. “They’re a calling card from an artist that says ‘cars slow down, everybody slow down, take an assessment of your life.’”

When asked how long ago he started making the signs, Feiner’s tall scruffy face smirked, and responded in his slightly raspy voice. “I guess the question really is, how long ago did I start admitting that they were mine?”

Click here to read the full story.

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The mother-daughter team of Niki Ketchman and Karen Kallins present their first exhibition together.

It’s on view weekdays (9 a.m. to 3 p.m.) at the Weston Senior Center. A reception is set for Thursday, July 23 (6 to 8 p.m.).

Ketchman is showing “Resinations,” mixed-media works created with resin and found materials. Kallins exhibits her “Submerged” series, combining botanicals, water and flowing inks to blur the line between photography and painting.

Though working in different mediums, both share a love of color, texture, movement and organic forms, creating a cohesive exhibition.

The family’s roots in Westport go back nearly 50 years.

“Resinations” (Niki Ketchman)

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In today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature photo, a mother leads her little one across the street to Pizza Lyfe … or perhaps the new ice cream spot, Sweet Lyfe.

(Photo/Stacey Henske)

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And finally … Happy National Woodie Wagon Day!

(“06880” is “where Westport meets the world.” Audrey Hepburn, Surf City, lost places, the universe — you’ll find them all here. If you enjoy this hyper-local blog, please click here to support us. Thanks!)

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Posted in Arts, Local business, Totally random

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The Chase: Weston Welcomes A Dive Bar

Posted on July 14, 2026 | 7 comments

The bad news: Weston Center lost its only restaurant a year ago.

The good news: It now has a dive bar.

So far, The Chase seems to be doing better than its predecessor, The Lunch Box.

Both are owned and operated by the husband-and-wife team of Josh and Jessica Tolk. And both are examples of the changing tastes and demographics — and the effects of COVID — on Weston.

Josh and Jessica Tolk.

Tolk — a commercial realtor — has worked with Weston Center since 1990. He and his wife bought the popular Lunch Box restaurant — the only place to eat (besides Georgetown or Westport) in 2014. They served breakfast, lunch and dinner, 7 days a week.

2019 was their best year. Then came the pandemic — and new arrivals, from Manhattan and Brooklyn.

“People’s eating habits changed,” Josh says. “They’re willing to hop in their car, and spend more money in fancier places. That’s why the Sherwood Diner closes early now.”

Three years ago, the Lunch Box ended breakfast.

Tolk — who grew up in Trumbull, and wrestled at Fairfield Prep — fondly remembers Westport bar/restaurants like Masters and Pumpernickel Pub. The only similar place now, he says, is the Black Duck.

He and Jessica missed those places. So they decided to recreate one, right there in Weston.

They spent 9 months making design and structural changes. A new entrance now directly faces Weston Road (Route 57).

On Memorial Day weekend, The Chase (named for the Tolks’ dog) was ready.

It wasn’t even a soft launch. The owners opened the doors, and hoped people would come.

They did.

Inside, they found the the trappings of a dive bar: beer cans from Tolk’s decades-old collection. Neon signs. A juke box. TVs in front; video games in back. Pizza and fried food. (The menu will be expanded soon.)

Beer cans galore …

It’s almost all bar seating, and high tops. There are 3 regular tables.

The only things lacking from a true dive bar, Tolk jokes, are “sawdust and filthy bathrooms.”

Soon, people were 3 deep at the bar.

… and a down-home vibe.

They keep coming.

They’re all ages — parents looking to socialize after the kids go to bed. Older folks happy to hang out. Restaurant workers from Westport, Norwalk, Bethel, Redding and Ridgefield, unwinding after their own places close.

The Chase opens at 3 p.m. Many patrons are there at last call — anywhere between 12:30 and 1:30 a.m.

On a recent night, Josh says, it was filled with “local families with kids, landscapers and a Hell’s Angel. I’d accomplished what I wanted!”

People “were caught off guard” when The Chase opened, Josh notes. There was some negativity on social media, but many more positive comments.

“It’s still early,” the owner says. “We’re going to grow organically.”

Meanwhile — with the Lunch Box closed — Westonites are clamoring for breakfast again. (Go figure.)

A new spot may open up nearby.

Watch this space — and, from a spot at The Chase, Weston Center — for news.

(Click here for The Chase website. Click here for the Instagram: @thechasebar. Click here for the Facebook page.)

(“06880” is where Westport meets the world — and Weston too. If you enjoy stories like this, about local businesses and people, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Local business, Restaurants, Weston

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Roundup: Bagels, Crepes, Ospreys — And Laddie Lawrence …

Posted on July 10, 2026 | 3 comments

The PopUp Bagels story is popping up everywhere.

Most recently, the business — founded right here in Westport during COVID by Adam Goldberg, as a lark — was the subject of a long, reverential story in New York magazine.

Calling PopUp Bagels “a burgeoning nationwide phenomenon,” the piece notes that no other chain

has blasted off with the velocity of PopUp, which now includes more than 40 shops (and counting), from New York to South Florida to Nashville, with franchise agreements signed for 300 more.

This spring, the business sold a stake to investment firm Tiger Global Management — following earlier money from the growth-equity fund Stripes and a roster of celebrity investors that includes the former NFL star J.J. Watt and the actor Paul Rudd — at a valuation of $300 million.

“My number-one goal,” Goldberg (said) recently, “is to get the best bagel possible everywhere in the world, starting with America.”

The story warns though of the dangers ahead, as PopUp bagels grows far beyond its origins.

Goldberg, who ran a flood mitigation business, came up with the idea during the pandemic, when he baked sourdough in the morning and drank wine in the afternoon.

Before long, the magazine says, “he hired a friend’s son and other teenagers to show up and bake at 4 in the morning — high-schoolers in pajamas or still dressed from the night before, drawn by loud music and a party atmosphere.

“The crew would knock out over a thousand bagels on a Saturday, sold from Goldberg’s kitchen window by the dozen with two cream cheeses.”

But what does the future hold? To read the full story, click here. (Hat tip: Hannah Redman)

A PopUp bagel, with schmear. (Photo/Jacob Moscovitch and Vivie Behrens for New York magazine)

Meanwhile, in other PopUp Bagels news: One of its newest locations is Charleston, South Carolina.

Longtime Westport resident Seth Schachter was in the city, and “popped” in for a visit.

Seth Schachter and PopUp Bagels, 800 miles from their homes.

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Speaking of food: Choupette has served its last crêpes.

The Bedford Square restaurant — the third in Connecticut, after New Haven and Darien — closed this week. It opened in October 2024.

Choupette (Photo/Sal Liccione)

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 A concerned reader emailed “06880.” The osprey nest at Fresh Market was empty, he thought.

We contacted Carolyn Doan, Westport’s osprey expert. She headed to the parking lot, and reports:

“There was a lot of activity today! Both raptors were in the nest, relaxing in the sun. A few moments later they were visited by a third osprey, vying for the attention of the female. It was quickly chased away by the male after 2 low flying swoops.

“The couple then engaged in mating attempts, and relaxed some more in the sun. Mother Nature never disappoints.”

In between mating attempts. (Photo/Carolyn Doan)

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A special free tennis festival — with everything from lessons, contests and a book signing — is set for tomorrow at Longshore (Saturday, 12 to 4 p.m.).

The afternoon includes instruction for adults and youngsters; fast-serve and hitting prizes, adult and junior point play (sign up: 203-520-9815), and a raffle.

Former professional player Sophie Amiach — who was a commentator at the recent Roland-Garros French Open — will present her new book “Tennis Smart & Simple: For Players and Coaches of All Levels and Ages.”

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Speaking of sports: The Westport Road Runners Summer Series has been running (ho ho) for 63 years.

For 61 years, it’s been directed by Laddie Lawrence.

That makes him the longest-serving race director in the world.

Don’t take my word for it. Check out this list compiled by Road Race Management.

That accomplishment by Lawrence — who is better known for his more-than-legendary 58-year career as Staples High School’s cross country, indoor and outdoor track coach — was the hook for a story in the Hartford Courant. It was reposted by Yahoo Sports (click here to read).

“I like doing it,” Lawrence — now 80 years old — says, about the road race series that has attracted everyone from a Boston Marathon winner to 88-year-old Westporter Norma Minkowitz, the world record holder in the mile (9:56) in her 85-89-year-old age group.

“I love the sport. I think it’s a good way for me to contribute. I like being around it. For the most part, it keeps me young – although I’m losing that battle.” (Hat tip: Richard Fogel)

Laddie Lawrence in 2019, when the Board of Education voted unanimously to name the Staples track in his honor. (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

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Speaking still of sports: Wednesday’s Roundup gave an incorrect date for the upcoming polo exhibition at the Fairfield County Hunt Club

The correct date is Saturday, July 25. Gates open at 11 a.m.

In addition to matches, there are vendors, food and drinks. For more information, email HuntClubPolo@gmail.com.

Polo comes to Westport.

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The Script in Hand play-reading series is one Westport Country Playhouse’s most popular offerings. Men and women regularly pack the historic theater, for inexpensive but compelling evenings of intriguing works.

Now there’s a junior version.

A staged reading of “Peter Pan” — the timeless tale of imagination, bravery, and the wonder of never growing up — is set for the Lucille Lortel White Barn on Saturday, July 18 (2 p.m.).

The cast include young actors from local middle and high schools: Alice DiMenna, Audrey Cook, Jayden Santos, Bridget Brennan, Cathy O’Toole, Colin Chudd, Gemma Wiener, Jack Fibiger, Jasper Leven, Joey Vazquez, Lua Gaspar, Maël Chevrier and Ryan Duffy.

Running time is approximately 1 hour. Recommended for age 8 and up. For tickets and more information, click here.

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Amy Schneider spotted a small group doing some of research yesterday, at Compo’s South Beach.

She learned they were from the state Department of Energy & Environmental Protection, taking measurements and readings of sport fish and seaweed. They do it 3 times a year, from Greenwich to Stonington.

DEEP biologists, on Compo’s South Beach.

The scientists showed Amy a variety of fish like windowpane flounder, which they scooped up from shore in big nets.

They taught her how to determine the sex of a horseshoe crab (hint: check their legs), and showed her pipefish, hermit crabs and a tiny pufferfish (DEEP’s first on this trip). It was too tiny to photograph, but the biologist let her see it puffer when he reduced the water in his hand.

Amy says, “I had no idea about the variety of marine life we encounter when we dip our toes in the water. I’m grateful they allowed me to ask questions and take photos.”

Windowpane flounder (Photos/Amy Schneider)

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Speaking of water: A main break yesterday on Bermuda Road was more than just an inconvenience (low water pressure; no or discolored water) to neighbors on Saugatuck Shores.

Sheri Gordon reports: “Aquarion said around 6 p.m. that it would take another 6-8 hours to restore service.

“It’s a big deal if you live here, because it’s really the only way in or out. We can in a pinch take Marsh Road, but it’s not supposed to be a through road. It is not paved, and floods regularly.”

Bermuda Road water main break. (Photo/Sheri Gordon)

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Amy Schneider had an interesting chat with state environmental scientists yesterday at Compo Beach. She learned a lot about fish (story above).

The next time DEEP comes to town, perhaps they’ll turn their attention to land — and these guys.

We’ve featured them before in this “Westport … Naturally” series. But we’re really not fans.

(Photo/John Maloney)

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And finally …Bonnie Tyler, the Welsh singer who had a #1 hit with “Total Eclipse of the Heart,” died Wednesday in Portugal. She was 75, and had undergone emergency intestinal surgery. Click here for a full obituary.

(From bagels and crépes, to polo ponies and flounder, “06880” covers all of Westport. And we do it 24/7/365. If you enjoy this hyper-local blog, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Children, Environment, Local business, Longshore, Media, Sports, Westport Country Playhouse

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Saugatuck Financial Spreads The Wealth, Near And Far

Posted on July 7, 2026 | 3 comments

Saugatuck Financial has a great story.

But as exciting as the growth of the financial planning firm — which in the past 2 years has doubled in size, in an office with a spectacular 4th-floor view of the Saugatuck River — they’re more eager to talk about their commitment to giving back, to Westport and the world.

Founding partners Justin and Christy Charise could do that for hours. And still not cover Saugatuck Financial’s philanthropic reach.

But first, the couple’s own back story. He grew up in Norwalk; she in a small town in New York State.

They met at Cornell’s business school, then went to work in New York: He for Goldman Sachs, she for Bain Capital.

Justin and Christy Charise.

Seventeen years ago, when their son Austin was 1 and they wanted more space. they moved here. At the same time they took a leap of faith, and started their own firm.

Saugatuck Financial handles financial, retirement, insurance, income distribution and estate and legacy planning. For the first years, Justin spent 3 to 5 days a week in New York.

When COVID caused clients to disperse and remote work zoomed, he had more time for Westport.

The Charises had long been enamored with the town. They loved living and working on the river, and Westport’s many other amenities. From his corner office, Justin can watch his kids — members of the Saugatuck Rowing Club team — as they glide past.

Five years ago, driving home from a charitable event for the West Point lacrosse program — Justin captained the team in 2000 — he and Christy talked about their company’s charitable efforts.

While they said “yes” to most requests, they realized they were reactive — not proactive. They were in a position to do more. They vowed to change their approach.

Have they ever.

In the past few years, Saugatuck Financial has helped:

  • Fund 2 water projects in India, and a community pump in Malawi
  • Support dozens of veterans, as a lead sponsor of Catch a Lift Fund’s Connecticut events
  • Develop young leaders, through West Point and FFA programs
  • Build a garden at Wakeman Town Farm
  • Revitalize the Earthplace Birds of Prey exhibit, as a lead sponsor
  • Contribute to the Westport Weston Family YMCA’s 100th celebration; Westport Library’s “Booked for the Evening” event; Staples’ soccer, football, lacrosse, music and drama programs
  • Work with projects like Boston University’s walk for the homeless, Soundwaters, Filling in the Blanks, Westport PAL and Norwalk Little League, Lustgarden Foundation, Al’s Angels, Wreaths Across America, A Better Chance of Westport … and more.

The Saugatuck Financial team, at a Catch a Lift event.

They’ve ramped up their long involvement with the Westport Uniformed Firefighters Charitable Foundation annual Santa visits, including shopping and wrapping for gifts for families that need help, and hosting a party at the Senior Center.

New ideas come from clients and Saugatuck Financial team members. “We try not to say no,” Justin says.

The Charises think about the opportunities they’ve been given. Both their mothers were nurses. Their fathers were a mechanic and insurance agent. Scholarships helped pay for school.

“We’re lucky enough to be in a position to have an impact on this and other communities, and people less fortunate”  Christy adds. “We’re grateful to be able to take advantage of it.

“Hands reached out to help us. We’re holding out our hands to others. They’ll drive their own destiny.

“We have a deep gratitude for the opportunity to serve wherever we can, whenever we can: clients, team, community, and like-minded folks who value community and look to leave things better than they find them.”

Some of the many organizations aided by Saugatuck Financial.

Westport is blessed with generous businesses. The couple hope even more will follow their leads.

Meanwhile, Saugatuck Financial continues to grow. And grow closer.

Nearly all team members live no more than 10 minutes away. They’re in the office 4 days a week. There are plenty of team activities.

“We are committed to treating our team like our #1 client, and creating a culture that attracts and keeps top talent,” Christy says. She notes proudly that director of investments Luke Andriuk — a Staples High graduate — was recently recognized with a Westfair Business Journal “40 Under 40” award.

“We’re very deliberate about who we bring in,” Justin says. “How people are built matters most. We look for someone who is hard-wired to over-deliver, but also wants to know: How can I be a better worker, spouse, parent? We’re training the next generation.”

And — from a modern office, with a killer view of the Saugatuck River — providing a wealth of resources for this town, our neighbors, and communities halfway around the world.

(“06880” reports often on local businesses — what they do, how they do it, and why it’s important. If you enjoy stories like these, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Local business, Organizations

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Friday Flashback #510

Posted on July 3, 2026 | 9 comments

A lot of people spent a lot of time stuck in yesterday’s fireworks traffic, heading to and from Compo Beach.

Even at non-holiday times, the light at the Compo Road South/Greens Farms Road/Bridge Street intersection can be long. There’s plenty of opportunity to look around.

What we see is the I-95 overpass. It seems like it — and Greens Farms Road — have always been there.

But for decades before the “turnpike” construction in the 1950s, the road came in at a different angle.

There, on the southwest corner, sat Ken Montgomery’s grocery store.

When the state of Connecticut planned the new route, his building was in the way.

He tried to relocate to a lot he owned on Bridge Street, across from what was then Saugatuck Elementary School (now The Saugatuck co-op housing), yet was rebuffed.

So one day in the mid-1950s, Ken’s store was demolished.

(Westport Town Crier photo courtesy of Mary Palmieri Gai)

Ken hoped to return with a new store in the same vicinity, once the highway was completed. In the meantime, he went to work at his mother’s (similar) grocery store, not far away by Old Mill Beach.

He never returned.

Instead, he took over from his mother. For many years, he operated “Ken’s” — aka “Grub’s” (IYKYK).

Today, it’s Old Mill Grocery & Deli by Romanacci.

And there is not a trace of Ken’s original store — or the original Greens Farms Road — underneath the I-95 overpass.

(Friday Flashback is one of “06880”‘s many regular features. If you enjoy this — or anything else on our website — please consider a tax-deductible contribution. Just click here. Thank you!)

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Posted in Beach, Friday Flashback, Local business, Transportation

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Roundup: World Cup, America 250, Local Stuff Too …

Posted on July 3, 2026 | 1 comment

The Clubhouse has been Westport’s go-to spot, for many World Cup matches.

For something different for today’s Argentina-Cape Verde game (Friday, 6 p.m.), consider a watch party in Stamford — hosted by Congressman Jim Himes.

The Round of 32 event is at Third Place by Half Full Brewery. Fans of both teams — and the USA — are welcome. So are all Democrats, Republicans, independents — and everyone else.

That’s the World Cup magic!

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What do freedom, faith, hope and responsibility mean, as America celebrates its 250th anniversary?

Weston’s Norfield Congregational Church invites everyone to participate in a 4-week sermon series exploring those questions.

“A New Birth of Freedom: America at 250 — Beautiful. Broken. Beloved. Becoming” begins this Sunday (July 5, 10 a.m.). Through scripture, reflection and honest conversation, the series examines how people of faith can engage the nation’s milestone with gratitude, humility, courage and hope.

Senior minister Rev. Dr. Bernard Wilson says, “This is not a partisan series. It is a Gospel series. We are not gathering around a flag, but around Christ’s table. Our goal is to explore what faithful citizenship and Christian hope look like in a complex and changing world.”

The series will be complemented by special musical offerings from American composers and hymn writers. For more information, click here.

Norfield Congregational Church

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Also in the spirit of our semiquincentennial: The Westport Garden Club invites the community to a free “American Spirit 250” event.

The patriotic exhibition — a gift to the the town — showcases the talents of club members through horticulture and floral design, and educational displays.

The National Garden Club Small Standard Flower Show is set for the Westport Library on July 11 (noon to 5 p.m.) and July 12 (1 to 3 p.m.).

The Westport Garden Club began celebrating America 250 in April, placing floral displays placed town. They’ll continue the effort on patriotic dates through the rest of the year.

Westport Garden Club members Louise Demakis, Janet Wolgast and Joanne Heller.

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As always, the Parks & Recreation Department did a spectacular job — not just with last night’s fireworks, but the cleanup that followed too.

Working through the night, after 10,000 guests left, they made sure that Compo Beach was pristine for the holiday weekend.

Meanwhile, the dozens of very important port-a-potties were trucked away. They too will be cleaned, and ready for whatever comes next.

(Photo/Amy Schneider)

PS: More props to Parks & Rec, for keeping the bathrooms by the lifeguard shack open. In years past, they were inexplicably closed during the biggest night of the year.

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Local artist Tammy Winser is this month’s Westport Book Shop artist exhibitor.

Her whimsical “So They Say” collection combines acrylic and collage, celebrating animals with human expressions and personalities. Winser’s thought-provoking works capture the humor and absurdity of everyday life.

An artist reception is set for July 16 (6 p.m.). The exhibit will be open during business hours throughout July, with all work available for purchase.

Meanwhile, the Book Shop’s Short Story Club meets July 22 (6 p.m.).

This month’s discussion focuses on stories by American writers, about conversations:

  • “Uncle Wiggly in Connecticut,” by J.D. Salinger
  • “What We Talk About When We Talk About Love,” by Raymond Carver
  • “What We Talk About When We Talk About Anne Frank,” by Nathan Englander

Space is limited. To register, call 203-349-5141, or email RSVP@westportbooksaleventures.org.

Tammy Winser

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The Representative Town Meeting (RTM) is seeking candidates to fill the District 7 vacancy created by the death of Jack Klinge.

No political party affiliation is required. as Westport’s RTM is a nonpartisan legislative body. Interested District 7 representatives can submit a resume and brief statement of intent to town clerk Jeffrey Dunkerton (jdunkerton@westportct.gov) by July 20.

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After all the partying and noise at last night’s fireworks, let’s take it down a notch.

Sit back relax, and enjoy this serene “Westport … Naturally” photo:

(Photo/Saranda Berisa)

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And finally … okay, back up a notch again:

(Hooray for the red, white and blue. And for “06880” too! Even on a holiday weekend, we work for you. If you appreciate what we do, please click here to support your hyper-local blog. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Beach Chairs, Tom Lowrie, Teardowns …

Posted on July 2, 2026 | 2 comments

An update on the Great Compo Beach Fireworks Land Grab Arms Race: Here was the view as of 8:30 this morning.

(Photo/Karen Como)

(Photo/Amy Schneider)

That’s the scene at ground level.

A drone’s-eye view is different. Our great “06880” teenage photographer Alex O’Brien captured this scene:

And — seen this way — it looks artful, geometric, even beautiful:

(Drone photos/Alex O’Brien)

But we gotta say: Some of those folks are taking up a lot of space.

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Meanwhile: We all know it will be a hot one today.

This was the scene just a few minutes ago.

(Photo/Jonathan Alloy)

The high today is expected to be 100.

If you’re headed to the fireworks — or anywhere else — bring plenty of water.

And patience.

We’re all in this together!

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Yesterday’s story on Tom Lowrie — Westport’s “Mr. Pickleball,” former YMCA trustee, Y’s Man and Rotarian (and much more) who died Tuesday at 97 — noted that there will be a gathering at 6 p.m. this Friday (July 3, his birthday), at the Compo Beach Lowrie Pickleball Courts.

His daughter Anne says that this is an informal toast. A celebration of Tom’s long life is set for Greens Farms Church on July 31. More details will be available soon.

Tom Lowrie, at his 97th birthday. (Photo/Andrew Colabella)

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Attention, sports fans! The Tuesday night Parks & Recreation adult hoops league is in full swing.  Eight teams play weekly, from 7 to 9 p.m.

Players include just-graduated Staples High heroes Sam Clachko, Matty Corrigan and Mason Tobias, and recent graduates Adam Udell, Cody Sale, Caleb Tobias, Derek Sale, Justin Honig and Griffin Kass.

This week’s ringer was a Big Name: former NBA star (and Rookie of the Year) Michael Carter-Williams (now a Westport resident), and former overseas pro and current Westport PAL coach Jamill Powell.

Spectators are always welcome. The Staples coaching staff enjoyed the games last week.

(Photo/Jordan Schur)

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The Historic District Commission meets on July 14 (7 p.m., Zoom).

The agenda includes discussion of a demolition permit for 13 Hyde Lane.

That’s not a residence. It’s Long Lots Elementary School.

Other (much smaller) properties up for demolition discussion:

  • 1 Dexter Road
  • 8 Otter Trail
  • 23 Fillow Street
  • 23 West Parish Road
  • 3 Ivy Terrace
  • 11 Clapboard Hill Road
  • 6 Weathervane Hill
  • 422 Riverside Avenue
  • 57 Compo Beach Road
  • 190 North Avenue.

To see all the meeting materials, click here. 

Long Lots Elementary School — built in 1953, and renovated 20 years later — is slated for demolition. (Drone photo/Brandon Malin)

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The String Queens are the newest addition to the free Levitt Pavilion calendar.

The August 16 show features the trio, known for blending classical music with jazz, hip-hop, R&B and popular styles. Click here to reserve free tickets.

Meanwhile, this holiday weekend’s schedule includes:

  • Friday, July 3 (7:30 p.m.): Clay Street Unit (bluegrass, folk, Americana, country)
  • Saturday, July 4 (7:30 p.m.): Early Clover (former Coasters’ lead singer; tribute to Marvin Gaye, Sam Cooke, Nat King Cole, Otis Redding and more)
  • Sunday, July 5 (7 p.m.): Back to the Garden 1969: Woodstock Experience (featuring Staples graduate Michelle Pauker)

For more information, and to reserve free tickets, click here. 

The String Queens

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Speaking of music: Lachat Town Farm’s next “Music in the Meadow” (July 11, 6 p.m.) features singer/guitarist/ songwriter Quinn Sullivan.

He’s appeared on “The Tonight Show,” “Jimmy Kimmel Live”  and with Conan O’Brien. Sullivan has also performed at Eric Clapton’s Crossroads Guitar Festival, and toured and recorded with Buddy Guy for nearly a decade.

Sharing the stage with B.B. King, Sullivan became one of the few artists ever to play his iconic guitar, “Lucille.”

Greek Style Grill and Tony Pizza Napolitano will be at Lachat. Cocktails, beer and wine will be available too. Click here tor tickets, and more information.

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Pride Month is over.

But the celebration continues July 16 (4:30 to 6:30 p.m.).

Eleish Van Breems Home opens it doors for a free celebration. Nômade will provide the food; Black Bear Wines & Spirits, the beverages. Everyone — the LGBTQ community, friends, allies — and fans of fun (and the furniture store) — is invited. Please RSVP: events@evbhem.com. 

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The Whitney Street improvement project is nearly done.

Resident Molly Alger could not be happier. And not just because the noise and inconvenience will end.

The new curb is a masterpiece,” she reports.

“The old curb, next to the black paved sidewalk, was just a raised bit of asphalt.

“Now they’re constructing a legitimate cement curb — perfectly formed and absolutely beautiful.  Of course it will also be much safer!”

Whitney Street curb (Photo/Molly Alger)

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Westport Police made 1 custodial arrest between June 24 and 30.

A 38-year-old Shelton man was charged with operating an unregistered motor vehicle, operating under suspension and failure to appear, following a stop on Post Road East.

Westport Police also issued these citations:

  • Distracted driving: 6 citations
  • Evading responsibility: 1
  • School zone violation (2nd offense): 1
  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 1
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 1
  • Disorderly conduct: 1

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As the weather heats up, residents slow down … and seek shade.

These folks found it yesterday, at Sherwood Island State Park. It’s a nice “Westport … Naturally” reminder of how good we have it — despite the temperature.

(Photo/Pam Docters)

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And finally … Victor Willis, the lead singer of the Village People who also co-wrote their smash hits “YMCA” and “Macho Man,” died Monday, after a short illness. He was 74.

Willis performed often as the group’s police officer, occasionally as the sailor. Click here for a full obituary. 

(Once again, “06880” proves why it is “where Westport meets the world.” Where else can you find all this stuff? If you appreciate our hyper-local blog, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Jasey’s: Supporting Youth Mental Health, One Toy At A Time

Posted on July 2, 2026 | Comments Off on Jasey’s: Supporting Youth Mental Health, One Toy At A Time

Your child is playing with blocks.

They fall. That’s what blocks do.

How does he or she react? And what about you, as a parent?

“It’s okay to feel upset,” you could say. “Let’s talk about it.”

Or, “When that tower fell, how did that feel?”

Handling emotions is one of 6 skills that support children’s mental health through everyday play, Brian and Lauren Bernstein note.

Another one is problem-solving. “It won’t work!” your frustrated child says, when things don’t go as planned.

“Hmmm … what else could we try?” you suggest.

Or “What do you think went wrong?”

The Bernsteins are not child psychologists.

But they do know kids.

Brian — a 1984 Staples High School graduate — spent 21 years in the toy industry. He headed up sales for his brother Doug’s Melissa & Doug company, helping grow the department from 14 people (and the firm was called Lights, Camera, Interaction!) to its enormous e-commerce presence.

Lauren knows children too. She’s been a piano teacher for 40 years.

Brian and Lauren Bernstein

Bernstein, and other family members, left Melissa & Doug in 2021. After a couple of years away, he wanted to get back into the business.

“Developmental pre-school toys are not screens. They’re wholesome,” he notes. “They’re so important at a young age.”

Though wooden toys have become more expensive, he wanted to make them accessible and affordable: $29.99 or less.

But he and Lauren had another reason for starting a new company: a way to honor their late son Jason.

Nicknamed Jasey, he was “an amazing, beautiful child,” Brian says.

“He was a great pianist — he could improvise for hours. He composed music. He taught himself oil painting, and made movies.”

But Jasey struggled with mental health challenges for most of his life. They became more prominent in his teens.

The Bernsteins tried everything: therapists, psychiatrists, programs, medications.

Nothing helped. “He didn’t want to be here anymore.” He lost his battle in 2019, age 25.

Jason Bernstein

Behind the company — called Jasey’s Toy Chest — is a mission: to help families struggling with mental health issues.

The founders partnered with the Kids Mental Health Foundation and the Jed Foundation (serving teens and young adults). The non-profits provide expert guidance and advocacy.

Together, the partners — and Jasey’s Toy Chest — are helping destigmatize mental health. They provide prompts, tips, suggestions, resources and solutions for parents and caregivers to talk about it.

And, Brian Bernstein says, “We’ve kept it simple. This is not a big homework project. Fifteen minutes of play a day can make a difference. It’s all about ‘intentional play.'”

The Bernsteins began shipping their toys in March. Already, they’re on Amazon, and in Awesome Toys. In September, they’ll be featured in 600 Barnes & Noble stores.

Playing with a wooden workbench.

And they’ve just won 5 (very prestigious) Oppenheim Awards.

That’s not child’s play.

But then again, it is.

(For more information, click here for the Jasey’s Toy Chest website.)

(“06880” regularly covers interesting Westporters, local businesses, health and wellness — and, like today, their intersection. If you like these stories, please click here to support us. Thank you!)

Jasey’s Toy Chest display, in Awesome Toys’ Westport store.

 

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Staples Students Create AI Start-ups

Posted on June 30, 2026 | 1 comment

Artificial intelligence has ushered in a new world. And several Staples students are taking full advantage of it.

They’re  using AI to turn innovative ideas into reality … using AI itself. Here are stories of 2 intriguing startups.

Noah Tomasovic is a rising junior. He’s runs track , plays rugby, is a member of Service League of Boys, started a club that monitors water safety, competes nationally with Future Business Leaders of America, and is working this summer at a commercial real estate firm.

Noah is also the founder of Pilotier. The company installs custom AI systems into local Fairfield County businesses. They handle many details a small business owner has no time or talent for, like building a website, organizing and responding to emails, and scheduling. It’s all done through a dashboard he devised.

Some of those tools already exist, of course. But, Noah says, configuring email through, say, Google Cloud can be difficult. His system allows a user to click one button to connect.

Pilotier integrates many functions into one.

One local client, the owner of Alma Mexican Foods, had trouble reaching decision-makers at large outlets like Big Y and Stop & Shop. Noah built a system that personalizes emails, and ensures they reach the right executive.

His agent also reads all emails that come in. It summarizes them, suggests follow-up actions — then handles them.

Pilotier also handles lead follow-ups for every inquiry and quote, so “nothing falls through the cracks”; social media content, drafted in the client’s voice on a pre-determined (yet flexible) schedule, and invoicing.

Every morning, there is a “briefing,” with to-do lists and suggestions.

Noah Tomasovic offers a free AI audit for businesses. 

“The whole goal of AI is to automate tasks, and help you scale up,” he notes.

“A lot of businesses don’t know too much about AI — or they’re intimidated by it. They don’t know how to use it, but they’re worried about being surpassed by it.”

Noah charges a set-up fee, and a monthly retainer.

It’s all explained in a comprehensive, clear website. Built by Noah — with, of course, help from AI.

(To learn more, visit the Pilotier website, or email noah@getpilotier.com.)

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In the financial world, 4 students have spent a year building a tool for wealth management firms.

Right now, they say, advisors spend hours reading Department of Labor filings and data to find companies whose plans are not performing well, then write custom outreach by hand.

The quartet — Mikael Nagy, Ignacy Nieweglowski, Pranav Tamilselvan and Lucas Nilsson, all rising seniors and juniors interested in computer science and finance — make the prospecting process faster. They use AI to scan public data and create full pitches, score plans automatically, and help advisors land more clients.

Their company, Polamin (the name combines their Polish, American and Indian backgrounds), analyzes hundreds of thousands of retirement plan filings to help advisors find underperforming plans, then generates data-backed proposals.

They say all 146,000-plus plan sponsor in the country is profiled and searchable. More than 152,000 plans are scored, 0 to 100, against size, industry and regional benchmarks, using 3 “proprietary layers”: advisory, core and risk.

AI does all the (very) heavy lifting.

The 4 friends talked for a while about starting a company. They considered analyzing crypto, but realized it was complicated and scam-filled.

From left: Mikael Nagy, Pranav Tamilselvan, Ignacy Nieweglowski.

Speaking with a local wealth management analyst, they learned he spent an enormous amount of tedious time prospecting, looking for poorly performing plans, then reaching out to convert clients.

“We didn’t realize how massive the retirement plan industry is,” Ignacy says.

The proposals Polamin creates are tailored to a prospect’s experiences and interests. They use a variety of voices and styles: conservative, modern or data-heavy.

Screenshot from the Polamin website. 

They were accepted to present at last month’s Yale Innovation Summit. “There were a lot of adults — really, really smart people,” Mikael reports.

They did not win. But they picked up a ton of tips, and networked well.

Since its March launch, the founders have added new features. It’s being tested by a Westport client now. Other interested users can test it for free, too.

Mikael, Ignacy, Pranav and Lucas are decades away from retirement. They haven’t even been to college, or landed their first full-time jobs.

But thanks to their start-up, retirement may become more affordable for countless older men and women they’ll never meet.

(To learn more, visit the Polamin website, or email mikael.d.nagy@gmail.com.)

(“06880” reports often on local businesses — and the achievements of Staples students. Sometimes they intersect. If you enjoy stories like these, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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MoCA Looks At Lost Places — And Asks: What Do You Miss?

Posted on June 29, 2026 | 20 comments

If there’s one thing that unites Westporters today, it’s the past.

From this blog’s “Friday Flashback” and “Then & Now” teardown features, to comments from readers, we think of our town in terms of landmarks that no longer exist.

Relative newcomers do it too. In just the past couple of days, I’ve heard folks lament the loss of Saugatuck Sweets and Carvel. (No one mentioned Savvy Smoker. Go figure.)

(Photo/Jennifer Izzo)

This summer, MoCA\CT examines the past.

And Westporters are invited to play a key, fun — and very interactive — role.

Inspired by the new exhibit “Looking for History,” featuring Ellen Harvey’s “The Disappointed Tourist” — with themes of memory, loss and place —  a special program on July 16 will look at our own history.

Harvey created 4 new paintings, based on local submissions: The Remarkable Book Shop, Cedar Brook Café, Bloodroot and Allen’s Clam House. They’ll serve as starting points for a broader community dialogue.

The Remarkable Book Shop

On July 16 (at MoCA\CT, 19 Newtown Turnpike), “06880” founder Dan Woog will chat with Harvey, and Westport preservationist Ed Gerber. We’ll talk about the cultural and emotional significance of lost places. It’s called “The CORA Foundation Community Conversation with Ellen Harvey + Dan Woog.”

And we’ll include your favorites. Or the ones you miss the most.

We want you to submit your choices in any or all of 4 categories:

  • Gone Too Soon
  • Place You Thought Would Last Forever
  • What a Cool Hangout!
  • Just One More Bite.

Email your choices (and, if you’d like, a story to go with them) to 06880blog@gmail.com.

At the end of the evening the audience will vote, to crown one favorite missed location.

See you on July 16. Don’t “miss” this! 

(Doors open at 5:30 p.m. on July 16. The program begins at 6. Click here to register.)

Allen’s Clam House

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