Category Archives: Restaurants

Roundup: RTM & DPIC, “MOMents That Matter,” Drug Takeback Day …

Posted on April 25, 2024 | 5 comments

Two dozen electors have petitioned the Representative Town Meeting to appoint a committee to “review the Downtown Plan Implementation Committee’s plans for both Parker Harding and Jesup Green, the scope of the work and the associated costs; and to consider the merits and costs associated with feasible alternatives to what is being proposed by the DPIC, including a parking deck at the Baldwin lot; and to report its findings to the entire membership for such action as may be appropriate.”

The petitioners note “a great deal of concern and consternation among the citizenry surrounding the DPIC proposal, focused upon both the encroachment into Jesup Green and perceived flaws in the redesign of Parker Harding.”

RTM moderator Jeff Wieser has asked the RTM Rules Committee to review the petition prior to the full body’s May 7 meeting.

Wieser says that the RTM will take up that topic at the full meeting, along with the request for design funds to propose construction drawings for Jesup Green and the Imperial Avenue parking lot.

“Various committees have met regarding the design funds,” he notes. In addition, the RTM will have field trips next week at Jesup Green to review the proposed plans.

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It’s very appropriate: WestportMoms is hosting a Mother’s Day celebration — called “MOMents that Matter” — next Thursday (May 2, 6 to 10 p.m., Birchwood Country Club).

The event includes:

  • Mother’s Day shopping boutique with curated vendors
  • Panel discussion “rock star local moms” (including CNN anchor Alisyn Camerota, actress Stephanie Szostak, “Devil Wears Prada” author Lauren Weisberger, Melissa + Doug co-founder Melissa Bernstein and others) on balancing careers and motherhood, and the “MOMents That Matter.”
  • Gift bags for 50 attendees ($100 gift card to WEST, massage at Squeeze, and much more)
  • Appetizers from the new Birchwood chef, and cash bar.

Attendees are asked to bring a pack of feminine napkins, for women in need. The be donated to the Diaper Bank of Connecticut.

Tickets are $30. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

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Stacie Curran reports:

“What a wild nightyesterday at the Westport Library!

“Attendees from Club 203 members (our social group for adults with disabilities) and friends packed the Trefz Forum with a night of ‘speed friending; by TeenSLP (Staples High School’s speech and language expert Deirdre Flores), and rockin’ out with karaoke by our MC extraordinaire volunteer PJ Pitcher.

Thank you, Westport Library, for this incredible space. A special shout-out to associate director Alex Giannini, and the sound manager of Verso Studios, Travis Bell. You turned dreams into realty!”

Part of the Club 203 fun last night at the Westport Library.

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There’s a new addition to Saturday’s annual Drug Takeback Day (April 27, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Westport Senior Center).

A Wellness Fair — sponsored by Positive Directions — will take place, along with a collection by Westport Police and the Drug Enforcement Agency of tablets, capsules, patches and other solid forms of prescription drugs.

Syringes, sharps and illicit drugs are not accepted. Liquid products like cough syrup should remain sealed in their original container.

Residents can bring expired and unwanted medications for safe disposal, then stay for “wellness fun.”

The event includes a free behavioral health screening and blood pressure check, a sensory table for relaxation, and nutrition tips.

Prevention resources include drug awareness activities (drunk goggles, liquor stickers, lock bags, Narcan demonstration), tick and mosquito prevention resources, and gambling awareness materials.

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Prep work continues for the upcoming beach season.

It’s not pretty.

But — a few weeks from now — it will be worth it.

(Photo/Richard Fogel)

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Speaking of big vehicles: Dennis Wong was surprised this yesterday, near the Westport Library:

(Photo/Dennis Wong)

It’s not new. However, it is usually parked in the lower Westport Police parking lot, near EMS. It was moved, because the lot will be swept.

The vehicle is used for high water rescue incidents, during floods.

Hopefully it’s like insurance: We pay for it, but don’t want to ever use it.

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Speaking of police: The Westport PD made 6 custodial arrests between April 17 and 24.

A 26-year-old Bridgeport woman was arrested for larceny, illegal taking of a payment card, illegal use of a credit card exceeding $500, receipt from illegal use of a credit card, and identity theft, following complaint of fraudulent credit card charges over $12,000. Surveillance footage at Walgreens determined that an employee had used the card to purchase gift cards. Surveillance footage at other locations also showed the same user.

A 52-year-old Elizabeth, New Jersey woman was arrested for larceny and forgery, and conspiracy to commit those crimes, after a $560 check was stolen from their mailbox, and fraudulently deposited for $5,500..

A 43-year-old Westport man was charged with disorderly conduct and interfering with an emergency call, following a domestic disturbance. His comments made a family member fear for their safety, then held their car keys so they could not leave and interfered with a 911 call for help

A 47-year-old Stamford woman was charged with disorderly conduct and assault, after a domestic violence incident in a Westport home.

A 33-year-old Norwalk man was arrested for illegal operation of a motor vehicle with a suspended license, evading responsibility, failure to obey a stop sign and operating a motor vehicle without a license, following an accident with injuries at the Compo Road North/Evergreen Avenue intersection. The driver — who fled with the passenger on foot — had failed to stop at the Evergreen Avenue stop sign. He and the passenger were quickly apprehended. The operator of the vehicle that was struck sustained minor injuries.

A 39-year-old Darien man was arrested for driving under the influence after his vehicle was stopped in the travel portion of the street, near 1655 Post Road East. Officers found the driver disoriented, unable to follow basic instructions, and with the odor of alcohol on his breath.

Westport Police also issued these citations:

Traveling unreasonably fast: 3 citations

  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 3
  • Speeding: 2
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 2
  • Interfering with an officer: 1
  • Reckless driving: 1
  • Distracted driving: 1
  • Failure to yield to a pedestrian: 1
  • Following too closely: 1
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
  • Improper use of markers: 1

Drivers must yield to pedestrians at crosswalks like this one, on Riverside Avenue at Sylvan Lane.

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Suzuki Music Schools are best known for their violin instructions.

Sophie B. Hawkins does not play the violin.

No matter. The Westport-based singer/songwriter is the special guest performer at Suzuki’s annual gala this Friday (April 26, Aspetuck Country Club, Weston). She’ll be accompanied by Suzuki students.

The event includes a cocktail hour with open bar, dinner, and a live auction.

Last year’s gala raised nearly $40,000 to support their Bridgeport Outreach programs, to provide music lessons to children in need.

This year’s goal: raise enough funds to provide violins for those children to take home for practice.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

Sophie B. Hawkins

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There was just the slightest touch of rain yesterday, for about 1/10 of a second.

But we were nonetheless treated to a sweet rainbow. Here are 2 drone views. (Apologies to all who sent photos — we can’t post them all!)

 

Over the Westport woods, and …

… the Merritt Parkway … (Drone photos/Paul Delano)

… and the Fairfield County Hunt Club. (Photo/Dave Shea)

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Dimitri Alatakis — a part owner of the Sherwood Diner — died last week, after suffering a heart attack. He lived in Fairfield, and was 61.

Dimitri is survived by his wife of 31 years, Donna; children Dimitri, Zoe and Alexei; mother Galatia and brother Stephen. He was predeceased by his father Andreas.

Services will be private. Memorial contributions may be made to Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 4070 Park Avenue, Bridgeport, CT 06604, to benefit the preschool program.

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We don’t often post a nighttime “Westport … Naturally” photo. Here’s an exception: Jerry Kuyper’s image, “minutes after the moon hit full.”

(Photo/Jerry Kuyper)

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And finally … on this day in 1792, “La Marseillaise” — the French national anthem — was composed by Claude Joseph Rouget de Lisle.

(“06880” — your hyper-local blog — relies on support from readers like you. Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

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Posted in Beach, Downtown, Library, Obituaries, Police, Restaurants

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Roundup: Dunville’s, James Comey, Henry Wynne …

Posted on April 23, 2024 | 43 comments

Dunville’s has been around for over 40 years.

And — under the leadership of Doug Grabe, who owns 5 Little Pubs and has now taken over operation of the Saugatuck landmark — it aims to be around for at least 40 more.

But not every restaurant makes it that long.

Even the landmarks.

To honor them, Dunville’s has unveiled a new “icons mural.”

Some flourished nearby. Others were across town.

All are gone, but warmly remembered.

There’s still some room left.

Any suggestions? Click “Comments” below.

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James Comey returns to Westport on May 23.

The former FBI director will be at the Westport Library. He’ll discuss his new book with TV host (and Westporter) Dave Briggs.

Comey’s book is called “Westport.” The suspense thriller features Nora Carleton, lead counsel at Saugatuck Associates, the world’s largest hedge fund.

What a coincidence! Before entering government service, Comey was general counsel of Bridgewater Associates — the world’s largest hedge fund. He and his family lived in Greens Farms, just a couple of miles from his office.

Click here for more information, and to register. Books will be available for purchase at the event.

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Henry Wynne has set many Connecticut and collegiate running records.

Now he’s part of a new world mark.

The 2013 Staples High School and 2017 University of Virginia graduate anchored the Brooks Beasts team that won the men’s distance relay at Friday night’s Oregon Relays.

Their 9:14.58 time sliced nearly a second off the record that stood for nearly a decade: 9:15.50.

It’s not his first world record, either. In 2019, Wynne’s Brooks Beast team won the 4 x 1 mile relay in 16:03.68, smashing the previous mark by as astonishing 9.13 seconds.

Wynne covered the 1600 meters — the longest leg of the 4 runners — in 3:52.64.

He told DyeStat.com that he fed off the energy of the crowd. “It was pressure,” Wynne said, “but such a fun atmosphere.”

Teammate Brandon Miller said: “Seeing Henry, that last 200, pulling away from the lights – it was so hype for me and the boys. It was a dream come true.”

(Click here for the full story. Click here for a video of Oregon Relays highlights. Hat tip: Jeff Mitchell)

Henry Wynne crosses the finish line, with a world record. (Photo/Becky Holbrook courtesy of DyeStat.com)

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Earth Day was yesterday.

But the celebration continues this Saturday (April 27, 10 a.m.)

Members of the Westport Police and Fire Departments, Staples Service League of Boys, Police Athletic League, VFW Post 399, Sons of the American Legion Westport Animal Shelter Advocates will gather at the animal control building on Elaine Road (off Compo Road South, between the I-95 underpass and railroad tracks), for a trash pick-up.

Even more help is needed. The area — which includes the state boat launch — is a mess.

Bring gloves and trash bags. Questions? Email acolabellartm4@gmail.com.

Westporters of all ages — including RTM member and organizer Andrew Colabella (standing on trash bags) and Police Chief Foti Koskinas (2nd from right) turned out for an earlier trash pick-up. Among the items: the large discarded signs (left).

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Compo Beach was almost empty on Sunday.

There were hundreds of parking spots.

This should not have been one of them:

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A home on Pumpkin Hill is well known for its lawn signs. They celebrate big events: Halloween, Thanksgiving, graduations.

Yesterday, it was Passover.

(Photo/Ed Simek)

“06880” can’t say it with as much spirit as the sign shows, but: “Sameach Pesach!”

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Westport loves our ospreys.

The most famous pair nest on a tower next to Fresh Market. Others find homes on platforms at Burying Hill Beach and Sherwood Island State Park, drawing admiring gazes from springtime visitors.

Another osprey couple is less visible. Johanna Keyser Rossi’s eagle eyes (ho ho) spotted them high up on the cell tower next to the Westport Weston Family YMCA.

(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

It’s nowhere near as beautiful as the beachside nests.

But for these 2 raptors, it’s home.

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What’s for lunch?

Johanna Keyser Rossi doesn’t know if it’s an eel or a snake. But her Saugatuck River photo is definitely an intriguing addition to our “Westport … Naturally” series.

(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

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And finally … today is the birthday of the amazing Roy Orbison. He died far too young of heart failure in 1988. He was just 52.

The man Elvis Presley called “the greatest singer in the world” had a 4-octave range, earning him the nickname “the Caruso of Rock.”

In fact, music scholars say, Orbison and Enrico Caruso were the only 20th century tenors capable of hitting E over high C.

(“06880” can’t sing as well as Roy Orbison. But we’ve got pretty good range — at least, for our coverage of all things Westport. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Beach, Environment, Library, religion, Restaurants, Sports, Staples HS

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Roundup: Sakura Trees, Senator Blumenthal, Tesla Cybertruck …

Posted on April 20, 2024 | 13 comments

A year ago, 2 beautiful Japanese cherry blossom trees outside Sakura were slated to be cut down.

The Connecticut Department of Transportation wanted them gone, for sidewalk installation and lane expansion as part of the Post Road renovation project.

Representative Town Meeting member galvanized local politicians and others in support of the beloved trees.

Public Works Department, RTM, Westport Tree Board and Earthplace officials, plus Sakura’s owner and landowner, met with representatives from DOT and Eversource. The trees were saved.

This week, they were at peak blossom.

Present and former members of the RTM headed to Sakura, to honor the occasion.

Every Westporter who drives past the restaurant thanks them for their efforts.

FUN FACT: “Sakura” means “cherry blossom” in Japanese.

Standing at Sakura (from left): RTM members Harris Falk, Claudia Shaum, Andrew Colabella, Matthew Mandell, Don O’Day. Not pictured, but important to the effort: Louis Mall, Jay Keenan, Julie Whamond, Chris Tait, Seth Braunstein and Jimmy Izzo.

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Senator Richard Blumenthal was supposed to address the Sunrise Rotary Club in person at 8 a.m. yesterday, at Green’s Farms Church.

However, the Senate schedule kept him in Washington.

No problem! Rotary member Mark Mathias used his technical know-how to set up a remote appearance.

At 8:00 sharp, Blumenthal appeared on-screen. An audience of 80 people — members of both Westport Rotary Clubs, and guests — heard his takes on a variety of issues, including the need for quick approval of military aid to Ukraine.

Senator Blumenthal addresses Sunrise Rotary. (Photo/Dave Matlow)

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The Tesla Cybertruck that has drawn plenty of attention in Westport may be off the road for a while.

Tesla has recalled all 3,878 of the vehicles it produced from November 13 to December 4. An accelerator pedal can stick, leading to accidents. The cause for the defect was soap used as a lubricant at the Austin factory. (Hat tip: Bill Dedman) 

Tesla Cybertruck, last week on Hillspoint Road. (Photo/Karen Como)

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Today’s trivia: Knights of Columbus Council 3688 sponsor their 2nd annual Trivia Night next Saturday (April 27, 6 p.m., Assumption Church).

Prizes are not trivial: $250 first place; $150 restaurant gift card 2nd place. There are wine raffles, plus a silent auction, music and refreshments.

Tams can include up to 3 people. Categories include history, science, health and the Bible.

Tickets are $40; proceeds go to charity. Click here to purchase.

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MoCA Westport’s next open mic night is this Friday (April 26, 6:30 p.m.). It features acoustic music, poetry, and slam poetry.

The public is invited to participate, or attend.

The event is free for members to watch or participate. General admission is $10; participation fee is $5. Click here for tickets.

Questions? Email isabelle@mocawestport.org.

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Last week, “06880” posted a delicious story on Mary Lou Roels.

The Westporter has developed a great business making (very) fresh jams and preserves.

Mary Lou is also an excellent artist.

She took a break yesterday from the kitchen. On a whim, she headed to Playhouse Square.

There — on the sidewalk outside the post office — she went to work:

(Photo/Dan Woog)

Whatever she does, Mary Lou always manages to make it a fruitful day.

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Speaking of artists:  Herm Freeman — the Westport Book Shop’s artist exhibitor for February, whose works have been exhibited throughout the US and Europe for over 40 years — is one of 2 local artists whose “Kaleidoscope Eyes” show at Colorblends House & Spring Garden in Bridgeport has an artists’ reception today (Saturday, April 20, 3 to 6 p.m., 893 Clinton Avenue).

The other — Cris Dam — has produced the show.

They invite interested Westporters to stop by. “There’s tons of art, and thousands of tulips. It’s great family fun!” Herm says.

“Kaleidoscope” art

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Judging by the number of emails I get, Westporters are increasingly concerned about the number — and weight — of wires strung between utility poles.

They serve a variety of purposes: electricity, telephone, cable. But apparently it’s  lot easier to string new ones than replace outdated ones. There are a lot up there.

Alert “06880” reader Bob Weingarten spotted a utility worker yesterday, on Post Road East by Stop & Shop. Bob writes: “He must be wondering, which one do I connect?!”

(Photo/Bob Weingarten)

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature is a fierce one.

Anita Tucker Smith writes: “Our wooded yard on Roseville Road has a lot of daily wildlife visitors. But this one is special.

“We first spotted footprints in the 6-inch snow a few weeks ago. We then saw him 6 feet from our front door a few weeks later. We were all startled, and he zipped away.

“I finally managed a few pictures Saturday afternoon as we glanced out the living room windows, just before heading out to dinner.”

(Photo/Anita Tucker Smith)

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And finally … since today is 4/20:

(On 4/20 — and every other day of the year — “06880” is your hyper-local blog. And every day, we rely on readers like you. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Entertainment, Politics, Restaurants, Transportation

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Roundup: Burger Winners, Rizzuto’s Cops, 5 Little Pigs’ BBQ …

Posted on April 6, 2024 | 10 comments

And the envelopes, please …

The Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce has stopped eating, and counted over 1,000 votes. The winners of their Great Burger Contest are:

  • Best Classic Burger – Shake Shack
  • Best Cheeseburger – Viva Zapata
  • Best Gourmet Burger – Nômade
  • Best Veggie Burger – The Black Duck
  • Best Non-Beef Burger – Match Burger Lobster
  • Best Slider Burger – The Black Duck

Two winners repeated from the first burger competition in 2019. Viva Zapata and Match Burger Lobster both won again, but this year in different categories.

Next year, the Chamber sponsors the Great Westport Soup Contest. The prior one (2020) was suspended due to Covid.

Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce director Matthew Mandell congratulates (clockwise from top): Shake Shack, Match Burger Lobster, Nômade, Black Duck and Viva Zapata.

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It was the Spin Doctors’ turn to rock VersoFest last night.

(Photo/Dick Wingate)

The long-running alt band did not disappoint the sold out Westport Library crowd.

(Photo/Dinkin Fotografix)

The 5-day music/media/and more event wraps up this weekend. Today’s highlights include a conversation between Doors drummer John Densmore and CNN’s Alisyn Camerota; a session with WFUV’s Paul Cavalconte, and a workshop called “Pitch Your Podcast.”

Click here for a full schedule of today’s and tomorrow’s VersoFest.

 

(Photo/Matthew Mandell)

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On Thursday night, Rizzuto’s swarmed with cops.

And everyone was happy.

Over a dozen of Westport’s finest joined the restaurant’s wait staff (off duty, of course). They served, poured drinks — and encouraged customers to leave extra tips.

Patrons obeyed. When the night was over, they’d raised over $4,000 for Special Olympics Connecticut.

Which just proves: We have the best police force, restaurants and diners around!

From left: Det. Erin Shaw, Sgt. Richard Bagley, Officer Melissa Bike, Lt. Eric Woods, Sgt. Sharon Russo, Officer Greg Gunter, Lt. Sereniti Dobson, Cpl. Brendan Fearon, Cpl. Rachel Hall, Officer Ryan Kardamis, Sgt. Dan Paz. Other WPD “waiters” are not pictured.

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The agenda for the Board of Selectwomen’s Wednesday meeting (April 10, 9 a.m., Town Hall auditorium) is filled with the usual: acceptance of gifts, approval of contracts, actions taken as the Water Pollution Control Authority.

But there’s also this: updating the “Parks & Recreation Department rules and regulations to include: “Recreational facilities located on Board of Education grounds are not accessible to those who are not students, staff or invited guests between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 4:15 p.m. on school days.”

The vote follows the unanimous approval of the new regulation last week, by the Parks & Recreation Commission.

Board of Selectwomen (from left): Andrea Moore, Jen Tooker, Candice Savin.

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Yesterday’s “Friday Flashback” featured a postcard of “The Five Little Pigs.” It was (presumably) a restaurant that no one in Westport seemed to recall.

Both Peter Gold and Neil Brickley sleuthed out the back side of the postcard, on eBay.

Here’s what it showed:

Yum!

Meanwhile, Jack Whittle searched through the 1931 Westport Directory. He found “5 Little Pigs Tea Room (Mrs. Lillian Hawley) E State n Colonial Rd GF.”

A Sanborn Map confirmed it was right where The Flower Basket is today (next to Stiles Market) — exactly where I guessed it might be, based on the shape of the buildings.

Mystery solved. Too bad we can’t go back in time, and taste some of “the only place in the east where this delicious BARBECUE” is served.

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In 2018, Connecticut restricted the use of insecticides called neonicotinoids (“neonics”). This class of chemicals is very harmful to pollinators. They include midacloprid, cothianidin, thiamethoxam, acetamiprid and dinotefuran.

On Household Hazardous Waste Day (April 13, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Greens Farms railroad station parking lot), residents can safely dispose of any neonicotinoids containing insecticides.

Click here for a full list of products containing these chemicals.

Bring this stuff next Saturday, on Household Hazardous Waste Day.

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Last month, Faith Sargent started The Whimsical Redhead. She makes wreaths, swags, centerpieces, garlands, showroom tree decorating, etc).

She’ll also teach wreath-making classes. The first is May 1.

Faith would like to start crafting items like wreaths, centerpieces and wall hangings to donate to fundraisers like silent auctions for schools and non-profits.

She hopes that “06880” readers with faux florals, nice wired ribbon, fake wreaths that need refreshing, lightweight planters, baskets, wooden candle holders or other items that would work as centerpieces (and are too nice to toss out) will give them to her, to “recycle.”

They would not be resold; they’re all for donations to charitable functions.

If you’ve got items, please send photos to whimsicalredheadcrafts@gmail.com. And if you’ve got a fundraiser and would like an item from Faith, use that email too.

A Faith Sargent creation.

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Staples High School’s April Students of the Month are  seniors David Nivia and Caroline Roschen, juniors Kate Banks and Noah Wolff, sophomore Mia Moore and freshman Sadie McEntee.

Students of the month “help make Staples a welcoming place for their peers and teachers alike. They are the ‘glue’ of the Staples community — the type of kind, cheerful, hard-working, trustworthy students that keep the high school together, making it the special place that it is.”

“Students of the month are nominated by their teachers, who are asked to think of those students who come to school regularly, are friendly to the staff and to fellow students, and make positive contributions in class as well as the Staples community. In short, these students are all-around good citizens of our school.”

 Staples’ April Students of the Month. From left: Noah Wolff, Kate Banks, David Nivia, Mia Moore, Caroline Roschen, Sadie McEntee.

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“Footloose” — Coleytown Company’s spring production — is not just another “middle school show.”

With high-quality sets, costumes, lighting — and of course choreography and acting — it’s a full-scale musical. Performances are set for 1 and 7 p.m. today (Saturday), and 1 p.m. tomorrow (Sunday). Click here for tickets.

(Photos/Ariane Trimichat)

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The next Westport Country Playhouse Script in Hand play reading is “Tenderness and Gratitude Number Four” (Monday, April 15, 7 p.m.).

The new comedy features Mary Testa — 3-time Tony nominee for “On the Town,” “42nd Street,” and “Oklahoma!,” and Robert Sella (“Flying Over Sunset,” “Sylvia,” “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang”).

The play is about a party boy who avoids intimacy at all costs. and a jaded, wise-cracking office worker who still harbors dreams of becoming an artist. When the two strike up an unlikely friendship at work, they are forced to learn what it means to open up to someone else, and how to take a long, hard, messy look at oneself in the mirror.

Tickets are $30. For tickets and more details, click here.

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In the wake of yesterday’s earthquake, Bob Weingarten writes:

“While in Japan, we were provided with this Earthquake Kit by our employer (IBM). It contains a first aid kit, radio, flashlight, batteries, crackers, blanket, etc. We still have it in our basement here.”

(Photo/Bob Weingarten)

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Longtime Westport resident Tom Seligson died yesterday at his home in Deep River, with his wife Susan and daughter Justine at his side. He was 78.

His family moved from New York’s Upper West Side to the Old Hill section of Westport in the early 1950s. He attended Westport schools through 9th grade, then went to Phillips Academy–Andover. He ran cross country and excelled at other sports, as well as academically. He served as the Class of 1964 secretary for 15 years following graduation.

Tom graduated from Columbia University with a BA in political science in 1968.

After many years in Manhattan, Tom moved back to Westport. He and his family lived at Compo Beach for 23 years.

He wrote 6 books (fiction and non-fiction), one of which became the foundation for a major movie and its sequels. As an executive producer at CBS News, he produced hundreds of shows, winning 3 Emmy Awards. He was also a print journalist, with bylines in major magazines.

Whenever Tom was asked what he did, he talked about a young man on death row for whom he advocated. It was one of the most meaningful experiences of his life.

Tom scuba dove around the world, climbed mountains from the Dolomites to the Andes, and rode wild mustangs in Wyoming. He enjoyed tennis, cycling, skiing, hiking, and tookk up boxing to counter the effects of Parkinson’s disease.

He is survived by his wife of 27 years, Susan; daughter Justine of London; sister Dr. Jane Sillman (Dr. Fred Sillman) of Cambridge, Massachusetts; twin brother Dr. Robert Seligson of Manhattan; nephew Eric Sillman Dr. Rebecca Johansson Locke) of Brookline, Massachusetts; niece, Kathy Sillman (Ray Lewis) of Newton, Massachusetts; nieces, nephews, and many friends and colleagues.

Details for a celebration of Tom’s life will take place on a date to be announced.

Tom Seligson

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Spring is ready to, well, spring, in today’s “Westport … Naturally” view of Grace Salmon Park.

(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

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And finally … in honor of yesterday’s big geological news:

(Life is unpredictable, as we learned yesterday. But you can always rely on “06880.” We rely, meanwhile, on readers’ support. Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

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Posted in Environment, Library, Local business, Local politics, Obituaries, Police, Restaurants, Westport Country Playhouse

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Friday Flashback #393

Posted on April 5, 2024 | 16 comments

After a few years in which Fairfield ate our lunch, Westport is back atop the dining scene.

We’ve long been a restaurant town. Old-timers drool over legendary spots like the Arrow, Mario’s and Chez Pierre.

Even older old-timers remember spots like La Normandie and the Townly.

But I’ve never heard anyone mention The Five Little Pigs.

Paul Ehrismann posted this photo the other day, on Facebook:

I assume it’s a restaurant. With a name like that, what else could it be? Certainly not a butcher shop.

Taking a wild stab, this looks like the section of the Post Road where Cycle Dynamics is now, near Carvel. (I’m guessing “a mile east of Westport, Ct.,” refers to downtown.)

But I really have no clue.

If any real old-time Westporter has ever heard of The Five Little Pigs, please click “Comments” below.

I hope we find out soon. Not when pigs fly.

(“Friday Flashback” is a regular “06880” feature. Please click here to support it — and all our work. Thank you!) 

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Posted in Friday Flashback, Restaurants

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Roundup: Westport Burgers, Weston Budget …

Posted on April 1, 2024 | 5 comments

Burger King is long gone from Westport. (Spoiler alert: It’s the Starbucks drive-thru.)

But now Matthew Mandell can call himself our new Burger King.

As executive director of the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce, he oversees events like The Great Burger Contest. Twenty restaurants competed, in 7 categories.

But Matthew didn’t just sit in his office. He went whole hog.

He visited all 20 restaurants, during the 31 days of March. He ate a burger at every one (and tons of fries, too).

Matthew Mandell: 20 burgers in 31 days.

Voting ended at midnight last night. Results will be announced soon.

We’ll also announce how Matthew is feeling.

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Jay Norris is a busy man.

The Westport resident is co-founder and CEO of Guesst, the real estate and restaurant leasing software platform. He also co-founded BlackLight, the world’s first search engine for Black-owned businesses nationwide.

In addition, he helped start Startup Westport, the public/private partnership whose goal is to make our town the tech entrepreneurial capital of Connecticut. He founded Westport10, the social and networking organization for Black men and their families.

And he’s a board member of both the Westport Library, and the Westport Weston Family YMCA. Oh, yeah: He also volunteers as a mentor with A Better Chance of Westport.

Now he’s added a new gig.

Jay was just named co-chair of the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce. Focusing on innovation and technology, he’ll work to connect tech leaders in New York, and help them come up with solutions for the city and their small-to-medium- sized businesses.

Congratulations, Jay!

Jay Norris

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In this week’s “What’s Next in Weston” podcast, First Selectwoman Sam Nestor details the proposed FY 2024-25 Weston town budget.

Click below, for the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston feature:

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Yesterday’s Easter sunrise service warmed the hearts of all who headed to somewhat chilly Compo Beach.

Among the scenes:

(Photos/Rick Benson)

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No, this is not an April Fool’s joke.

The Westport Fire Department is not pretending to fill Ned Dimes Marina with water.

They were just down at Compo this weekend, testing out their hoses.

Looks like they work!

(Photo/Lisa Gold)

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Sherwood Island State Park is the scene for today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo.

In just a few short weeks, the same spot will be packed with people.

Enjoy the serenity while you can.

(Photo/Susan Leone)

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And finally … happy April 1!

(Don’t be fooled: Information is not free. “06880” relies on reader support. We’re serious! Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you.)

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Roundup: Political Donations, Dante, Matthew Modine …

Posted on March 30, 2024 | 3 comments

In the 13 months ending in February 2024, President Biden raised $3.17 million in individual contributions from Connecticut residents. Donald Trump brought in $1.4 million.

But, CT Mirror reports, Trump leads in the number of individuals who donated since last April: 31,708 to 5,925.

Westport is one of only 2 Fairfield County towns in which Biden drew more individual donations than Trump: 188 to 99. The other town is Sherman (10 to 2).

Click here for the full story, including an interactive map.

Donation map, showing which candidate had more donations in each Connecticut town. Biden is blue, Trump is red.

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Just in time for Easter, the full soundtrack for “Dante: Inferno to Paradise, Part 2: Resurrection” is available for streaming.

Emmy- and Grammy-winning composer (and Staples High School Class of 1971 graduate) Brian Keane scored the music — his latest success, in a wide-ranging career of writing, producing and recording.

Click here to download.

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Speaking of video:

Matthew Modine (“Oppenheimer,” “Full Metal Jacket”) will be at the Westport Library for a free screening of his new documentary, “Downwind” (April 11, 6:30 p.m.)

He’ll  be joined by his producing partner, Adam Rackoff. They’ll discuss the movie afterward, then answer audience questions.

“Downwind” tells the story of what happened after the events depicted in “Oppenheimer.” It focuses on Mercury, Nevada, the testing site for 928 large-scale nuclear weapons from 1951 to 1992.

Featuring members of the Shoshone Nation and many others affected by the radioactive fallout from those tests, the documentary “uncovers the US government’s disregard for everyone and everything living ‘downwind.’”

“Downwind” currently holds a perfect 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes.

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Happy Easter weekend!

Jolantha – Weston’s favorite pig –was inspired by a poem by Wordsworth. As she gets ready for tomorrow’s holiday, she is “dancing with daffodils.”

(Photo/Hans Wilhelm)

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Speaking of Easter: Pam Docters spotted these decorations on Wilton Road, in yesterday’s spring-like weather.

(Photo/Pam Docters)

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Spotted this morning in the Compo Beach area:

(Photo/Richard Gabor)

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Tuesday, April 2 is “Donation Day” at Shake Shack.

Mention “Donation Day” at the register or drive-thru, or use the promo code “Donateburger” on their app.

Shake Shack will give 25% of your total meal price to the Cancer Couch Foundation, a breast cancer research organization.

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There have never been bathroom facilities at Old Mill Beach.

And — judging from the reaction after a port-a-potty was proposed for the small stretch of sand — there never will be.

But one intrepid owner of a parking garage (for nearby homes) facing Sherwood Mill Pond has solved the problem:

(Photo/Oliver Radwan)

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Dr. Alice Paul was one of the early 20th century’s most prominent women’s rights activists.

She was one of the keys to the passage of the 19th Amendment, and in 1923 introduced the Equal Rights Amendment.

Dr. Paul was a 40-year resident of Ridgefield.

On April 13 (2 p.m.), the Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport hosts a talk with Darla Shaw, who worked with Dr. Paul for many years, here in Fairfield County. The public is invited.

Dr. Alice Paul

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Last year’s 1st-ever National Drinking with Chickens Day was such a success, Wakeman Town Farm is bringing it back.

Next months event (May 23, 6:30 p.m.) features live music by Luke Molina, light bite including pizza by Tony Napolitano, craft cocktails by mixxed.by.ed, and guest appearances by the WTF flock.

Tickets to the hen party are $100 each. Click here to register … then shake a tail feather.

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Bobbi Essagof spotted this dove — today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature — on her Saugatuck Avenue deck.

“Peace ahead?” she wonders.

From her lips to …

(Photo/Bobbi Essagof)

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And finally … speaking of chickens (see story) above:

(“06880” is your hyper-local blog — and your source for everything Westport-related, yesterday, today and tomorrow. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Soundview Summer Stroll, Plant Sale, Eric Clapton …

Posted on March 28, 2024 | 1 comment

A great new summer event has just been added to Westport’s calendar.

On Sunday, July 28, Soundview Drive will be closed to vehicles. The beach exit road will turn into a street fair, with live music, kids’ activities (face painting, balloon artists, etc.), food, fun and more.

The first annual “Soundview Summer Stroll” is a collaboration between “06880” and the Compo Beach Improvement Association.

We’re throwing a party. And the entire town is invited!

The idea came from the July 4th fireworks, when vehicular traffic is prohibited starting in late afternoon.

“06880” wondered: Why not celebrate summer the same way another day too?

Compo residents Sunil Hirani and Kristin Mott Purcell loved the concept, and got the ball rolling. The Parks & Recreation Department and Police offered their insights and ideas.

Yesterday morning, the Board of Selectwomen approved the idea unanimously.

More details will be announced soon. For now: Get ready to stroll!

Soundview Drive before the fireworks. On July 28, it will again be closed to traffic, for the “Summer Stroll.” (Photo/Diane Yormark)

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Put this on your calendar too: the Westport Garden Club‘s annual plant sale.

It’s May 11, 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. (Jesup Green). In addition to home-grown perennials, native plants, vegetables and herbs, there are Mother’s Day garden-themed gifts, creative planters, baked goods and fresh bouquets.

Last year, the Garden Club moved the long-running event from Friday to Saturday. That drew a whole new crowd of families.

This is the 100th anniversary of the Westport Garden Club. It’s also the “Year of the Peony,” so there will be plenty of those flowers for sale too.

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The state Department of Transportation will hold a virtual meeting April 16 (7 p.m.), to provide information on the proposed rehabilitation of the Saugatuck railroad bridge.

Work would include the mechanical and electrical systems responsible for lifting and lowering the span. Construction is expected to begin the fall of 2025.

Click here to register for the meeting. Click here for the YouTube livestream.

Railroad bridge over the Saugatuck River. (Photo/Patricia McMahon)

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Dartmouth College just received a huge gift: $150 million, from the estate of Glenn Britt. The former president and CEO of Time Warner Cable died in 2014; his wife Barbara passed away last year.

Both lived for many years on Long Lots Road, in the house once owned by Harry Reasoner — and before that, Nat and Lee  Greenberg (who rented it one year to Elizabeth Taylor). In Westport, the Britts were very generous supporters of Earthplace.

The bequest — the largest dedicated entirely to scholarship in Dartmouth’s history — will enable it to raise its annual family income threshold for a “zero parent contribution” for undergraduates from $65,000 to $125,000, Forbes says.

Glenn Britt graduated magna cum laude from Dartmouth, with a degree in economics. He also received an MBA from Dartmouth’s Tuck School of Business.

About 350 undergraduates  will receive the new Britt Scholarships. Click here for the full Forbes story. (Hat tip: Joan Gillman)

Glenn Britt

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“Burst-Goldtop Believers” — a Facebook group dedicated to guitar aficionados — celebrated yesterday’s 56th anniversary of Cream’s Staples High School concert with this post about Eric Clapton (he was playing a Goldtop).

Comments ranged from “the guitar is a 56 because of that bridge” to “Westport, where?”

Eric Clapton with Cream, at Staples: March 27, 1968.

Elsewhere on Facebook — “Remembering Concerts at the Pinecrest & Other Fairfield County venues” — Matthew Mandell spotted this post:

For more on that concert — and many other bands that played at Staples in the 1960s and ’70s — click here.

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“Fashionably Westport” hits the runway tonight at the Westport Library. The event benefits Homes with Hope.

No ticket? No problem! The silent auction is on now. Click here to see — and bid on — a wide variety of items.

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Westport Police made 4 custodial arrests between March 20 and 27.

A man was charged with violation of a protective order, following a domestic disturbance.

Another man was arrested for disorderly conduct, following a domestic disturbance in which the victim was pushed, striking their head on a radiator.

A man was charged with larceny, after a shoplifting complaint from HomeGoods.

“06880” previously reported the arrest of a man for reckless driving, engaging police in pursuit, resisting arrest, burglary and larceny, and conspiracy to commit burglary and larceny, following a motor vehicle theft in the Compo Beach area. Two juveniles were also involved in that incident.

Westport Police also issued these citations:

  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 9 citations
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 4
  • Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 4
  • Failure to obey state traffic control signals: 3
  • Speeding: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 1
  • Failure to obey stop sign: 1
  • Failure to display lights: 1
  • Failure to return license plates: 1
  • Failure to renew registration: 1
  • Larceny: 1
  • Possession of a vicious dog: 1

Possession of a vicious dog is a misdemeanor. Angela Simpson’s print does not show a vicious dog.

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Speaking of guitarists: Unforeseen circumstances have forced the postponement of Jon Gailmor’s songwriting workshop at the Weston History & Culture Center.

Jon sends his regrets to young musicians in the area, and hopes to reschedule soon.

Jon Gailmor

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A few spots remain for La Plage’s 3-course prix fixe Easter menu.

Click here for the menu. The price is $95 per person, $55 for young adults. Reservations are required: 203-684-6232.

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Former Westporter David Feliciano died earlier this month in Florida. He was 75, and had been in hospice care.

The native of Puerto Rico had a career in law enforcement.

He is survived by his wife of 30 years Lorraine, and son Brian; sister Claire Beam; grandchildren Amanda (Hamilton) and Christopher, and great-grandchild Carter. He was predeceased by his grandson David.

A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church in Naples, Florida on April 3 (10 a.m.). In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice.

David Feliciano

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The birds are back!

This one took a rest from building a nest in one of Laurie Sorensen’s trees, to pose for a “Westport … Naturally” photo:

(Photo/Laurie Sorensen)

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And finally … although there is no video of Cream’s 1968 concert at Staples (story above), there is this:

(“06880” is the cream of hyper-local blogs. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

 

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A Shark Ate Elyse Oleksak’s Bagel

Posted on March 28, 2024 | 2 comments

Between Popup and Badass, Westport may be the bagel capital of the world.

Adam Goldberg’s Popup won “Best Bagel” awards at the prestigious Brooklyn Bagelfest — 2 years in a row.

Jennifer Balin’s Badass beauties draw drooling crowds at the Westport Farmer’s Market.

But our town is also home to a third bagel maven: Elyse Oleksak.

She and her husband Nick are the founders and brains behind Bantam Bagels. The company — making and selling bite-sized bagels stuffed with cream cheese and other fillings — exploded after they appeared on “Shark Tank.”

Elyse and Nick Oleksak.

Lori Greiner outbid Barbara Corcoran with a $275,000 offer, for 25% equity. The rest is history.

But history, of course, can be messy.

The night the “Shark Tank “episode aired on ABC, Elyse and Nick watched with friends in a West Village bar.

They were elated, when their laptops showed traffic spiking within seconds.

A very pregnant Elyse Oleksak, and Nick, on “Shark Tank.”

Suddenly though, their website crashed. They had done everything they could to test it beforehand — but the company they hired had done its work right.

Fleeing to a nearby 24-hour CVS, the couple worked to salvage the cascading orders — and Bantam Bagels’ reputation.

That’s just one of the stories included in “A Shark Ate My Bagel,” Elyse’s just-published memoir.

She launched it the other day at a Sorelle Gallery party.

Elyse and Nick Oleksak, and 2 of their children, at the Sorelle Gallery book launch. It was past bedtime for their 6-month-old.

It was a hometown event. For the last 7 years Elyse, Nick and their 3 young children have lived in Westport.

That too is part of the Bantam Bagels story.

Once the show aired in January 2015, the New York couple realized they could work from anywhere. Their toddler son suffered from pneumonia and lung problems, so they wanted to get out of the city.

The idea of grass and water was appealing. They knew no one here — Elyse, who grew up outside of Boston, had never heard of Westport — but from the start, they loved the town.

In 2018, they sold Bantam Bagels to the T. Marzetti Company for $34 million. They stayed on with the company they founded, and loved, in management and creative capacities.

When COVID hit, sales skyrocketed. People loved Bantam offerings like an everything bagel filled with veggie cream, a cinnamon and nutmeg-spiced egg bagel filled with maple syrup and butter-flavored cream cheese, and product extensions including stuffed pancake bites and pizzas.

Bantam Bagels: a small sampling.

But suddenly the supply chain locked up. Big customers like Starbucks and grocery store chains streamlined their selections.

It was the beginning of the end for Bantam Bagels. In May of 2022 Lancaster Colony — the parent company of T. Marzetti — closed the brand.

That’s when Elyse decided to write her book.

“Now that I have the forest-over-the-trees view, I wanted to tell the story,” she says.

“The undulations of successes and failures — that’s life.”

Elyse Oleksak reads from her book, at the Sorelle Gallery launch.

Writing the book was therapeutic. She relived the lightning-fast years in which she and Nick started, and grew, their company.

They had no down time, no weekends off. Meanwhile, Nick was still working at his day job, in investment banking. (Elyse had a Wall Street background too.)

It was a whirlwind few years, which Elyse wanted to convey to readers. To do it  right, she needed readers to connect viscerally with what it was like to build a company from scratch.

She read other memoirs — by businesspeople, actors, chefs, Prince Harry — to learn how to resonate with readers.

“This is not just a how-to business book,” Elyse says. “I wanted raw emotion, to bring people along on my journey.”

As an entrepreneur, self-publishing made sense. She was eager to market her book, and herself. Once again, she is in her go-go, problem-solving, put-it-out-there element.

Of course, marketing a book is different from marketing a bagel.

“I knew our bagels tasted amazing,” Elyse says. “I’m less sure of this product. Writing a book is incredibly personal. I’m more nervous about this.”

This time too, she notes, it’s not money that’s on the line. It’s her sense of self.

As she markets “A Shark Ate My Bagel,” Nick is busy too.

Before Columbia University (where he played baseball and met Elyse, a varsity lacrosse player), he grew up on a farm, and worked in a factory.

He always loved working with his hands. So after leaving Wall Street and Bantam Bagels, he started his own real estate company. He does much of the construction himself.

So what does the bagel company founder/bagel book author think about the Westport bagel scene?

“Nick and I were not bagel snobs. We just loved bagels. We ate all kinds,” she says.

“I love Popup’s creativity. But I love classic Village Bagels too. And Gold’s!

“Actually, I’ll eat anyone’s bagels.”

But — this being Westport — there’s a 1-degree-of-separation twist to every story.

Here’s hers: Adam Goldberg — the founder of Popup Bagels — is a prior owner of the home where Bantam Bagels’ Elyse and Nick Oleksak live now.

“There must be something in the water,” she says.

(From soup to nuts — and of course, bagels — “06880” covers Westport’s business and culinary scenes. If you enjoy this hyper-local blog, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Photo Challenge #482

Posted on March 24, 2024 | 16 comments

The streetscape of Railroad Place is quite interesting.

It’s hard to see from a distance. There’s not much room across the narrow street. And those who can look up are usually too busy peering down the tracks, waiting for a train.

Or hustling off one, intent on getting wherever they’re going.

But if you do glance up, you’ll see some windows above Harvest restaurant. The shutters bear the letter “H.” (Click here to see.)

That was the subject of last week’s Photo Challenge. Janice Strizever, David Sampson and Andrew Colabella look up enough on Railroad Place to know last week’s answer.

Do you know this week’s challenge? If you recognize it, click “Comments” below.

(Photo/Johanna Rossi Keyser)

(If you enjoy our weekly Photo Challenge, please click here to support “06880” with a tax-deductible donation. Thank you!)

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Posted in Photo Challenge, Restaurants, Saugatuck

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