Category Archives: Restaurants

Roundup: Al Fiore Services, Frank Pepe’s Pizza, Assumption’s Lights …

Posted on December 9, 2025 | Comments Off on Roundup: Al Fiore Services, Frank Pepe’s Pizza, Assumption’s Lights …

Visitation for Al Fiore —Westport’s former police chief, who died Saturday — will take place this Thursday (December 11, 4 to 7 p.m., Harding Funeral Home).

A funeral Mass will be held Friday (December 12, 11 .m., Assumption Church).

Al Fiore

=================================================

Frank Pepe’s pizzas are coming to Westport.

The iconic New Haven restaurant will open its 18th location this summer. The Italian apizza place takes over the spot previously occupied by an Indian eatery, The Naan.

It’s a full circle moment. Before The Naan and Kibberia (Mediterranean), the first tenant in the space was John’s Best Pizza.

The closest Frank Pepe Pizza Napoletana right now is in Fairfield. There are 7 in Connecticut, with others in New York, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Maryland and Florida.

There will be 90 seats, and takeout too.

==================================================

Add one more display to Westport’s Christmas lights.

Assumption Church lit theirs Sunday night — the building, as well as the handsome tree beside it.

(Photo/Mary Sikorski)

Slow down and admire the lights.

Or enjoy while stuck in a long line of traffic…

==================================================

Also Sunday: Birchwood Country Club’s annual Gingerbread Brunch.

The family buffet was followed by decorating. Each youngster got their own basic gingerbread house, and decorations.

The crowd of 125 had a great time. These are gingerbread houses that will not be re-gifted.

Or used as doorstops. (Hat tip: Mel Sokotch)

Lookin’ good!

==================================================

The Pop Shop holiday market returns Saturday to the Westport Museum for History & Culture (December 13, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.).

Among the items sold by the 25 vendors: global accessories and gifts, vintage jewelry with a modern twist, antique treasures, women’s clothing, treats for dogs, and tableware.

The Honey Bee Flower Truck will be there too, with wreaths, winter arrangements and  holiday botanicals.

===============================================

Alert “06880” reader Rick Leonard noticed some changes at Fred’s Car Wash, just over the line in Southport.

A full dumpster and cones in the parking lot; vacuum hoses pulled.

He dug a bit, and learned that Fred’s is becoming Russell Speeder’s. That’s similar to transformation of the one just over the other line, on Westport Ave in Norwalk.

The Speeder’s chain has nearly 100 locations, in Connecticut, New York, New Jersey — and Missouri and Nebraska.

Fred’s Car Wash — soon to be Speeder’s. (Photo/Rick Leonard)

==================================================

The deadline for submissions to Mo\CA CT’s high school art show has been extended. The new final date is February 13.

The 11th annual high school exhibition is “The Sound of Us: Youth Culture Now.” It coincides with the Westport Public Art Collections’ exhibition, “Art, Jazz + the Blues.”

The exhibition explores the effects of contemporary music on today’s youth culture. Music is a catalyst for conversation, inspiring political awareness and mobilizing youth-led movements. It influences how young people speak, what they stand for, and how they connect with one another.

Students will be prompted to select a song from 2020 to today, and create a work of art that shows its effects on youth culture through fashion, social interactions, speech, education, political alertness and activism, or life in general.

Click here for the application, and more information.

==================================================

Comedy comes to the VFW this Friday (December 12, 8 p.m.).

Joe Pontillo stars in a Christmas show — “or whatever you celebrate.” Click here for tickets, and more information.

Joe Pontillo

==================================================

Speaking of the VFW: This week’s Jazz at the Post (December 11) there features guitarist Ed Cherry. He performed with Dizzy Gillespie from 1978 until shortly before Gillespie’s death in 1993, winning a Grammy together for “Live at Royal Festival Hall.

Cherry will be joined by bassist Matt Dwonszyk, saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall, and Jason Tiemann.

Shows are 7:30 and 8:45 p.m. Guest chef Dan Frye serves a buffet with chicken piccata, seared tuna, broccoli, rice and dessert starting at 7. Click here for tickets.

==================================================

Longtime local orthodontist Dr. Steven Scher died at his Weston home, with his wife Susan at his side. He was 82. .

The Brooklyn native graduated from Brooklyn College. He served 2 years in the US Army at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, then earned his orthodontic certificate from New York University, graduating at the top of his class.

He opened a practice in Westport where, his family says, “he touched the hearts and teeth of countless members of the community.”

Steven loved tennis, golf, skiing the Rocky Mountains, and vacationing in the sun — all with his family. He was a fixture at the sports events of his children and grandchildren.

Steven is survived by his wife Susan; their children Peter (Lesley) and Alexander (Dylan); his children Jon (Robyn) and Lara (Mike) from his first marriage to Joan; sister, Gloria (Gerald, and grandchildren Scarlett, Brooke, Jordan, Jake and Astrid.

A celebration of Steven’s life will be held at Temple Israel tomorrow (Wednesday, December 10, 11 a.m.). Donations in his name can be made to the American Cancer Society.

Dr. Steven Scher

=================================================

Baby, it’s cold outside.

That includes Winslow Park.

But at least in “Westport … Naturally” image, the sun is shining.

(Photo/Duane Cohen)

==================================================

And finally … the news about Fred’s Car Wash got us thinking about …

(A reminder this holiday season: “06880” is supported by readers like you! Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution to Westport’s hyper-local blog. Thank you — and happy holidays!)

Comments Off on Roundup: Al Fiore Services, Frank Pepe’s Pizza, Assumption’s Lights …

Posted in Arts, Entertainment, Local business, Obituaries, Restaurants

Tagged , , , , , , , ,

Photo Challenge #571

Posted on December 7, 2025 | 9 comments

You don’t often see a Buddha-type figure sitting in the middle of a bar.

But it’s right there, at Rainbow Thai.

And more than a dozen “06880” readers nailed the Bridge Square restaurant, as the site of last week’s Photo Challenge. (Click here to see.)

Congratulations to Robin Gusick, Seth Schachter, Susan Yules, Amy Schneider, Sal Liccione, Andrew Colabella, Will Gibson, Bridget La Rosa, Clark Thiemann, Beth Berkowitz, Pam Kesselman, Seth Braunstein, Michelle Garvey and Francesca Meilana.

We’ll drink to that!

Here is this week’s Photo Challenge:

(Photo/Susan Garment)

If you know where in Westport you’d see this, click “Comments” below.

HINT: It’s not an Accessory Dwelling Unit.

(Every Sunday, “06880” hosts this Photo Challenge. We challenge you too to support your hyper-local blog. Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

9 Comments

Posted in Photo Challenge, Restaurants

Tagged

Roundup: Property Revaluation, Rye Ridge, Broadway Phantoms …

Posted on December 5, 2025 | 2 comments

1st Selectman Kevin Christie says: Westport will soon complete its state-mandated property revaluation. Connecticut law requires all municipalities to conduct a revaluation every 5 years.

Property owners will receive updated assessment notices by mail on or about December 8. They reflect assessed values as of October 1, based on field reviews and sales analysis completed by the Assessor’s Office and Vision Government Solutions. Assessed value is 70% of fair market value.

Residential values have risen sharply since the October 2020 revaluation. Estimates indicate an average increase of about 61% for residential properties, and about 17% for commercial properties. Individual assessments will vary.

A higher assessment does not mean your taxes will rise by the same amount.

A change in your assessment is only part of how property taxes are calculated. When the overall Grand List increases, the mill rate typically decreases (all else being equal). Any change to your tax bill will depend on how your new assessment compares to others in town, and on the Town’s approved budget in spring 2026.

Updated property data and values will be available online once notices are sent.

Property owners who believe information about their property is incorrect, or who would like to discuss their valuation, can request an appointment with Vision later in December.

Appeal applications to the Board of Assessment Appeals will be available after the Grand List is signed. They must be filed by February 20, 2026.

For more information about the revaluation, click here. 

To speak with a member of the Assessor’s Office, call 203-341-1070.

Revaluation assessment notices for Westport properties — including this one, on Beachside Avenue — will be mailed today.

==================================================

Main Street may soon have a new casual dining space.

159 Main Street — occupied most recently by a deli with that name; before that,  Rye Ridge and, most famously for decades, Oscar’s — will be the site of Luya.

Westport Journal reported today that the family spot — with smoothies, along with healthy and diner food — is the third project for Ciara Webster, Patrick Jean and Zoli Kovacs.

They are the owner, general manager and chef of Nômade, across the street from Luya.

The trio are also partners in Anan. The French-Vietnamese restaurant — on the site of the former 190 Main — also hopes for a spring opening.

Click here for the full Westport Journal story.

Long-time Westporters remember 159 Main Street as Oscar’s Deli. (Photo/Andrew Colabella)

================================================

On Wednesday, Playbill posted a long, intriguing story about the 6 actors who play the lead role every night in “Masquerade,” the innovative, immersive staging of “Phantom of the Opera.”

One of the six — Staples High School graduate Clay Singer — is one of the youngest to play the Phantom ever, anywhere.

His insights into his character — how he prepared for it, how he plays it — are well worth reading.

But the piece is notable for something else: homages by the actors to Kevin Gray. Broadway’s first-ever Asian American Phantom in 1990 has the same roots as Singer. Gray graduated from Staples in 1976. Both Westport Phantoms were Staples Players stars.

Gray died of a heart attack, at just 55 years old, in 2013 — just 4 months before Singer graduated from Staples.

Click here to read the full Playbill story. (Hat tip: Dodie Pettit)

Clay Singer (left) and Kevin Gray: Phantoms of the Opera.

==================================================

Westport art teachers are superb educators. From elementary through middle and high school they instruct, encourage and inspire students to express themselves creatively and fully.

But those teachers are superb artists themselves.

Now through January 3rd, they’ve got a showcase for their own work.

One River School’s Westport Art Teacher Exhibition provides a special opportunity to see the personal and professional sides — and the wide range of mediums and styles — of Mark Derosa, Cecily Cowburn Anderson, Stephanie Sileo, Angela Simpson, Paula Morgan, Timothy Soper and Danilo Sierra-Giraldo.

A reception is set for December 18 (5 to 7 p.m., 833 Post Road East). The public — including students — are invited to check out this other perspective on Westport’s art teachers.

Part of the Westport Art Teacher Exhibition, at One River Gallery.

==================================================

Speaking of art: The Artists Collective of Westport’s 12×12 Holiday Exhibit runs December 17 -21, from noon to 4 p.m. at the Westport Country Playhouse barn. The opening reception (December 16, 6 to 8 p.m.) features food, beverages, and music by Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Mark Naftalin (Paul Butterfield Blues Band).

All works are 12×12. And all are for sale, just in time for the holidays.

================================================

We’re just one day away from the Westport Downtown Association/”06880″ Holiday Stroll.

And merchants keep signing up for giveaways and promotions.

The latest is Chocolatieree. The Church Lane shop offers “blissfully toasted and gooey s’moresticks,” with every purchase of at least $20.

That — and 60 other specials — are part of tomorrow’s (Saturday) Stroll. Some are available only during the Stroll itself (4 to 7 p.m.); others run all day. Click here, then scroll down for the full list.

Among the attractions at the 5th annual Holiday Stroll: caroling with the Staples Orphenians, selfies with Santa and Westport’s favorite piglet, thanks to Riverside Realty Group (plus the brand-new downtown clock), face painting, a DJ, a “letters to Santa” mailbox, and much more.

The Staples Orphenians are a Holiday Stroll favorite. (Photo/Dan Woog)

See you at the Stroll!

================================================

As the weather gets cold, Earthplace heats up. On tap this month:

Winged Wonders (Sunday, December 7, 1 to 1:30 p.m.; free with admission): Experience birds of prey outside their enclosures, in a bird-on-glove demonstration.

Kids’ Night Out (December 12, 6 to 9 p.m., ages 4-13; $50 members, $60 non-members): A nature-themed evening, including a winter-themed movie, popcorn, and a special treat from Bartaco

Winter Solstice Campfire (December 21, 1 to 2:30 p.m.; member families $25, non-member families $35): Celebrate the days getting longer with s’mores, a craft project, and a roaring fire.

Also: Drop-off programs — with immersive, nature-based experiences — begin January 6:

  • Free-Range Homeschoolers (Wednesdays, 1 to 3p.m., ages 4-11)
  • Lil’ Naturalists (Wednesdays, 4 to 5 p.m., grades K-2)
  • Nature Art Club (Thursdays, 4 to 5 p.m.,. grades 3-6)
  • Junior Staff (Fridays, 4 to 5 p.m., grades 6-12_
  • Animal Care Crew (Tuesdays, 4 to 5 p.m., grades 6-12).

Click here for more information, and registration.

Fun for all ages at Earthplace.

==================================================

Speaking of Earthplace: They just received a $162,600, from the Long Island Sound Futures Fund.

The grant will help provide watershed science programs for high school and college students. The total amount of the project $243,900. (Hat tip: Peter Gold)

==================================================

Plenty of great lights-Santas-and-more displays enliven lawns, porches and windows, all around Westport.

But only one (that we know of) is synched to a radio station, playing (of course) holiday music.

It’s on Fairport Road, off Bulkley Avenue North. Ho ho ho!

Fairport Road display (and music). (Photo and hat tip/Lily Tofel)

==================================================

Staples High School’s November Students of the Month are seniors Jennifer Londono and Avery Michalowski, Jaicelynn Denny and Elias Ramos, sophomores Lucy Bughman and Noa Katz, and freshmen Max Landau and Blake Serotta.

Students of the Month are “the ‘glue’ of the Staples community: kind, cheerful, hard-working, trustworthy students (who make it) the special place it is.” Nominations are made by teachers.

From left: Blake Serotta, Avery Michalowski, Jaicelynn Denny, Lucy Bughman, Noa Katz, Elias Ramos.

==================================================

Westport resident Julie Parillo died in her sleep yesterday. She was 65 years old.

A 1978 graduate of CVA in Norwalk, Julie began her career at Deluxe Check Printers in Norwalk before moving to New Jersey, where she worked for One Call Medical.

Julie loved all creatures, especially her dogs Reba and Brandy. She was a kind and gentle soul who treasured time spent with her family and with her best friend, Teresa Smith.

She is survived by her mother Arlyne, brother Peter (Dana) Parillo, niece Jessica, nephew Dan, close cousin Pamela Mahon, and several other cousins. Her best friend was Teresa Smith. She was predeceased by her brother, Michael Parillo.

A funeral is set for December 9 (10 a.m., Harding Funeral Home). Interment will follow at Willowbrook Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Connecticut Humane Society, 701 Russell Road, Newington, CT 06111.

Julie Parillo

===========================================

Every full moon draws “06880” photographers.

It’s tough to choose. But this shot by Rick Benson — overlooking Old Mill Beach, at very low tide  — works especially well for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Rick Benson)

==================================================

And finally … Steve Cropper — who the New York Times calls “the prodigious guitarist, songwriter and producer who played a pivotal role in shaping the lean gutbucket soul music made at Memphis’s Stax Records in the 1960s and ’70s,” died Wednesday in Nashville. He was 84.

Casual music fans may not have known his name. But nearly everyone knows his work: the “snarling Fender Telecaster lick” on Booker T & the MGs’ “Green Onions”; the “ringing guitar figure” that opened Sam & Dave’s “Soul Man,” and the “bell-toned guitar work” on Otis Redding’s “(Sittin’ on) The Dock of the Bay” (which he co-wrote). He later worked with the Blues Brothers.

In 2015 he was ranked 39th on Rolling Stone‘s list of the 100 greatest guitarists of all time. In 1996, Mojo had him second — behind only Jimi Hendrix.

The Times notes, “the original MG’s lineup, with both Black and white members (Mr. Cropper was white), helped integrate Stax at a time when the four men would not have been permitted to appear on a public bandstand together in the segregated South.” Click here for the full Times obituary.)

Staples High School graduate Roger Kaufman — a musician and events producer with Old School Music — knew Cropper. Kaufman urged him to donate the guitar he played on “Dock of the Bay” to the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History.

On December 1, 2016 — almost exactly 9 years ago — there was a special ceremony there. In attendance were Booker T. Jones, Sam Moore, Eddie Floyd, and members of the Otis Redding, Rufus Thomas and Isaac Hayes families. Cropper and his band played many of their greatest hits. 

Then the guitar went on display — right next to Judy Garland’s “Wizard of Oz” slippers.

(As the Steve Cropper/Roger Kaufman connection shows, “06880” is indeed where Westport meets the world. Clicking here to make a tax-deductible contribution helps us continue this work. Thanks!)

2 Comments

Posted in Obituaries, Real estate, Restaurants, Staples HS

Tagged , , , , , , , , ,

Roundup: New Stroll Specials, “A Sherlock Carol,” Log Pile …

Posted on December 4, 2025 | 2 comments

Final preparations are underway for this Saturday’s Westport Downtown Association/”06880″ Holiday Stroll.

Among the attractions: Savvy + Grace is sponsoring an Airstream photo booth, and a “Letters to Santa” station. All supplies for letters will be provided. And (if there’s a return address) Santa will personally answer all letters.

The Holiday Stroll (Saturday, December 6, 4 to 7 p.m.) also includes caroling with the Staples Orphenians, selfies with Santa and Westport’s favorite piglet, face painting, a DJ, giveaways from restaurants and retailers, and 6 dozen store specials.

Here are the latest signups (new since Monday):

  • Brooks Brothers: 30% off nearly everything
  • Earthplace: 10% off Winter Solstice Campfire on December 21 (register here on Saturday)
  • La Source: Enter to win a $500 gift card, with every purchase of $100 or more
  • Il Pastaficio: Focaccia di recco, Italian hot chocolate, salame di cioccolata; gift card for 10% off purchases of fresh pasta boxes and sauces
  • Scout & Molly’s: Free gift with $200 purchase
  • American Colors by Henry Lehr: 20% off Hampton Wash and American Colors clothing
  • Everything But Water: Fit sessions; $25 off $150+ with Beach Club signup
  • Johnny Was: 40% off sale; gift with purchase; free gift wrapping.

Click here and stroll — er, scroll — down for the full list.

PS: The weather looks great. Sun in the afternoon, high about 40. See you there!

Savvy + Grace supports the Holiday Stroll. Send a letter to Santa there — and enjoy Nômade’s s’mores next door.

==================================================

This year, they are bringing two exciting experiences: an Airstream Photo Booth and a Letters to Santa station with all supplies provided.

“A Sherlock Carol” — the family-friendly production based on both Sherlock Holmes and “A Christmas Carol” — returns to the Westport Country Playhouse for a third great year.

There are 8 performances, from December 13 through 21.

The New York Times “Critics’ Pick” is written and directed by Mark Shanahan, Playhouse artistic director. The Westport production is one of 30 “Sherlock Carol”s happening around the world, including Australia, Canada, England and the US. 

Click here for tickets, and more information.

==================================================

Next Monday’s Planning & Zoning Commission meeting (December 8, 6 p.m., Zoom) includes these items:

  • Discussion of pending litigation, with Apple Montessori Schools regarding 980 Post Road East (former Bank of America, next to Starbucks)
  • Plan to build an office, with parking, at 715 Post Road East (“log pile” vacant lot, across Roseville Road from McDonald’s).

Click here for the full agenda.

An office building has been proposed for the site of the current Post Road East log pile. (Photo/Dan Woog)

==================================================

Among all their other jobs, many Westporters are caregivers.

But the role doesn’t come with instructions.

On Tuesday (December 9, 7 p.m.,, Westport Library), home care expert Neil Anand offers guidance on handling this complex role.

The owner of ComForCare Home Care, he’ll provide practical tips, and discuss how to receive support, find resources and avoid burnout. Click here for details.

==================================================

The United Methodist Church of Westport & Weston hosts a holiday gift market and “cookie walk” sale this Saturday (December 6, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.)

All goodies are baked specially by parishioners. Besides being delicious, they make great gifts!

==================================================

Meanwhile, over 35 vendors will pack the Senior Center December 12 (1:30 to 4:30 p.m.), for a holiday craft and gift sale.

In addition to a wide array of special items, including wood-turned pieces, pottery, fused-glass art, glass ornaments, beaded gemstone jewelry, clocks, silver jewelry, handcrafted necklaces, earrings, potholders, art and painted glass, origami, painted shells, birdhouse ornaments, holiday centerpieces, wreaths, decoupage shells, watercolor gifts, children’s books, mystery novels, painted baby shoes, quilted art, home décor, baby blankets, knits, scarves, Pearl’s famous salad dressing, holiday cards, tableware, specialty ceramic painted tiles (and much more!), there’s free gift wrapping — and cookies baked by the National Charity League.

The public — all ages! — is invited.

==================================================

The Longshore golf course closes for the winter this Sunday (December 7).

Parks & Recreation director Erik Barbieri says, “We are pleased to have been able to extend the 2025 season this far into December. On behalf of head pro Jon Janik, golf course superintendent Sean Charles and the entire staff, we wish all our loyal golfers a happy and healthy new year. We look forward to seeing you in the spring.”

But golfers can still swing. Two Westport businesses — The Clubhouse and Sticks — offer simulators for practice.

Closed until spring. (Photo/Dave Briggs)

==================================================

Not far from Longshore, Representative Town Meeting member Andrew Colabella takes care of the Greens Farms Road/Hillspoint Road traffic island.

Most sponsors plant a few flowers. Occasionally they mulch, or otherwise spruce it up.

That’s not the way Andrew rolls. Yesterday he was on the scene, stringing holiday lights.

And setting the bar high, for all the other traffic islands in town.

(Photo/John Videler for VidelerPhotography.com)

=====================================================

Two great choral groups — the Dartmouth Brovertones and Staples Orphenians —  bring holiday music and more to Saugatuck Congregational Church this Sunday (December 7, 7 p.m.).

The free program includes classic pop songs, along with Christmas favorites.

Dartmouth Brovertones.

==================================================

The Blondinit’s Hanukkah catering menu is ready.

Among the attractions: jumbo sufganiyot. The jelly-filled donuts are kosher and pareve. Click here, then scroll down for all catering items.

Sufganiyot, at The Blondinit.

==================================================

Contrails are seen created when airplanes fly in cold, humid conditions. Ice crystals form around particles emitted from the engine.

Yesterday was prime contrail weather. This was the scene at Winslow Park:

(Photos/Duane Cohen)

================================================

Westport Police made 2 custodial arrests between November 26 and December 2.

A 20-year-old Westport man was arrested for assault and disorderly conduct, after a verbal argument escalated.

A 46-year-old Westport man was arrested for disorderly conduct, after several verbal arguments.

Westport Police also issued these citations:

  • Texting while driving: 5 citations
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 3
  • Failure to renew registration: 2
  • Disorderly conduct: 1
  • Passing a standing school bus: 1
  • Speeding in a school zone: 1
  • Distracted driving: 1
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
  • Failure to renew registration: 1
  • Following too closely: 1
  • Improper use of markers: 1

That school bus “stop” sign is there for a reason. (Photo/Bob Weingarten)

==================================================

The Lillian Wadsworth Arboretum — abutting Earthplace, off Stony Brook Road — is one of Westport’s most unheralded, but beautiful, open spaces.

Susan Garment snapped today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature photo there.

(Photo/Susan Garment)

==================================================

And finally … in honor of Westport’s’ most famous log pile (story above):

(Put another log on the fire … then click here to support “06880.” You’ll get a warm feeling from both. Thank you!)

2 Comments

Posted in Longshore, Police, Restaurants, Westport Country Playhouse

Tagged , , , , , , , , ,

Roundup: Blu Olive, Menorahs, Cookies …

Posted on November 26, 2025 | 3 comments

Just in time for the holiday rush, Blu Olive — the restaurant replacing Harvest on Railroad Place — has opened.

The Mediterranean/Italian place features a more open format and decor, with a wide array of dishes.

It’s open 6 days a week for dinner (closed Monday). Lunch will be on the menu too, by the new year.

The Blu Olive bar …

… and a featured dish. (Hat tip and photos/Matthew Mandell)

==================================================

Community menorah lightings will help Westport and Weston welcome Hanukkah.

The 18th annual event in the Trader Joe’s/Wells Fargo Bank parking lot (Compo Acres Shopping Center) is set for December 14 (6 p.m.).

The Weston lighting takes place December 16 (6 p.m., Weston Shopping Center). It’s even older than Westport: 21 years.

Both include live music, cookies, gelt, dreidels, and activities for all ages. Both are sponsored by the Schneerson Center for Jewish Life.

The Compo Acres menorah. (Photo/Jo Shields)

==================================================

Switching celebrations: The United Methodist Church of Westport & Weston’s holiday gift market is especially sweet this year.

The December 6 event (10 a.m. to 3 p.m.) includes a “Cookie Walk.” Members will bake — and sell — their delicious goods. Perfect for additional gifts — or just to munch on as you shop for others.

=================================================

Meanwhile, up in Weston Jolantha — everyone’s favorite pig — hopes everyone enjoys their turkeys tomorrow.

But not ham.

(Photo/Hans Wilhelm)

=================================================

December 1 is the deadline to order wreaths for Westport veterans.

On December 16 — Wreaths Across America Day — volunteers will decorate the graves of veterans in Assumption Church’s Greens Farms Road cemetery.

December 1 is the deadline to order wreaths for our Westport veterans as part of Wreaths Across America!

Sponsors of wreaths also support VFW Post 399 and American Legion Post 63. Both receive $5 for every wreath ordered by clicking here.

Wreaths, at Assumption Cemetery.

==================================================

The Historic District Commission meets December 9 (7 p.m., Zoom).

Among the agenda items: consideration of opposition of demolition permits for these properties, and requiring the full statutory 180-day delay. All are at least 50 years old.

  • 11 Beachside Common
  • 49 Clinton Avenue
  • 21 Old Hill Farms Road
  • 33 Burnham Hill
  • 7 Buena Vista Drive
  • 65 Grove Point Road
  • 6 Sunny Acres Lane.

To see the full agenda, click here.

11 Beachside Common

=================================================

Last week, the Connecticut Public Utilities Regulatory Authority unanimously rejected the proposed sale of Aquarion by Eversource to the Regional Water Authority.

1st Selectman Kevin Christie responded, “Water is a critical public asset, and maintaining local accountability, transparency, and stability in water management remains a top priority for our community. If the $2.4 billion sale had been approved, PURA would have lost its authority to regulate water rates.

The proposed structure would also have replaced traditional property taxes with payments-in-lieu-of-taxes and granted the Regional Water Authority a controlling majority of seats on the Aquarion Water Authority board of directors.

“Throughout the review process, Westport emphasized the importance of ensuring that any ownership or structural changes to Aquarion would safeguard service reliability, infrastructure investment, rate stability, and long-term watershed protection.”

“We appreciate PURA’s thorough evaluation of the proposed transaction and its commitment to ensuring that decisions about Westport’s water utilities serve the public interest.

“As a result of this favorable ruling, residents and ratepayers can be assured that the Town of Westport will continue to work collaboratively with Aquarion and state regulators to ensure that residents receive high-quality, dependable water service.”

==================================================

Speaking of water: Longshore Sailing School is one of 12 organizations in the US selected for National Association of State Boating Law Administrators’ honors.

It recognizes “exceptional commitment to promoting paddling safety through education, digital content and responsible on-water practices. Longshore’s outreach encourages safe behaviors such as wearing life jackets, understanding weather conditions, and avoiding high-risk activities on the water.”

=================================================

Longtime Westport resident and active community volunteer Richard Seclow died Monday at his Easton home. The former Planning & Zoning Commission member and Westport Library board president was 95.

The Bayonne, New Jersey native graduated from Rutgers University in 1951, where he was part of the Cap & Skull Senior Honor Society. He remained an active alumnus over th eyears.

He worked in the advertising industry as David Ogilvy’s chief of staff, before  becoming executive vice president of Carl Ally.

As president of Geer DuBois, he relocated the offices from Madison Avenue to downtown. Many ad agencies followed.

Dick started one of the initial Bonanza Steakhouses in Westport. It later became a national franchise. He retired from advertising in 1986, and opened another Westport restaurant: Time to Eat.

Dick enjoyed fishing, travel, tennis, squash and volunteer work in Westport and nearby communities.

He served on the Westport Planning & Zoning Commission, the Westport Library as president, and the boards of Hall-Brooke Hospital and The Jewish Home (now named Mozaic Senior Services).

He was a member of Y’s Men, taught English as a second language, and became a mentor for immigrants in Bridgeport.

He is survived by Rita, his wife of 71 years, children Theresa (David) and Tom (Ann ), and grandchildren Jonathan (Isabella), Alexandra, Calvin and Julian.

An open house to celebrate Dick’s life is set for Saturday (November 29, 1 to 5 p.m., at their home in Easton). Gifts may be made in his name to Mozaic Services or the Easton EMS.

Dick Seclow

==============================================

We’ve posted a number of beautiful autumn leaves photos, in our “Westport … Naturally” series.

Here’s what happens when they “fall.”

(Photo/June Rose Whittaker)

==================================================

And finally … a lovely photo needs an equally evocative song:

(Whatever the season, “06880” is here for you. News, events, features, photos — all that and more, 24/7/365. If you enjoy this hyper-local blog, please click here to support our work. Thanks!)

3 Comments

Posted in Environment, Local politics, Obituaries, Real estate, religion, Restaurants

Tagged , , , , , ,

Roundup: Staples Players, Athletes, Alums … Wow!

Posted on November 25, 2025 | 2 comments

The honors keep coming for the Staples High School boys soccer team.

In addition to being state champions, they are ranked #1 in the nation by Max Preps.

It’s been more than 20 years since the Wreckers were rated that high. This week, they edged out perennial #1 St. Benedict’s Prep of New Jersey. What a kick!

#1 in the nation! (Photo/Melissa Garrity)

==================================================

Speaking of remarkable Staples achievements: Players actors, pit orchestra — even the box office — have all received lavish praise, for their part in the rousing success of “Les Misérables.”

The tech crew — set designers and builders, lighting and sound — have gotten well-deserved kudos too. The turntable was particularly impressive.

But here’s one more member who may have been overlooked.

Because he toiled — literally — behind the scenes.

Junior Theo Rowan spent all 10 performances on stage, but beneath the back bridge. He made sure that each turntable cue went according to plan.

A couple of times, it malfunctioned. Theo thought quickly, and solved the problems so the show could go on.

Bravo, Theo! You were indeed the “master of the house.”

Theo Rowan, on stage. (Photo/Kerry Long)

================================================

Speaking still of Staples Players: 2024 graduate Cameron Mann has been added to Hulu’s “Foster Dade” pilot, Variety reports.

The show is a “sophisticated mystery set at an East Coast boarding school that explores privilege, scandal, sexuality, and masculinity amid the rise of social media, millennial anxiety and pharmaceuticals.”

Cameron has appeared on TV and movie screens in a number of roles, including “Mare of Easttown” and “Eddington.” He is a sophomore at the University of Michigan.

Fun fact: His mother, Jill Johnson Mann, grew up 2 houses from Aimee East, in a small Rochester, New York suburb. Aimee’s daughter Chloe East is also in the “Foster Dade” cast.

Cameron Mann (Photo/Michael Kushner)

==================================================

And … one more Staples Players alum story.

Class of 2003 graduate Justin Paul and his writing partner Benj Pasek are teaming up with J.P. Brammer to bring one of their favorite animals to the page.

People magazine calls their new book, “Axl the Axolotl Is Not a Frog,” a “funny and inspiring picture book about ‘learning to love and what makes you different.'”

Pasek and Paul — whose previous Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony Award-winning projects include “Dear Evan Hansen,” “La La Land” and “The Greatest Showman” — tell People: “We hope this character and the world he inhabits inspire readers of all ages to embrace and celebrate the things that make them uniquely themselves, in this first of hopefully many Axl stories to come.” Click here for the full story.

Justin Paul has not forgotten his Staples Players roots. Last year, he worked with the cast of one of his earliest shows: “James and the Giant Peach.” (Photo/Kerry Long)

==================================================

Tacombi — Danny Meyer’s Mexican restaurant — appears to have closed. It opened near Stop & Stop just over 2 years ago, building on 11 locations in trendy New York neighborhoods.

Google says it is “temporarily closed,” but a recording on its phone number says “closed” — leaving out “temporarily.”

Meyer’s other Westport eatery — Shake Shack — appears to be doing quite well.

==================================================

Not far from Tacombi, there’s another change.

The house on the corner of Maple Avenue North and Old Road has been demolished.

For years, it was the subject of Blight Prevention Board discussions and enforcement actions.

(Photo/Jack Krayson)

==================================================

Westport psychotherapist Dr. Allyson Maida has published a new book.

“180: A Counterintuitive Method for Personal and Professional Change” is about brain function and behavior. Written in an easy, conversational style, it’s brief, to the point, and filled with relatable examples

The “180” comes from the fact that while people often promise themselves things will be different, somehow and somewhere, they tend to end up back (or close to) where they began.

Maida offers a 5-step guide to reshape brain connections rather than battling them, so real change can last. “for the most part, it’s all in your head,” she says.

Click here for more details, and to order.

================================================

Today’s “Westport … Naturally” image features a big — very big buck.

Steve Halstead knows him well. He eats at their backyard feeder regularly.

When he’s not posing for a photo like this, anyway.

(Photo/Steve Halstead)

==================================================

And finally … Jimmy Cliff died yesterday. The singer who helped introduce reggae to the world was 81.

I was part of that audience. Shortly after “The Harder They Come” — the film he starred in — was released, it was shown at the Westport Country Playhouse.

That was my introduction to the Jamaican genre. Though Cliff’s fame was eclipsed by Bob Marley, that soundtrack remains one of my favorite albums of all time.

Click here for a full obituary.

(“06880” continues to salute the many achievements of Staples students and graduates. We cover everything else in Westport, too. If you enjoy this blog, please click here to support us. Thanks!)

2 Comments

Posted in Arts, Entertainment, Media, Real estate, Restaurants, Sports, Staples HS

Tagged , , , ,

Roundup: Wakeman Tree Lighting, Lifesaving AEDs, Train Station Parking

Posted on November 20, 2025 | 4 comments

One of Westport’s best-loved holiday traditions — the Wakeman Town Farm tree lighting — is set for Friday, December 5 (4 p.m.).

Families enjoy treats and hot chocolate; musicians from Greens Farms and Saugatuck Elementary schools, plus a few Staples High School band members and a student jazz duo.

In the spirit of the season, WTF offers 3 ways to give back to neighbors in need.

  • Bring new or unused diapers of all sizes. Help for Kids will stock the Stamford Health and the Diaper Bank of Connecticut.
  • Bring canned goods for Hall Neighborhood House in Bridgeport.
  • Bring unwrapped toys for children of all ages, for the annual Al’s Angels drive.

The Wakeman Town Farm tree. (Photo/Dan Woog)

==================================================

Another great holiday tradition — Staples High School’s 85th annual Candlelight Concert — returns December 12 (8 p.m.) and December 13 (3 and 8 p.m.). Free ticket information will be available soon.

Meanwhile, advertising space in the concert program is available now. Ads will be seen by 3,000 people — and will support the spectacular Staples music department. The deadline is December 1.

Click here for advertising details.

The tradition continues. (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

==================================================

Speaking still of the holidays: 3 special “Nordic Market” events makem special at Eleish Van Breems.

Everyone of all ages is invited to:

Glögg vs. Cider (December 12 and 14, 2:30 p.m.). A talk on American cider and Swedish glögg. Taste both holiday drink. Limited to 20; RSVP: events@evbhem.com.

Scandinavian Fairy Tales (December 13, 11:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.): Reading of “The Tomten.” He helps with the farm and animals — though no one has ever seen him.

Swedish Stars Workshop (December 13, 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.): A demonstration for the whole family on making Swedish hanging stars. Limit 12 per session; RSVP: events@evbhem.com.

Nordic Market comes to Eleish Van Breems.

==================================================

A fundraiser hosted by the Westport Firefighters Charitable Foundation helped raise funds to replace outdated Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs).

Now, the Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Service has purchased 50 state-of-the-art Philips units for Westport’s first responders.

The total project cost is $62,020.

$25,000 raised by the Westport Firefighters Charitable Foundation will be transferred to Westport EMS to fund the Fire Department’s portion.

Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Service covered the remaining balance.

Fire Chief Nick Marsan says, “These new AEDs significantly strengthen our emergency response capabilities. When someone is in cardiac arrest, every second counts. Ensuring our first responders have the most reliable tools available is a commitment to the safety and well-being of our community.”

Of course, donations to WVEMS — who are responsible for raising funds for everything from ambulances to Band-Aids — are always welcome. Click here to help.

First responders, with one of 50 AEDs.

==================================================

Michael Diggin writes: “For the first time, I (plus another dozen cars) was driving around Saugatuck this morning just before 8 a.m., futilely seeking permit parking between the north railroad station platform and Riko’s Pizza.

“I never had reason to know about permit parking lot #7, located north of I-95. It’s off the one-way Franklin Street, just before Ketchum Street.

“You have likely previously let folks know about it. But perhaps this map may help other people know where park when unexpectedly pressed. Clearly folks are now back in their offices.”

Thanks, Michael! And here it is.

==================================================

Just in time for cold weather — and Hanukkah — The  Blondiniit has enclosed their outdoor pergola.

Church Lane may no longer be closed to traffic. But outside dining is still available.

And fun.

The Blondinit’s “Hannukah Holiday Winter Wonderland.”

=================================================

There was an interesting juxtaposition yesterday, between the notification on a Coastal Link bus, and the advertisement below it.

(Photo/DinkinESH Fotografix)

==============================================

Westport Police made 2 custodial arrests between November 12 and 18.

A 38-year-old Stratford man was charged with burglary, larceny and criminal mischief, after an investigation into a burglary in January. He posted a $150,000 bond.

A 20-year-old Bridgeport man was charged with operating under the influence (under 21 years old), operating a motor vehicle without a license, and traveling too fast for conditions, after an officer observed him traveling at a high rate of speed on Post Road East, in rainy conditions.

Westport Police also issued these citations:

  • Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 10 citations
  • Texting while driving: 7
  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 7
  • Speeding: 4
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 4
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 3
  • Failure to obey stop sign: 3
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 2
  • Failure to halt possession of alcohol by a minor: 1
  • Improper passing: 1
  • Improper turns: 1
  • Following too closely: 1
  • Failure to grant right of way: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
  • Failure to carry insurance card: 1

Texting while driving is illegal — even at a red light.

==================================================

Staples High School Class of 2022 graduate Hector Emmanuelli died last Friday. He was 25.

His obituary says, “Since birth, Hector was a guerrero, a fighter. He defied the odds after being born, weighing just 413 grams at 24 weeks, alongside his quadruplet siblings: Jimena, Chantal and Michelle. Fearless and resilient, he lived every day to the fullest.

“Hector loved to travel to see family in Mexico and Costa Rica. He was quite a comelón, loving all kinds of food, especially plátano, corn bread, and ice cream. He filled the house with music (like Ricky Martin and Baby Einstein), as he carried his iPad around to be wherever we gathered.”

His funeral was yesterday. Online condolences can be left here.

Hector Emmanuelli

==================================================

Former Westporter Hal Fass died Saturday, from a rare form of multiple myeloma. He was 68.

He graduated from Harpur College with a political science degree. He was active in the school’s radio station, and formed band (the Killer Tomatores). He met his wife Carole in college, when both were covering a Talking Heads show.

The family lived in Westport for nearly 25 years, before moving to the water in South Norwalk.

After earning an MBA at Baruch College, Hal worked in advertising and marketing. He traveled the globe for business, but spent every winter weekend in Vermont. He taught snowboarding at Okemo Mountain for almost 20 years.

Despite living for 5 years with cancer, Hal continued to travel, rode his Vespa and Triumph, wrote a screenplay, and formed a new band (The Clams).

Hal Fass

============================================

Bob Weingarten sends today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo — and an explanation.

He writes: “You posted my article years ago on how to prevent deer on your property.

“This morning I saw a deer on my lawn next to an owl figure. In my piece I said they would not stay near an owl, even a statue.

“But this deer stayed for hours near it. So my prior statement was incorrect!”

(Photo/Bob Weingarten)

==================================================

And finally … Dr. John was born on this date, in 1941.

The blues/jazz/R&B/soul/funk singer/songwriter/pianist died in 2019, at 77.

(The holidays are coming — as noted above. And what better gift for “06880” than to click here, and support the work of your favorite hyper-local blog. All the elves here thank you!)

 

4 Comments

Posted in Library, Local business, Police, Restaurants, Staples HS, Transportation

Tagged , , , , , ,

Westport AI Platform Aids Local Businesses; National Rollout Next

Posted on November 20, 2025 | 8 comments

It’s nice that Westport attracts high-end national chains. They bring a certain cachet to town.

But they don’t make this place go.

Small businesses are both the economic driver and the emotional heart of 06880.

Savvy + Grace. JL Rocks. Stephen Kempson. Earth Animal. Calise’s Deli. The Grapevine. WEST. Westport Hardware. Organic Market. Party Harty. Your favorite restaurant (except McDonald’s).

Those are the places where everyone knows your name. Where they know your preferences. Where we go when we need a program ad, a raffle or auction item, a flyer in the window.

Behind all that are small business owners struggling to stay, well, in business. They have rents to pay, payrolls to meet, town regulations to follow — and of course, the very real battle to convince customers to buy from them, and not online.

AI — the technological marvel that has transformed education, healthcare, big business and many other areas of modern life — can help small businesses too.

But most owners are so busy doing all the things noted above, they don’t have time to figure out what AI can do for them.

Plus: As good as artificial intelligence is, it’s global in scale. It works by scraping up an unfathomable amount of information from everywhere, then figuring out patterns of words and phrases.

AI knows what’s going on around the planet. It does not necessarily know what’s happening on the Post Road.

Until now.

Westport resident Jay Norris has a long and successful career in business, real estate and technology. He’s been a board member of the Westport Library and Westport Weston Family YMCA.

He knows the town. He knows AI. And he knows how both can work together.

Norris’ newest venture is ThoughtPartnr. The AI model is designed to help small and mid-size businesses streamline operations, make informed decisions, create content, and accelerate growth.

And its national rollout is taking place right here in Westport.

Yesterday, Norris and his ThoughtPartnr team joined the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce at The Clubhouse. Several dozen members learned how the “local language model” — as opposed to the more familiar “large language model” — can help their own businesses and ventures use Chamber and community data to assist with marketing, operations, compliance, funding and growth.

Someone thinking of opening a new restaurant here might, for example, find all the steps needed through ThoughtPartnr — including links to all permits needed.

Chamber of Commerce attendees were intrigued. They were particularly impressed when a Friends of Sherwood Island board member asked how, specifically, ThoughtPartnr could help find grants, and raise funds.

Matt Snow typed in that prompt. Almost instantly — on The Clubhouse’s big screen, for all to see — the local AI delivered a host of resources: the Westport Woman’s Club, environmental organizations, and along with advice on how to apply for state grants, links to applications, and much more.

The difference between those responses and ChatGPT, say, is that the latter would provide much more generic information, based on how a non-profit in general could get grants.

From left: Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce director Matthew Mandell; ThoughtPartnr’s founder Jay Norris, technology advisor Anil Nair, and chief marketing officer Matt Snow. (Photo/Frank Bruce)

AI of any kind is clearly helpful. But it can hallucinate. And sometimes, users need human help.

That is one more element to ThoughtPartnr. Subscribers gain access to real, live local experts, who can answer questions, build on suggestions, and leverage the AI information even more personally.

Westport Chamber of Commerce director Matthew Mandell announced that members will have free use of ThoughtPartnr from now to the end of 2026.

They’ll be part of a big rollout. With Mandell’s help, Norris hopes to network with Chambers of Commerce around the country.

He’s starting small, in his home town.

But he has large plans. And he can make them succeed.

Among Norris’ many hats: He chairs the Technology and Innovation Council for the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce.

Today, Westport. Tomorrow, New York.

And then: small businesses, all across the country.

(To learn more about ThoughtPartnr, click here. For the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce website, click here.)

(“06880” often covers Westport businesses, technology, and much more. If you enjoy stories like this, please click here to support our work, with a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

8 Comments

Posted in Local business, Restaurants, technology

Tagged , , ,

Roundup: Hook’d, Blu Olive, Melissa & Doug …

Posted on November 15, 2025 | 25 comments

The Board of Finance voted unanimously yesterday to recommend a $275,000 payment to Hook’d.

That would enable the Compo Beach and Longshore concessionaire to leave their 10-year contract early — possibly this summer.

Details have not been finalized between Parks & Recreation director Erik Barbieri and the company. Westport’s Representative Town Meeting (RTM) must give its approval too to the agreement.

“06880” will keep you posted.

The door may close soon on Hook’d’s time in Westport. (Photo copyright DinkinESH Fotografix)

==================================================

Speaking of food: When Harvest Wine Bar closed in August, the Railroad Place place promised it would reopen, with new partners joining the ownership. The menu would be Mediterranean-based, including seafood.

The new restaurant will be called Blu Olive. A Facebook post promises “beautifully plated dishes of fresh ingredients, meticulously curated wines, and sparkling ambience.”

NOTE: Blu Olive is no relation to Blu Parrot, the similarly oddly spelled, short-lived (2012-13) restaurant/bar/music venue that occupied what was once the longer-lived Arrow and Jasmine restaurants — and is now Riko’s Pizza — around the corner on Charles Street.

Coming soon: Blu Olive. The shutters may need to be replaced.

==================================================

Speaking of Saugatuck: The annual Cribari Bridge lighting ceremony takes place tomorrow (Sunday, 6:30 p.m.).

But before the official flip of the switch, strands had to be replaced — and bulbs tested.

It took just 4 hours yesterday. Huge thanks to AJ Penna & Son Construction, Westport PAL and president Craig Bergamo, and the lights’ sponsors. (Hat tip: Andrew Colabella)

Volunteers, after testing the Cribari Bridge lights. From left: David Floyd, Robert Caporale, Kevin Ancker, Craig Bergamo, Andrew Colabella, Andrea Moore.

==================================================

It’s not Cooperstown.

But being inducted into the Toy Industry Hall of Fame is a great honor. Congratulations to 2 new members: Melissa and Doug Bernstein.

The brains behind Melissa & Doug — the legendary business, founded in Westport — join honorees like Walt Disney, Sesame Street’s Joan Ganz Cooney, and leaders of companies like Mattel, Toys “R” Us, Milton Bradley and Hasbro.

Greg Ahearn, president and CEO of The Toy Association, says, “Melissa and Doug built a legacy of timeless, beautifully crafted wooden toys that have sparked imagination and discovery for decades.”

They’ll be honored February 13. The Toy Industry Hall of Fame is part of the Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester, New York.

Melissa and Doug Bernstein.

==================================================

Mar Jennings — the lifestyle guru/realtor/figure skating champion — posted this teaser on Instagram:

“The Minuteman statue isn’t just iconic — it’s part of our hometown heartbeat. A symbol of courage, readiness, and civic pride, he’s stood watch over Westport for generations. And now, I’m bringing him back into focus… because something extraordinary is about to happen.

“In the coming days, I’ll be sharing an announcement that’s close to my heart—one that uplifts our community, honors our legacy, and inspires the next generation to rise with purpose.

“For now, let the Minuteman stand tall in our minds. Good news is coming. And it’s coming home to Westport.”

That’s certainly intriguing.

But what’s even more compelling is the video that accompanied the announcement. Thanks to AI, it shows our Minute Man in a way we’ve never seen before. Click here. to watch.

Trust us: It’s worth the 3 seconds.

Screenshot from Mar Jennings’ Minute Man video.

==================================================

Cat Malkin writes: “I know people are suffering with food insecurities. But their pets struggle too, because pets are important family members.

“When food runs out families may have to make heartbreaking choices, like surrendering their pets, who have been their comfort and emotional lifeline.

“Many pet parents will literally go hungry to keep their pets fed. Pet food is often the last thing families ask for, because they feel ashamed or guilty. A small donation of pet food can prevent a family from being torn apart.

“Homes with Hope is collecting canned dog and cat food, as well as dry food in bags weighing 25 pounds or less (larger bags are difficult for families to manage). Drop-offs can be made Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.”

Yogi Bear says “thank you!” (Photo/Cat Malkin)

=================================================

Speaking of Homes with Hope: Salon Dada celebrated its 5th anniversary by raising funds for Westport’s non-profit, dedicated to eliminating homelessness and food insecurity in Fairfield County.

For Salon Dada, this was not a one-shot deal. They offer free hair styles, color and treatments to any Homes with Hope clients.

“Amazing and generous people!” praises HwH CEO Helen McAlinden.

Salon Dada owners Benjamin Lagasse and Steven Gemignani, with Homes with Hope CEO and president Helen McAlinden.

=================================================

Westport’s first — and only — Board of Selectwomen held their final meeting of their 4-year terms Wednesday.

Second selectwoman snapped this selfie:

From left: Andrea Moore, Jen Tooker, Candice Savin — Westport’s 2nd, 1st and 3rd selectwomen, respectively.

Thank you all for your service!

The new Select Board — 1st selectman Kevin Christie, 2nd selectwoman Amy Wistreich and 3rd selectman Don O’Day — will be sworn in Monday (November 17, 7:30 p.m., Town Hall).

All other elected officials — including boards, commissions and the Representative Town Meeting (RTM) — will take the oath of office too.

The public is invited.

================================================

For over 50 years, Positive Directions has offered professional therapy and substance abuse prevention services to everyone who needs it. They accept all insurances, and never turn away a client for inability to pay.

Every day, the staff helps people facing adversity. Their new interim executive director knows something about that.

Jessica Branson grew up in Westport, and graduated from Staples High School in 1996. Her father John is an Episcopal priest. Her mother Judyth is a therapist. She learned early the importance of listening, nurturing and empowering others.

Several years ago, Jess contracted Guillain-Barré Syndrome. The neurological nerve disease paralyzed her for over 10 months. (Click here for an in-depth “06880” story on Jess’s battle with the disease.)

After a year in a wheelchair, and much longer in physical therapy and rehab, she has regained her mobility and independence. Now she has even deeper empathy for people battling mental and physical health challenges.

And she is ready to help change their lives, in positive directions. (To learn more about the organizations, click here. Hat tip: Robin Moyer Chung)

Jessica Branson

==================================================

The Weston History & Culture Center’s Coley House is decked out for Christmas.

Christmas during World War II, that is.

Tours of the historic home — decorated as it would have been in the 1940s, when the last 3 generations of the Coley family lived there — offer an intriguing look back.

After holiday treats made from wartime ration recipes in the visitors’ center, guests follow a tour guide — dressed in period costume — to the Coley House.

They’ll view authentic decorations; listen to original radio broadcasts with Bing Crosby and Judy Garland, and learn how World War II impacted holiday celebrations here.

Tours are set for December 19 (6 and 7:30 p.m.) and December 20 (4:30, 6 and 7:30 p.m.). Tickets are $15 for members, $25 for non-members. Reservations are required. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

State-of-the-art radio, in the 1940s Coley House.

==================================================

It’s interesting that this truck takes up 4 spaces, in the Trader Joe’s parking lot:

(Photo/Matt Murray)

What’s even more interesting is that the driver could find 4 empty, contiguous spaces there at all.

==================================================

Bedford Middle School has a long driveway. Nearby are athletic fields, and Wakeman Town Farm.

But there are plenty of woods, too. Dayle Brownstein took this autumn image, for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature:

(Photo/Dayle Brownstein)

==================================================

And finally …  in honor of Melissa and Doug Bernstein’s induction into the Toy Industry Hall of Fame (story above):

(From the Minute Man monument in motion to the Toy Industry Hall of Fame, “06880” is where Westport meets the world. We rely on reader support to do it. Please click here to help. Thank you!)

25 Comments

Posted in Beach, Local politics, Restaurants

Tagged , , , , , , , , , ,

Roundup: Staples Players & Sports, Cribari Lights, Restaurant News …

Posted on November 14, 2025 | 4 comments

Staples Players’ big, bold, brassy — and spectacular — 10-show run of “Les Misérables” opened last night.

A cast of over 70 — costumed to the hilt, singing lustily on a revolving set, backed by a superb pit of nearly 30 musicians — awed the audience, with every aspect of the production.

If you’ve never seen a Players show: Go now!

Even if you’re an aficionado, you’ll be blown away by this one.

A few tickets are still available, for this weekend and next (including evenings and matinees). Click here for dates, times, and purchase and more information.

NOTE: The link above is the only place to buy tickets. Two people arrived last night, with tickets bought on StubHub. Let’s hope the person who was so sleazy as to try to profit off a high school drama program ends up like some of the revolutionaries at the start of Act 2.

A small portion of the large “Les Mis” cast. (Photo/Kerry Long)

==================================================

From the stage to the playing fields, there’s a lot going on with Staples this weekend.

Tomorrow, the field hockey team shoots for its third straight state championship. For the third year in a row, the opponent is archrival Darien.

Saturday’s 15 title match is set for 2:30 p.m. at Wethersfield High School.

On Sunday, the boys soccer team vies for their 13th state championship. They too face a Fairfield County opponent, with a long rivalry: Greenwich.

Kickoff is 3:30 p.m., at Hartford’s Trinity Health Stadium.

==================================================

A beloved tradition — holiday lights on the Cribari Bridge — nearly ended last year.

A quarter century of sponsorship by Al’s Angels ended. At the last minute, Westport’s Police Athletic League rallied businesses and individuals to buy new lights, install them, and once again make the Saugatuck span sparkle.

PAL took the lead again this year. They’re even getting a jump on the season.

A holiday lighting ceremony is set for this Sunday (6:30 p.m.). Everyone is invited.

The Whelk will serve hot chocolate, topped with a marshmallow whipped cream rim from Momu.

Attendees are encouraged to bring an unwrapped toy, for the Westport Police Department collection drive.

Let there be (Cribari) lights!

=================================================

For nearly 50 years, Bloodroot has served delicious vegan food — spiced with healthy amounts of feminist ideology, and a side helping of social justice-type books — in a funky, you’ve-got-to-know-it-to-get-there spot on Bridgeport’s Black Rock Harbor.

Co-founder and longtime Westporter Selma Miriam died in February, 2 weeks short of 90.

Bloodroot lived on. It was even the focus of a documentary.

Bloodroot is tucked away, off a residential street in Black Rock.

But nothing lasts forever. Bloodroot will close on December 21, after what co-owner Noel Furie calls “48 amazing and wonderful years in business. This decision, though sad, is also necessary given many factors in our lives at this time.

“We’ve chosen December 21 because it is the day of the Winter Solstice (which means sun standing still), and heralds the beginning of the return of the light. The days start to get longer and it is a time for hope and celebration.

“We hope you will continue to visit us during our usual business hours in the remaining weeks that we are open.”

Within hours, nearly 200 devastated, devoted and grateful diners posted thoughts and memories on Bloodroot’s Facebook page.

The restaurant/community center earned a special place in American women’s history. And none of it would have been possible without the passion, creativity, love and great energy of Westport’s own Selma Miriam. (Hat tip: Chris Grimm)

Selma Miriam, at Bloodroot in 2017.

==================================================

Speaking of restaurants: The Blondinit has earned raves — and a passionate following — since opening 20 months ago.

Now the Israeli spot on Church Lane has introduced a new winter menu.

Dishes include shawarma-spiced potato wedges topped with garlic sauce; wild caught Chilean sea bass with mushrooms, cannellini beans and spinach with a roasted red pepper sauce; erguez sausage with peppers; roasted eggplant and peppers spread with challah toast points; Shabbat schnitzel sandwich with eggplant and matbucha on challah bread, and baklava brûlée.

The other night, I enjoyed a tasting menu. I love the cuisine to begin with, but the flavors, freshness, variety and creativity — and the joy with which it is all prepared and served — brought the meal to another level.

That’s not just me talking. It was a Monday — normally the slowest day of the week, in a traditionally slow time before the holidays.

But the restaurant was packed.

Meanwhile, The Blondinit just announced its Hanukkah menu. Email catering@theblondinit.com or call (203) 557-3277 for details.

Dinner at The Blondinit.

==================================================

Sustainable Westport’s co-directors, Johanna Martell and Gately Ross, were recently featured on “The Joe Gardener Podcast.” The national platform explores sustainability through the lens of gardening.

The pair described how they left established careers to lead the local non-profit. They discussed the ripple effects of local action, how to foster change at the community level, and why personal voices and examples matter.

Host Joe Lamp’l praised their ability to connect with people where they are, making sustainability accessible rather than intimidating.

Click here to listen, and to read Lamp’ls account of his visit to Westport.

Johanna Martell, Gately Ross and Joe Lamp’l tape their podcast at Westport Library’s Verso Studios.

=================================================

Looking for one more way to help fight hunger?

The Westport Country Playhouse is collected food and toiletry items, for Homes with Hope.

Pasta, pasta sauce, cereal, oatmeal, peanut butter and jelly, canned goods (tuna, soup, vegetables, beans, fruit), toothpaste and shampoo may be left in a box in the lobby.

You can drop them off during the day, or before a show.

(Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

=================================================

Club203’s November event was a great “Bingo Bash” at the Senior Center.

Doug Brill called the games, for members of Westport’s social group for adults with disabilities.

Dedicated volunteers helped everyone be a winner. Trefz Corporation and Gold’s Deli were sponsors. MoCA\CT collaborated, as always. And once again, Westport’s Human Services Department provided important support.

Bingo!

=================================================

It didn’t rain yesterday.

But a beautiful rainbow appeared over Westport.

Adam Drake captured this image, over Winslow Park:

(Photo/Adam Drake)

It was also visible at — of all places — the rainbow crosswalk on Jesup Road:

(Photo/Svea Vocke)

==================================================

It’s a place every Westporters knows well, and loves dearly.

But we don’t always get to see it in mid-November.

June Rose Whittaker offers today’s “Westport … Naturally” image: timeless, yet timely, Compo Beach.

(Photo/June Rose Whittaker)

==================================================

And finally … in honor of Bloodroot, and its 48-year legacy:

(If it’s happening in Westport — or there’s a Westporter involved — you’ll read about it on “06880.” And if you appreciate what you read, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

4 Comments

Posted in Arts, Restaurants, Sports, Staples HS

Tagged , , , , , , , , , ,