Roundup: Duck Race, Trout Brook, Cut Trees …

Posted on June 20, 2024 | 7 comments

The Great Duck Race is almost here.

The Westport Sunshine Rotary Club’s annual day of family fun begins at Jesup Green at 10 a.m. on Saturday, June 29.

The Family Fun Fair includes activities like Nerdy Derby, pin making, face painting, bubble machines, duck pond giveaway and more (plus food trucks!).

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

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

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

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

A few of the thousands of racing ducks. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Paul Newman’s family was front and center last week, when Aspetuck Land Trust celebrated the 25th acquisition of Trout Brook Valley, at the Pequot Library.

Purchasing the 730 acre preserve in Easton for $11.3 million — and saving it in perpetuity — was an enormous effort, involving hundreds of people.

But, ALT says, during the long saga “there was no moment more pivotal than when 3 (Newman) daughters, Lissy, Clea, and Nell, discovered that the beautiful property they knew so well was going to become a luxury home development with an 18-hole golf course.”

Newman and his wife Joanne Woodward jumped into action. They donated $500,000 towards the purchase, then starred in a benefit performance of “Love Letters” at the Westport Country Playhouse, raising another $175,000.

“There is no doubt that when the Newmans showed that they cared, people followed,” the Land Trust said.

Lissy Newman accepted the award, on behalf of her family.

Lissy Newman, at the Aspetuck Land Trust event.

The ALT event also included the Native Landscape of the Year Award, to Ann and Charles Stebbins.

Among many other activities, the longtime native landscapers have dedicated themselves to a 36-acre site in Westport.

“It took years to eradicate all of the invasives and plant natives,” Aspetuck Land Trust says, “but this property is now the beautiful CT Audubon’s Smith Richardson Preserve, open to the public attracting and supporting a wide array of wildlife. Their dedication is an inspiration to home and landowners everywhere who want to build back the ecosystem upon which all species rely.”

Charles and Ann Stebbins

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Speaking of the environment: The foliage on Riverside Avenue is a little less dense today.

At least 3 large trees were taken down at the Saugatuck Rowing Club. Here’s the new view:

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Renovations have begun on 2 Homes with Hope facilities.

Both the Gillespie Center/Hoskins Place men’s and women’s shelters downtown, and Project Return/Susie’s Place for young women on Compo Road North will undergo significant alterations and upgrades.

Gillespie Center.

They will open in January.

Project Return.

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Westport Police made 3 custodial arrests between June 12 and 19.

A 59-year-old Stamford man was charged with driving under the influence, failure to drive right and illegal possession of a controlled substance, following a report of a hit-and-run accident at 1:30 a.m. on June 14 at 515 Post Road East.

The driver stopped on Compo Road North, when his vehicle became disabled. He was unable to provide police with any information on how the crash occurred.

A 44-year-old Westport man was arrested for assault and strangulation, folliwng a domestic violence incident at 6:45 a.m. on June 15.

A 64-year-old Stamford man was arrested for failure appear, after a motor vehicle stop revealed he had an active re-arrest warrant.

Westport Police also issued these citations:

  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 6 citations
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 6
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 5
  • Failure to obey state traffic commission signals: 4
  • Improper use of markers: 3
  • Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 3
  • Following too closely: 2
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 2
  • Passing a standing school bus: 1
  • Speeding: 1
  • Disorderly conduct: 1
  • Driving while texting: 1
  • Improper turns: 1
  • Failure to grant right of way: 1
  • Failure to renew registration: 1
  • Failure to insure a motor vehicle: 1

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Anne Leskow was one of 3 winners in our recent “Cool Cohl Katz Contest.”

She correctly identified the former Westporter who started their career as a stockbroker, before moving on to fame in other areas: Martha Stewart. Her name was pulled randomly, out of all 47 correct answers.

Yesterday she got her prize: a haircut and makeup application, from Cohl.

Lookin’ good!

 

Anne Leskow, before (left) and after her session with Cohl Katz.

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Former Westporters Peter Garcia and Gloria Garcia died this year in Broomfield, Colorado, within months of each other.

Peter, 80, passed away peacefully on January 18, from complications of pneumonia.

Born in San Francisco, he grew up in the US, Vietnam, Cambodia, Peru and other countries.

His loving wife of 45 years, Gloria, also died peacefully on May 29, following a head injury and a long struggle with dementia.

She was born in the Canary Islands. She lived in Spain, Panama, Germany, Venezuela, Guatemala and the US (mostly in Westport, as well as Atlanta and Colorado).

Before meeting Peter, Gloria was married to Bernd Planton. He died in 1977, leaving children Klaus and Christian.

Peter and Gloria are survived by their four children (all graduates of Staples High School) and 7 grandchildren: Klaus, son Sebastian and daughter Marissa; Christian (Marit) and daughter Isabella; Jen Garcia Allen (Jefferson Allen) and daughters Flynn and Liv, and David (Ashley), daughter Arianna and son Jaxon.

Peter was a graduate of Oakland University. He spent his entire career with Xerox, retiring as a marketing and customer service executive.

Peter loved politics, travel, bridge, and reading the New York Times cover to cover.

Gloria attended college in Panama City. She worked for Procter & Gamble and Xerox in South America, before devoting her life to caring for her family.

Gloria enjoyed reading, the arts, painting, bridge, tennis and gardening.

Peter and Gloria lived in Westport for over 35 years. Both participated in New Neighbors and Graduates. Peter was a member of the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston. Gloria was a member of both the Spanish Group and International Group of Westport.

Donations in the couple’s name may be made to Alzheimer’s of America and Tobacco Free Kids. Their interment will be private, on July 5 in Willowbrook Cemetery.

Gloria and Peter Garcia

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Lou Weinberg describes today’s “Westport … Naturally” image: “This baby chickadee is waiting for mom and dad to bring back more food before it fledges.

“They bring an estimated 6,000 to 9,000 baby caterpillars to raise a successful brood.

“The Long Lots Preserve, with its green open space and hundreds of newly planted trees, shrubs and wildflowers provides the habitat to produce this much-needed starter food.”

(Photo/Lou Weinberg)

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And finally … Willie Mays — “the spirited center fielder whose brilliance at the plate, in the field and on the basepaths for the Giants led many to call him the greatest all-around player in baseball history,” and the oldest living Baseball Hall of Fame member, died on Tuesday in Palo Alto. He was 93.

Click here for a full obituary on the legendary, beloved athlete and pioneer.

(“06880” is your hyper-local source for news, events, history and more. We rely on support from readers like you. Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

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“Teens & Tweens”: Carry Me Comfort Promotes Community

Posted on June 20, 2024 | 7 comments

“Teens & Tweens” provides an “06880” voice for Westport youth. Today, rising juniors Taylor Serotta and Emma Asiel write about a Staples High School club that works with children in foster care.

During the pandemic, my sister Blake and I (Taylor) were participating in a Zoom benefit for a California-based charity when we learned something heartbreaking: Many children in foster care carry their belongings in garbage bags while transitioning between homes.

This was a stark reminder of how different our lives were, inspiring us to make a meaningful impact. 

Despite our search, we were unable to find an organization that specifically donated duffle bags to foster children in the area, leading us to start Carry Me Comfort in 2021. 

We began by reaching out to 2 foster care agencies in New York City, The Foundling and JCCA, and formed partnerships with them. We coordinated with these agencies to identify specific needs of the children.

We then gathered donations of duffle bags, blankets and stuffed animals — items that would provide a sense of dignity, security and comfort. 

Taylor Serotta and her mom Erica drop off more than 50 bags, at The Family & Children’s Agency in Norwalk. 

At first we were unsure of the impact we would be able to make, but we soon realized that our small gestures meant the world to both the children and the administrators at the foster care agencies. Seeing the joy and relief on their faces when we walked in with loads of boxes was incredibly moving. 

Moments like this reaffirmed why Taylor and Blake started Carry Me Comfort. It wasn’t just about the tangible items; it was about offering a sense of love and support in times when these children needed it the most.

To expand involvement in our organization to a larger community, we started the Carry Me Comfort Club at Staples High School. Despite the many clubs Staples offers, there weren’t any dedicated to foster care. We knew that our small family of 4 could only make so much of an impact as we searched for new fundraising ideas, shaping the desire to collaborate with our peers. 

As we introduced the club and our email list grew, we found that this issue resonated with many students who were passionate about working with us.

Carry Me Comfort members discuss fundraising ideas.

During our first club meeting, we presented stories and images showcasing our progress so far. We observed looks of empathy and determination on the students’ faces as they shared ideas for new fundraising events. Witnessing this immediate enthusiasm and commitment, we became certain that together, we could make a much larger impact. 

From there, we created various leadership positions to encourage engagement. Providing this incentive, along with our monthly meetings, made joining the club both doable and rewarding.

Although it is often difficult to maintain involvement in clubs and organize meetings during sports seasons, we adapted and persevered. We offered simple ways for members to suggest ideas, and put those plans into action.

Making holiday cards to send with duffle bags, blankets and stuffed animals.

Through individual donations as well as a raffle fundraiser, we have raised $3,000 this year so far, bringing our total to over $15,000. We also partnered with the Family & Children’s Agency in Norwalk to provide duffle bags, expanding our organization to support local agencies. 

The impact of Carry Me Comfort has been empowering, both for the children we serve and for us personally. Witnessing the difference our efforts have made in their lives – from providing a more comfortable night’s rest to enabling them to travel with ease – has been deeply rewarding, instilling a sense of purpose and fulfillment. 

While it is difficult to imagine the everyday struggles of children in foster care, being able to assist them in seemingly minor ways has helped us to understand what profound impact small acts of service — providing blankets, stuffed animals, a place to store their belongings —  can have. 

We’re filled with a sense of hope and determination to continue growing Carry Me Comfort’s impact. Even in the face of challenges, our actions matter. We are ready to make a difference – one duffle bag, one blanket and one act of kindness at a time.

(Click here for the Carry Me Comfort website. To learn more about donations or getting involved, email info@carrymecomfort.org.)

(“Teens & Tweens” is an open forum for Westport students. You can write about anything: good or bad, happy or sad, your passions and dreams, your thoughts about your life and community. You can use your name, or be anonymous. You can also submit artwork, videos or other media. If interested, email 06880blog@gmail.com.)

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Pics Of The Day #2619

Posted on June 19, 2024 | 1 comment

Scenes from Saugatuck Shores: Canal Road …

… off of Cross Way …

… and looking toward Longshore from Bluff Point, near Cedar Point Yacht Club (Photos/Pam Docters)

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Unsung Hero #339

Posted on June 19, 2024 | 10 comments

Caroline Sherman is a Renaissance woman.

As a member of Staples High School’s Class of 1983 — where she starred on the swimming, basketball and softball teams, played in the orchestra and sang in the choir — the native Westporter spent her senior spring interning for Congressman Sam Gejdenson in Washington.

At Colgate University she swam, played rugby and ice hockey, and served as editor of the student newspaper. 

Caroline Sherman

While getting her MBA at Northwestern’s Kellogg School, she started a singing group (and invented a game called “Zoomball”).

She’s an avid collector of friends, and a builder of, what she likes to call “captured communities.”

So her latest accomplishment may not surprise you. Caroline has written and produced “Empire the Musical.”

Opening off-Broadway on July 11 (previews start July 1), it celebrates the construction of the Empire State Building from different perspectives, including the Mohawk “skywalkers.” Click here for more information.

Before this theatrical foray, Caroline had careers in mergers and acquisitions at Goldman Sachs, and product management at Richardson-Vicks and Procter & Gamble.

She assisted a Sports Illustrated photographer at the 1984 Olympics, taught skiing at Steamboat, and wrote for a sitcom in Los Angeles (while simultaneously earning her helicopter pilot’s license.

Caroline has biked across the US with her 2 brothers, ridden the 192-mile Pan-Mass Challenge to raise money for cancer more than 10 times, is a certified Scuba Diver, and has written and produced 3 short films featured in festivals.

Caroline Sherman (left) after a 2,000-mile bike ride, with friend and “Empire” co-producer Lynne Walder.


Her partner in the “Empire” project is Bob Hull. They have written lyrics and music together for over 25 years. 

Caroline credits her Westport education — including teachers like Pat Beasley at Bedford Elementary School, and George Weigle, John Hanulik and Gerry Kuroghlian at Staples — as well as professors at Colgate and Kellogg, and (especially) her parents Ruth and Larry Sherman, for nurturing her wide-ranging interests and unstoppable drive.

Caroline Sherman (standing, rear) at a recent Westport Country Playhouse reading with her writing partner Bob Hull, sister Suzanne Sherman Propp, longtime friend Camille Addario and mother Ruth Sherman.

Her sister, the also spectacularly talented and accomplished Suzanne Sherman Propp, told “06880” about Caroline’s many careers, and latest venture.

“Hers is an inspiring story about a person who knows we’re only on this earth for a short time, and it’s our responsibility to squeeze every bit of juice out of this potentially fruitful life,” Suzanne says.

Hear, hear! Congratulations to Caroline Sherman, our “06880” Unsung Hero of the Week.

(Unsung Hero is a weekly “06880” feature. To nominate a hero, email 06880blog@gmail.com. To support our work, please click here. Thank you!)

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Roundup: OKA, Young Shoots, Safe Guns …

Posted on June 19, 2024 | 9 comments

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

Banana Republic lasted a couple of decades.

OKA didn’t even make their 2nd anniversary.

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

Now they’re gone.

“Greenoaks42” posted on Reddit yesterday:

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

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

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

Their website is non-functioning too.

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

(Hat tip: Jonathan Alloy)

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Calling all student photographers!

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

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

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

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

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

Click here for rules, registration and more information.

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Calling all runners!

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

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

Click here to register, and for more information.

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

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

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

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

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

 Patty Habestroh

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For more information on firearm safety, click here.

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

(Photo/Ed Simek)

It’s clever.

And also probably very illegal.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Nature can be a dog-eat-dog world.

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

(Photo/Tracy Porosoff)

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And finally … in honor of Juneteenth:

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

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Graham Zemel: Teenager Hacks For Greater Good

Posted on June 19, 2024 | 3 comments

All throughout high school, Graham Zemel chased bugs.

It’s a passion project. And it pays.

Graham — who graduated from Staples last week — estimates he’s earned somewhere between “a tank of gas, and four years of college.”

Graham is not chasing beetles, mosquitoes or cicadas.

He’s after bugs in computer code. They can cost companies big bucks, if the bad guys — “black hat hackers” — find them.

Graham is a good guy: a “white hat hacker.” He’s part of a group that gets paid bounties by those companies, before the black hats hit.

Payments range from $50 to $2 million.

Graham Zemel: White hat hacker.

But Graham is not just a member of the white hat hacker community.

He’s a leader in it.

Though still a couple of months away from freshman year at the University of Colorado, Graham is the real deal.

He took all 8 computer science courses at Staples (plus discrete math, his favorite, studying subjects like cryptography and fractals).

But he’s also self-taught. Starting during COVID — when, to battle boredom, he built his own computer — Graham explored the internet. He learned how to code, on his own.

Then — still in his mid-teens — he put his mathematical mind and creative skills to work.

The more Graham learned about ethical hacking, the more he wanted to share. On his website — where he calls himself “a full-stack developer, cybersecurity programmer, and IT enthusiast” — he links to The Gray Area.

He began the site by providing educational resources to beginning programmers and cybersecurity enthusiasts.

But it evolved to much more. Over 30 writers have contributed more than 250 posts. More than 2 million readers have learned about topics like “How I Hacked the Dutch Government” and “The Akira Ransomware Saga.”

Meanwhile, GrahamZemel.com is the place to find projects like Game Bank (where users play online games with friends, or alone); a variety of hacking tools, and links to resources like the book he wrote about ethical hacking (“A Beginner’s Guide to Bug Bounty Hunting” is on Amazon).

It’s hard to believe, looking at his vast web presence, that until a few days ago, Graham was still a high school student.

He made his mark there too. He founded the Crypto Club, and was president of both the Cybersecurity Club and Coding Club.

In his spare time he developed the PowerSchool GPA Calculator. The Chrome extension helps students navigate their grades efficiently. Nearly every student at Staples uses it. So do thousands of others, across the country.

Clearly, Graham could be a black hat hacker if he wanted. There’s money to be made extorting companies after discovering their vulnerabilities.

Yet, he says, “it gives me a high to find vulnerabilities, and report them.” Plus, he adds, “I don’t want to go to jail.”

He has discovered 7 “high-quality” vulnerabilities, and hundreds more lower-level ones.

Graham Zemel, at work.

Bug hunting requires “divergent thinking,” Graham says. He sifts through code, runs a variety of tests, and sometimes spends hours searching for a particular bug.

He’s a very motivated young man. He’s accomplished a lot on his own.

But Graham has plenty of praise for his Staples education. Teachers like Dave Scrofani, Nick Morgan, John Wetzel and Maxim Kolb do a “fantastic” job, he says.

He tips his (white) hat to them.

(“06880” often highlights the accomplishments of Staples students — and everyone else in town. If you enjoy reading stories like these, please click here to support our work. Thank you!) 

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Pic Of The Day #2618

Posted on June 18, 2024 | 3 comments

Bluewater Hill private beach, Hillspoint Road (Photo/JD Dworkow)

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“06880” Podcast: Nick Marsan

Posted on June 18, 2024 | 1 comment

On July 1, Nick Marsan becomes Westport’s new fire chief.

A member of the Fire Department since 2007, he is also a nationally certified fire service instructor. He has won 2 Westport Rotary Public Safety Awards, and several other commendations.

Nick is a veteran of the US Army and Connecticut Army National Guard. He received the Army Commendation Medal for Valor for his actions in Afghanistan.

The other day, our soon-to-be chief and I chatted at the Westport Library’s Verso Studios. It was a fascinating conversation, ranging from his route to firefighting (after earning a degree in history)m, and what makes our town’s department special, to his dual role as town emergency management director, and his take on the Westport many of us never see.

Click below, for this intriguing interview:

 

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Roundup: Cooling Stations, Shonda Rhimes, Charlie Scott …

Posted on June 18, 2024 | 4 comments

With temperatures expected to push past 90 all week, Governor Lamont has activated Connecticut’s Extreme Hot Weather Protocol. It’s in effect through noon on Sunday.

Several cooling centers are open in Westport:

  • Senior Center (21 Imperial Avenue): Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
  • MoCA CT (19 Newtown Turnpike): Thursday through Sunday, noon to 4 p.m.
  • Westport Library (20 Jesup Road): Tuesday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, 1 to 5 p.m.
  • Westport Weston Family YMCA (14 Allen Raymond Lane): Tuesday through Friday, 5:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
  • Westport Museum for History & Culture (25 Avery Place): Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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Speaking of heat: The Westport Library was the hot place to be last night.

Shonda Rhimes introduced — and showed — her film, “Black Barbie.”

The award-winning producer, Shondaland visionary and Westport resident then took questions from the of-course-SRO audience.

“Black Barbie” debuts on Netflix this Wednesday (Juneteenth). It tells the story of the 3 Black women at Mattel who were determined to create a doll that looked like them, and the impact that had on the Barbie brand.

Among her most memorable lines, regarding Black dolls and representation: “You cannot be what you cannot see.”

Shonda Rhimes (right), in conversation with Bernicestine McLeod Bailey at the Westport Library. (Photo/Stephanie Mastocciolo)

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Oyster harvesting is back on Sherwood Mill Pond.

This was the busy action yesterday:

(Photo/William Weiss)

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Chris Wood writes: “Sadly, I heard that the ‘white barn’ at Sherwood Island State Park will be demolished.

“I spent many years working in and around it in the 1960s and ’70s. I even lived in it one summer.

“It is believed to be the former stables for the Sherwood estate — just down from the ‘stone barn,’ which was the carriage barn.”

Sherwood Island “white barn.” (Photo/Chris Wood)

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Charlie Scott is a Staples High School legend.

During his 4 years, the recently graduated senior played soccer, ran cross country and track, and announced dozens of athletic contests on WWPT-FM.

But he is best known for his videos.

Charlie shot them himself (sometimes via drone). Then he edited them into highlight reels, for games and entire seasons. He posted them as game-day previews. He flooded social media with his “Charlie 33 Prod” productions.

Before he heads of to Syracuse University’s Newhouse School of Communications — where he will take his prodigious talent to even higher stratospheres — Charlie posted one last reel.

He prefaced it in his typically humble fashion: “Thank you Staples Athletics for an incredible 2 years of filming games. My edits are only as good as the players that are in them, so I truly couldn’t have done it without my fellow Wreckers.”

Congratulations, and thank you, Charlie. And now, “06880”: Click below, to enjoy the show!

 

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Speaking of sports: Kyle Martino is a Big Name in the soccer world.

In 1999, the Staples High School star was named Gatorade National Player of the Year.

He went on to play in MLS for Columbus and Chicago, then with the US national team. He was an analyst for the Premier League on NBC Sports, and now covers the national teams for Turner Sports.

He ran for US Soccer president, developed an innovative goal that turns basketball courts into small-sided fields, and has reached out to underserved communities through the Over Under Initiative.

His entire career has been about connecting people through the game he loves.

Martino’s newest venture is No One Home. Begun as a pop-up for the 2022 and ’23 men’s and women’s World Cups, and now remodeled, it’s now hidden in plain sight behind a row of avocado distributors at 141 Chrystie Street in Manhattan’s historic Bowery district

No One Home is a soccer and social club. The ground floor features a large theater-style viewing area, with a massive 172-inch LED screen.

The second floor is a high-end membership lounge for New York’s most passionate soccer fans.

Martino’s goal (ho ho) is to unite the soccer, fashion, art, food and drink communities through a shared love of the sport and culture.

The official opening is Thursday (June 20), with 3 big matches: The European Championship’s Denmark vs. England (noon) and Spain vs. Italy (3 p.m.), followed by Copa América’s Argentina vs. Canada (8 p.m.).

Click here for more information, and reservations. Click here for the Instagram (@noonehome141).

Kyle Martino (far right) at his pop-up, as fans watched the 2022 World Cup (left).

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Here’s another great idea.

Content Studio is a cool new — well, concept and studio, for podcasts and more — in the former quick mart at 20 Saugatuck Avenue (next to the Goddard School, and opposite Dunville’s).

This Wednesday (June 19, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.), Jay Norris hosts a preview. There will be light bites, networking, and — because of the date — a chance to learn a bit more about Juneteenth.

Click here to RSVP. The deadline is 5 p.m. today (Tuesday).

Jay Norris at Content Studio.

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The public is invited to the promotion ceremony of Nick Marsan.

Westport’s deputy fire chief is officially installed as Fire Department chief on Monday, July 1 (3:30 p.m., Town Hall auditorium).

Soon-to-be Fire Chief Nick Marsan.

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Happy Pollinator Week!

Aspetuck Land Trust celebrates this Friday (June 21, noon; Zoom) with a “Lunch & Learn.” The topic is how to grow pollinator gardens in containers anywhere.

Kim Eierman will discuss the best choices of pollinator-friendly native plants that grow in containers, and the important pollinators — butterflies, beneficial insects, hummingbirds and more — they support.

Members are free; non-members pay $10. For more details and to register, click here.

Busy-as-a-bee pollinator.

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Wakeman Town Farm’s Family Fun Day returns July 13.

The biggest summer event offers kids’ farm crafts and games; visits with the animals; a scavenger hunt, and bubble show; music, and fun summer foods.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Laura Von Stein — an actor, comedian, 1-woman entertainer and 1983 Staples High School graduate — died peacefully on May 11 in Ridgefield, after a brief battle with colon cancer. She was 58.

Laura was part of Staples Players. She graduated Phi Kappa Phi from the University of Bridgeport, where she received a performing arts scholarship. Laura also studied classical acting at Marymount International School under the auspices of the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London.

Laura was a member of Actors’ Equity. Her patient waits at stage doors helped her build an impressive collection of signed Playbills.

Laura also accumulated an impressive library, largely from the annual Pequot Library book sale.

She is survived by her mother, Eleanor Von Stein of Westport and Trumbull; brother Robert Von Stein (Linda Guliuzza) of Trumbull and Massachusetts; nephews Rob (Molly) of Massachusetts, Mike (Laura) of Rhode Island and Scott (Paul) of Massachusetts, and many cousins. Laura was predeceased by her father Robert in 2019.

Laura is also survived by her extended family, including Roger Wolfe; Christine O’Leary; Duane, Gayle, Mike and Stephen Lovello; Jill Lovello and Charlie Sullivan, Christine Lovello, and Tom, Susan, Matt, Sam and Rae Iacovacci, along with many friends from the comedy and theater world.

Laura’s wish is for everyone to support theaters, encourage actors of all ages to keep going, read a good book and enjoy a movie with lots of popcorn. Laura’s life will be celebrated at 5 p.m. on September 15 at The Ridgefield Playhouse.

Laura Von Stein

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The water is still a bit chilly.

But  — as this “Westport … Naturally” photo shows — that doesn’t stop at least one swimmer.

And one dog paddler.

(Photo/Jim Hood)

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And finally … Mark James — described by the New York Times as “a genre-defying, Grammy Award-winning songwriter,” died on Saturday in Nashville. He was 83. Click here for a full obituary.

Among his works:

(Sure, it will be hot this week. But “06880” is the coolest place around. If you enjoy being part of our online community, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Retreat Sweets: No Dunkin’ Your Mochi Donuts Here

Posted on June 18, 2024 | 4 comments

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

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

Retreat Sweets has now moved in.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Yesterday, at Retreat Sweets.

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

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

Batches are small. Zhang uses purées — no extracts.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

That should be a great Asian/Middle Eastern venture.

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

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

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

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