Tag Archives: Popup Bagels

Roundup: PopUp Bagels, Hydration Stations, Fashionably Fun …

Posted on April 13, 2026 | 2 comments

PopUp Bagels — the Westport start-up that popped up during the pandemic, roared into regional and now national prominence, and has clearly outgrown its motto — “Not famous, but known” — is in the headlines again.

Bloomberg reports that Tiger Global has agreed to invest — at a $300 million valuation.

That’s “roughly 5 times what the startup was quoted at as recently as 5 months ago.”

“The buzzy bagel brand races to turn its TikTok-fueled hype into a national presence,” Bloomberg adds.

It describes the brand as developing “a cult-like following around its smaller, fluffier bagels, sold in limited flavors with a minimum order of 3.”

PopUp Bagels plans to open up to 300 locations across the US in the next 4 years.

The 30th store opens Friday in Chicago. Number 31 follows the next week, in Dallas.

Click here for the full Bloomberg story.

PopUp Bagels founder Adam Goldberg, with his Brooklyn Bagelfest award.

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Sustainable Westport’s UnPlastic Westport initiative is bearing fruit.

Donations have already funded 2 public water bottle filling stations: one at the Compo Beach basketball courts, the other at Winslow Park. Both will keep tens of thousands of plastic water bottles out of landfill.

Rendering of the water bottle filling station at Winslow Park …

Five more “priority locations” have been identified:

  • Burying Hill Beach
  • Old Mill Beach
  • Grace Salmon Park
  • PJ Romano Field
  • Town Farm Little League fields.

Three “wish list locations” — requiring more logistical planning — are the Wakeman Fields, Longshore and downtown.

The cost and installation of each station ranges from $5,000 for an in-wall unit, to $15,000 for a standalone, ADA-compliant one.

Sustainable Westport seeks individual donors, and corporate sponsors. Click here to contribute, and for more information.

… and the Compo Beach basketball courts.

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“Love + War” — the remarkable documentary about the professional and personal lives of Pulitzer Prize and MacArthur fellowship winner (and 1991 Staples High School graduate Lynsey Addario — has been nominated for 4 Emmy Awards.

The nominations include the biggest category — Best Documentary — along with others for Outstanding Editing, Outstanding Sound, and Outstanding Promotional Announcement.

Addario congrats her team — including National Geographic — and adds, “It took me years to feel comfortable letting a film crew into my life. Even then, it never felt entirely natural as someone who’s usually behind the camera, not in front of it. So thank you to our cameramen.”

She cites their “gorgeous (and subtle!) cinematic eye (and) powerful footage from Ukraine, often shot while under fire.

“It’s been amazing to share this film with so many different people across the world. I hope ‘Love + War’ continues to stand as a testament to a profession that became my calling, while also being clear-eyed about the complexities and sacrifices that come with it.”

Winners will be announced at Lincoln Center on May 28. “Love + War” can be streamed on Hulu and Disney+.

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As models get fitted, styled, and practice their runway strut, a few tickets still remain for “Fashionably Westport.”

The Westport Downtown Association-sponsored evening (April 25, 7 p.m., Westport Library) is a benefit for Homes with Hope. It features an actual runway, with friends-and-neighbors models from all over town, wearing outfits from over 20 local stores.

(Spoiler alert: One of those models is yours truly. Please don’t laugh — but please come to the show!)

The evening includes plenty of food, and a great silent auction. Click here for tickets, and more information.

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A full crowd packed the VFW last night, for a very special show.

Corky Laing — the former drummer for Mountain (of “Mississippi Queen” fame) — sat in with Gary Shure’s 10$Grand Band.

From the first chords, the place rocked. Do you know what I mean?

From left: Joe Whelan, Ray Schmidt, Corky Laing, Gary Shure, Ronnie Roberts, Michael Bertholf.

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More ospreys — and not the well-known Fresh Market ones.

This pair nests at the north end of Sherwood Mill Pond.

Are they surveying the scene? Planning dinner? Thinking about starting a family?

Whatever the answer: They look very intent doing it.

(Photo/John Kantor)

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Besides the ospreys, there was another sign of the season yesterday — a (finally) warm and sunny spring Sunday.

Boats and other craft headed to Cockenoe Island, off Compo, by the — well, boatload.

(Photo/Carrie Kuhn)

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Westport native and Korean War veteran Donald Switter died on Wednesday. He was 92.

He was studying architecture at the University of Connecticut to study architecture, but while drawing up plans realized his true love was outdoors.

Don pivoted, and started a landscape company. For years, he was one of the town’s top landscapers.

Many residents knew him as the man riding in a Jaguar convertible, with his English setter Mike by his side.

Don is survived by his sister, Phillis Fox of Unicoi, Tennessee; brother James of Winchendon, Massachusetts, and many nieces and nephews.

Don Switter

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It’s been a while since we’ve had deer in our “Westport … Naturally” daily feature.

These 2 look like they need a good meal.

(Photo/Richard Fogel)

Lucky (for them): Growing season is upon us.

Unlucky (for us): They’ll soon be chomping on our plants.

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And finally … on this date in 1742, George Frideric Handel’s oratorio “Messiah”  had its world premiere in Dublin.

If you’re free for the next 2 1/2 hours — enjoy!

(Hallelujah! “06880” is your 24/7/365, hyper-local go-to blog — “Where Westport meets the world.” We rely on reader support. Please click here to donate. And thank you!)

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Roundup: Thanksgiving Pies, PopUp Bagels, Balducci’s …

Posted on October 24, 2025 | 3 comments

Here’s the first Thanksgiving item of the year.

It won’t be the last.

Wakeman Town Farm’s annual Pie Sale begins next month. Proceeds support Earth Animal’s Mitten Project, aiding CT Food Share.

Orders can be placed for fresh-baked 9-inch Oronoque Farms pies: apple, apple crumb, blueberry, blueberry crumb, cherry, cherry crumb, and pumpkin (the latter is unbaked and frozen). Pies are $25 each.

Orders can include “a la mode,” with pints of Madagascar vanilla or bourbon brown sugar ice cream from Lindsay’s Handmade Ice Cream. Pints are $10 each.

Click here to order, and for more information.

Order today!

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Speaking of food: PopUp Bagels is going bicoastal.

The innovative baker — born as a lark in Westport during COVID — has already expanded to 4 Connecticut, 8 New York and 3 Massachusetts locations, plus 1 each in Tampa and Charlotte.

Next up: San Diego.

Specifically, La Jolla.

PopUp’s tagline is “Not famous, but known.” They may soon have to change it to “Not everywhere, but close.”

“06880” reader Elliot Weiler spotted this sight, on a recent visit to La Jolla. “06880”‘s tagline is right: “Where Westport meets the world.”

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Speaking still of food: Atlantic Retail is advertising a “rare big box opportunity on Route 1 in Westport, CT.”

The subject line in an email to realtors describes the 1385 Post Road property as “NEW Listing: Former Balducci Space Available.”

Photos show the store, with its 12,233 square feet on the ground floor, and more on the second and lower levels.

But Balducci’s is not “former.”

Nor, according to a manager who answered the phone, are they closing. “I’d be one of the first to know,” he says.

“06880” has learned that Balducci’s has a 10-year lease.

Stay tuned.

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The Staples High School boys soccer team lost only 2 matches, this season.

Last night at Fairfield Warde, they avenged one. Brendan Allen’s goal, and air-tight defense, helped the Wreckers beat Stamford 1-0, in the FCIAC (league) semifinal.

That vaults them into Monday’s final. They’ll face Greenwich: the only other squad to edge them this year. Kickoff is 6 p.m. October 27, at Fairfield Warde.

Staples is shooting for its 28th FCIAC title — by far the most in the league. But it would be their first since 2010, which was capped a string of 3 straight. They made the finals the next year too, but fell to Trumbull.

The Staples girls soccer team, meanwhile, has a semifinal of their own. They face Greenwich tonight (Friday) at Fairfield Ludlowe. Game time is 5 p.m.

Staples boys soccer celebrates their win. (Photo/John Walker)

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Through the first 4 days of early voting, 3.6 % of eligible Westport voters have cast ballots.

The breakdown:

  • Democrats: 413 of 7,952 eligible voters (5.19%)
  • Republicans: 91 of 3,338 eligible voters (2.73%)
  • Unaffiliated: 175 of 7,582 eligible voters (2.31%)

Early voting continues this weekend, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Town Hall.

The early voting schedule next week, also at Town Hall:

Monday, October 27              10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Tuesday, October 28              8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Wednesday, October 29        10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Thursday, October 30            8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Friday, October 31                 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Saturday, November 1           10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Sunday, November 2             10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

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A new documentary about World War II journalist Sigrid Schultz — a longtime Westport resident, is nearing completion.

“Eyes on Evil” chronicles Schultz’s remarkable career covering the rise and fall of Nazi Germany — from the liberated exuberance of Weimar Berlin to Hitler’s ascent and the devastating aftermath.

It includes the years during the war when Schultz returned to the US and settled in Westport, after being injured in a British bombing raid on Berlin. She launched a nationwide lecture tour to warn Americans about the growing threat of Hitler’s regime.

In 1945 she was among a small group of reporters to cover the liberation of the Buchenwald concentration camp.

The film is directed by Vanessa Johnston, an award-winning documentary filmmaker and former Reuters producer based in Washington. She made several trips to Westport, including an interview with historian John Suggs.

Johnston will launch a fundraising campaign next month. To register for updates, click here.

Sigrid Schultz …

… and Vanessa Johnston and John Suggs, at the plaque honoring Sigrid Schultz off Elm Street. Schultz lived near there.

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Today’s great Halloween lawn decoration comes from Bradley Street:

(Photo/Celia Campbell-Mohn)

That’s in the Compo Beach neighborhood. So you know there will be plenty of kids (and parents) passing by, a week from today.

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Speaking of Halloween: Tomorrow (Saturday, 2 p.m.), the Westport Library hosts its Pinkalicious Party.

After Victoria Kann reads from her best-selling “Pinkalicious” book, youngsters are invited to join a costume parade around the Library, and trick or treat for Pinkalicious treats on Jesup Green. Click here to register.

Pinkalicious, at the Library.

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Westporters know Frank Murgalo as “Santa Claus” at our annual Holiday Stroll (Shhhh … don’t tell the kids!)

He’s also a Marine Corps veteran, who donates time and energy to many excellent causes.

Now — at 82 — he’s written a memoir.

“My Mid-Life Crisis at 82: A Life of Mischief, Mayhem and Making It Work…” chronicles his wild, adventurous life. He navigated diverse careers, pulled off international hoaxes, and discovered that “success lies in the outrageous ride rather than the finish line.”

Murgalo has been an auditor, fishmonger, actor and stand-up comedian. He writes about stopping Super Bowl XVII, being tackled by the FBI, and outwitting the State Department. Beneath the humor is an inspiring message of resilience, risk and laughter.

Click here to order, and for more information.

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A Revolution is coming to Voices Café.

On November 1 (8 p.m.), the “activist duo” Emma’s Revolution brings their music to the Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport,

Known for “fearless, truth-telling lyrics and melodies you cannot resist singing,” their performances span folk to jazz, and funk to rock. Emma’s Revolution has been described as “beauty, power and ferocity all mixed together with love and hope.”

Click here for tickets, and more information.

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“The A Chronicles 10-Minute Play Festival” — “bold, funny and fearless short dramas” by 9 playwrights, selected from over 350 submissions — runs for 2 performances on November 2 (2 and 7 p.m., at MoCA CT).

The A Chronicles stages live theatrical events around reproductive rights —”amplifying voices, disrupting narratives to fuel real conversations.”

Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Theatre Artists Workshop’s 42n annual Fall Festival of New Works — 9 original short plays — includes performances by Westporters including Melody James, Susan Jacobson and Linde Gibb.

Dates are November 1 (7:30 p.m.) and November 2 (2 p.m.), at Powerhouse Theatre Performing Arts Center in New Canaan.

Theatre Artists Workshop was founded in Westport in 1983. For more information, click here. For tickets, click here.

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo comes from Willowbrook Cemetery.

Photographer Elenee Argent says, “follow the yellow brick road. The paved path is covered in yellowed pine needles.”

(Photo/Elenee Argent)

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And finally … of course, based on the photo above:

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Posted in Arts, Children, Library, Local business, Sports, Staples HS

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Roundup: PopUp Bagels, Coyotes, Flags …

Posted on July 28, 2025 | 14 comments

Pop-up Bagels popped up in Westport during COVID.

Adam Goldberg began baking sourdough bread, then moved on to bagels.

He sold them to friends, then friends of friends. It was an “if you know, you know” business.

Suddenly, PopUp Bagels exploded — to the rest of Fairfield County, then New York. The upstart from the ‘burbs won awards in — are youse sittin’ down? — Brooklyn.

Today, Goldberg’s little bagel business annoounces a huuuuge expansion. They’re going from 13 stores on the East Coast, to 300 nationally.

We’re talkin’ Atlanta, Nashville, Orlando — cities that think bagels are made of cardboard.

“We’re bringing our stores to places where people don’t necessarily think of themselves as ‘bagel people’,” Goldberg told Fast Company. “We’re introducing bagels into their routines.”

They’re working with 15 franchisees,each of whom will run multiple locations. PopUp will make the dough regionally. 

PopUp Bagel’s tagline is “Not famous, but known.”

Sounds like it’s time for a new one.

Click here for the full Fast Company story. 

Founder Adam Goldberg (right) with CEO Troy Bartlett.

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“06880” reader Michael Szeto writes: “I was taking my dog out to our mailbox at 4:30 yesterday afternoon, when I saw a coyote on my front lawn on Minute Man Hill.

“Fortuantely, I pulled our dog back into the house. The encounter could have been very bad.

“The past 2 nights we were awakened by blood-curdling coyote howls, between midnight and 2 a.m. Our dog couldn’t stop barking.

“There is so much uncontrolled wild life on our properties. I’m not sure what we can do about it. We can’t even enjoy our backyards without fearing an attack on our dog by coyotes.”

Minute Man Hill coyote. (Photo/Michael Szeto)

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A few dozen members of Staples High School’s Class of 1995 gathered for their 30th reunion Saturday, at the Saugatuck Rowing Club.

They don’t look  — um, “close to 50” — do they? (Hat tip: Laura Loffredo)

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Yesterday, VFW Post 399 celebrated the installation of a 120-year-old 23-karat gold leaf eagle, on its flag pole.

The gold bird was regilted by Marty Rogers, and hung by Bert Porzio’s tree company.

Bob Rogers and Frank Veno organized the event.

(Photo/David Tetenbaum)

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Speaking of patriotism: All around Westport, American flags wave proudly.

Except this one, on Post Road East. It’s been stuck for days in a tree branch, says Bob Weingarten, and cannot wave at all.

(Photo/Bob Weingarten)

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Longtime Westport resident Richard “Chick” Hayden died peacefully at his home in Rye, New Hampshire on July 5. He was 89.

The Duluth native graduated from St. John’s University in Collegeville, Minnesota with a degree in English. He spent nearly 40 years at IBM, retiring as director of industry relations.

In retirement Chick worked with Cross Roads House of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, including a term as president. 

Chick was father to 8 children with his first wife, Jane Alma Hofmann. Though they divorced, they remained lifelong friends until her death. Chick found love again, and in 1983 married Caroline Poor Cilley. They moved from Westport to New Hampshire in 1996, settling in a 1735 farmhouse with an attached barn that they turned into a hub for get-togethers for their children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

His family says, “Having endured his own hardships, he was ever sensitive to the trials of others, providing wisdom, compassion and love (both soft and tough) in whatever measures needed.

Chick is survived by his wife Caroline, children Kristin, Kimberly, William, Michael, Patrick, Anthony and Kathleen; step-children Caroline Sumrall, Charles Cilley and Doug Cilley; 22 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his daughter Mary.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations in Chick’s name may be made to the Cross Roads House.

Richard “Chick” Hayden

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We receive deer photos every day, for our “Westport … Naturally” feature.

Fawns — not so much.

But they’re everywhere these days. Diane Johnson spotted this pair, off Imperial Avenue.

(Photo/Diane Johnson)

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And finally … on this date in 1901, actor/singer/saxohphonist Rudy Vallee was born. He died in 1986.

(Another Monday — the start of another week of “06880” Roundups. If you enjoy this daily feature of news, events, photos and random “stuff,” please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Environment, Local business, Obituaries

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Roundup: Politics, Bagels, Bridges …

Posted on March 29, 2025 | 3 comments

Connecticut Attorney General William Tong addressed the Democratic Women of Westport’s “Souper Luncheon” yesterday.

He began with his own compelling story: after working as a youngster in his immigrant parents’ Chinese restaurant, he graduated from Brown University and the University of Chicago Law School (where he took constitutional law with Professor Barack Obama). He is president-elect of the National Association of Attorneys General.

Noting that the nation is now in a constitutional crisis, Tong described the role of sovereign states in a republic; outlined the challenges ahead, and offered ways for his audience to take action.

He balanced a sober assessment of the current political climate in Washington, with an affirmation of the system of checks and balances.

William Tong, at yesterday’s Democratic Women of Westport luncheon. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Speaking of politics: Former CNN journalists (and Westport residents) Alisyn Camerota and Dave Briggs have impressive Rolodexes — er, contact lists.

The latest “A” list guest on their very insightful, educational and entertaining podcasts: David Axelrod.

Camerota and Briggs chatted with the chief strategist for, and senior advisor to, Barack Obama about the current state of American democracy, national security failures, and whether Democrats are ready to lead. Click here to see, or below.

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PopUp Bagels continues to pop up everywhere.

The Westport-based company — born during COVID as take-out only, which has since won Best Bagels awards in mighty Brooklyn, and opened stores in the Big Apple and elsewhere — has just hit double digits.

The 10th PopUp Bagels is now selling its wares (and schmears) at 57th Street and Lexington Avenue.

Over the next couple of weeks they’ll open 2 more, at 7 Penn Plaza, and Driggs Street in Williamsburg.

At this rate they’ll need an entirely new tagline.

From left: Jenn Geller, who originally drove from New York to Westport to buy PopUp Bagels; original investor Karen Elizaga; founder Adam Goldberg and his wife Jen; original investor Jay Ptashek.

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You probably expect it every time you’re on I-95, but here’s a warning: From Monday (March 31) through April 25, the state Department of Transportation will perform bridge maintenance work, from Greenwich to Exit 50 in New Haven.

There will be lane and shoulder closures northbound and southbound, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Tranquil underneath. Traffic jams on top. (Photo/Dana Kuyper)

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“Theatre People” — the current Westport Country Playhouse production — is about (duh) the theater.

Tomorrow (March 30, approximately 5 p.m., following the 3 p.m. matinee), they host a Sunday Symposium on “Theater Adaptations” — plays sourced from previous materials.

Gutets include cast member Erin Noel Grennan and Paul Walsh, Yale University theatre professor and historian. Anne Keefe, former Playhouse co-artistic director and Script in Hand curator, will moderate.

The event is free, and open to the public. For more information on “Theatre People,” click here.

For the show’s trailer, click below:

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TAP Strength kicked off its “life span and health span” series recently, with a talk about “Effortless Wellness.”

TAP founder Dr. EJ Zebro and Jennifer Boyd offered tips and insights. Click here or click on below, to see what you missed.

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Ace “Westport … Naturally” photographer Lou Weinberg says: “Red-breasted mergansers are the punk rockers of the duck world. It is rumored to be the favorite bird of the Sex Pistols’ Johnny Rotten.

“They are among the fastest ducks in the world, able to fly up to 80 miles an hour. They must ‘run on water’ in order to take flight, and have serrated bills to catch and hold onto slippery fish. Because of this saw-like bill, their Latin name is mergus serrator.

“Primarily pescatarian, they are great divers. They can stay underwater for up to a minute.”

And now, without further ado, from Burying Hill Beach:

(Photo/Lou Weinberg)

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And finally … Pearl Bailey was born on this date, in 1918. The Broadway, film and TV star — and Presidential Medal of Freedom honoree — died in 1990.

(Sure, it’s the weekend. But “06880” is here, with another Roundup filled with news and information — just like every day, all year long, since 2009. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Local business, Media, Politics, Transportation, Westport Country Playhouse

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Roundup: WestportREADS, Popup Bagels, River Dredging …

Posted on January 6, 2025 | 6 comments

Copies of this year’s WestportREADS selection — “In the Distance,” by Pulitzer Prize-winning author Hernan Diaz — are available for borrowing now, at the Westport Library.

Community-wide events are planned around the book over the next few eeks. The highlight is a keynote conversation with Diaz, on February 13.

“In the Distance” is a compelling story about a young Swedish immigrant who travels east from California in search of his brother.

It’s available at the Library as a physical copy, e-book and audiobook.

For more information about WestportREADS — including a calendar of discussions, films and more — click here.

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Popup Bagels — the Westport-based pickup business that spread first throughout Fairfield County, then to the Big Bagel Boroughs of Manhattan and Brooklyn — has just opened at the Boston Seaport.

That makes 10 permanent locations in 3 states. The Westport site is 971 Post Road East (behind Cycle Dynamics).

More stores will be build in the Southeast over the next few months, founder Adam Goldberg says.

Time to change their motto? “Not famous but known” may no longer cut it.

Adam Goldberg, with his Brooklyn BagelFest award.

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Dredging continues on the Saugatuck River. VFW Post 399 is working on its docks, providing greater access to boats.

Werner Liepolt captured a view of equipment making its way past the Saugatuck Rowing Club:

(Photo/Werner Liepolt)

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” image is a serence Compo Beach shot — with the obligatory gull.

(Photo/Ed Simek)

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And finally … in honor of Popup Bagels’ new location (but not related at all to the water they use in boiling):

(Red Sox, Yankee and all other fans agree on one thing: “06880” is Westport’s 24/7 hyper-local source for news, information, photos and more. And everyone can click here to support us. Thanks!)

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Posted in Environment, Library, Local business

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Roundup: Sidewalk Sale, Sanitary Cleaners, Michael Phelps …

Posted on June 28, 2024 | 3 comments

The Westport Downtown Association’s Sidewalk Sale starts today (Friday).

Now through Sunday, merchants on Main Street, Elm Street, Church Lane and Riverside Avenue, and in Sconset Square and Playhouse Square, set up tables outside, overflowing with merchandise.

Everything there is on sale. Except the sidewalk.

Click here, then scroll down for a list of participating stores.

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In April of 2023, “06880” reported that Sanitary Cleaners — right over the Norwalk line, on Route 1 — would close that month.

The business began in 1929. It served local residents (including many Westporters) cleanly, sanitarily and with great spirit, for half a century.

But it — and the Wine Cellar next door, plus 7 homes — were going to be torn down. In their place: 136 new apartments.

The “06880” story focused on Ann and Ben Chung. The South Korean couple were a classic immigrant success story. (Click here to read.)

The need to close came as a shock. It appeared that demolition was imminent.

Fourteen months later, the building stands vacant. The “Store Closing” sign remains. Not one thing has changed.

Except for the Chungs. They were forced to retire more than a year — and counting — before they had to. (Hat tip: Arthur Hayes)

Ben and Ann Chung, days before Sanitary Cleaners closed.

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Michael Phelps is one of the most famous people on the planet.

PopUp Bagels’ motto is “not famous, but known.”

And “06880”‘s tagline is “Where Westport meets the world.”

Yesterday — a month before the start of the Olympics — the man with the most medals in the Games’ history stopped by PopUp’s Greenwich Village site, on Thompson Street.

It was a very Westport event — and not just because PopUp Bagels is one of our town’s most, well, well-known exports.

Westport resident Meghan Lally was there. She’s PopUp’s director of events and partnerships (and, her resumé says, “senior executive bagel bouncer.”

That’s not all. Westport media personality Dave Briggs was there too. He was shooting a story for Cheddar business news.

Which are Phelps’ favorite bagels and schmears?

Unknown.

Meghan Lally and Michael Phelps. (Hat tip and photo/Dave Briggs)

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Timing is everything.

The day after an intense debate on “06880” about Westport’s gas-powered leaf blower ban, the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston dropped a “Westport … What’s Happening” podcast about the very same subject.

This one features an interview with Conservation Department director Colin Kelly. His office is in charge of enforcing the ordinance.

Click below to listen:

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Renovations continue on Saugatuck River Caffe.

Taking over the Winfield Street Coffee & Deli spot on Post Road West, and operated by nearby Arezzo restaurant, the new place will have more salads, and takeout items made to order or pick up to go.

Estimated opening date is about 3 weeks.

Also on that short block, just over the river from downtown: Stephen Kempson London tailor is expanding into the former Age of Reason toy store, next door.

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Among its many programs to stimulate minds and bodies, the Westport Senior Center also provides practical help in a very important area: technology.

The Tech Hub offers open computer hours, along with 45-minute sessions on special topics.

During open hours, student interns are available for assistance all summer long. Hours are 8:30 a.m. to noon on Wednesdays, and 1 to 4:30 p.m. Thursdays.

Laptops and a printer are available to use.

The special sessions are held on Thursdays at 2 p.m. Topics include:

“Navigating the New Senior Center Website, and How to Register on MyActiveCenter” (July 11). Bring your key tag.

“Using Google Maps” (July 18). Learn how to use Google Maps on your phone to find directions (and reverse directions) by car or walking, and how to look up an address or search for places of interest near you.

“Using FaceTime” (July 25). FaceTime on your iPhone or tablet is a great way to connect with friends and family.

 

Tech help time yesterday, at the Senior Center.

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Alysha Brilla starred at the Levitt Pavilion last night.

The multi-instrumentalist “weaves together rhythmic global roots sounds with a flourish of esoteric lyricism, presenting an entire universe of music as healing medicine for the listener.”

Upcoming free shows include Lulada Club: NYC’s All-Women Salsa Orchestra (tonight — Friday, June 28,  7 p.m.), blues trio Buffalo Nichols (Saturday, June 29, 7:30 p.m.) and NYC Ska Orchestra (Sunday, June 30, 7 p.m.).

Click here for free ticket information.

Alysha Brilla (Photo/Dinkin Fotografix)

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Carole Rubenstein died Tuesday at her family home, after a long illness with dementia. She was 87.

Though she lived in Norwalk for 62 years, Carole was a fixture in Westport. She spent 35 years at the Nature Center (now Earthplace).

She was a pioneer in early childhood education, helping start one of the first preschool programs that incorporated learning with nature.

She served as director and teacher, and was loved by many children and parents.

She also created and implemented all other children’s programs at the Center.

After retiring, Carole was very active in Westport’s Sunrise Rotary Club for over 25 years, particularly on the Charitable Giving Committee. As a Sunshine Lady she welcomed new members, and reached out to current and former Rotarians for birthday wishes and in times of need.

Carole also belonged to Y’s Women in Westport, where she helped plan the annual holiday luncheon. She also spent many years as a Norwalk Hospital volunteer.

Carole enjoyed traveling, with her husband of 60 years, Bob. They took 20 trips to Hawaii.

Besides her husband, Carole is survived by her son Andy (May) of Virginia, daughter Sue (Joe) Collin of Norwalk, brother Robert (Pat) Levin, and step-granddaughter Apisara Deejai of New york.

Private funeral services will be held at Willowbrook Cemetery. Shiva will be observed at the home of Bob Rubenstein in Norwalk on Tuesday (July 2, 4 to  7 p.m.).

Memorial contributions may be made to Westport Sunrise Rotary and the Alzheimer’s Association.

Carole’s family wishes extends their gratitude to Carole’s aide and friend, Sandra Spence.

Carole Rubenstein

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Most trees grow naturally in Westport.

Some are transplanted.

These definitely came from somewhere else.

(Photo/Richard Fogel)

One day they’ll shield the Aquarion water tanks.

When they do — if we’re still here, and if we’re still posting our daily “Westport … Naturally” series — we’ll run another photo of it.

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And finally … on this date in 1838, Victoria was crowned Queen of England. Her reign of 63 years and 216 days — longer than any predecessor — was called the Victorian Era. It was a period of enormous industrial, political, scientific and military change in the UK.

 

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A Shark Ate Elyse Oleksak’s Bagel

Posted on March 28, 2024 | 2 comments

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

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

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

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

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

Elyse and Nick Oleksak.

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

But history, of course, can be messy.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

That too is part of the Bantam Bagels story.

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

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

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

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

Bantam Bagels: a small sampling.

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

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

That’s when Elyse decided to write her book.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Actually, I’ll eat anyone’s bagels.”

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

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

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

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

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Roundup: Stats: Real Estate, Police, PopUp Bagels …

Posted on October 26, 2023 | 4 comments

The hot real estate market has cooled a bit. Several indicators are down during the first 3 quarters of 2023, compared to last year.

But the median sale price is up 2.4% from January-September 2022. The current median is $2.1 million, according to KMS Team at Compass.

Other statistics, for the first 9 months of 2023 compared to ’22:

  • Number of sales: 257 (down 29%)
  • Total dollar value: $627,258,757 (down 29%)
  • Number of new listings: 379 (down 18%)
  • Average percentage over asking price: 1.67% (down 2.4%)
  • Number of days on market: 29 (down 5%).

This 8,246-square foot, 4-bedroom, 5.5-bathroom on 1.35 acres on Saugatuck Avenue is listed at $13.9 million.

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Westport Police had a busy week.

There were 5 custodial arrests of adults, between October 18 and 25.

Three were charged in connection with Monday’s chase on I-95 and the Greens Farms area, ending at the Sherwood Island Connector.

Two 20-year-olds from Ansonia, and a 19-year-old from Seymour, were all charged with the same crimes: reckless driving, engaging police in a pursuit, larceny of a motor vehicle, interfering with police officers/resisting arrest, assault on a public safety officer, and reckless endangerment.

The day before (Sunday, October 22), an attempted motor vehicle theft at 4:20 a.m. led to police pursuit onto I-95, where the vehicle’s tires were deflated after stop sticks were deployed.

Two juveniles were caught at the scene. A Westport K-9 officer found an 18-yar-old from Meriden in nearby bushes. He was charged with reckless driving, improper use of marker plates, operating a motor vehicle without a valid license, larceny of a motor vehicle, larceny 6th degree, conspiracy to commit larceny 6th degree, and interfering with an officer. He was turned then over to New Haven police, where he had outstanding warrants.

In addition, a 20-year-old Waterbury man was arrested in connection with last month’s carjacking inside a Bayberry Lane garage. He was charged with home invasion, burglary 1st degree, larceny 1st degree, conspiracy to commit larceny, robbery 1st degree, robbery by carjacking, assault 3rd degree, and reckless endangerment.

Westport Police also issued these citations:

  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 9 citations
  • Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 9
  • Failure to comply with state traffic control signals: 5
  • Disorderly conduct: 1
  • Larceny 5th degree: 1
  • Passing a standing school bus: 1
  • Speeding: 1
  • Traveling too fast for conditions: 1
  • Following too closely: 1
  • Failure to drive in the proper lane: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 1
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 1
  • Failure to insure a motor vehice: 1
  • Improper use of markers: 1

The aftermath of Monday’s pursuit of stolen vehicles. (Photo/Andrew Colabella)

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The “pop” in PopUp Bagels first referred to its peripatetic appearance — an underused location in Westport, then a few nearby towns, eventually New York.

It could also mean “popular.” The Westport-based bagels (and schmears) always sell out. Block-long lines waited in the city. They won 2 straight “Best Bagel” awards at the very prestigious Brooklyn Bagelfest.

Now, Adam Goldberg’s 3-year-old business has closed on an $8 million capital raise. The funding will enable future growth, and an expansion of the executive team.

The round was led by New York equity firm Stripes. Click here for the delicious details.

Adam Goldberg, with the gold.

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The private garages at Sherwood Mill Pond — behind the Old Mill homes, on the way to the pedestrian walkways to Compo Cove — are an object of fascination.

They’re old — a throwback to perhaps the 1920s.

One owner has decorated hers with seashells and baubles.

Then there is this one:

(Photo/Karen Como)

There must be a back story. Perhaps a wife said to her husband, “Honey, that is not going in the house. It belongs in the garage!”

Click “Comments,” to share your own bathroom humor.

But keep it clean. No potty mouths.

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Amy Schneider spotted these pumpkins yesterday, at the Compo brick pavilion.

(Photo/Amy Schneider)

Perhaps someone heard that the beach was a favorite spot for trick-or-treaters.

Let’s clarify: It’s the homes in the very walkable Compo neighborhood, not the beach itself.

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Longtime Westporter Paul Hammond, more recently of Fairfield, died  peacefully at home earlier this month, with his family and rector at his side. He was 82.

Paul grew up in Darien, where he was an acolyte at St Luke Church, acting in theater, and played baseball and football. His summers were spent in Chatham, Massachusetts, where his family had 300 years of history.

.After graduating from Darien High School in 1959, Paul took a gap year to work as head doorman at Hawaii’s Waikiki Hilton. He graduated from Brown University in 1965, then earned his masters degree at New York University in international development.

In 1966 he joined the Army. Paul served for 3 years as a 1st Lieutenant and executive officer of his training battalion, receiving a Commendation Medal.

He began his business career at International Paper, then worked at Emery Air Freight and All Transport. Paul started his own company, US Trade and Transport, and traveled the world selling heavy construction equipment.

He later entered market research, working for Teeton Group, Yankelovich and TRC, where he was an executive vice president and principal shareholder.

Paul met the love of his life, Paige, in 1979. They were married the next year. They settled on Saugatuck Shores, where they lived for 35 years.  Paul enjoyed lobstering, fishing, waterskiing, and spending time with Paige’s children.

The couple traveled extensively. Treasure Cay, Abaco Bahamas became their home away from home.

In retirement, Paul wrote novels and researched. He published 4 books aboutthe American Revolution.

Paul was active at Christ & Holy Church on the vestry, Fundraising Committee, and as building project manager for the renovation project. He served as a president and board member of the Saugatuck Island Owners Association.  He was also chair of the Treasure Cay Golf Club, commodore of the Yacht Club, and a board member of the Treasure Cay Medical Clinic. Recently, he served as Grounds chair and a board member at the Meadows in Fairfield.

Paul fully encouraged all his grandchildren, and rarely missed an event.

He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Paige Hammond; stepchildren Connie (Jamie) Widmann of Newtown, and David (Andrea) Moore of Westport; grandchildren Jimmy and Sarah Widmann, and Tessa, Janna and Ella Moore;  sister-in-law Suzanne Hammond. and many cousins, nieces and nephew.

A celebration of Paul’s life will be held November 17 (noon, Christ & Holy Trinity Church).

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Paul’s name to Regional Hospice, 30 Milestone Road, Danbury, CT 06810.

Paul Hammond

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Many “Westport … Naturally” photos feature an animal, plant or flower.

This one shows a much bigger scene, at Sherwood Mill Pond. It’s one of the reasons we love this part of New England so much.

Enjoy it now. It won’t last forever — or even a couple of weeks.

(Photo/Andrew Colabella)

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And finally … (and speaking of Sherwood Mill Pond): today’s song honors a certain garage on the way to Compo Cove:

(Where else but “06880” do you get real estate, police, business and  beach news — and much more — every day? We rely on reader support to do it all. Please click here to help. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Elliott Landon Funeral, School Security Officers, Generative AI …

Posted on September 2, 2023 | 10 comments

The funeral for Dr. Elliott Landon — Westport’s superintendent of schools for 17 years, from 1999 to 2016 — will be held Monday (September 4, 10 a.m., Temple Israel). He died Thursday night, at 82.

Yesterday, assistant superintendent of schools John Bayers sent this message to staff:

“Elliott led the district through a very transformative period. From a facilities perspective he oversaw the reopening of Greens Farms Elementary School, the opening of the current Bedford Middle School, and the renovations of Staples High School. Those projects themselves could have pulled a superintendent’s focus away from the primary responsibility of overseeing the educational program of a district, but Elliott never wavered from keeping the focus on having excellent schools for students, staff and families.

“During Elliott’s time in Westport the words ‘Lighthouse District’ were often used to describe the strength of its schools. While Elliott had high expectations for the academic performance of students, he was always working with everyone to think about innovative ways for our schools to help students prepare for their lives after high school. He knew complacency and a focus on lofty district rankings would not serve our students, our families, our staff, and the community well. He was a true champion of meeting the individual needs of every child.

“There is no doubt stories about his incredible impact on the schools will be shared by many in the coming days, and I encourage those of you who did not have the chance to meet or work with him to listen intently as you will appreciate how his legacy is having a lasting effect on the district today. His impact is not just on our schools, but on the community as well.

“Shortly before his retirement Elliott met with the Westport News to reflect on his career. What is striking in that article (linked here) was Elliott’s realization that he had basically hired everyone in the district at that point. That is an amazing accomplishment. For those of us who were hired during Elliott’s tenure, it is also humbling.

“Please join me in keeping Elliott, his wife Joyce, their children Gillian and Judd and their spouses, their grandchildren, and their extended family in your thoughts during this difficult time.”

In 2015, students Liam Abourezk, BK Browne and Jack Sila showed Dr. Elliott Landon how they used QR codes on their smartphones, as part of a Staples High project involving art, writing and history.

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On Wednesday, 3 Representative Town Meeting committees voted unanimously to recommend approval of a School Security Officers program, proposed by the Westport Police, First Selectwoman and Superintendent of Schools.

Three officers would be assigned to 2 school campuses each: Coleytown Middle and Elementary; Kings Highway/Saugatuck, and Long Lots/Greens Farms. Staples High and Bedford Middle School already have an officer on patrol.

The SSOs would work primarily outside, including assisting with traffic and deterring potential threats. They would enter schools only for emergencies.

The full RTM will act upon the request at its next meeting: Tuesday, September 5 (7:30 p.m., Town Hall auditorium).

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StartUp Westport — the organization dedicated to harnessing our town’s tech and entrepreneurial talent, and making it an innovation hub — starts up the fall with a meeting September 14 (6:30 p.m., meet and greet cocktails; 7 p.m. program; Westport Library).

Westporter Dan Bikel — a key member of the AI community at Meta — will speak on “Generative AI: NLP, Machine Learning and Large Language Models.”

The event is free, but pre-registration is mandatory. Click here to claim a spot.

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Sherwood Island State Park — the site of Connecticut’s official 9/11 memorial — is once again the site of the state ceremony honoring the lives of residents killed in the terrorist attack.

The event is set for Thursday, September 7 (5:30 p.m.). Family members of will participate, and the names of the 161 victims with ties to Connecticut will be read aloud. Governor Lamont and Lieutenant Governor Susan Bysiewicz will participate.

The Sherwood Island memorial is located on a peninsula. The memorial is engraved with the names of people with ties to Connecticut who died on 9/11.

On a clear day the Manhattan skyline is visible across Long Island Sound. Immediately following the attacks, people gathered there to observe the devastation in Lower Manhattan.

In the following days, the area was used by the Connecticut National Guard as a staging area for relief efforts.

The 9/11 memorial at Sherwood Island State Park.

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PopUp Bagels’ tagline is “Not famous, but known.”

They may soon be shopping for a new one.

People Magazine just gave the Westport-based bakers a “Top Delicious Destination” designation.

Popup Bagels has already taken our town and county by storm. Next, they conquered the Big Apple.

Now, will it play in Peoria?

As anyone who has tried to get a good bagel outside of this area hopes: God willing.

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Yesterday’s Roundup noted that Rev. Willie Salmond will be the guest preacher at tomorrow’s Saugatuck Congregational Church 10 a.m. worship — and that all Westporters are invited to share memories of longtime pastor Rev. Ted Hoskins.

That will be Rev. Salmond’s 2nd service of the day. At 8:30 a.m. tomorrow, he leads the summer’s final early morning service, at Compo Beach.

Sunday morning beach service at Compo. (Photo/Karen Como)

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Speaking of Compo Beach:

This has been the Summer of Tents, on the sand.

Some people love the shade and breeze they provide, along with ease of putting up and taking down.

Others think they’re too big and intrusive. And too many.

But — in the waning days of the season — here is a new trend: tents that sprawl far beyond their footprint.

Yea or nay? Click “Comments” below.

(Photo/John Cravenho)

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In 2015, the Westport Weston Family YMCA received a large and unexpected gift from the estate of Ruth Bedford.

The granddaughter of Y founder Edward T. Bedford, she had died the previous year, at 99. The board of trustees established the Ruth Bedford Social Responsibility Fund. Its endowment supports grants to organizations that provide direct or supplemental educational opportunities in Fairfield County.

The fund is now accepting preliminary applications for the 2023-24 grant cycle. The deadline is September 9.

Last year, the Bedford Fund awarded $300,000 to 31 Fairfield County organizations. Their programs support equitable education programs for students.

Click here for more information. Click here for the grant application. Questions? Contact director of development Kate Guthrie: kguthrie@westporty.org; 203-226-8981.

Some recipients of the Westport Weston Family YMCA Ruth Bedford Social Responsibility Fund.

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Last spring, the Westport Library partnered with New York’s Song Arts Academy, for an 8-week songwriting workshop for middle and high school students.

This fall, adults get their chance.

The 2-hour songwriting program runs 8 Mondays (6:30 to 8:30 p.m.), beginning September 18. The course is once again taught by former Westporter Billy Seidman, an experienced songwriter and the author of “The Elements of Song Craft.”

Participants learn the techniques and mechanics of great song-writing, including critiques of famous tunes. During the final 2 weeks, participants record a song in the Library’s Verso Studio.

Previous songwriting experience is not necessary. For more information, email songartsacademy.com. To register, click here.

Billy Seidman

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Marisa Zer grows flowers for florists, shops and private customers.

Today she shares a scene at her dahlia patch — “bees lining up at the flower bar” — for our “Westport … Naturally” features.

(Photo/Marisa Zer)

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And finally … A tribute to Jimmy Buffett will come tomorrow. Meanwhile, in honor of Billy Seidman’s songwriting class at the Westport Library (story above):

 (I write the stories. You may or may not write the songs. But please write a check to support our “06880” work. Click here — and thank you!)

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Roundup: GOP Slate, Young Shoots, World Champ …

Posted on July 23, 2023 | 1 comment

The Republican Party of Westport’s slate for the November elections features a mix of current and experienced candidates, and 3 new faces.

Meeting Thursday night at Town Hall, the GOP chose incumbent Liz Heyer, and newcomer Judy Domkowski.

Former Board of Finance member Tom Lasersohn joins Rich Hightower and Perry Winter in the Board of Finance race. Two current members will not run for re-election. Jay DesMarteau is moving, and Jim Foster has switched his registration to unaffiliated.

Incumbents Amie Tesler and Patricia Zucaro, alternate John Bolton, and former member Jack Whittle will vie for seats on the Planning & Zoning Commission.

Zoning Board of Appeals vice chair Liz Won and alternate Michelle Hopson are running again, while Joe Sledge was nominated to remain on the Board of Assessment Appeals.

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Only 2 Westport Farmers’ Markets remain before the “Young Shoots” photography contest deadline.

The 7th annual event — for students ages 5-18 — offers cash prizes in three age groups (and a chance to attend a MoCA art class). Click here to submit, and for more details.

But the WFM is a great place for artists too.

Quinn Fitts is a 14-year-old Westporter. He works in sculpture, pottery and watercolors. He’s also an accomplished glassblower and blacksmith.

A favorite subject is Farmers’ Market food. Here are 2 of his works:

“Carrots” (Quinn Fitts)

“Mushrooms” (Quinn Fitts)

Maybe next year, the “Young Shoots” contest will add an artists’ category.

Another creative shopper is Nisha Amir. She personalized her tote bag with a photo of her son, at the Bees Knees Ice Pops stand.

And maybe a “personalized tote bag” category too …?

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You won’t find this in the Westport Police reports.

But maybe in New York’s.

Yesterday, the cops were called when the line at Popup Bagels’ Thompson Street  location in SoHo got too long.

At one time, over 400 people were waiting at the site that opened in May. Several platforms have named Westport-based Popup the “best bagel in New York.”

The next location is the Upper East Side. Details soon, for the fall opening.

This is only half the line yesterday. It wrapped around the block in the other direction too.

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Westport has a new world champion

Mason Banks joined fellow US Naval Academy midshipman/crew teammate Jackson Fuller to capture the lightweight men’s pair title yesterday at the World Rowing Under 23 Championships in Bulgaria.

Though it was well before dawn here in Westport, he was “cheered on” by a group of fellow Staples High School alums, watching the livestream.

Banks’ team won the race in 6:36.37, nearly 4 seconds faster than the Italian runners-up.

“It’s everything I imagined and more,” Banks says. “It’s one of the greatest honors that I could achieve at this age.”

Click here for a full USRowing report. (Hat tips: Jill Johnson Mann, Scott Robins)

Mason Banks and Jackson Fuller, on the winners’ stand.

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Speaking of 2-person crews:

The Saugatuck Rowing Club was the site of a recent marriage proposal.

This was the scene:

(Photo/John Videler for Videler Photography)

The answer was: Yes!

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Everyone loves the Westport Community Gardens.

And everything.

Plants, herbs and flowers attract an astonishing array of wildlife. This dragonfly paused just long enough to be captured — on camera — by Gardens director Lou Weinberg, for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Lou Weinberg)

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And finally … in honor of the message of love at the Saugatuck Rowing Club (story above):

(From Westport to Bulgaria, “06880” has got 06880 covered. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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