Tag Archives: The Granola Bar

Roundup: Playground Rebuild Week, Drug Take-Back Day, Tip-A-Cop Night …

Posted on April 23, 2025 | 1 comment

The Compo Beach playground rebuild has begun.

There is still time to volunteer. In fact, more hands are definitely needed.

Good progress has been made. But construction is a bit behind schedule. The target for completion is Saturday.

All kinds of help, of all skill levels, is welcome — for all shifts (8 a.m. to noon, 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., and 5 to 8 p.m.).

Meals, fruit, water — and a free t-shirt — are all provided.

Click here to volunteer — or just stop by.

PS: The temperature will be in the 70s all week. What better place to be outdoors than Compo Beach?

It takes a village to rebuild the Compo playground. Can you help?

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Got drugs you no longer need (or want)? Or those that have expired?

This Saturday (April 26, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Senior Center) the Westport Police Departmet takes part in National Prescription Drug Take Back Day.

Residents can bring tablets, capsules, patches and other solid forms of prescription drugs to the Senior Center. Liquid products, such as cough syrup, should remain sealed in their original container.

Do NOT bring syringes, sharps and illicit drugs. The cap must be tightly sealed to prevent leakage.

Drop-offs are free, and anonymous.

Westport Police also offer a year-round collection bin in the lobby of the headquarters building on Jesup Road. There is a supply of medication disposal bags in the lobby, to dispose of liquid and pill medications in your regular garbage.

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Speaking of police: This Friday (April 25), Rizzuto’s Oyster Bar & Restaurant will have some special staff members.

From 5:30 to 9:30 p.m., Westport Police Department officers will welcome diners, take orders and serve meals.

No, Rizzuto’s is not short staffed. And the police are not pocketing the proceeds.

The Tip-A-Cop event is a fundraiser for Special Olympics Connecticut. Customers are encouraged to leave extra tips. All tips the officers receive will help provide sports, health and fitness programs to athletes of all abilities.

Our police are known as Westport’s finest. Thanks to the force, Rizzuto’s and Special Olympics, for this very “fine” idea.

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Two long-vacant storefronts at “Elm & Main” — the new name for what decades of Westporters knew as Brooks Corner — will soon be filled.

Everything But Water is moving into the old Birddogs space. The Orlando-based women’s retailer specializes in designer swimwear, vacation essentials and accessories.

They operate 34 stores. Westport will be their third in Connecticut. The other locations are Farmington and Greenwich.

Beyond Yoga opens their second Connecticut store in September. The first will be in Greenwich, starting next month.  The female-founded activewear brand is owned by Levi Strauss.

Fun Fact: Brooks Corner was named not for longtime tenant Brooks Brothers, but for B.V. Brooks. The real estate developer built the shopping center in the early 1960s.

“Elm & Main” — formerly Brooks Corner.

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Speaking of openings: The next location for The Granola Bar is …

… 330 Madison Avenue, in New York City.

Instantly popular from the day in 2013 when it opened in Playhouse Square — still its “flagship” location, with offices nearby — the breakfast/lunch/catering-and-more spot has since expanded to Fairfield, Darien, Stamford and Greenwich, plus Rye, Woodbury (Long Island) and the Upper West Side.

Now comes Midtown — just steps away from Grand Central.

Starbucks, McDonald’s, Subway … look out. You’re goin’ down!

330 Madison Avenue, New York City.

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Tomorrow’s Board of Education meeting (Thursday, April 24, 7 p.m., Staples High School cafeteria) includes the usual mix of topics: academic performances, revisions to the school caelndar, board policies regarding employees, and students with disabilities.

The discussion item at the end should be less dry. It’s about Staples Block “S” trophies, and the controversy raised this year when the traditional metal awards were replaced by plaques.

 Block “S” plaque”

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Coming soon at Wakeman Town Farm:

“Wild About Veggies: Tips for Planting a Garden” (May 5, 7 p.m.). Learn about seasonal rotations, and much more. Click here to register.

“Learn to Shuck Oysters with a Local Pro” (June 8, 5 p.m.). Then enjoy the oysters you open (from Copps Island in Norwalk). You’ll also gain an understanding of oyster anatomy, and learn about the history of oyster farming here. $50; BYOB. Click here to register.

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Coming Sunday (April 27) to the Weston History & Culture Center i

Opening Day of “Images of a Forgotten Village: Valley Forge” (1 p.m.). The Saugatuck Reservoir in Weston was home to a small neighborhood called Valley Forge. Now the once-thriving community of mills, forges and farms has vanished from memory and sight. The only reminders are photos.

Author Talk with Heather Pemberton About her debut thriller, “Hidden Below” (3 p.m.) — inspired by the history of Weston’s Valley Forge

Both are free for members, with a suggested donation for non-members.

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For 2 decades, STAR Lighting the Way’s “Walk & Roll” has been a spring highlight. The event brings together families, friends, supporters and businesses to celebrate individuals of all abilities, and raise needed funds for STAR’s programs and services, aiding people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

This year’s event is May 4 (Sherwood Island State Park, 10:30 a.m.). The day includes family activities, music, food trucks, games and entertainment.

As always, the public is invited to walk, roll, volunteer or cheer from the sidelines. Click here to donate, register to walk or roll, or become a sponsor.

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Here’s an early head’s-up, on an event that will sell out soon.

On June 27 (6:30 p.m.,), Mystic Bowie’s Talking Dreads make their first-ever Westport appearance.

They’ll fill the Westport Library with their fun Caribbean swagger, and bouncy reggae rhythms, for a special dance party.

Salon says: “Talking Dreads play Talking Heads songs as shimmering one-drop reggae jewels. Tom Tom Club vet Mystic Bowie (swaps out) urbanity for roots and sincerity.”

Tickets are $37.50. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

Mystic Bowie

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Max Harper’s family and friends — and many Westporters who did not know the Staples High School senior who died last fall — are admiring a new memorial to him.

The handsome stone is at Compo’s South Beach, near the trees and benches.

It was designed by longtime Westport artist (and Staples graduate) Miggs Burroughts.

On a cold, windy March day, an expert from Enduring Monuments met Miggs and Max’s father Marcus at the rock Marcus had chosen.

The Westchester firm had created stencils from Miggs’ artwork. They blasted as pecial powdery spray into it, then spray painted the recessed areas to make them stand out.

Creating the memorial …

 … and the finished memorial. (Photo/Pam Docters)

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A reader writes: “I went into the AMC (used to be Bowtie) Royale 6 this afternoon. They are open. Who knew?!

“I thought they had closed. They switched owners, and took down the board where they used to post movie titles you could see from Route 1. So for the last 6 months I drove by and thought they were closed. I bet 50% of Westport has no idea they are open.”

I’m in the 50% who knew they were open. In fact, I bet 90% of the town did not think they were closed.

But, as a public service announcement, I’m relaying the “news.”

Hopefully, it’s a lot more interesting than all the announcements you hear before a movie.

At the AMC Royale 6, which — did you know? — is open!

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Seth Schachter sends today’s “Westport … Naturally” image.

For those who are not early risers (or morning beachgoers): It’s an early morning shot of Burying Hill, looking toward Frost Point.

Burying Hill Beach (Photo/Seth Schachter)

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And finally … in honor of the AMC Royale 6 theater (story above):

(You go to the movies every once in a while. But “06880” entertains — and maybe informs and inspires — you several times a day. If you enjoy this hyper-local blog, please click here to support us. Thanks!)

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Posted in Beach, Environment, Local business, Police, Restaurants

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And The New Operator Of Old Mill Grocery Is …

Posted on January 14, 2024 | 17 comments

Mid-winter is traditionally a slow time, in the Old Mill neighborhood.

But there’s plenty of action there now. And a ton of buzz.

Soon — perhaps within a few days — Old Mill Grocery & Deli will reopen.

The new operators are old Westport friends: the folks at Romanacci.

It’s an ideal match, says Jim Hood, one of 5 founders of the Soundview Empowerment Alliance. The non-profit bought the former Joey’s by the Shore (and before that, Elvira’s and Kenny’s) 2 years ago, to save it from possible demolition.

Old Milll Grocery & Deli (Photo/Matt Murray)

The first SEA operators, The Granola Bar, left in September. The original market was established in 1919.

In addition to great experience running popular restaurants by the train station, and in Norwalk and Trumbull, owners Graziano and Mauricio Ricci ran a coffee-and-breakfast spot on Railroad Place.

“They know how to make an omelet and espresso,” Hood says. “They breathe hospitality. They’ll make a real commitment to breakfast, lunch and dinner.” That includes a “robust offering” of grab-and-go meals, plus a modest selection of groceries and sundries, like their restaurant and the old Elvira’s.

The Ricci brothers “understand the significance of this place — historically, and to the neighborhood,” Hood says.

“And they’re fully committed to the second part of our mission: training people with special needs, and helping make them employable.”

The Riccis — who will keep the Old Mill Grocery name, adding “by Romanacci” — have made significant changes to the interior. It’s got a new floor, a large community table, and — like their restaurant — an open kitchen, like Elvira’s had.

The new operators are “incredibly open to feedback,” Hood says. They’ve already hung a suggestion box on the wall.

One suggestion they’re eager to implement: a return to house accounts. Elvira’s binder was always full.

Over a dozen operators were interested in taking over when The Granola Bar left, Hood says.

“There were plenty of talented people. But the Romanacci team rose above the rest, in both operational excellence and unbridled enthusiasm.”

The Riccis have been there often in the past 2 months, making sure they’re ready to serve the Old Mill neighborhood — and everyone passing by — the way they want to be served.

An opening date will be announced soon.

From left: general manager Davis Johnson, Mauricio and Graziano Ricci, and chef Jose Siguencia, in the newly revamped Old Mill Grocery & Deli by Romanacci.

(“06880” is your source for hyper-local news, about the Westport of yesterday, today and tomorrow. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Long Lots, Audra McDonald, Israel Rally …

Posted on January 12, 2024 | 23 comments

There’s one more plan for Long Lots Elementary School.

Sort of.

1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker began last night’s Long Lots School Building Committee meeting by announcing a new version of the controversial renovation project. The goal was to address objections raised previously by the Planning & Zoning Commission, to a baseball diamond at the location of the current Westport Community Gardens.

A “multipurpose field” would be constructed there instead. The garden would be relocated somewhere else, on the Hyde Lane property.

There was no drawing to accompany the concept.

The LLSBC then held a work session. Microphones were either off or insufficient, making it difficult to hear.

Residents Jennifer Johnson and John Suggs both complained that the meeting was neither livestreamed nor recorded.

The newest plan — with, perhaps, a drawing — may be presented to the P&Z at its January 22 meeting.

Long Lots Elementary School

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For over 90 years, the Westport Country Playhouse has attracted Big Names.

Next up: Audra McDonald.

The singer/actor — winner of a record-breaking 6 Tony Awards (plus 2 Grammys and an Emmy); National Medal of Arts recipient, and one of Time’s 100 Most Influential People — takes the stage on Saturday, February 10 (7 p.m.).

Click here for tickets, and more information.

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The Jewish Federation of Greater Fairfield County is sponsoring a solidarity gathering on Sunday. It marks 100 days of captivity for dozens of hostages taken by Hamas during their October 7 terrorist attack on Israel.

Sunday’s event — called “Bring Them Home Now” — is at 1 p.m. Click here to register, and receive location details.

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In her last issue as editor of Westport Lifestyle, Robin Moyer Chung writes about Henry Putnam. The Staples High School student is a non-verbal 18-year-old with cerebral palsy. As with other classmates with disabilities, he participates in an internship that will help him get a job after graduation.

Click here to read the story. It begins on page 42.

Henry Putnam (Photo courtesy of Westport Lifestyle Magazine)

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Fresh off a national championship, Jake Thaw has entered the transfer portal.

The University of Michigan punt return specialist is a senior, after graduating from Staples High School in 2020. However, he has 3 years of eligibility remaining, after walking on for the Wolverines.

The Detroit Free Press writes: “Thaw, 6-1 and 192 pounds played in 15 games on special teams as a senior this season. He may now be most known for his muffed punt near the goal line against Alabama in the final minute of the Rose Bowl, though it should be highlighted he was able to recover the loose ball and avert disaster.

He had 11 fair catches, and returned 16 punts for 111 yards the season.

A muffed punt with less than a minute to play in the semifinal almost cost UM a shot at the national title. Thaw was vilified on social media, but also praised for not giving up a safety.

He wrote: “For those that have kept unwavering support — thank you. And for those that have not, I understand. I made the biggest two mistakes of my life on the biggest stage, and I won’t ever forgive myself. I’ll always love and cherish @UMichFootball and this fanbase. Go Blue.” (Hat tip: Pete Wolgast)

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Westport artists Miggs Burroughs, Darcy Hicks, Dale Najarian and Tammy Winser — all of whom advocate for common sense guns laws — will show their work in a juried exhibit at Metro Art Studios in Bridgeport. “In Our Hands” explores many perspectives of gun culture in the US. All proceeds benefit Sandy Hook Promise and Street Safe Bridgeport.

The opening reception is January 21 (1 to 3 p.m.).

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Matthew Mandell paid a surprise visit yesterday to wish Westporters Dana Noorilly and Julie Mountain good luck with their new Upper West Side Granola Bar location.

Business was brisk, he said, in a beautiful spot.

Mandell is director of the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce. “We support our members!” he notes.

Dana Noorilly, Matthew Mandell and Julie Mountain, at the New York Granola Bar.

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Neal Radding sends today’s “Westport … Naturally” image from Sherwood Island State Park, plus a George Costanza quote: “The sea was angry that day, my friends.”

(Photo/Neal Radding)

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And finally … on this date in 1969, the New York Jets of the American Football League defeated the NFL’s Baltimore Colts of the National Football League to win Super Bowl III (and the first championship game with that name). The 16-7 victory is one of the greatest upsets in sports history; the Jets were 19 1/2-point underdogs.

(The Jets and Sharks agree on one thing: Supporting “06880” is cool. Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

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Posted in Education, Local politics, Politics, Sports, Staples HS, Westport Country Playhouse

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Roundup: Compo Playground, Jake Thaw, Wakeman Town Farm ….

Posted on January 10, 2024 | 1 comment

The design for the Compo Beach playground renovation is underway, but not yet finalized.

A charrette will be held Saturday, January 20 (time and location TBD). Residents can share thoughts directly with designer Lisa Deshano.

The plan will be presented to Westport’s Parks & Recreation Commission on February 21, for approval.

Announcement of a logo contest for elementary school students will be made soon.

Compo Beach playground (Photo/Katherine Bruan)

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Ted Gangi graduated from Staples High School in 1983. Starting in junior high, he did statistics for the football team.

Ted is in his 19th year as owner of CollegePressBox.com, the official media website of Division I football and the College Football Playoff.

On Monday, as the 2024 champion Michigan Wolverines left the field, he posed with Westport’s newest football hero: Staples Class of 2020’s Jake Thaw. (Hat tip: Ned Batlin)

Jake Thaw and Ted Gangi. 

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Susan Leone calls this “the end of an era.”

I call it “Pata-gone.”

(Photo/Susan Leone)

It’s some of the most expensive retail real estate in Westport.

Whoever moves in next will certainly need to stop at a bank.

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There’s always something going on down at the (Wakeman Town) Farm.

Upcoming events include:

  • Vacation Day Cooking Camp (January 15; grades 1-5)
  • Adult Dumpling Class with Nit Noi Provisions (January 25)
  • Winter Seed Sowing with master gardener Alice Ely (January 29)
  • Chinese New Year Dumpling Class for kids (February 9; ages 6-11)
  • Tea Workshop for Health, Happiness and Longevity (February 13)
  • Valentine’s Day Dinner with Chef Alison Milwe Grace (February 15)

Click here for details and registration.

In addition, Tony “Pizza” Napolitano will be at the WTF brick oven every Tuesday from 4-7 p.m., for pickups. To order a pizza, check out his Facebook page on Mondays.

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The Granola Bar started in Westport.

Now they’ve expanded — to the Upper West Side.

If you’re around 551 Amsterdam Avenue, stop in.

And tell ’em you know The Granola Bar when.’

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Congratulations to Staples High School’s January Students of the Month: seniors Brendan Dellorusso, juniors Logan Noorily and Jada Shelley, sophomores Daniel Arava and Catherine Cirasuolo, and freshmen Katherine Mannino and Thomas Scott.

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

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

Students of the Month (from left): Thomas Scott, Jordan Noorilly, Jada Shelley, Katherine Mennino, Catherine Ciraduolo, Brendan Dellorusso. Absent: Daniel Arava.

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In November, 18 Rotary travelers and their guests spent 2 weeks on a Westport Rotary Club “Back Roads Service Trip” to Uganda.

At this week’s meeting Lyla Steenbergen, chair of the International Giving Committee, reported on the trip — and shared great photos.

The group covered over 1,650 miles in 2 weeks in off-road vehicles and small planes. They went to national parks, tracked chimpanzees and gorillas, and trekked through a swamp at night.

They also visited 5 projects that Westport Rotary has supported with grants, including schools, hospitals and a water project, and engaged in hands-on service projects at those facilities.

Westport Rotary Club, in Uganda.

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From Stanley Steemer to Marian the Librarian: that’s Mia Gentile for you.

The 2007 Staples graduate — whose various impressions of the Stanley ad became an internet sensation — plays a more demure role in the Norwalk Symphony Orchestra’s performance of “The Music Man – Concert Version”  (February 10,  7:30 p.m., Norwalk Concert Hall).

Mia also played Carrie Pipperidge in NSO’ production of “Carousel” last year.

Three Mia Gentiles: She played an all-girls group in one of her Stanley Steemer “ads.”

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Vivek Kanthan is just a teenager.

But he’s been kart racing since he was 10.

He took time out from competing in Europe on Sunday to share his journey with fans of all ages at the Westport Library.

Vivek Kanthan (1st row, 2nd from left) with fans. (Photo/Ifesheyi Gayle)

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And finally … Scott McKenzie was born on this date in 1939. He had a long career as a singer/songwriter, but will always be known for this era-defining classic:

He died in 2012, age 73, from complications of Guillain-Barré Syndrome.

(In 1967, all the cool people wore flowers in their hair. In 2024, they’re donating to “06880.” Please click here to join the crowd. Thank you!)

 

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Posted in Beach, Children, Environment, Local business, Sports, Staples HS

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Roundup: 136 Riverside Avenue, Antisemitism, Sister City Aid …

Posted on December 8, 2023 | 15 comments

136 Riverside Avenue is one step closer to reality.

This week, the Board of Finance approved a 40-year deed restriction for supportive housing for people with special needs.

The 1880 Victorian just north of Saugatuck Elementary School — owned by the town, and used previously by the Board of Education — will include 5 apartments. Four are for people with special needs; one will be rented to a staff member, who also qualifies under regulations for affordable housing.

The off-site affordable housing is part of the Richmondville Mill project. Funding came from Sam Gault and Joe Feinleib.

It’s a great example of public/private cooperation to address affordable housing needs. The town gets a $500,000 prepaid lease, on property it still owns. The historic house got a $2 million restoration (and landscaping) through Redniss & Mead.

Abilis — the 72-year-old nonprofit serving over 800 people with special needs — gets a completely redone home, gratis, for clients. Each unit includes a kitchenette and private bath

The town gets moratorium points toward affordable housing units — without going through the contentious 8-30g process.

Once a certificate of occupancy is granted, residents and a staff member will move in.

136 Saugatuck Avenue

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Representative Town Meeting member Matthew Mandell rose, at Tuesday’s meeting, and requested time to speak on a subject he feels strongly about: antisemitism.

Click below to hear his words:

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Less than 72 hours after announcing a holiday fund drive to heat 2,000 homes for the winter in Westport’s sister city of Lyman, Ukraine, we’re already more than 3/4 of the way to our goal.

We’re aiming for $60,000. That would pay for 2 wood pellet machines. Each would heat 1,000 homes — all heavily damaged in the Russian invasion, and all filled with families facing a cold, bleak winter.

Thanks to 2 large anonymous donations, and dozens of smaller ones, we’ve raised $48,112. We are less $12,000 away from helping 2,000 people — many of them elderly, and children — in the war-torn town.

Come on, Westport! Let’s close this out today! $30 will heat one apartment for the winter. $300 will heat 10. Any gift — of any amount — will make the winter bearable, in our sister city.

To donate by credit card, click here; then click the “I want to support” box; then select “Westport — Lyman Sister City.” Scroll down on the Donate page for other options: mail, wire transfer and Venmo. Thank you!

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The short block of Rayfield Road between Post Road East and Spicer Road is public — and gets plenty of traffic.

For years, Volvo of Westport used both sides as a parking lot. After many complaints, the Board of Selectwomen voted to ban parking there. The “No Parking” signs went up a month ago.

Big deal.

Volvo — and others — continue to park there.

This was the scene Wednesday, at 2 p.m.: 6 cars. Plus a tractor-trailer.

Police: Take note!

(Photo/Arthur Hayes)

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Speaking of parking … a reader sends a photo from yesterday morning, at the Sherwood Mill Pond Preserve:

He writes: “Granted, there might not be huge demand for the very limited parkin spaces this time of year.

“But there were 4 commercial vehicles parked there, presumably by contractors working on a nearby house.

“I know there’s not much available parking down here. But those few spaces are intended for residents’ recreational use.”

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50,000 copies of “Agent Orange” — the new book by Westport author and Vietnam veteran Carl Addison Swanson — have been delivered to 4 regional VA offices. They’ll be distributed free to former servicemembers.

“The dreadful chemicals, some 19 million pounds, sprayed on Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos during the war have now murdered over 300,000 veterans since we left Vietnam in 1975,” Swanson notes.

Click here for more information on the book, and to order. Click here for Swanson’s website.

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Ring cameras capture some plenty of prosaic scenes.

And some pretty interesting ones.

But even the cutest deer nuzzling up against a door, or the most brazen thief running away with an Amazon delivery, can’t compare with this video, from a couple of nights ago, in the Cranbury neighborhood:

Screenshot of Ring video (courtesy of Brian McGunagle)

That’s right. You’ve always been told there’s no such thing as a unicorn.

Now you’ve seen two.

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Happy anniversary to The Granola Bar!

It was 10 years ago yesterday that the almost instantly popular restaurant opened in Playhouse Square.

To celebrate — and for a limited time only — they’re offering a Morning Zest Parfait.

It’s made with morning zest granola, Greek yogurt, almost butter and strawberry compote, it’s part of TGB’s 10th anniversary menu. The Classic Parfait, Shrek, Granola Bowl, Dana, The Good Date, Very Berry and Lemon Drop are all just $10.

And — if you use the discount code “GC10” — you get 10% off online gift cards. The offer is only good through (of course) December 10.

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The Staples football team hopes for a great turnout tomorrow (Saturday, December 9, 5 p.m., Central Connecticut State University’s Arute Field), for their state “LL” (extra large schools) championship game against West Haven.

All tickets must be bought online (click here).

But if you can’t make it to New Britain, there’s a livestream. Click here (and follow the prompts to subscribe).

As exciting as the game is, it’s tinged with tragedy. Christopher Fidalgo-Pugh — a sophomore player for West Haven — died suddenly on Tuesday.

Carmen Roda — Westport Parks & Recreation Department operations manager, and director of the Fairfield County Football League — is helping raise funds for funeral costs. Click here for the GoFundMe link.

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This bobcat looked right at home yesterday, hanging out on a deck off Wilton Road and posing for his “Westport … Naturally” close-up.

(Photo/Tom Carey)

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And finally … Denny Laine — the singer/songwriter/guitarist who co-founded both the Moody Blues and Wings — died Tuesday in Florida. He was 79, and suffered from interstitial lung disease. Click here for a full obituary.

(“06880” is your hyper-local blog. We rely on the support of readers like you. To make a tax-deductible contribution, please click here. Thank you!)

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Old Mill Grocery Seeks New Operator

Posted on August 26, 2023 | 17 comments

Last year, when a group of Westporters saved the former Elvira’s from possible conversion to a large home, they needed an experienced operator.

The Granola Bar stepped up. In just a few weeks they had Old Mill Grocery & Deli running.

The July 2022 opening filled a void, reinvigorating the neighborhood while also serving hungry folks headed to and from Compo Beach.

But as The Granola Bar expands, opening new locations in Connecticut and New York, they’re focusing staff and resources on that brand.

They’ve opted not to renew their lease. Their final day will be September 30.

Old Mill Grocery & Deli reopened in July 2022. (Photo/Matt Murray)

Soundview Empowerment Alliance founders Jim Hood, Ian Warburg, Emily Zobl, Chris Tait and Tommy Febbraio — who formed a non-profit to buy the century-old building, renovate it and re-open the market/deli, while also providing employment and training opportunities for people with disabilities — are working closely with the Granola Bar team on the transition.

SEA is also working to identify a new restaurant operator. They’re talking with several, and invite any group interested to contact them by email: SoundviewEmpowerment@gmail.com.

“Together since July 22, The Granola Bar Hospitality Group and Soundview Empowerment Alliance have proudly fulfilled SEA’s mission to save the historic building and to empower adults with disabilities, while creating a special space in the community to share delicious food together,” SEA says.

“Since day one, the team has remained focused on ‘preserving history and serving good,’ with incredible support from the community.”

The renovated building has won 3 state and local preservation awards. The training and employment program for adults with disabilities began several months ago.

“As the team works together to identify and transition to a new operator, OMG&D will remain open through September 30, serving everything from morning coffee to award-winning pizza in Westport’s most beloved building.”

Old Mill Grocery, soon after reopening. (Photo/Maggie Moffitt Rahe)

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Posted in Beach, Local business, Restaurants

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“06880”‘s Newest Feature: Restaurant Tab

Posted on March 2, 2023 | 7 comments

“06880” always looks for ways to serve our community. Readers always look for ways to find out what’s happening around town – including where to eat.

Which is why “06880” introduces today a new feature: a “Restaurants” tab. It appears permanently in two places on our home page: at the top (directly underneath “06880”), and on the right side (under “Pages”).

It’s a way to feed the hunger of our readers — for both information and food.

The drop-down menu (ho ho) includes:

  • Links directly to a restaurant’s website
  • Its social media handles
  • Its phone number
  • And a 2- to 3-sentence description (from them) about why they’re special.

Each restaurant can choose its own category. (NOTE: Restaurants pay a small fee to be listed.)

Click here (or above, or on the right side of the home page) to access the “Restaurants” tab. For more information on being listed, email 06880blog@gmail.com.

What to eat tonight? Click on our “Restaurants” tab!

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Roundup: Lyman Apartments, Milwaukee Bucks, Coffee & Food …

Posted on February 28, 2023 | 4 comments

Supplies have been delivered. Now construction has begun on apartment buildings in Lyman, Ukraine. Work on 2 is already completed.

Lyman apartments.

Funds for building materials to shore up the structures — nearly demolished during 5 months of Russian occupation — came from $252,000 donated by Westporters to our sister city.

Work is being done by local contractors, hired by Ukraine Aid International. The non-profit was founded by Westporters Brian and Marshall Mayer.

At work in Lyman.

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The Milwaukee Bucks may not seem, at first glance, to be the 3rd most valued US sports franchise.

But if the reported 25% sale of the NBA team by co-owner — and Westporter — Marc Lasry goes through, at a valuation of $3.5 billion, it would be the 2nd-highest for an NBA team (behind the Phoenix Suns’ recent $4 billion), and 3rd overall (the Denver Broncos went for $4.65 billion in June).

Marc Lasry (right), after the Bucks won the NBA championship. (Screen shot photo/Fred Cantor)

Lasry and fellow hedge fund titan Wes Eden bought the Bucks for $550 million in 2014, from former US Senator Herb Kohl. They won the NBA championship in 2021. (Click here for the full story: Hat tips: Michael Catarevas, Chris Grimm and Fred Cantor)

Marc Lasry’s Beachside Avenue estate includes this full-size basketball court — including the Milwaukee Bucks’ slogan, “Fear the deer.”

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The Granola Bar has joined Nobu Restaurants.

Well, in a coffee partnership, anyway. Parent company TGB Hospital Group has partnered exclusively with Coffee of Grace, a Black woman-owned brand. It will be served — and sold by the bag — at The Granola Bar’s 5 locations, plus Old Mill Grocery & Deli.

Nobu is the only other group to offer a Coffee of Grace custom blend.

Coffee of Grace emphasizes environmental stewardship, and supports farmers (particularly female coffee growers) by sourcing directly from co-ops in Rwanda, Peru, Guatemala and Brazil.

All coffees are 100% arabica, specialty grade, organically grown, and ethically sourced from small lot coffee farmers through 100% Direct Trade business.

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Speaking of food:

Months after a “Coming Soon…” sign appeared at 793 Post Road East — the new retail/residential complex at the foot of Long Lots Road, behind Shearwater Coffee and Pizza Lyfe — Gallo Express is finally open.

The takeout and delivery-only store offers salads, pasta, pizze, panini, and plenty of full meals. Click here for a menu, and more details.

Screenshot from the Gallo Express website.

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Aspiring interns can apply now apply for the 2023 Joanne Woodward Internship Program at the Westport Country Playhouse. Interns work directly with senior staff in the areas of development, education, and diversity, equity and inclusion.

Interns also attend weekly seminars with guest speakers including Playhouse staff, visiting designers and artists, commercial producers and more.

Due to the Playhouse’s shortened season, production internships are not available this year.

The program runs from May 27 through August 12. The stipend is $600 a week. The application deadline is March 17. For more information, click here. 

Stephen Sondheim (crouching, top of photo), during his 1950 apprenticeship at the Westport Country Playhouse. Also in the photo: future film director Frank Perry (front row, left) and Richard Rodgers’ daughter Mary (2nd row, 4th from left).

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Tonight’s Malloy Lecture in the Arts has been postponed, due to weather.

Artist/musician Richard Butler will now appear on Saturday, April 1 (7 p.m.), in conversation with Chris Frantz.

That’s the 3rd day of the 2nd annual VersoFest. The April 1 lineup for the music and media event now features Butler, Talking Heads and Tom Tom Club drummer (and Fairfield resident) Frantz, and legendary producer Steve Lillywhite, reuniting 3 rock icons who rose to international prominence in the late 1970s and 80s.

Butler was part of the Psychedelic Furs, one of London’s leading post-punk bands.

Lillywhite delivers his festival keynote — also a conversation with Frantz — on Saturday, April 1 at 1 pm.

The Spring 2023 Malloy Lecture in the Arts with Butler replaces the previously scheduled laser light show at VersoFest. It will be rescheduled.

The Malloy Lecture in the Arts is a gift from Westport artist Susan Malloy. The Westport Library created the lecture series in 2002 as a free, public discussion by an individual who has had a significant cultural influence. and whose work has enhanced understanding and appreciation of the arts.

Richard Butler

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Speaking of the Westport Library: it opens at noon today.

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Also postponed: tonight’s FCIAC boys basketball semifinal. #4 Staples High School now takes on #1 Ridgefield tomorrow (Wednesday, March 1, Wilton High School). Tipoff is 7:15 p.m.

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The latest “What’s Next in Weston” podcast features part 2 of 1st Selectwoman Sam Nestor’s interview with Public Safety communications director Larry Roberts.

They discuss the cost and coverage of the statewide emergency communications system, and how it will benefit town residents.

The podcast is produced by the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston.

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Guitar master Bob DeVos kicks off March  in Westport with a blend of originals and masterpieces, at this Thursday’s Jazz at the Post (March 2, shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner at 7 p.m.; VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399).

He’ll be joined by Organ Trio bandmates Dan Kostelnik and Steve Johns, plus Greg “Jazz Rabbi” Wall  on saxophone.

Recommendations are highly recommended: JazzatthePost@gmail.com.

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Naturally, today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature features snow.

The first of 2023 made this intriguing mark on Nancy Axthelm’s back yard:

(Photo/Nancy Axthelm)

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And finally … It was the perfect snowfall, in fact.

Just enough to be pretty. Not enough to be onerous. No wind, drifts or bone-chilling temperatures.

So although the weather outside is far from frightful, it’s about time to let this song rip:

 (Take a break from shoveling. Sit by the fire. Have some hot chocolate. And please, consider a donation to “06880.” Click here — thank you!)

 

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Roundup: Marigny, Downtown, Jazz …

Posted on January 21, 2023 | 2 comments

Westport’s longtime sister city of Marigny-le-Lozon, France, has officially joined us in support of our new sister city: Lyman, Ukraine.

In his annual January address to the town, Marigny mayor Fabrice Lemazurier said that — with the full support of their Town Council — they will direct aid to Lyman children impacted physically and emotionally by the war.

The project will involve Marigny students, and their parents.

Our connection with Marigny grew out of World War II. Two Westporters who served in the Normandy town encouraged residents here to send food, clothes, Christmas gifts and more.

Marigny never forgot Westport. Now, our 2 towns join together to aid a third.

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Westport’s downtown revitalization project is one step closer to reality.

Yesterday morning, the Downtown Plan Implementation Committee approved the design concept. Next up: cost estimates, and advisory and funding body approvals.

Click here for more information about the plan.

This screenshot from the Downtown Plan Implementation Committee shows the Parker Harding lot, and its proximity to the Saugatuck River.

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Want to raise your tech skills? Or just get some basic ones?

The Westport Library’s “Anyone Can Use…” classes offer free in-person instruction. The next 2:

  • February 1: Foundation Center Professional Database (registration required; click here)
  • February 15: Social Media for Marketing (registration required; click here).

Both classes are 11 a.m. to noon.

For more tech instruction, click here for the LinkedIn Learning database. It  offers over 16,000 professionally produced courses in 7 languages — everything from tip-of-the-spear technologies to basic computer literacy and photography.

Questions? Email ref@westportlibrary.org.

Technology is not just for kids!

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Staples High School alumni do some very cool and creative work.

On January 31 (6:30 p.m., Zoom), they’ll share their journeys.

It’s part of the career exploration “Spark Your Future” series, sponsored by the Staples Counseling Department and Westport Library.

But anyone with an internet connection is invited to watch.

Panelists nclude:

  • Max Samuels (Staples Class of 2011): stage, screen and voice actor based in New York.
  • Jacqueline Devine (Staples ’13): co-owner of The Soze Agency, specializing in social impact campaigns.
  • Noah Johnson (SHS ’14): visual designer at Fjord, an innovation consultancy.
  • Trevor Williams (SHS ’18): animation supervisor at Steamroller Studios.

They’ll discuss their journeys, including the ups, downs and detours that brought them where they are today. Click here to register for the webinar.

In Staples Players, Max Samuels (with Eva Hendricks) appeared in “Brighton Beach.” (Photo by Kerry Long)

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Speaking of Staples:

The Music Department’s always popular “Jazz and Java” concert is set for this Thursday (January 26, 7 p.m., cafeteria).

Five high school and Bedford Middle School groups are featured, including the award winning combos and Staples Jazz Ensemble.

It’s free — and light refreshments will be served.

Last year’s jazz concert, in the Staples cafeteria.

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Club 203 — the area’s very cool social club for adults with disabilities — celebrates Valentine’s Day early.

A celebration dance is set for February 2 (7 to 8:30 p.m., Westport Country Playhouse).

The club’s own DJ Joe returns. Planet Pizza provides heart-shaped pies. And everyone is invited to “dress for the dance.”

For more information and to RSVP, click here.

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The Westport transfer station has installed a new configuration, including scales on the right side for trucks.

To learn more about Westport’s unofficial community center — the place where everyone sees everyone else — click here.

Westport transfer station. (Photo/Seth Schachter)

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Today is National Granola Bar Day. (I know: Who knew?)

To celebrate, The Granola Bar offers a free almond butter chocolate chunk bar with any purchase of $10 or more (while supplies last).

Stop by, or click here to order online for pickup or delivery.

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TAP Strength sponsors a “deeply restorative and healing night of yoga and singing bowls” on February 1 (6 p.m., 180 Post Road East).

The evening combines stretching, sound and Reiki healing, and essential oil aroma therapy.

Call 203-292-9353,  or email nancy@tapstrength.com for more information.

 

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If you’re an Alan Fiore fan — and who isn’t? — click here for the latest release from the Staples High School Class of 2021 grad. He’s now at the Berklee College of Music.

Alan Fiore

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Westport resident Lois Ann Crawford died Wednesday at Norwalk Hospital. She was 90.

Born in Cross Creek Township, Ohio in 1932, she graduated from The Ohio State University. Lois taught school in Downey, California; Mather Air Force Base, Sacramento; Greensburg, Indiana and Englewood, Ohio.

She lived in California, Missouri, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Connecticut, following her husband’s career moves. She married Otis L. Crawford in Nevada, while he was in the US Air Force.

Lois was an active member of the United Methodist Church of Westport and Weston, where she was an offering steward for many years. She was an active tennis player, golfer and bridge player. Lois also ran the Komen golf charity event for the 9-hole women’s golf group at Longshore.

Survivors in addition to her husband include her daughters Jean Crawford and Laura Provencal, 4 grandchildren and 1 great-granddaughter. She was pre deceased by her son Gregory Crawford.

Services will be private. Click here to leave online condolences.

Lois Crawford

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Dick Lowenstein spotted these 2 dozen-plus birds — “most likely carrion-eating black vultures,” he says — in a tree in his Greens Farms back yard. They make an intriguing “Westport … Naturally” photo.

Small birds are not bothered, though. They continued to feast at his bird feeder.

(Photo/Dick Lowenstein)

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And finally … Westport offers thanks to Marigny. Our sister city in France has officially joined our efforts to help another sister city: Lyman, Ukraine.

So, in the spirit of siblings, we offer:

(We hope you enjoy our daily Roundup. It takes a lot of work! Please click here to support this blog. Thank you!)

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Posted in Downtown, Entertainment, Environment, Library, Local business, Local politics, Obituaries, Restaurants, Staples HS, Teenagers

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Roundup: Dance Party, Menorah, Yuki Kitchen …

Posted on December 8, 2022 | 1 comment

I’m an idiot.

I posted yesterday’s Roundup story about the Hackett family’s used sports equipment drive — it benefits Leveling the Playing Field, a non-profit that helps youngsters in need — without including where to drop the cleats, balls and more off.

They’ll be at the Granola Bar this Saturday and Sunday (December 10 and 11), from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Click here for a list of items you can donate. You know you’ve got some of it lying unused all around your house!

From left: Max Levitt (Founder of Leveling The Playing Field), Alex Hackett, Daisy Hackett, Chloe Hackett

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Before COVID, Julie Whamond hosted a dance party every year. It was her gift to friends — a way to let off steam during the stressful holiday season.

This year, it’s back.

And it’s better than ever. Julie is using the festivities to raise donations for Westport’s Warm-Up Fund.

The Fund — an initiative of Westport’s Department of Human Services — helps income-qualified residents with their home heating expenses.

The date is next Wednesday (December 14, 7 to 10 p.m.). Julie secured Christ & Holy Trinity Church’s Branson Hall. She hired a DJ.

Now she just needs even more folks to attend. Whether you know Julie or not: You’re invited!

Venmo a $30 (or more) donation: @Julie-Whamond. Wear festive attire. Bring a drink or snack to share. Then party down for the Warm-Up Fund.

Questions? Email Whamondjoy@gmail.com.

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The Westport Police have released arrest reports for the December 1-7 period.

Two people were detained in custody. One was charged with operating a motor vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol, failure to obey traffic control signal, and failure to drive in the proper lane.

The other custodial arrest was for conspiracy to commit burglary; oeperating a motor vehicle without a license; failure to renew registration; misuse of plates, and insurance coverage fails to meet minimum requirements.

The following citations were issued:

  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 18
  • Stop sign violation: 4
  • Violation of any traffic commission regulation: 3
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 2
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 2
  • Failure to display plates: 2
  • Misuse of license plates: 1
  • Insurance coverage fails to meet minimum requirements: 2
  • Following too closely: 1
  • Failure to renew registration: 1

Not a suggestion. A command.

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Longtime ESPN reporter, E60 host Jeremy Schaap — a 1988 Staples High School graduate, and current Westport resident — never shies away from important issues.

He is the lead reporter and narrator of a new film, “The  Survivor.” The documentary examines the 1972 Munich Massacre. That September, terrorists murdered 11 Israeli athletics at the Summer Olympics.

Schapp will screen the film at the Westport Library on Monday (December 12, 7 p.m.). Immediately afterward, the 11-time Emmy Award-winning investigative journalist will host a talkback

Schaap traveled to Israel and Germany to tell the story through the eyes of 86-year-old Israeli race walker Shaul Ladany. He survived the massacre — as he had World War II and the Holocaust, when he was a child.

“In his long life, Shaul Ladany has seen up close the worst of humanity,” says Schaap. “Not only has he survived, he has pressed forward, constantly, to lead a life of achievement. The lessons of his life are valuable to us all. I was honored to be part of the team that told the story of what he endured and what he witnessed. Ladany’s story is not so well-known here in the United States — but it should be.”

The Munich Massacre was the first terrorist attack broadcast live on television around the world. “The Survivor” breaks down the tragedy through archival video and news reports, along with new interviews and reporting.

Jeremy Schaap

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Open Rice — the Chinese food takeout place between Sherwood Diner and Earth Animal — closed in June.

It’s been replaced by Yuki Kitchen. The Japanese food takeout place features sushi, bento boxes, noodles and more. Click here for the menu.

Yuki Kitchen (Photo/Dan Woog)

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What will you do with over 500 pairs of shoes?

If you’re Soles4Souls — the non-profit that collects new and gently used shoes — you’ll distribute them to people in need.

And you’ll do it with Westporters’ help.

This holiday season, Ken Bernhard and Ted Freedman led a drive that collected all those 500-plus shoes here. Collection boxes were placed at Town Hall, police headquarters and the Senior Center.

Ken and Ted thank all who contributed. It’s one small step — now, in proper shoes — to help break the cycle of poverty.

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An outdoor menorah will be lit on December 20 — and everyone is invited.

The event — on the 3rd night of Hanukkah — is set for Weston Center, at 6:15 p.m.

Doing the honors are Rabbi Levi & Chanie Stone, co-directors of the Chabad Schneerson Center. There’s live music too.

Hanukkah gelt and cookies, doughnuts and dreidels will be distributed to all.

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The Westport Rotary Club presented its annual Community Service and Public Protection Awards on Tuesday.

Recipients included artist and homeless advocate Nina Bentley; former Westport 1st Selectman Jim Marpe; RTM veteran Velma Heller; the Westport chapter of the National Charity League (represented by member Lisa Price), and Builders Beyond Borders executive director Amy Schroeder-Riggio.

Firefighter Rob Lenois and police officer Kevin Smith also earned awards for individual acts of heroism.

Nina Bentley receives her Westport Rotary Club award from Karl Mergenthaler and Leslie Roberts. (Photo/Jeff Wieser)

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These women don’t need shoes. Flip-flops are fine.

All year long.

(Photo/Tammy Barry)

They swim every Friday and Sunday — yes, even now.

The water temperature these days is 50 degrees. The air temperature is lower.

It will get a lot lower soon. But they promise to be in the water, when the rest of us are sitting lazily by a fire.

To each her own.

And congrats!

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A concerned reader emailed this photo yesterday:

It shows oil on the Saugatuck River, just below the Cribari Bridge.

“I don’t know where it’s coming from,” he says. “But it’s been there all day.”

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George Billis Gallery is moving again.

After opening on Main Street in late 2020 — in the midst of COVID, the 3rd outpost after New York and Los Angeles — the exhibit space moved to Post Road East.

Next stop: Fairfield. The 1700 Post Road location opens January 1.

“I love Westport. But the rent it too high for permanent space,” owner George Billis says.

He looks forward to welcoming customers to his new gallery. And hopes they’ll stop by before he relocates, for the moving sale going on now.

The first site of George Billis gallery, on Main Street.

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The moon sets every morning. That gets less love from “06880” photographers than when it rises, and hangs high in the sky.

And a lot less love than sunrises and sunsets.

So today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo shines a light on the moonset. It was taken this morning by Matt Murray, and shows Sherwood Mill Pond, looking west toward Hillspoint Road.

(Photo/Matt Murray)

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And finally … Joyce Bryant died recently, in Los Angeles. She was 95, and suffered from Alzheimer’s.

I’d never heard of her. But according to her New York Times obituary, she was :a sultry singer of the 1940s and ’50s who broke racial barriers in nightclubs and raised the hackles of radio censors before setting aside her show business career in favor of missionary work, then reinventing herself as a classical and opera singer,”

Click here for her fascinating life story. Click below to hear a bit of her work:

(Obscure nightclub singers, police reports, menorah lightings, new Japanese restaurants — “06880” brings you all the Roundup news, every day. If you enjoy our work, please click here to contribute. Thank you!)

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