Eli Sharabi — who was kidnapped by Hamas on October 7, 2023, and spent 16 months as a hostage before his release last year — spoke to an overflow audience Wednesday night, at the Westport Library. He is on a US speaking tour.
Former CNN journalist and Westport resident Alisyn Camerota moderated the event. “06880” correspondent Robin Moyer Chung reports:
After being greeted with a standing ovation, Sharabi began his harrowing story of survival.
A CFO of a private equity firm, Eli lived in a kibbutz 3 miles from the Gaza border with his wife Lianne, and daughters Noiya and Yahel. Life was peaceful, living among Palestinians who worked in the kibbutz.
Eli Sharabi, with Alisyn Camerota. (Photo/KT Kaminski)
But on October 7, Hamas stormed into his home. They kidnapped Sharabi, and forced him into an underground tunnel for 491 days.
He and his fellow captors were starved, shackled together, physically and psychologically tortured, and in constant, excruciating pain.
He said of his “living” quarters, “There’s no running water, no toothpaste, no toilet paper. The toilet backs up onto the floor. The stench is unimaginable. Worms infiltrate your living quarters. The relentless hunger starts changing everyone’s personality. The filth starts affecting everyone’s health. Hostages start getting sick. It’s hard to imagine a worse hell.”
Eli Sharab — before and after his capture.
Sharabi described his guards too. They cried into their pillows at night, and had panic attacks. Two of them once excitedly told him “about this wonderful movie that they just saw, called ‘Titanic.’”
His audience realized: His guards were human. They watched movies, missed their families and were overwhelmed by the stress of their jobs.
Still, they felt entitled to beat and starve other humans in horrific, unconscionable ways.
On February 8, 2025 — the day he was released — Sharabi asked to see his wife and daughter.
Instead, a social worker from the Israel Defense Forces said that just his mother and sister were waiting for him in Reimkamp. Without her telling him, he knew his wife and daughter had not survived.
But Sharabi is adamant about making his life larger than his experience. “My memories will be alongside of my life, not part of my life,” he said. “I’ll make them proud of me.”
His hope and determination to stay alive for his family saved his life, and perhaps the lives of others around him.
Today, Sharabi travels the world. He talks about his experiences, and helps people understand the terror of being a hostage of Hamas.
Audience members were emotional, as they offered another standing ovation at the end of the evening.
A portion of last night’s Westport Library audience. (Photo/KT Kaminski)
Four days after Sunday’s snowfall, a massive pile remains downtown.
(Photo/Jay Petrow)
Two narrow — and difficult-to-see-past — lanes feed into Main Street from Post Road East, from the west and east.
It’s one of several hazards posed by plowed banks.
Another especially treacherous one: Compo Road North, at the Evergreen Avenue hill.
Be careful out there!
The good news: A nor’easter that forecasters were watching for this weekend seems to have disssipated.
The bad news: It will be 5 degrees again tonight. Run a little stream of water to keep pipes from freezing!
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The Westport Fire Department battled a house fire on Weathervane Hill. off Wilton Road, last night.
When firefighters arrived around 11 p.m., they saw heavy smoke. All occupants had safely left the house.
The Norwalk, Fairfield and Wilton departments assisted. Emergency Medical Service provided medical support; Westport Poliee and firefighters directed traffic, while the Department of Public Works helped mitigate icy conditions.
The last unit left at 4 a.m. The fire marshal’s office is investigating the cause.
Firefighters at Weathervane Hill. (Photo/Ryan Blake)
The next Westport Country Playhouse Script in Hand play reading is “The Goldsmith.”
Based on a family’s true stories of their gold jewelry passing across borders, cultures and generations, it’s set for February 9 (7 p.m). The play — written and performed by Broadway actor Sharone Sayegh — won Theatre Aspen’s 2025 Solo Flight Festival.
VersoFest ’26 has announced plenty of attractions: Ani DiFranco, Wyclef Jean, and much more.
Now we know the closer, at the Westport Library on March 28 (7:30 p.m.). Musician/writer/playwright/poet/visual artist/alt-rock legend David J, of Bauhaus and Love & Rockets) fame’s special storytellers event is the final event this year.
He’ll read selections from his new poetry book Rhapsody, Threnody & Prayer, accompanied by original music. The reading will be followed by an interview featuring author Douglas Rushkoff (“one of the world’s 10 most influential intellectuals,” says MIT), and concludes with a short set of acoustic songs.
Every Thursday this winter, the Westport Farmers’ Market offers nutritious food.
Next Thursday (February 5, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Gilbertie’s Herbs & Garden Center), there’s another way to nourish your body and mind.
“A Day of Care & Connection on Thursday” features Kiin Sauna (a wood-fired experience), Dharma Massage (chair massages), Whole Health Thermography (educational talk) and Abbey Chase Yoga (bowl healing).
Westport Police made 6 custodial arrests between January 21 and 27.
A 36-year-old Hamden man was charged with larceny, and conspiracy to commit larceny, following a report that 2 Brooks Brothers employees were processing fraudulent merchandise returns. He is alleged to have profited over $20,000. He was unable to post $50,000 bond.
A 64-year-old Fairfield woman was charged with larceny and possession of a shoplifting device, following an investigation into a December incident. Though the complainant wished only to have the stolen goods returned, merchandise from other downtown businesses were located.
A 45-year-old Stratford woman was charged with disorderly conduct, assault and strangulation, following an investigation into an August disturbance at a Westport home that she initiated. The victim alleged being punched and choked.
A 63-year-old Westport man was charged with evading responsibility and operating under the influence, after a vehicle with heavy damage was blocking part of Post Road West. The damage was caused by striking a mailbox, sign, shrubbery and a utility pole on Kings Highway North properties.
A 20-year-old Bridgeport man was charged with violation of a protective order, operating a motor vehicle without a license, and defective headlamp, following a motor vehicle stop near Maple Avenue for that headlamp. It was learned that a passenger was protected by a court order, stipulating no contact between the 2 parties. She was released on a $25,000 bond.
A 20-yera-old Norwalk woman was charged with violation of a protective order.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Failure to obey stop sign: 7 citations
Texting while driving: 6
Failure to renew registration: 6
Traveling unreasonably fast: 4
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 3
Failure to obey traffic control signals: 3
Failure to remove snow and ice from a vehicle roof: 2
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 2
Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 2
Following too closely: 2
Evading responsibility: 1
Speeding: 1
Traveling too fast for conditions: 1
Unsafe passing: 1
Parking a motor vehicle on a sidewalk: 1
Breach of peace: 1
Improper use of markers: 1
Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 1
Not a parking spot! (Also not Westport, but you get the idea.)
And finally … on this date in 1861, Kansas became the 34th state in the US.
(January seems like it’s been 392 days already. Fortunately, “06880” is here for you, 24/7/365. If you appreciate our work, please support us by clicking here. Thank you!)
1st Selectman Kevin Christie says: “Safety is our top priority. We are asking residents to stay home if they are able, avoid unnecessary travel, and keep roads clear so our public safety and public works teams can do their jobs. Please avoid parking on streets if possible, and take a moment to check in on any neighbors who may need assistance.”
Public safety operations, including Police, Fire, and Public Works, will continue under established storm and emergency response protocols.
Residents should sign up for emergency alerts by texting 06880 to 888777, to receive Westport notifications via Nixle.
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Also closed: the Westport Library.
All programs planned for today will be rescheduled.
The Westport Weston Family YMCA plans a noon opening today.
The view from the YMCA is beautiful on days like today. But you won’t be able to see it until noon. (Photo/Dan Woog)
Speaking of snow: There must be some back stories to these photos, both taken by Harris Falk:
But whatever they are, he didn’t say.
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As Westport’s sister city of Lyman remains under siege, and Russia’s war against Ukraine drags on into a 4th year, Ukraine Aid International continues to help.
The non-profit — created by Westporters Brian and Marshall Mayer, and credited with delivering tons of food, vehicles, supplies, communications equipment, clothing and more, to the most war-torn regions of the nation, while developing partnerships between towns in Ukraine and the US — is hosting a March 5 fundraiser at the Westport Country Playhouse.
The entertainment at “Keys for Resilience” is spot-on: 2 superb Ukrainian artists whose work speaks to resilience, identity and hope.
Pianist, composer and educator Ruslan Ramazanov was forced to rebuild his life and career in the US, following Russia’s invasion in 2022.
Since arriving here, his music has taken on an added layer of meaning, reflecting his personal journey of adaptation and rediscovery through art. He works at the Boston Conservatory at Berklee.
He’s joined by Ukrainian-American soprano Teryn Kuzma. A versatile performer passionate about both contemporary works and rarely heard Eastern European opera and art song, she plays
In addition to her acclaimed vocal career, she is an accomplished performer on the bandura, Ukraine’s 55-string harp-zither instrument.
“Keys for Resilience” weaves classical and traditional music with stories from Connecticut’s sister cities in Ukraine.
All proceeds will support sister cities in Ukraine — including Westport’s own, Lyman — and the sister-state relationship between Connecticut and Donetsk. Click here for tickets, and more information.
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Staples High School’s musicians, actors and athletes get plenty of props.
Today, we applaud the equally accomplished “We the People” team.
For 12 years, students in Suzanne Kammerman’s Advanced Placement Politics & Government class have participated in the state event. Often, they qualify there for national competition.
On Saturday, they did again.
The all-junior team placed 2nd in the state competition, at Hartford’s historic Old State House. That earns them a trip to the national event, this spring in Washington.
“We the People” has both a classroom and extracurricular component. Students prepare and present oral arguments on specific sections of the Constitution in simulated congressional hearings. Then comes an intense questi9n-and-answer session, with a panel of judges.
It is not for the faint of heart. The students grapple with difficult constitutional questions. The judges demand clear, compelling answers.
Several seniors — veterans of last year’s best-ever 8th place national finish — helped coach the squad: Lila Boroujerdi, Olivia Cohn, Gunnar Eklund, Jay Hari, Miles Kahn, Souleye Kebe and Jake Shufro.
Congrats to all. Now go rock DC!
PS: It was a full day for the competitors. Many raced back to Westport from Hartford, to get ready for the County Assembly formal dance that night.
Staples’ “We the People” team in Hartford on Saturday. They were in the same room where the Connecticut House of Representatives convened in the 18th and 19th centuries.
The Sweet Remains — Westporter Greg Naughton’s band, perennial Levitt Pavilion favorites (and international stars, with over 65 million Spotify streams) — wowed a large Westport Country Playhouse crowd Saturday night.
There was a hometown feel too, as Greg’s wife Kelli O’Hara, daughter Charlotte and father Jim Naughton joined the folk-pop, 3-part harmony group onstage.
The Sweet Remains’ Rich Price. (Photo/Jerry Kuyper)
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“06880” is where Westport meets the world.
And Westport meets the World Cup.
Rebecca Lowe will have a memorable year. The former Westport resident will be one of Fox Sports’ primary hosts for the soccer spectacle that comes to the US, Canada and Mexico this spring.
She’ll be on loan from NBC Sports, where next month she’ll host daytime coverage of the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics.
Oh, yeah: She’ll also cover the Kentucky Derby.
When Lowe began hosting NBC Sports’ Premier League soccer coverage — from its studios in Stamford — she and her husband, former English player and coach Paul Buckle, lived on Main Street.
At NBC she works with Robbie Mustoe, who also lives in Westport. A former NBC colleague, Kyle Martino, lives here too.
World Cup story #2: The other day, Joe Pierce — a long-time area resident, former Staples High School assistant soccer coach, and producer of a film about legendary English star Sir Stanley Matthews — was at Dandelion, the new Delamar Westport restaurant. He writes:
“My friend Hicham, the corporate restaurant director for the Delamar group, was eager to show me around. It’s a stunning space: refined, intentional, full of life.
“But as can happen when 2 football obsessives meet, the talk of interior design lasted exactly 30 seconds.
“We settled onto bar stools, and the conversation shifted to our shared obsession: The Beautiful Game.
“Hicham is a devoted Arsenal supporter. But when he speaks of his beloved Morocco, you feel a different kind of energy.
“He’s a witness to a national metamorphosis. Morocco didn’t become the darlings of the last World Cup by luck; it was a masterclass in strategic infrastructure. They’ve funneled millions into the Mohammed VI Academy, scouting the global diaspora and building a “Golden Generation” that won the U-20 World Cup in October.
“As a Scottish expat living in Connecticut, I couldn’t help but see the parallels to the grit and discipline of the 1970s squads I grew up with. But on June 19, when our nations meet at in Foxboro, Massachusetts, Hicham and I will be on opposite sides of the park.
“He’ll be in the red and green of a rising power. I’ll be in the blue of a Tartan Army. seeking redemption for 1998.
“That is what football is all about. It turns a casual drink in Westport into a geopolitical debate. It takes the “home soil” we walk on every day, and connects it to the “away soul” we never truly left behind.
“If you find yourself at the Dandelion on a Saturday night, stop by and have a chat with Hicham about football. Feel the passion like I did.”
Joe Pierce
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With all the whiteness today, a bit of color really stands out.
Jamie Walsh captured this scene, for today’s very appropriate “Westport … Naturally” feature.
And finally … on this date in 1863, Massachusetts Governor John Albion Andrews received permission from Secretary of War Edwin Stanton to raise a militia of men of African descent.
Recruitment for the 54th Massachusetts Infantry was helped by Frederick Douglass, whose 2 sons were among the first to enlist.
The writer of this song about the unit is unknown. Richie Havens delivered a stirring version.
(Tired of shoveling? Take a break! Let your fingers do the work: Just click here, and support “06880” — your equally hard-working hyper-local blog — with a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)
In 2018, a Westport woman — a realtor, marathon runner and member of the Zoning Board of Appeals — was paralyzed when she stepped outside her house during a storm. A tree branch fell, breaking her neck.
Be safe in treacherous weather, a reader says.
Which reminds us: If any resident needs help of any kind today, please click “Comments” — and/or email 06880blog.org.
Our readers — and “06880” — will do our best to help. No promises, but this is what our community is all about.
Online, and in real life.
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It goes without saying, but the Westport Library and Westport Weston Family YMCA are both closed today. (Along with probably everything else.)
In addition, all Library programs have been canceled through Monday. Among those impacted:
The following programs will be rescheduled, for dates not yet determined:
These Children’s programs will be canceled for Monday, returning as scheduled February 2: Rhythm & Rhyme, Tummy Time Midday, Near Peer Homework Help, and Crafternoon at the Library.
As of now, Near Peer Homework Help is still on for Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.
This 2016 scene may look familiar today. (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)
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Meanwhile, this was the scene yesterday.
The temperature did not reach 20. But that did not stop intrepid dogs — or their owners — from heading to Compo Beach for some quality, pre-snow time.
Six major school construction projects across Connecticut are on the state’s building priority list for 2026.
And one of the 6 is Long Lots.
The New Haven Register reports that after districts apply for grants, the state Department of Administrative Services reviews applications, compiles a priority list, and presents it to the governor’s office and legislature’s School Construction Project Priority List Review Committee.
The committee unanimously approved the 2026 list earlier this month. It now goes to the state legislature for funding.
The amount depends on the reimbursement rate, calculated by the Department of Administrative Services based on each town’s wealth. (Hat tip: Bill Dedman)
The Chamber of Mothers is a national, nonpartisan coalition working to advance maternal health, paid leave, and economic equity for families. Our Connecticut Chapter is focused on building awareness and advocacy right here in our state.
Westporter Jessica Hill co-facilitates the Connecticut chapter. On January 28, they’re sponsoring a social media day of action, to shine a light on Connecticut’s paid leave programs, help educate employees about their rights, and encourage businesses to celebrate and promote their own family-friendly policies.
Participants can share one or more images on their feeds or stories, along with tags (@ctpaidleave and @chamberofmothers), hashtags (#CTPaidLeave) and the link ctpaidleave.org.
Chabad of Westport’s “Night for Our Heroes” honors Major Sagi Dovev (Res.), and wounded Israeli Defense Forces soldiers for their courage, strength and sacrifice. The event is February 25 (7 p.m.).
Since October 7, 2023, Major Dovev has volunteered full-time at Sheba Medical Center. He works with wounded soldiers and freed hostages as they rebuild strength, confidence, and hope. He has spent the past decade developing innovative training methods to build physical and mental resilience. .
Also featured: Daniel Kopylov, a fighter in the Kfir Brigade who was critically wounded in Gaza. During his rehabilitation, Daniel trained with Major Dovev, demonstrating incredible determination and resilience, becoming a living example of the strength of Israel’s soldiers.
And finally … why are we randomly offering up this song?
Well — as Bob says, “you don’t need to be a weatherman to know which way the wind blows…”
(You also don’t need to donate to “06880” to read our 24/7/365 coverage of Westport. But we sure do appreciate it if you do. Please lick here — and thank you. PS: It’s a lot more fun than shoveling.)
The winter of 2021 was a big one for downtown bookstores.
In February, Barnes & Noble moved into the former Restoration Hardware. The space was closer to other retailers, though smaller than their previous store (now the Big Y supermarket).
No one cares about a big-chain corporate success. But a small, community-minded used book shop, with a special mission — that’s a different story.
Westport Book Shop is a partnership between the Westport Library and Westport Book Sales, the non-profit with 2 important missions: They raise funds for the library by running its book sales, and they hire adults with disabilities.
So it’s fitting that Westport Book Shop is just a few yards from the Library, across Jesup Green.
Westport Book Shop
The 5,000 or so books, in over 40 categories, come from donations to the annual book sales. There’s also a large selection of vinyl records, audio books, CDs and DVDs.
The view from inside Westport Book Shop, across Jesup Green to the library.
Books cover all major categories: fiction, non-fiction, biography, children’s, you name it.
The Book Shop also features the Drew Friedman Art Place. Miggs Burroughs curates rotating exhibits.
On January 28, the 60-plus artists and photographers who have been featured will honored with a special piece, by Burroughs. It remains up through February.
Miggs Burroughs with his own work, at the Westport Book Shop.
To celebrate their 5th anniversary, Westport Book Shop is offering a few specials. They’re fundraisers too — a great way for residents to show their love and support.
One is a raffle. The winner gets a new copy of “The New Yorker in Westport” book. Donated by its authors, Eve Potts and Andrew Bentley, it shows dozens of magazine covers, showing 50 magazine covers created by area artists, inspired by familiar local scenes. Accompanying each image are interesting stories, and facts about our town.
Tickets are $5. They’re available online and at the store, through Wednesday, January 28.
Also available at the store: items created especially for the anniversary.
There’s a snuggly Westport Book Shop logo hat; local artist Jack Geer’s image of the store as a 500-piece jigsaw puzzle, and a decal.
Special 5th-anniversary items.
It’s been a great 5 years for Westport Book Shop.
They’ve provided over 12,250 hours of employment and skills training for adults with disabilities.
And they’ve contributed over $350,000 to the Westport Library.
But that’s just the start.
They’ve got a $50,000 fundraising goal, to help continue their work. Click here to donate.
Both are on the menu this Monday (January 26, 7 p.m.). The League of Women Voters of Westport hosts their annual “Pie & Politics” panel, a few days before the General Assembly session begins in Hartford. It’s a decades-old tradition, organized by LWVs all over the state.
Local State Senator Ceci Maher, and State Representatives Jonathan Steinberg and Dominique Johnson will meet voters (and enjoy dinner). There’s also a panel, moderated by former State Representative Ken Bernhard.
They’ll discuss statewide issues like the budget, and local ones they’ll wrestle with, including affordable housing and the Cribari Bridge.
Two Representative Town Meeting (RTM) committees — Health & Human Services, and Environment — meet jointly on February 4 (7:30 p.m., Zoom).
The agenda includes:
Water contamination
Synthetic turf fields vs. grass fields
Reducing town pesticide applications
Tree preservation and clear-cutting
Noise ordinance.
Clear-cutting is on the RTM committees’ agenda.
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The VersoFest lineup just got even more festive.
Peter Shapiro — longtime owner and operator of concert venues like the Capitol Theatre and Brooklyn Bowl, and producer of many music festivals — and rock author, writer and documentarian Dean Budnick will discuss the legacy of the Grateful Dead, and the development of the jam band scene over the decades.
Their free session is March 29 (12 p.m.).
Shapiro produced Fare Thee Well: Celebrating 50 Years of the Grateful Dead. He founded Lockn’, a 4-day festival featuring Bob Weir, Phil Lesh, Widespread Panic and Tedeschi Trucks Band.
Budnick is the author of books on the music industry, and has written for Billboard, Variety and The Hollywood Reporter.
Speaking of prix fixe menus: Dandelion is serving up one for $95 on Valentine’s Day.
The February 14 “intimate and elevated” meal is “designed to be shared and savored,” at the restaurant in the Delamar Westport hotel.
It includes “a welcoming amuse bouche, followed by your choice of vibrant starters and beautifully composed entrées inspired by Mediterranean and Levantine flavors, from fresh seafood and wood-fired specialties to refined cuts of meat and seasonal vegetables. End on a sweet note with indulgent desserts created exclusively for the occasion.”
After 8 years as a professional with Brooks Beasts, the 2013 Staples High School and 2017 University of Virginia graduate — and holder of many Connecticut and collegiate running records (plus a world record, as a relay anchor) — is retiring.
Wynne began running as a freshman as a way to stay in shape for lacrosse. He soon realized he was a natural. He flourished under coach Laddie Lawrence, then went on to even great heights.
He missed the Olympics twice, by only two spots at the trials. But he stands tall, as one of Staples’ most accomplished athletes ever.
Congratulations, on a great career! You have inspired many young Westporters to follow — hopefully quickly — in your footsteps. (Hat tip: Reess Kennedy)
Henry Wynne (Photo/Will Hoffman for Runner’s World)
But the proposed remediation and redevelopment of Manresa Island — just off the Norwalk coast — is a Very Big Deal.
On Tuesday, the Westport Rotary Club heard all about it. Jessica Vonashek — executive director of the Manresa Island Corporation — described what may be ahead for the former NRG power plant. (That’s the smokestack we see from Compo Beach.)
The hope is to transform the site into a thriving (and accessible) 125-acre park. It would unlock almost 2 miles of shoreline access, and create a unique destination alongside the adaptive reuse of the structures at its center.
Westport Police made 3 custodial arrests between January 14 and 20.
A 30-year-old Piscataway, New Jersey man was charged with operating under the influence, traveling unreasonably fast and following too closely, after his vehicle struck a trash truck on Post Road West just before 4:30 a.m.
A 64-year-old Stamford man was charged with operating an unregistered motor vehicle, improper use of registration market plate, failure to maintain minimum insurance coverage, operating a motor vehicle without a license, and failure to appear, following a motor vehicle stop on Beachside Avenue.
A 53-year-old Westport woman was charged with failure to appear. Officers were called to a trespassing complaint, and learned that she was the subject of a warrant for an unrelated matter.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Texting while driving: 7 citations
Traveling unreasonably fast: 5
Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 2
Speeding: 1
Evading responsibility: 1
Following too closely: 1
Failure to obey stop sign: 1
Failure to obey state traffic commission regulations: 1
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 1
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 1
Operating a motor vehicle without a tint inspection: 1
Failure to remove snow from a motor vehicle: 1
Failure to renew license: 1
Failure to renew registration: 1
Improper windshield: 1
Improper rear/marker lamps: 1
It’s the law: You must remove snow and ice from your vehicle!
It’s a lot closer. And even though it’s a Middle School company, their “Addams Family” production may be worth checking out.
The curtain rises at Weston High School at 7 p.m. on January 30, and 3 p.m. on January 31 and February 1. Tickets are available online, and at the door.
Short Wharf Theater’s “Addams Family” cast. (Photo/Greg Cohen Photography)
And finally … in honor of Weston Middle School’s upcoming “Addams Family” show (story above):
(“06880” is your full-service, 24/7/365, hyper-local, “Where Westport Meets the World” blog. But we can’t do it without the support of readers like you. Please click here to help. Thank you!)
The town’s Martin Luther King Day celebration continued last night, at the Westport Country Playhouse.
A free screening of “True Justice: Bryan Stevenson’s Fight for Equality” drew another rapt audience. Trey Ellis — executive producer of the film about the noted civil rights attorney’s struggle to create greater fairness in the criminal justice system — was joined in conversation by TEAM Westport chair Harold Bailey.
Ellis — a novelist, 2-time Emmy- and Peabody-winning filmmaker, playwright, essayist, and professor at Columbia University’s School of the Arts — also led the conversation with his Columbia colleague on Saturday.
Both events were a partnership with the Library, Playhouse, TEAM Westport, the Westport Museum for History & Culture, and the Westport/Weston Clergy Association.
Trey Ellis (left) and Harold Bailey. (Photo copyright DinkinESH Fotografix)
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The Board of Finance is one of Westport’s most important elected groups.
Members scrutinize and pass the town budget, and send it to the Representative Town meeting for final approval. They set the mill rate.
And although their meetings are open to the public — and their phone numbers and email addresses are on the town website — they’re looking for ways to be even more open and transparent.
Which is why they’re offering “office hours.”
Once a month at least one BOF member will be at the Westport Library, for casual conversations with Westport residents.
They’ll listen to concerns, answer questions, and explain how the town plans and oversees its finances.
There are 2 sessions each, on the third Thursday of each month: 10 to 11 a.m., and 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. The first is this Thursday (January 22).
No appointment is necessary. Just head up to the 2nd floor meeting rooms.
The fiscal year 2024 town (non-educational) budget.
The Joggers Club is warming up for its 6th year of working with young runners/
It’s a fun group — organized by age and level, so everyone runs with friends.
All youngsters in kindergarten through 8th grade are welcome, regardless of experience. They meet every Sunday (April 5 through June 7), from 4 to 5:15 p.m. at the Staples High School track. The cost is $199.
There is a different theme each week., including long runs, games and races. The final session is a track meet and field day (with a free ice cream truck).
Westport’s favorite jazz singer — Melissa Newman — returns to “Jazz at the Post” this Thursday (January 22; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner from 7).
She’s backed by an equally talented band of popular regulars: guitarist Tony Lombardozzi, bassist Phil Bowler and drummer Bobby Leonard. Click here for tickets.
Melissa Newman
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Amid all the white snow last weekend, Jill Grayson spotted one bit of red.
And finally … in honor (sort of) of the Joggers Club’s program for kids (item above):
(You don’t have to run anywhere, to support “06880.” You’re already at your device. Just click here, and make a tax-deductible contribution to your hyper-local blog. Thank you so much!)
“If you’re a homeowner, the first termite you see is not the first termite that showed up.”
With that analogy, Jelani Cobb wove together 2 strands of his talk — America’s history of slavery and civil rights, and today’s threats to our democracy — yesterday.
The 20th annual Westport Weston Martin Luther King Day celebration at the Westport Library drew a full crowd. Cobb — a noted New Yorker writer, scholar, and dean of the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism — was joined in conversation by novelist, playwright, filmmaker (and Westport resident) Trey Ellis.
Jelani Cobb (left) and Trey Ellis.
Asked by Ellis what King would think of the United States today, Cobb said, “It would be very familiar to him.”
Anti-democratic forces, he added, are “congenital problems that don’t go away by ignoring them.”
“My father had a 3rd grade education. I have a Ph.D.,” Cobb said. He vowed never to forget the democratic rights that enabled his achievement — and to “not tolerate intrusions on them.”
Recalling King’s famous quote — “The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice” — Cobb noted the “fine print”: “We have to get out and bend it.”
Senator Richard Blumenthal spoke briefly. Referring to recent events, he said, “the totalitarian tactics used to silence non-violent protests are not America. It’s the America Martin Luther King protested against.”
The conversation was bookended by Varrick Nelson Jr. The young Stratford singer wowed the audience with stirring gospel-inflected renditions of “Bridge Over Troubled Water” and “A Change is Gonna Come.”
The audience included over 40 students from the Walter Luckett Foundation. The Bridgeport non-profit provides educational and recreational opportunities for young people. The Westport Library is a longtime partner.
The annual MLK celebration is a collaboration between the Library, TEAM Westport, Westport Country Playhouse, Westport Museum for History & Culture, and the Westport/Weston Clergy Association.
Gabriel Sherman has built a career writing about some of the most powerful people in the world.
His first book, “The Loudest Voice in the Room,” told the story of how Roger Ailes built Fox News.
Sherman wrote the screenplay for “The Apprentice,” the biopic about Donald Trump’s relationship with Roy Cohn.
His latest project: “Bonfire of the Murdochs: How the Epic Fight to Control the Last Great Media Dynasty Broke a Family — and the World.”
Sherman was educated through grade 10 in Westport schools. He’s written for New York and Vanity Fair, and been a regular contributor to NBC News and MSNBC.
Sherman will be interviewed by Tina Brown at the 92nd Street Y in New York on February 5 (8 p.m.). Click here for tickets.
This month, Big Y supermarket is donating $1 to ABC — the non-profit that provides educational opportunities to academically gifted and highly motivated young men of color — for every reusable bag purchased for $2.50.
It’s a no-brainer. Buy more than one. You can never have enough bags!
On Wednesday David Guggenheim — screenwriter, producer and showrunner of Netflix’s “Designated Survivor” (and creator and writer of “Safe House,” “The Union” and “The Christmas Chronicles”) — visited Theater Camp 4 Kids Broadway Academy‘s students and interns.
He provided the young actors and writers with a “behind the camera” look at the reality of the film and TV industry, and inspired them to pursue their dreams.
Guggenheim shared insights about the creative process, including how to turn an idea into a script, and the reality of getting it produced. He also described the complex moving parts of a successful film or TV show, from how to make rainy scenes look real, to shooting on back lots and locations, and which actors he would love to work with in the future.
Youngsters came prepared with plenty of questions, which Guggenheim answered with warmth and charm.
Theater Camp 4 Kids is registering now for the winter/spring semester, and June Summer Day Camp. For information, email curleylaura@hotmail.com.
David Guggenheim (rear, center) with Theater Camp 4 Kids students. (Photo/Emily Jennings)
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Westporters using the Delta Sky Lounge at La Guardia Airport can see a bit of home.
Artist Nina Bentley’s work “He Looked Good on Paper” is on display, in Terminal C.
And finally … English author A.A. Milne was born on this date, in 1882. He died in 1956.
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Effective Tuesday, the fine for parking illegally at the Saugatuck and Greens Farms train stations will double.
At the request of the Westport Police Department, the Select Board approved
an increase in the fine for non-permit holders parking in permit-only areas, from $25 to $50.
As always, daily parking areas are available at both stations for non-permit holders.
Westporters know the joys of skating at the PAL Rink at Longshore.
Now, many other people know too.
NewEngland.com included it — right near the top — in their list of “30 Best Winter Activities Across All 6 States.”
(Okay, it’s near the top because the states are listed alphabetically, and Connecticut is first. But still …)
The writeup says:
For more than 25 years, the Westport Police Athletic League (WPAL) has sponsored this winter gem located just steps from Long Island Sound.
Meeting NHL rink specifications, the outdoor facility is open to all, with daily, weekend, and season passes available. Visitors can find skate rentals and sharpening here, as well as figure skating lessons offered through the Westport Parks and Recreation Department that range from beginner to advanced levels.
We’re right up there with Powder Ridge, Franconia Notch, and Okemo, Stowe and Stratton.
Local athletes have many opportunities to receive specialized, sport-specific training.
The mental and nutrition aspects: Not so much.
Three professionals — Rhodie Lorenz, Carrie Potoff and Adriana Liberatore — now fill that gap.
The multi-disciplinary group — Saugatuck Mind and Sports Lab — offers athletes, coaches and parents team and 1-on-1 coaching and counseling.
Lorenz — well-known to Westporters as a co-founder of JoyRide — already had a thriving mental performance practice, specializing in high school and college athletes.
Potoff is a therapist. She aids many athletes in areas like anxiety and perfectionism.
Liberatore is a registered dietician, who also has experience with athletes’ fuel for performance and recovery.
The trio saw a gap between physical regimens, and off-the-field aspects of training. They’ve designed a holistic approach, but are also available individually.
“Coaches have only so much bandwidth,” Lorenz notes. “They understand the value of mental training and good nutrition. They’re able to reinforce what we provide.
“Athletes often seek help when they struggle, or suffer a setback,” she adds. “But they don’t have to be reactive. We can be proactive, providing the tolls and skills they need to overcome the inevitable stresses of sports.”
From left: Rhodie Lorenz, Carrie Potof, Adrianna Liberatore.
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Speaking of sports: Friends of the Senior Center are sponsoring a Super Bowl tailgate party. (Indoors, of course: February 8, 1 p.m.).
All ages are welcome to enjoy hot dogs, chips and dessert, plus a chance to meet Staples High School’s championship boys soccer and rugby teams.
PAL and Staples cheerleaders will perform.
And there’s a “guess the final score” contest, with prizes.
All ages are invited.
The state champion “futbol” team will be at the Senior Center football Super Bowl party on February 8. (Photo/John Walker)
On Tuesday, the Zoning Board of Appeals unanimously denied an appeal of a previous Planning & Zoning Commission decision, to allow construction of an accessory dwelling unit at 21 Norwalk Avenue.
Adjacent Compo Beach neighborhood property owners David Johnson and Holly Jaffe had objected to the ADU, based on its 26-foot height and location 10 feet from the existing house. (Click here for a previous “06880” story on this issue.)
James Ezzes, ZBA chair, wrote that zoning regulations in effect at the time of the application allow construct of accessory dwelling units as of right; the proposed plans conform to the definite of an ADU and all applicable standards; regulations allow a 350-square foot coverage exemption for lots of 1.5 acres or less; and the zoning enforcement officer does not have discretion in the review of permits.
Neighbors in the area are considering a lawsuit.
The Norwalk Avenue home (top, 2nd from left), showing where the ADU would be situated. (Drone photo/John Videler)
On January 25 (2 p.m.), Westport Library goers get a first look at the Shoah Memorial. The sculpture — coming soon to Fairfield University — seeks to “honor history, while actively stemming the tide of hate.”
The afternoon features a conversation between Dr. Mindy Hersh and her mother, Judy Hersh, a Holocaust survivor, followed by a panel discussion with Shoah Memorial artist Victoria Milstein; Shelly Krieger, the founding educator of the Holocaust Research Center; Holocaust survivor Michell Schell, and Marla Felton of Common Circles.
The Shoah Memorial Fairfield University project began when Paul Burger attended the unveiling of the original She Wouldn’t Take Off Her Boots sculpture Greensboro, North Carolina. Moved by its powerful message, he decided to bring the memorial to his community, to ensure its broader impact.
Fairfield University is already home to the Carl and Dorothy Bennett Center for Judaic Studies, and offers a Judaic Studies program.
Longtime Westport resident Wayne Paull died January 3. He was 79.
Wayne graduated from the University of Connecticut, where he earned a football scholarship. After college, Wayne joined the Army.
With his wife Lee’s support, Wayne chose a career as a movie cameraman. His work took him around the world, covering the PGA, Indy racing, the circus, and interviewing figures such as George H.W. Bush, the Dalai Lama, and countless other world leaders and fascinating figures.
He was predeceased by his wife. He is survived by his son Matthew (Leslie), and grandsons Brittain and Cooper.
A service will be held Monday (January 19, 11 a.m.) at Harding Funeral Home.
Online registration for Westport Parks & Recreation Department spring and summer programs begins March 10 (9 a.m.; Camp Compo and RECing Crew only) and March 11 (9 a.m.; all others). Click here to see all activities.
To update your profile, select “Manage Family Member.” Be sure each child’s grade is correct (as of September 2025).
Questions? Email recreation@westportct.gov, or call 203-341-5152.
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On January 26 (6 p.m., Zoom), the Planning & Zoning Commission hears a request for a special permit/site plan approval for 785 Post Road East. That’s where a commercial building will replace several small apartments, between Splash car wash and New Country Toyota.
The goal is to allow offsite “superior” affordable housing, on George Street.
Redniss & Mead — land use consultants who do extensive work in Westport — are asking the P&Z to allow conversion of the 2nd and 3rd floors of the approved commercial building to house 2 residential units.
Including housing already approved behind the office/retail building fronting the Post Road, that would bring the total count of housing units to 15.
Meanwhile, the owner — 785 Post Road E LLC — would deed restrict one 2-bedroom townhouse onsite to Homes with Hope, for use as affordable housing.
In addition, the developer would donate a 3,500-square foot 2-family home at 3 George Street to Abilis, a non-profit that provides services and support to people with special needs. It would operate as a family home, similar to 136 Riverside Avenue.
785 Post Road East. New Country Toyota is at left; Splash Car wash is directly to the right, next to the new commercial and residential buildings at the foot of Long Lots Road that house, among others, Lyfe Cafe.
Seeing Janine Scotti’s photo of damage to the free bicycle-driven public library, Larry Roberts wondered if he could help.
When no one claimed “ownership” in the Comments section — the unique contraption was commissioned several years ago by author Jane Green, who no longer lives here — he took matters into his own (literal) hands.
Larry hauled it away, to repair himself.
And — this is where the story gets very Twilight Zone-ish — along the way on Taylor Place, he was spotted by none other than Janine (the source of the photo) herself.
The Remarkable Bookcycle, in the back of Larry Roberts’ truck.
“Are you Larry Roberts?” she asked.
“Yes!” he replied, surprised.
Soon, the Remarkable Bookcycle will be back at Compo Beach.
If you take — or donate — a book, you’ll have Janine and Larry to thank.
Larry Roberts (Photos/Janine Scotti)
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Feeling unconfident about how to give your child — or a child you care for — confidence?
Parents and caregivers are invited to a relaxed morning conversation and light breakfast, focused on helping children build lasting confidence.
Jennie Monness — a parenting educator, and co-founder of Union Square Play — will explore the difference between praise and encouragement; how routines and responsibilities support competence, and how to respond when children struggle, feel unsure or doubt themselves.
On Sunday (January 18, 11:15 a.m.), Triple Threat Academy‘s short film “Straight Laced” screens at Dances With Films — the independent film festival — at Regal Cinema in New York’s Union Square.
Like 2 other of Triple Threat’s 6 previous films, this was directed by its founder: Staples High School graduate and “Fame” star Cynthia Gibb.
Triple Threat offers classes in the performing arts for all ages. Cast members — children through adults — come to Westport from as far as Los Angeles and the UK to shoot with a professional crew each summer. Triple Threat co-director Jill Mann writes the scripts.
Speaking of Jill Johnson Mann: Her son — 2021 Staples grad Jamie Mann — goes on as Hopper Jr., a lead role in Broadway’s “Stranger Things: The First Shadow,” tomorrow through Tuesday (January 17 to 20).
Mann — who graduated from the University of Michigan last spring — continues playing airheaded singing-and-dancing jock Ted Wheeler in 8 shows a week, until late March.
Beginning next month, ChaChanna Simpson — past president of Northeast Storytelling — will hosts “Storytelling Sundays” at The Westport Library.
One Sunday afternoon every other month, seasoned and first-time storytellers are invited to share 5-minute tales — preferably without notes — on a selected theme.
The February 15 theme — the day after Valentine’s Day — is (of course) “love.”
It’s a welcoming space for connection and inspiration. Everyone is invited to share or listen — or do both.
“Absolutely no experience is necessary,” ChaChanna says. “We all have stories, and all our stories matter!”
Speaking of the Library: Richard Hurowitz discusses his book “In the Garden of the Righteous” — profiles of the “Righteous Among the Nations,” little-known heroes who saved countless lives during the Holocaust — there on January 22 (7 p.m.).
He’ll chat with Reverend Vanessa Rose. She’s the first female senior pastor at First Church Congregational of Fairfield since its founding in 1639. The open and affirming church is focused on racial, social and environmental justice, and immigration and refugees.
The 2006 Staples High School graduate, now a US Department of Justice fraud unit attorney, was hailed in a DOJ press release for his work on one of the largest whistleblower-related settlements in department history.
Thrope helped negotiate a $556 million payment by Kaiser Permanente affiliates, to resolve allegations of widespread fraud in Medicare billings.
The New York Times explained, “Kaiser overstated how sick its patients were to receive higher government payments.”
CNBC called it “a record-breaking settlement in a Medicare Advantage case.”
Rach’s Hope has an important mission: supporting families with critically ill children
The non-profit honors Rachel Doran. The Staples High School graduate and rising Cornell University senior died after developing a rare reaction to common medications.
Their 7th annual PJ Gala is March 28 (7 to 11 p.m., FTC, Fairfield).
Why “PJ”s? Rachel was a talented Staples Players costume designer, and founded a pajama company.
And finally … in honor of the upcoming “Storytelling Sundays” at the Westport Library (story above):
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