With speakers like Ibram X. Kendi, Dr. Clarence B. Jones and Shonda Rhimes, Westport’s Martin Luther King Jr. Day has become one of the most inspiring and thought-provoking events of the year.
Next month’s will be another don’t-miss afternoon.
Jelani Cobb — renowned journalist, scholar, and dean of the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism — is the guest of honor at the 20th annual celebration.
It’s set for the Westport Library on Saturday, January 17, 2026 (1 p.m.). Cobb will be in conversation with novelist, playwright, filmmaker — and Westport resident — Trey Ellis.
Jelani Cobb
Cobb is a Peabody Award winner, Pulitzer Prize finalist, MSNow political analyst, and New Yorker staff writer. He has written books on Barack Obama and the hip hop aesthetic, in addition to editing other volumes and producing numerous documentaries.
He was elected to the American Academy of Arts & Sciences in 2023, and is a recipient of fellowships from the Ford Foundation, Fulbright Foundation, and the Shorenstein Center at Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government.
The annual MLK celebration is a partnership between the Library, TEAM Westport, Westport Country Playhouse, Westport Museum for History & Culture, and the Westport/Weston Clergy Association.
“Dr. King reminded us that ‘the day we see truth and cease to speak is the day we begin to die,’ says Harold Bailey, TEAM Westport chair.
“At a moment when the very idea of truth is under unprecedented pressure, there could be no more fitting focus than journalism. And there is no more powerful champion of its purpose and integrity than Jelani Cobb. We are truly fortunate to welcome him as we mark the 20th anniversary of the MLK celebration in Westport.”
“We are thrilled to honor and welcome both Dr. Cobb and Trey Ellis at the Library for this 20th anniversary celebration,” adds Library executive director Bill Harmer.
“Dr. Cobb is a groundbreaking figure in his field. Westport is incredibly fortunate to have him here to help us celebrate the life and memory of Dr. King.”
A decade and a half after it was first proposed, a 2-story office building will be built at 715 Post Road East.
That means the towering log pile on the 1/3-acre site — across Roseville Road from McDonald’s — will finally be gone. The target date for removal is 3 months. The building is expected to open, for medical and other uses, in a year.
The Planning & Zoning Commission approved the office plan — finally — on Monday. The vote was 6-1, with Michael Calise dissenting.
Westport-based national journalists Alisyn Camerota and Dave Briggs have done some great interviews on their “Sanity” podcast. They’ve asked tough questions of figures like Senator Richard Blumenthal and (former Westporter) James Comey.
Their most recent interview may be their deepest and most insightful yet.
Our Congressman — Jim Himes — is the ranking Democrat on the House Intelligence Committee. He’s one of the few people on Capitol Hill (or anywhere) to have seen the full video of the US military’s twin strikes on suspected Venezuelan drug dealers’ boats.
For half an hour, Himes spoke about the video (“it made me nauseous”), Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, the 53% of Americans who approve of killing suspected drug dealers, along with other subjects like his colleague, Marjorie Taylor Greene.
Click here or below for the full, fascinating interview.
The Residence at Westport invites Westport residents — and everyone else – to today’s Holiday Pop-Up Shop (Wednesday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., 1141 Post Road East).
Local artisans will sell handmade works, including jewelry, pottery and gifts.
The Residence at Westport
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Army and Navy may no longer be at the top of the college football heap.
But there’s still plenty of interest, when the military academies meet.
They kick off for the 126th time this Saturday (3 p.m.). And what better place to watch than VFW Post 399?
There’s a party there (465 Riverside Avenue), beginning at 2 p.m.
Everyone is invited. But if you’re a veteran (or active duty): Wear something that lets everyone know which team is yours.
Roni Goldberg — the new executive director of A Better Chance of Westport — spoke to the Westport Rotary Club on Tuesday.
Since 2002, the organization has provided outstanding and academically-gifted young men of color a home, and other support services, while they attend Staples High School.
The community has gotten behind the local chapter of the national ABC program — and the dozens of teenage scholars have given back plenty to our town.
Roni Goldberg, ABC executive director, at the Westport Rotary Club. (Hat tip and photo/Dave Matlow)
Westport Police made 2 custodial arrests between December 3 and 9.
A 69-year-old Bridgeport man was charged with criminal mischief and intimidation based on bigotry, after an investigation into vandalism at the former Westport National Bank building. A large symbol, described as a Star of David combined with a swastika, was drawn in blue paint. Identical symbols were painted on other structures in the area. He was unable to post a $75,000 bond.
A 30-year-old Westport woman was charged with risk of injury to a minor, after signs of injury were observed by school staff on a juvenile student. She was released on a $50,000 bond.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Texting while driving: 5 citations
Traveling unreasonably fast: 4
Failure to renew registration: 3
Speeding in a school zone: 2
Distracted driving: 2
Assault: 1
Breach of peace: 1
Speeding in a school zone (2nd offense): 1
Speeding: 1
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 1
Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 1
Failure to obey stop sign: 1
Improper turns: 1
Failure to obey state traffic control signals: 1
Failure to obey state traffic commission regulations: 1
And finally … on this date in 1913, the Mona Lisa was recovered in Florence, Italy. Leonardo da Vinci’s famed painting had been stolen more than 2 yeares earlier, from the Louvre.
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In just 5 years, the “06880”/Westport Downtown Association Holiday Stroll has become a cherished tradition. It’s coming soon: Saturday, December 6 (4 to 7 p.m.).
The Staples Orphenians carols, Santa (selfies, and a box for letters), a DJ, face painters, Nômade’s s’mores, our own piglet, and over 50 special offerings from stores and restaurants (click here to see) draw hundreds of residents to Main Street and environs every year.
Don’t forget the Westport Police “Toys for Tots” drive. There’s a collection box for new toys at the corner of Main and Elm Streets.
But it’s really an all-Westport event. Retail and non-profit vendors will be there too, with booths filled with giveaways and fun.
They include Cobs Bread, Real & CO Candies, The Clubhouse and more.
There is something for everyone at the Holiday Stroll. See you there, a week from Saturday!
Staples Orphenians: a Holiday Stroll favorite. (Photo/Stacie Curran)
Yesterday’s gorgeous weather drew hordes of Westporters outside. They ran in Pequot Runners’ Turkey Trot. They played in Staples soccer’s annual alumni contest. They headed to Greenwich for the Wreckers’ football game.
They took walks: at Winslow Park. Around their neighborhoods. At Compo Beach.
Molly Alger took this photo (below), at Schlaet’s Point on Hillspoint Road. “Must be no one left at home cooking,” she says.
House Bill 8002 — a revised version of a controversial housing bill vetoed earlier — was signed into law Wednesday by Governor Lamont.
CT Mirror says it “expands fair rent commissions, eliminates most off-street parking requirements for smaller housing developments and requires towns to create housing growth plans, among other measures.”
Lamont said, “This bill tells mayors and first selectmen ‘What do you want your town to look like in five or 10 years? Start planning accordingly. Where do you want that housing to go? Are you going to zone accordingly? What else do you need? We want to be your partner.'”
Governor Lamont — shown here at the dedication of Westport’s 122 Wilton Road apartments in 2024 — has advocated for affordable housing legislation. (Photo/Dan Woog)
Today’s eye-catching early Thanksgiving morning “Westport … Naturally” photo comes from Rayfield Road, thanks to always-intriguing photographer Jerry Kuyper:
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If you were alive on November 22, 1963 — and were over, say, 5 years old — you understand how dramatically, and traumatically, America shifted that day.
If you weren’t, there is no way you can comprehend it.
The murder of President Kennedy was a horrific, galvanizing moment in time. It happened 62 years ago today, but I remember it like it was yesterday.
I was in 5th grade. Since September my friends and I had walked to and from school. We gathered on High Point Road, cut through the Staples High School athletic fields and parking lot, sauntered down North Avenue, walked across open farmland, and arrived at Burr Farms Elementary.
We were like the “Stand By Me” boys: talking about kid stuff, reveling in our independence, figuring out each other and the world, in a world that would soon mightily change.
Minutes before school ended that beautiful Friday, the teacher from next door burst into our room. “Kennedy got killed!” she yelled. A girl broke into spontaneous applause. Her father was a leading Republican in town.
Our teacher slapped her face.
Usually, our teacher wished us a happy weekend. That day the bell rang, and we just left. No one knew how to interpret her reaction. We’d never seen a teacher hit a student before.
Then again, we’d never heard of our president being murdered.
As my friends and I gathered for our ritual walk home, we suddenly had Something Big to talk about. For the first time in our lives, we discussed news. We had no details, but already we sensed that the world we knew would never be the same.
That vague feeling was confirmed the moment we walked down the exit road, into the Staples parking lot. School had been out for an hour, but clots of students huddled around cars, listening to radios. Girls sobbed — boys, too. Their arms were wrapped around each other, literally clinging together for support. I’d never seen one teenager cry. Now there were dozens.
At home, I turned on the television. Black-and-white images mirrored the scene at Staples a few minutes earlier. Newscasters struggled to contain their emotions; men and women interviewed in the street could not.
The president was dead. Now it was true. I saw it on TV.
Walter Cronkite on CBS, announcing the death of President Kennedy.
My best friend, Glenn, slept over that night. The television was on constantly. The longer I watched, the more devastated I became.
John F. Kennedy was the first president I knew. My father had taken me to a campaign rally in Bridgeport 3 years earlier. I could not articulate it then, but I admired JFK’s energy, was inspired by his youthfulness, and vowed to grow up and (like him) make a difference.
Now he was dead.
Bill Mauldin captured the grief of a nation.
Saturday was rainy and blustery. I watched more TV. Like most Americans, I was obsessed by this unfolding tragedy. Like them too I had no idea that the impact of that weekend would remain, seared in my brain and heart, more than 6 decades later.
Sunday was the first day I cried. The raw emotions of all the adults around — in the streets of Westport, and on the television screen — finally overwhelmed me. I cried for the dead president, my fallen hero; for his widow and children; for everyone else who looked so sad and vulnerable.
Then — right after noon — Jack Ruby killed Lee Harvey Oswald. Once again I sat transfixed by the TV. I was stunned, and scared.
Monday was a brilliant fall day. President Kennedy was laid to rest under a crisp, cloudless sky. The unforgettably moving ceremony was watched by virtually everyone in the world with access to a television.
To my everlasting regret, I did not see it live. Glenn said we could not sit inside on a day off from school. Rather than risk being called a nerd (or whatever word we used in 1963), I chose playing touch football at Staples over watching history. I was in 5th grade. What did I know?
The coffin, at Arlington National Cemetery.
The next day we went back to school. The Staples parking lot looked exactly as it had before that fateful Friday. Our teacher never said a word about slapping the girl who cheered President Kennedy’s assassination.
Thanksgiving arrived on schedule 2 days later. At our dinner — like every other table in America — the adults tried to steer the conversation away from the awful events that had consumed us for nearly a week.
In the days and months to come — as the country slowly, painfully, pulled itself out of its collective, overwhelming grief — I devoured everything about President Kennedy I could find. I saved Life, Look,Saturday Evening Post. I ordered the Warren Commission report. Like so many others I still have it all, somewhere.
In the years that followed, my admiration for the young, slain president grew, then ebbed. But it never died. He remained my political hero: the first president I ever knew, cared about, was mesmerized by, and mourned.
When President Kennedy was killed, journalist Mary McGrory said, “We’ll never laugh again.” Daniel Patrick Moynihan — who worked for JFK — replied, “Mary, we will laugh again. But we will never be young again.”
Sixty-two years ago this morning, I was a young 5th grader without a care in the world.
Walking home that afternoon, I could never not care again.
For months, non-profits across the country have been battered.
The Trump administration has slashed funding — or eliminated it entirely — for a vast array of services: youth, international aid, health and wellness, immigration, environmental, civil rights, housing, food, education, arts.
Some organizations have severely cut programs, and/or laid off staff. Some have closed entirely.
Many Americans want to help. But it’s hard to know which groups are affected.
There has been no central resource to identify exactly which programs need help.
Until now.
Charity Bridge Fund is a new non-partisan initiative. It closes the gap created by reduced federal funding.
And one of its key players is a Westporter.
Content and communications manager Isabelle Pieper — a Staples High School Class of 2014 graduate — has a background in strategic planning and analysis. In her higher education career, she managed high-level donor and board operations, and generated campaign strategy.
Isabelle Pieper
She is excited by her new opportunity at Charity Bridge. It’s a way to combine her interest in charitable giving, with her work in technology.
It’s also a chance to work with the organization’s founder and executive director, Kendall Webb. The Weston resident also started More.com, an early e-commerce sites, and Just Give, one of the internet’s first non-profit donation platforms.
Pieper talks to individual donors and donor advised funds.
She does outreach too to organizations across the country. They’re all sizes — from large ones like Save the Children, to much smaller ones like a tribal electrification project.
The Underground Railroad Education Center in Albany, New York has lost employees, and seen programs halted.
Charity Bridge is also working with 2 media outlets: New York Public Radio and Rocky Mountain Public Media.
Pieper is excited that, though still in its nascent stage, the fund has secured a matching grant. All donations up to $10,000 will be equaled, through November.
The first distribution of funds will be made next month.
Charity Bridge already lists 68 projects. Donors can search the site by category to find one or more that resonate, or seem particularly noteworthy or needed.
There is no fee to be listed.
“We’re a non-profit ourselves,” Pieper notes. Charity Bridge will apply for grants to cover their own operational expenses. Donors can also tip Charity Bridge, during the checkout process.
The biggest challenge — one familiar to every non-profit — is finding donors, and getting them to respond.
Meanwhile, whatever funds they raise for non-profits in need will not be enough.
“People will see the effects of the services they’ll lose very quickly. Non-profits make a difference in every community,” Pieper says.
“The current cuts will cause a ripple effect for generations to come,” she adds.
And those ripples will continue to spread. The Trump administration has signaled that more cuts lie ahead, in the next fiscal year.
Very few people love — or even like — Hook’d (aka “Bluestone”), the concessionaire at Compo Beach and Longshore.
So tomorrow’s Board of Finance special meeting agenda (Friday, November 14, 10 a.m., Zoom) caught our eye.
The session begins with an executive session “to discuss the lease by the Town to Hooked On The Sound LLC regarding the food service operations at Compo Beach Pavilion, Longshore Pavilion and the Halfway House at Longshore Club Park.
That’s followed by a public session: “Discussion and potential vote to approve a Lease Termination Agreement between the Town and Hooked On The Sound LLC regarding the food service operations at Compo Beach Pavilion, Longshore Pavilion and the Halfway House at Longshore Club Park.”
Will Hook’d get the hook? Will they be let off the hook?
Stay tuned — via Zoom.
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A US president has 2 1/2 months after the election before taking the oath of office.
A Westport first selectman has 13 days.
The swearing in ceremony for the Board of Selectpersons — and all other elected town boards, commissions and the Representative Town Meeting (RTM) — is this Monday (November 17, 7:30 p.m., Town Hall).
The public is invited, to see democracy in action.
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HB 5002 — a controversial bill that would have eliminated much local control over affordable housing — was vetoed by Governor Lamont in June.
But yesterday, the state House of Representatives voted 90-56 in favor of a replacement bill.
According to CT Mirror, it “requires towns to create housing growth programs, changes minimum off-street parking requirements, expands fair rent commissions and incentivizes towns to take steps to allow more housing, among other measures.
Sure, you could travel above the Arctic Circle to see the Northern Lights.
Or you could step outside your Westport home.
They’ve been visible lately, due to a powerful geomagnetic storm resulting from recent solar activity. Favorable conditions should continue through Friday.
This was the scene Tuesday night, outside RB Benson’s Compo Hill home:
Despite more hazards than ever, drivers are thrilled that work has resumed on the Post Road project, between the Volvo dealership and Sakura.
It’s been stalled since the Nixon administration.
The new spasm of activity includes not just milling, paving and lights.
A new bus shelter is also being built, at the corner of Rayfield Road just before Cava and Westport Hardware.
Another is going up across the street, in front of Fresh Market.
That’s great news for the employees of area businesses who — since before the Nixon administration — have had to wait, unprotected, in all kinds of weather.
Looks like the shelters will be used well — and soon.
The curtain rises tonight (Thursday) on Staples Players’ record 10-performance run of “Les Misérables.”
As they always do, they’re tying their shows in with a good cause.
This year, it’s Homes with Hope’s food pantry. The drama troupe will be collecting non-perishable items (peanut butter and jelly, pasta and sauce, cereal, oatmeal, pancake mix, coffee, tea, condiments, spices, soup, tuna, canned veggies and fruit and chicken and beans, baking items, cooking oil, hamburger helper, toiletries and personal care items) before each show.
It’s their way of making life less miserable, for neighbors in need.
Now, millions of Lucia Gulbransen’s social media followers know it too.
The Westport-based stylist and influencer recently teamed up with local photographer and realtor Michael Chait. He shot fall fashions, using the 19th-century former town meeting hall/bank/newspaper office/furniture store/ boutique hotel and soon-to-be AIG office building as a backdrop.]
Lucia’s “wearing vs. styling” reel reached 3.5 million views.
Lucia Gulbransen (Photo/Michael Chait)
Lucia and Michael are continuing to take photos around Westport, capturing the beauty all around us.
Lucia can be found on Instagram @luciagulbransen, and at her website. Michael is @michaelchait_realtor, and his website.
Westporters are also very familiar with Mar Jennings.
We know him for his or his hit show “Life on Mar’s: The Home Makeover Show”; his bestselling book series, and his award-winning real estate team.
But he’s also an Ice Skating Institute World Recreational Championship gold medalist.
And he’s bringing his talents to the Westport PAL rink at Longshore.
The Parks & Recreation Department has just named Jennings head coach and program director of the Learn to Skate program.
Westport Parks & Recreation is proud to announce that Mar Jennings—America’s Top Lifestyle Expert, Emmy®-nominated television host, bestselling author, and World Championship gold medalist—has been named Head Coach and Program Director of our 2025-2026 Learn to Skate program.
Parks & Rec recreation superintendent Carm Roda says, “His appointment marks a new chapter for the program, which follows the US Figure Skating Basic Skills curriculum, and serves skaters of all ages and abilities.
“His passion for skating, his commitment to youth development, and his deep ties to Westport make him the ideal leader for this program.”
The 10-week Learn to Skate program, for ages 3 and up, offers structured instruction, merit badge evaluations, and a supportive environment for growth. All students — whether skating for fun or aspiring to compete — are welcome.
The next Veterans Benefits Luncheon is today (Thursday, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.), VFW Post 399).
It’s open to all veterans as part of an ongoing effort to check in on all veterans’ welfare, and connect them with the benefits and support they earned.
Representatives will answer questions, and provide information on services and assistance available to veterans.
RSVPs are encouraged (but not required). Email vfw399ct@gmail.com, and include the number of attendees, or call (203) 227-6796.
PS: If you’re not a veteran, but know one: Please pass the word!
The Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport shows off members and friends’ artistic talents this weekend.
And everyone is invited.
The “UU Art & You” exhibit and sale begins with a reception tomorrow (Friday, 6 p.m.). Weekend hours are Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sunday, noon to 3 p.m.
Some items are for sale. Others are shared, “in the spirit of community and a love of creating beauty.”
Andrew Graham’s “Torment” is one of many works on display.
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Westport Police made 1 custodial arrest between November 5 and 11.
A 27-year-old Waterbury man was charged with reckless driving and engaging police in pursuit, after an investigation into a May 31 incident.
A Westport officer spotted a vehicle traveling southbound on Wilton Road near Newtown Turnpike, whose operator was wanted for charges by Stamford Police and other agencies. The driver disregarded a signal to stop, driving recklessly while continuing south on the Merritt Parkway. In Norwalk, the vehicle was involved in an accident, and was taken into custody. Last Friday, appearing in court in Hartford on an unrelated matter, he was taken into custody relative to the outstanding warrant for his arrest here. He was released on $50,000 bond.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Traveling unreasonably fast (8 citations)
Speeding in a school zone: 3
Driving while texting: 2
Failure to obey traffic control signals: 2
Failure to obey state traffic commission regulations: 2
Disorderly conduct: 1
Speeding: 1
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 1
Operating a unregistered motor vehicle: 1
Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 1
Failure to renew registration: 1
Failure to insure a motor vehicle: 1
Failure to drive in the proper lane: 1
Failure to drive right: 1.
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There’s nothing like eye contact for an intimate conversation.
These 2 friends — or more?! — were deeply engrossed the other day, in the Saugatuck River.
Dayle Brownstein did not want to interrupt, but took this stealthy photo for our “Westport … Naturally” feature.
And finally … to celebrate tonight’s opening of Staples Players’ “Les Mis” (item above):
(There is so much going on in Westport these days — well, there always is. In addition to reading all about it on “06880,” please take 12 seconds to click here and support our work. Thank you!)
Westport was just a few voters shy of 50% turnout, in this year’s local election.
49.8% of eligible voters went to the polls, or returned absentee ballots. That’s higher than both the 36% average for the state, and the 43% of Westporters who voted in the last selectperson election, in 2021.
In this “blue wave” election, Westport was one of 29 Connecticut municipalities whose Town or City Hall flipped from Republican to Democratic control.
Turnout was lowest in the 2 biggest cities: less than 7% in Hartford, and less than 5% in Bridgeport. Neither had a major race on the ballot.
Turnout was steady on Tuesday in Westport. (Photo/Dan Woog)
Speaking of the election: Westport 10 — the networking and social club for Black men — has grown to many more members from its founders.
Yesterday’s monthly “First Friday” lunch at Sushi Jin was extra special.
Nearly 3 dozen Westport 10 members celebrated with Kevin Christie and Addison Moore.
Christie is the newly elected 1st selectman, and was an original member. Moore — the youngest person ever elected to Westport’s Representative Town Meeting – is the son of another Westport 10 member, Adam Moore.
Westport 10 members (from left): Frank Wood, Craig Melvin, Alexander Mejia, Kevin Christie, Anil Nair (kneeling), Jay Norris, Rob Simmelkjaer, Harold Bailey Jr.
Westport 10 at Sushi Jin. In the center of the front row (arms crossed, tan pants) is Addison Moore. On the right next to him is his father, Adam Moore.
Speaking still of the election: When a local one is determined by less than 0.5% — or 20 votes or less — state statutes allow for a recount (officially, a “recanvass”).
The Board of Education candidate declined the offer. But losing candidates in 3 Representative Town Meeting districts — 1, 2 and 9 — accepted it.
The recanvass takes place Monday (November 10, 1 p.m., Town Hall Room 201).
All ballots will be rerun through the town’s new “mega-tabulator.” On Election Day, the new machine counted all 3,000-plus early votes in 1 hour.
RTM District 9 candidates on Tuesday, outside the Westport Library polling place. That district is one of 3 whose votes will be “recanvassed” on Monday.
Less than a year ago, it looked like the Cribari Bridge lights — a beloved tradition for 25 years — would be dark that holiday season.
But thanks to the Westport PAL, and a group of determined residents, businesses and organizations, new lights were bought and strung.
And then, in a joyful ceremony, they were lit.
They’ll be back again this year. Provided, that is, that PAL covers the cost of a substantial number of replacement lights.
The organization is seeking donations to defray the costs of lighting the bridge, and to continue funding scholarships for deserving students.
Businesses and family names will be featured on a large sign near the span. To help, call PAL trustee Emma Rojas at 203-571-7505, or email emmacrojas83@gmail.com.
Let there be lights. And there were! (Photo/Andrea Moore)
As “Love+War” — the new documentary about Lynsey Addario’s career and life — streams on Hulu, The Guardian has just posted an in-depth, interactive and photo-filled interview with the Pulitzer Prize- and MacArthur “genius grant”-winning (and 1991 Staples High School graduate).
Ukrainian soldiers trying to save the father of a family of 4 — the only one at that moment who still had a pulse — moments after being hit by a mortar while trying to flee Irpin, near Kyiv, Ukraine. (Photo/Lynsey Addario for the New York Times)
Longtime Westport resident Stefanina Carusone died peacefully on Tuesday, surrounded by her family. She was 78.
Born in Formicola, Italy, and a seamstress by trade, Stefana worked at Pepperidge Farm for 20 years. She was known for her home-cooked meals, and her crocheted blankets, hats and scarves.
She and her husband Fausto raised 3 sons: Salvatore, Fausto Jr. and Steven. She had 3 daughters-in-law — Sarah, Rachel and Athena, and 5 grandchildren: Madeline, Eugenio (Gino), Lia, Isa and Christian, who she enjoyed spoiling.
A funeral is set for November 12 (10 a.m., Assumption Church). Entombment will follow in Willowbrook Cemetery. The family will receive friends at Harding Funeral Home on November 11 (5 to 8 p.m.).
And finally … on this date in 1889, Montana was admitted as the 41st state.
(Whether you live in Westport or Montana — or Weston or Manhattan, or anywhere else: Thanks for being part of our “06880” community. And thanks for clicking here, to support our work!)
The halt in SNAP (food stamp) benefits for millions of American during the government shutdown has gotten plenty of media attention.
It’s exacerbated by rising prices for food (and other items) — and uncertainty over what’s ahead for health insurance.
The national press is filled with stories of long lines at overwhelmed food pantries. People in line — some for the first time ever — talk about uncertainty, fear, and the very real pocketbook choices they must make.
It’s a frightening problem everywhere.
Including Westport.
Homes with Hope — the 41-year-old non-profit dedicated to preventing and ending homelessness and food insecurity in Fairfield County — runs an important food pantry.
It’s well stocked, and has always served a steady clientele.
Last week saw a surge in visitors.
Last week also saw, Homes with Hope says, “the true power of community.”
Since November 1 — the day SNAP benefits stopped — the pantry at the Jesup Road Gillespie Center, behind Barnes & Noble, has seen a 70% increase in the number of individuals and families seeking assistance.
Stocking up, at the Gillespie Center food pantry.
In just 4 days Homes with Hope greeted nearly 400 people, representing nearly 1,200 adults and children. New faces appeared every day.
The aid they receive is essential. Clients are grateful that the pantry helps relieve stress and uncertainty — and with healthy food. (The pantry includes meat and perishable goods, along with non-perishables.)
To help serve the increased number of visitors, and reduce wait times, HwH has introduced a “Grab & Go” program. Quick pick-ups of pre-packed essential and fresh items can save 2 to 3 hours in line.
“Grab & Go” food, outside the Gillespie Center.
Homes with Hope says, “This overwhelming demand was met with overwhelming generosity. We thank everyone who participated in recent food drives, dropped off donations at the Gillespie Center, contributed financially, or sent items from our Amazon Wish List.
“Our shelves are still fully stocked during a time of urgent need. Westport always steps up!”
Residents have generously shopped, using Homes with Hope’s Amazon wish list. Food is delivered quickly to Westport.
Homes with Hope also thanks food retail partners: CT Foodshare, Trader Joe’s, Food Rescue US, Fresh Market and Stew Leonard’s. Their contributions of fresh, healthy food enable HwH to meet rapidly growing needs.
Pantry organizers are also grateful for the encouragement of local officials. Several visited this week — including 1st and 2nd Selectwomen Jen Tooker and Andrea Moore, and state legislators — and affirmed their strong commitment to helping address food insecurity in this area.
From left: Homes with Hope director of development Katharine Murray, State Senator Ceci Maher, HwH board chair Becky Martin, State Representatives Dominique Johnson and Jonathan Steinberg.
“This has been an unprecedented week,” Homes with Hope notes.
“We look forward to greater stability and clarity in the SNAP program moving forward. We remain committed to ensuring that every person who needs help will find a warm welcome — and a full bag of groceries.”
Homes with Hope’s Community Kitchen is open daily for lunch (12 noon) and dinner (5 p.m.). It is at the Gillespie Center on Jesup Road (behind Barnes & Noble).
Homes with Hope staff members — including CEO and president Helen McAlinden — offer individual tours of their facility. Call McAlinden: 475-225-5292.
Volunteers are always welcome — in the food pantry, and to serve meals at the Gillespie Center.
FURTHER NOTE: Governor Ned Lamont announced yesterday that all eligible Connecticut households that receive food assistance through SNAP will have full amounts for November transferred onto their EBT cards within the next several days.
State funding will fill the lapse in federal funding, if the US Department of Agriculture does not follow Thursday’s federal court order to provide full benefits for November.
The Westport Fire Department has again partnered with Bridgeport Rescue Mission, for the 3rd annual Share the Warmth Coat Drive.
Fire Chief Nick Marsan says, “A coat may seem simple. But it’s essential for many children and adults in nearby communities.”
Donations of clean new or gently used winter coats, hats, mittens, gloves and snow suits can be donated through November 30 at:
Westport Fire Headquarters
Westport Senior Center
Westport Town Hall
Coleytown Elementary School
Long Lots Elementary School
Kings Highway Elementary School.
Lieutenant Rob Lenois, president of the Westport Uniformed Firefighters Charitable Foundation, notes, “This drive allows us to give back and ease the burdens on local families. Last year, thanks to the generosity of this community, we distributed over 1,400 coats.”
Fire Department coat drive, 2023.
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Speaking of helping out: This Monday (November 10) is Shake Shack’s “Donation Day.”
From 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., mention “Donation Day” at the register, or use the promo code “Donate” on the Shack app, web or checkout kiosk. The restaurant will donate 25% of your total meal purchase to the VFW.
Bring your appetite!
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Got brown water? Low water pressure?
Don’t panic. Aquarion is conducting routine water main flushing today and tomorrow (Thursday and Friday), between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. The affected area includes Imperial Avenue, Bridge Street, and Compo Road South.
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On the agenda for the November 19 Conservation Commission meeting (7 p.m.; Town Hall auditorium; livestreamed on www.westportct.gov and Optimum Channel 79): a public hearing on an application for 1 Glendinning Place (off Weston Road, adjacent to the former Bridgewater headquarters).
The application is to construct 15 housing units in 10 buildings, with onsite septic systems and stormwater management systems. The existing office and surface parking will remain. Click here to view the application materials.
Plans for 1 Glendinning Place.
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Another town meeting: the Blight Prevention Board. The November 13 (5 p.m., Zoom) session will include old business, involving these properties:
6 Clifford Lane
38 Old Hill Road
7 Bedford Drive
20 Center Street
36 Hiawatha Lane.
One new property will be discussed: 15 Gorham Avenue.
Chabad of Westport’s next Candid Conversations Series event is compelling.
Former hostages Maya and Itay Regev, and their father Ilan Regev, will share their story of survival, courage and resilience on November 19 (7:30 p.m.). Attendees will get a firsthand account of their captivity and journey home.
Saugatuck Congregational Church’s free concert series continues this Sunday (November 9, 3 p.m.), with works by Clara Schumann and Johannes Brahms, performed by the Solstice Piano Trio.
The public is invited.
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Deadheads: Listen up!
Saturday’s “Supper & Soul” concert features the Spadtastics.
“Connecticut’s premier tribute act” comes to the Westport Library November 8 (7 p.m.). They’ll play 2 full sets, recreating a show from the 1970s.
The Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce’s Supper & Soul series usually incudes a pre-show dinner, and post-concert drinks.
Due to the length of this event, there is no dinner. But attendees can enjoy a “Dead-inspired” drink before or after the music, at Basso, Massi Co, Spotted Horse or Walrus Alley.
Westport Police made 3 custodial arrests between October 29 and November 4.
A 37-year-old Bronx man was charged with identity theft (21 counts), forgery, illegal possession of a personal identification information access device, criminal attempt to commit larceny, and failure to appear, following an investigation into a September 2024 report of someone attempting to cash a fraudulent check at TD Bank. It was determined that he was involved in additional incidents of bank/check fraud, using personal information of victims. He was held on $130,000 bond.
A 64-year-old Hamden man was charged with criminal trespass and interfering with an officer, after a trespassing complaint. A Stop & Shop manager recognized the man as someone who had been formally warned not to return to the store. During the investigation, he provided officers with an incorrect name and date of birth. A computer check showed him to the subject of an active arrest warrant, and 3 other failure to appear warrants.
A 31-year-old Bridgeport man was charged with violation of probation, and held on $100,000 bond.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Driving while texting: 4 citations
Failure to obey stop sign: 3
Traveling unreasonably fast: 2
Disorderly conduct: 2
Permitting a minor to possess alcohol: 1
Failure to halt alcohol possession by a minor: 1
Distracted driving: 1
Breach of peace: 1
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 1
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 1
Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
Improper use of markers: 1
Violation of license class: 1
Failure to notify DMV of address change: 1
Two adults were charged with alcohol violations involving teenagers.
(The election is over. Westport goes on. And “06880” will continue to cover every part of our ttown, 24/7/365 — just as we have since 2009. If you like our work, please click here to support us. Thanks!)
Several months of interviewing for party endorsements (or collecting signatures to be on the ballot), developing positions, soliciting donations, meeting voters all over town, sitting for debates, knocking on doors, answering questions from the media, creating mailers, writing emails and notes, placing yard signs, skipping family events, and finally — last night — awaiting election results has come to an end.
(Photo/Matt Murray)
Some candidates won. Others lost.
All spent countless hours doing something most of the rest of us would never dream of doing: running for local office.
Their reasons vary: a complex mix of personality, personal goals and professional expertise.
But they always include a desire to step up and serve the town they love. And the town they think they can make even better.
To do that, they had to put themselves front and center, in a very public way. They opened up about who they are as people, and what they believe in.
They opened themselves up to criticism too. Some of it got personal, and nasty. No matter how thick-skinned anyone is, that had to hurt.
Today — the day after Election Day — our unsung heroes are every man and woman who had the desire, the energy, and the courage to run.
Westport would not be the vibrant, exciting, challenging town it is without you. Win or lose, you are all winners today.
Now go pick up your yard signs.
(Photo/Dan Woog)
And let’s not forget our Staples High students.
They had yesterday off. But 85 SLOBs — members of the school’s Service League of Boys — fanned out to all 9 polling places.
From 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., they handed out “I Voted!” stickers. It was a great lesson for them in civic involvement, and they were excited to help.
A number of students also participated in campaigns, for various candidates in a variety of offices.
Of course, we could not have provided last night’s “06880” coverage without 4 outstanding reporters: Dylan Robbin, Catherine Campagnino, Zara Saliba and Will Enquist. They rocked it.
Our future is in good — no, great — hands!
Handing out stickers at the polls (from left): Rei Seltzer, regional head of Civic Leaders of America; Owen Goldfarb, and Zach Gillman. (Photo/Aiko Nose)
(“06880” is proud to honor Unsung Heroes — and tell many other tales of town too. Please click here to support your hyper-local blog.)
Click here to help support “06880” via credit card or PayPal. Any amount is welcome, appreciated — and tax-deductible! Reader contributions keep this blog going. (Alternate methods: Please send a check to “06880”: PO Box 744, Westport, CT 06881. Or use Venmo: @blog06880. Or Zelle: dwoog@optonline.net. Thanks!)
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Homes with Hope — the 41-year-old non-profit dedicated to preventing and ending homelessness and food insecurity in Fairfield County — runs an important food pantry.
