After 38 years of nourishing Westport, Organic Market owners Maggie and Charles Vosgueritchian are retiring.
But the Playhouse Square mainstay’s many fans should not worry. The new owners — chef Talin and her partner Mary — share the same values, and commitment to quality and wellness.
They will continue the Organic Market’s mission, while bringing fresh ideas to the new chapter.
“We’re honored to continue the legacy that Maggie and Charles built,” Talin and Mary say.
“Our goal is to preserve everything the community loves about The Organic Market, while expanding on its vision of healthy, sustainable living.”
The health food store and café specializes in organic groceries, fresh juices and homemade meals.
The Vosgueritchians — who are retiring — bought the business in 1987. The transition takes place January 2.
“We are deeply grateful for the support of our loyal customers, our wonderful staff, and the Westport community that has grown with us through the years,” Maggie says.
“It has been an honor to serve this town, and to share in so many moments of connection, nourishment and joy.”
She and Charles look forward to sharing memories with customers through the holidays.
In a dark time, the third annual event for Jewish women to celebrate Hanukkah together was, like the Festival of Lights itself, a warm, bright spot.
Over 70 women gathered at The Blondinit on Tuesday. Rabbi Shira Sklar led the candle lighting. A raffle of an Israeli wine tasting, donated by Blondinit owner Inda Sale, raised funds for Enosh, the largest mental health organization in Israel supporting the hostages, families and victims of the October 7 massacre.
The event — organized by Charlene Zeiberg, Carolyn Cohen and Stephanie Feingold — grew out of an anonymous post on social media 2 years ago, asking how to make connections with other Jewish women. The result was a Hanukkah gathering: a space to connect, find comfort, and share the hope of the holiday.
Hanukkah gathering. Blondinit owner Inda Sale is in front, 2nd from right.
Green’s Farms Church celebrates the seasons of Advent, Christmas and Epiphany with a special artist’s reception this Friday (December 19, 6 to 7:30 p.m.).
The evening features “The Light Shines in the Darkness.” Katie Nelson Troyer’s paintings explore “illumination, movement, and the quiet power of spiritual encounter.”
The reception includes refreshments and live music from Katie and her husband Scott.
Paintings by Katie Nelson Troyer
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Westport Police did not make any custodial arrests between December 10 and 16.
They issued these citations:
Texting while driving: 10 citations
Failure to grant right of way: 3
Failure to renew registration: 3
Traveling unreasonably fast: 2
Failure to drive in the proper lane: 2
Failure to obey traffic control signals: 2
Failure to register a commercial vehicle: 1
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension (alcohol): 1
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 1
Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 1
Improper use of markers: 1
Texting while driving is illegal — even at a red light.
And finally … on this date in 1892 — just in time for Christmas — Tchaikovsky’s “Nutcracker” premiered in St. Petersburg, Russia.
(“06880” has not been around as long as the Organic Market. But — like the beloved business — we’re part of this town, and rely on you for support. If you appreciate our work, please click here. Thanks!)
Last night — barely 24 hours after a mass shooting at an Australian Hanukkah celebration — Westporters gathered for the first night of the Festival of Lights.
Rabbi Yehuda Kantor told the crowd: “We must not be pulled down — only up. Light your candles to bring warmth to your home, and light to the world.”
Rabbi Yehuda Kantor, with Chabad’s ice menorah. (Hat tip and photo/Matthew Mandell)
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If you hoped for a resolution of the “Blue House” — aka 233 Hillspoint Road — saga by the end of the year: You’ll have to wait (quite a bit) longer.
This is one wish not even Santa can grant.
Any closing or progress on the completion of the years-long eyesore diagonally opposite Old Mill Deli has been postponed again.
The reason: new litigation.
Unknown to either the seller or buyer at the October auction, the underlying borrower filed 4 liens less than 24 hours before the auction.
Two were against Summit Westport LLC, who owned the property. Two were mechanic’s liens against the property.
The lender — GLP 2206 LLC — initiated foreclosure action on December 2, to clear title. Any Stamford-Norwalk court action will happen in 2026.
The primary defendants are Summit Westport, LLC and James Pendry personally.
233 Hillspoint Road, in July. Not much has changed since then — except the weather.
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The Connecticut Department of Transportation hosts a “consulting meeting” on how its plan for the William F. Cribari Bridge will affect the landmark properties of the National Historic Bridge Street District.
The session is this Thursday (December 18, 6 p.m., Town Hall).
The Cribari Bridge is on the National Register of Historic Places. (Photo/Ferdinand Jahnel)
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Westporters were out in droves yesterday, photographing the very New England holiday season-ish snow.
“06880” posted more than a dozen great photos. This one from downtown came in later — and it’s a bit more whimsical than all those shots of back yards, fences and (of course) the Minute Man:
Friday’s first-ever Holiday Craft & Gift Sale at the Westport Senior Center was a hit!. A large crowd enjoyed — and bought — items from local artisans.
Senior Center director Wendy Petty, and her staff and volunteers, organized every detail. It was one more special offering, from a center that continually delivers them, to seniors — and many others too. (Hat tip: Linda Doyle)
The Senior Center welcomes the holidays. (Photo/Ed Simek)
A gentle reminder: As you plan year-end giving, please keep “06880” in mind.
We’re a non-profit dedicating to educating the public and creating community, so all contributions are tax-deductible. Corporate matching grants are welcome too!
You can donate online, or by Venmo, Zelle or old-school check. Click here for details. And thank you!
And finally … on this date in 1893, Antonín Dvořák’s “Symphony No. 9” — the “New World Symphony” — premiered at Carnegie Hall.
(From the blue house to the Cribari Bridge — and everywhere in between — “06880” brings you all the Westport news. And we do it 24/7/365. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
In the aftermath of the shooting of 11 Jewish Hanukkah celebrants at Bondi Beach in Australia, Chabad of Westport Rabbi Yehuda Kantor and his wife Dina say:
The news out of Sydney has us shocked to the core.
As you may know I was born in Sydney, in the Bondi region. I’m personally familiar with many of those who were injured, and the Chabad rabbi to boot. It’s truly shocking. A very dark day.
Yet whilst it’s a dark day — tonight we usher in a night of light. The Festival of Light.
At times, it’s difficult to reconcile the evil that exists in this world with the inherent good that underpins this world. The heaviness and despondency that accompanies evil acts shatters our sense of security and balance which leaves us reeling.
Ironically, yet not so ironic, the very message of Chanukah is the counterbalance — setting the record straight. Eight days that imparts and empowers the truth of life. Light prevails over darkness. Goodness trounces every element of darkness at the core.
Tonight we will gather to light the menorah. We must do it with even greater strength. We must do so with a sense of purpose and mission. We must recognize that evil has no place and the only way to confront it is with strength, joy and determination.
Effectively, we are the ambassadors of this message to the world, and Chanukah is the headquarters of this message. It’s therefore imperative to stand tall and proud, resolute and fearless with a message to the world — light and goodness will always prevail!!
If you’re available come out, join us tonight as we light a 6-foot ice menorah and celebrate, dance, cry and laugh (5:30 p.m. ice carving will take place; 6 p.m. will be the lighting).
But if you’re up to it, let’s go even one step further: join our car menorah parade (5 p.m. around Westport, with police accompaniment) — telling the message in a proud and loud manner.
Please let us know you’ll be joining — email mendel@chabadofwestport.com, or click here and scroll down.
Together we shall prevail, and we shall prosper!
“Light the World With Hope” (Diane Yormark’s handmade ceramic menorah).
Basso — the tapas-and-more restaurant that moved to Westport from Norwalk in the middle of the pandemic — is closing.
An email sent yesterday from the Jesup Road spot that replaced Matsu Sushi says: “After nearly 19 wonderful years of serving our community, it is with mixed emotions that we announce the closing of Basso on Thursday, December 18.
“This decision was not made lightly; we have truly cherished every moment shared with you, our loyal guests and friends.
“We want to express our deepest gratitude for your unwavering support, kindness, and the many memories we’ve created together. It has been an honor to be part of your lives—celebrating milestones, hosting your special occasions, and sharing countless meals and conversations.
“As we prepare to close this chapter, we warmly invite you to visit us one last time to reminisce and enjoy your favorite dishes. Thank you for being such an essential part of our story. You will always hold a special place in our hearts.”
I’ve long held a special place in my heart for Basso. The food has been delicious and creative; the hospitality is warm and genuine; the vibe has been great for the town.
Thank you, Renato, Ela, and all who made Basso a favorite destination.
Along with tapas, Basso featured pizzas, from its great wood-fired oven (rear).
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One (restaurant) door closes, and another opens: Westport will soon have another fast-casual, create-your-own-bowl-or-salad dining spot.
Naya arrives Wednesday (December 17), in the Gold’s half of Compo Shopping Center.
The offerings are similar to Sweetgreen, Just Salad, and the very similarly named Cava (click here for the menu). Naya, though, positions itself as “Middle Eastern.”
They’ve got more than a dozen locations in New York City and Long Island. This will be Naya’s second restaurant in Connecticut, after Darien — and its northernmost and easternmost site.
Sticking with today’s food theme, there’s news from Pop-Up Bagels.
Like Basso, they popped up in Westport during the pandemic. In just a few years, Adam Goldberg turned his COVID hobby into a full-blown, award-winning business.
Outlets sprouted in Fairfield, Greenwich and Newtown. Then came New York — a bold (and winning) move — followed by Massachusetts, North Carolina, Florida and California.
The latest Pop-up Bagels is in Portland, Maine. Chip Stephens — a 1973 Staples High School graduate and former Planning & Zoning commissioner, now chief enforcement officer for two Maine towns — spotted this on yesterday’s news:
They’re not stopping now. The next Pop-Up Bagels is planned for Wailea-Makena, Hawaii.
Which means they may need to rethink their motto: “Not famous, but known.”
From coast to coast — and beyond — everyone is learning about (and loving) Pop-Up Bagels.
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Also on the move — though this one is up, not out: a house on Danbury Avenue, near Soundview Drive.
(Photo/Matt Murray)
Like many in the oft-flooded neighborhood, it is being raised to become FEMA-compliant.
Which is a lot better than being razed, to become bigger, taller and broader.
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The first snowfall of the season was perfect: overnight, not overpowering, light and lovely.
Westport celebrated National Wreaths Across America Day yesterday.
VFW Post 399 quartermaster Phil Delgado, Post 399 Auxiliary vice commander Patty Kondub, Joan Polayes, and Scout Troops 39 and 139 honored veterans with a tribute at Assumption Church’s Greens Farms Cemetery.
Post 399 members and volunteers lay remembrance wreaths on over 400 graves. Each wreath symbolized the community’s gratitude, respect and commitment to never forget those who served.
Scouts participating in National Wreaths Across America day (from left): Blake Schuler Ashley Charise, Preston DeRosa, Austin Charise, Will Bernard, Will Manes, Sam Pollack and Alec Mraz. Not pictured: Jacob Luna and Ian Curran.
“A Sherlock Carol” — the family-friendly holiday show written and directed by Mark Shanahan, Westport Country Playhouse artistic director, opened last night for its third annual run there. Click here for tickets, and more information.
The cast of “A Sherlock Carol” takes their bows …
… and writer/director Mark Shanahan is thanked by audience members, after the show. (Photos/Dave Matlow)
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Hanukkah begins tonight, at sundown.
Steve Stein welcomed some early visitors yesterday:
More times than not, I’ve had good interactions with Optimum’s customer service.
Yesterday was one of those “not” times.
The (very) short version: I called the “retention” department to ask for a lower rate. I’ve been a customer since 1993 — I was one of the first dozen or so in Westport to sign up for a cable modem — and this is a ritual I now go through every few months.
The first question — after giving the same information twice, to a bot and a human — was “if we get disconnected, what’s the best callback number?”
(I’ve always found it odd that a company that provides phone service worries about disconnected calls, but whatever.)
I provided my cell number. She read it back to me. On we went.
She spent 15 minutes (supposedly) researching the best retention option. I’m sure she was juggling 3 or 4 other calls at the same time.
Then we got disconnected.
I expected a call back.
It never came.
I finally called again. This time, the customer service representative may have asked again for a callback number. I could not tell though, because whatever language he was speaking, it was not English.
Finally — a full 1 hour and 12 minutes after I began — I got a (middling) retention offer. I’m saving about $30 a month, and will have to go through the same dance again next year.
Was it worth it? I bill my writing clients $200 an hour, so 12 months to save $360 is a bit of a savings.
Weighing in the agita factor, though … probably not.
PS: If anyone at Cablevision is reading this and wants to contact me — well, someone there has my number.
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Years ago, the group below would spend weekday mornings teaching, writing lesson plans, meeting with students, and dealing with administrators and parents.
These days, they do none of that.
And every so often, these ROMEOs — Retired Old Men Eating Out, all of whom spend decades in the Westport schools — get together for breakfast at the Monroe Diner.
How many can you name? Answers below the photo.
From left: Jim Wheeler, Al Jolley, Jim Honeycutt, Bruce McFadden, Toby Watson, Steve Rexford, Bob Selverstone, Werner Liepolt, Ed Bludnicki, Pete Van Hagen, Stan Rhodes.
Yesterday’ Roundup story on the Eartha Kitt/”Santa Baby” composer connection left out one key detail: That it happened at WEST, the Post Road East store owned by the singer’s daughter, Kitt Shapiro.
Here it is again. Hopefully it makes more sense this time:
More than 70 years after its release, “Santa Baby” remains one of the most popular Christmas songs of all time.
Eartha Kitt sang it in 1953. She later moved to Weston, where she died of colon cancer on — coincidentally — Christmas Day, in 2008.
Her daughter Kitt Shapiro now owns WEST, a very popular women’s shop, on Post Road East.
An older woman came into the store on Thursday. Her name was Joan Javits — and she co-wrote “Santa Baby,” all those years ago. (She’s 97 years old — though she sure doesn’t look it!)
Kitt Shapiro and Joan Javits, at WEST.
It may not be the Christmas miracle of 2,000 years ago.
But it’s still pretty amazing.
PS: Among the lyrics Eartha Kitt sang were:
Come and trim my Christmas tree
With some decorations bought at Tiffany’s.
I wonder if after leaving WEST, Joan Javits crossed the street and walked a few yards west.
To buy some decorations at — you know the rest.
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Nancy Vener was up early yesterday. She photographed the fiery sunrise over Burritt Cove, for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature:
And finally … to all the customer service agents at Optimum (story above):
(Your favorite restaurant may be closing. Your internet service provider may drop your call. But “06880” will always be here for you — so long as you click here to support our work. Thanks!)
Several more favorites have joined the “06880”/Westport Downtown Association Holiday Stroll. The 5th annual event is less than a week away: this Saturday (December 6, 4 to 7 p.m.).
Joining the more than 50 merchants and vendors offering giveaways, promotions and more: Joe’s Pizza, SWTHZ, Lululemon and Massi Co. Scroll down for the full list.
The Holiday Stroll also features plenty of family fun: Orphenians caroling, photos with Santa Claus (and a piglet), face painting, and much more. (Plus the Westport Police “Toys for Tots” drive: There’s a collection box for new toys at the corner of Main and Elm Streets).
Here’s the full list of retailers and restaurants:
American Colors by Henry Lehr: 20% off Hampton Wash and American Colors clothing
Bartaco:Hot chocolate table
Bella Bridesmaids: $25 off per dress
Bloom Salon:Holiday treats, and discounted hair tinsel
Bridgewater Chocolate:Raffle for $50 gift card, with purchase
Brooks Brothers: 30% off nearly everything
Candle Caboodle: TBD
Chait Gallery/Photography Studio: 20% off all artwork, portraits in studio; $200 for 1-hour session, includes 8×10 print
Chocolatieree: Blissfully toasted & gooey S’morestick with every purchase (minimum $20)
Clarendon Fine Art: Holiday cheer; live music by Warren Bloom
Cold Fusion: Free wrapped chocolates
Core Burn Pilates:Discounted group class and private sessions (booked on day of Stroll)
Courtgirl:15-30% off storewide
Earthplace: 10% off Winter Solstice Campfire on December 21 (register here on Saturday)
Eleish Van Breems:Raffles; cider in courtyard
Everything But Water: Fit sessions; $25 off $150+ with Beach Club signup
Faherty: Refreshments and cool vibes
Fred: Gift with purchase
Gabriele’s: Buy $500 worth of gift cards; get $100 extra
It’s called “On This Silent Night.” It features Camille Saint-Saëns’ “Christmas Oratorio” and other music of the season, with harp and strings. Plus carols sung with the audience.
But this Friday’s concert (December 5, 7:30 p.m., Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport) also includes Chanukah songs, and works celebrating winter.
Tickets are $25 in advance, $30 at the door (students and children free). Click here to purchase.
Speaking of holiday music: Longtime Westporter Alex Anvari was on the Big Island of Hawaii yesterday.
He enjoyed the Waimea Community Chorus’ “Celebrate in Song” concert.
He especially enjoyed hearing their second number: “Hanukkah,” an original 3-part composition by Suzanne Sherman Propp.
Yes — the same Suzanne Sherman Propp who has spent over 20 years as a beloved music teacher at Greens Farms Elementary School.
And who — while growing up in Westport — sang the “Hallelujah Chorus” as the rousing finale as a choir member at Staples High School’s Candlelight Concerts, back in the 1980s.
Coincidentally, Handel’s “Hallelujah Chorus” was also performed yesterday in Waimea. It too closed out the program.
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For music of a different kind, check out Westporter Gary Shure’s classic rock band Ten$Grand.
They’re playing on December 13 at Odeen’s Restaurant in Norwalk (7 p.m.; $5 cover; reservations recommended 203-438-1741; info@odeens.com).
On January 10, they’ll be at VFW Post 399 (7 p.m.; free, with complimentary hors d’oeuvres and cake; cash bar).
(Happy December! A great month … and as the year ends, the perfect time to make a tax-deductible gift to “06880,” to support our 24/7/365 work. Just click here — and thank you!)
Switching celebrations: The United Methodist Church of Westport & Weston’s holiday gift market is especially sweet this year.
The December 6 event (10 a.m. to 3 p.m.) includes a “Cookie Walk.” Members will bake — and sell — their delicious goods. Perfect for additional gifts — or just to munch on as you shop for others.
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Meanwhile, up in Weston Jolantha — everyone’s favorite pig — hopes everyone enjoys their turkeys tomorrow.
But not ham.
(Photo/Hans Wilhelm)
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December 1 is the deadline to order wreaths for Westport veterans.
On December 16 — Wreaths Across America Day — volunteers will decorate the graves of veterans in Assumption Church’s Greens Farms Road cemetery.
December 1 is the deadline to order wreaths for our Westport veterans as part of Wreaths Across America!
The Historic District Commission meets December 9 (7 p.m., Zoom).
Among the agenda items: consideration of opposition of demolition permits for these properties, and requiring the full statutory 180-day delay. All are at least 50 years old.
1st Selectman Kevin Christie responded, “Water is a critical public asset, and maintaining local accountability, transparency, and stability in water management remains a top priority for our community. If the $2.4 billion sale had been approved, PURA would have lost its authority to regulate water rates.
The proposed structure would also have replaced traditional property taxes with payments-in-lieu-of-taxes and granted the Regional Water Authority a controlling majority of seats on the Aquarion Water Authority board of directors.
“Throughout the review process, Westport emphasized the importance of ensuring that any ownership or structural changes to Aquarion would safeguard service reliability, infrastructure investment, rate stability, and long-term watershed protection.”
“We appreciate PURA’s thorough evaluation of the proposed transaction and its commitment to ensuring that decisions about Westport’s water utilities serve the public interest.
“As a result of this favorable ruling, residents and ratepayers can be assured that the Town of Westport will continue to work collaboratively with Aquarion and state regulators to ensure that residents receive high-quality, dependable water service.”
Speaking of water: Longshore Sailing School is one of 12 organizations in the US selected for National Association of State Boating Law Administrators’ honors.
It recognizes “exceptional commitment to promoting paddling safety through education, digital content and responsible on-water practices. Longshore’s outreach encourages safe behaviors such as wearing life jackets, understanding weather conditions, and avoiding high-risk activities on the water.”
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Longtime Westport resident and active community volunteer Richard Seclow died Monday at his Easton home. The former Planning & Zoning Commission member and Westport Library board president was 95.
The Bayonne, New Jersey native graduated from Rutgers University in 1951, where he was part of the Cap & Skull Senior Honor Society. He remained an active alumnus over th eyears.
He worked in the advertising industry as David Ogilvy’s chief of staff, before becoming executive vice president of Carl Ally.
As president of Geer DuBois, he relocated the offices from Madison Avenue to downtown. Many ad agencies followed.
Dick started one of the initial Bonanza Steakhouses in Westport. It later became a national franchise. He retired from advertising in 1986, and opened another Westport restaurant: Time to Eat.
Dick enjoyed fishing, travel, tennis, squash and volunteer work in Westport and nearby communities.
He served on the Westport Planning & Zoning Commission, the Westport Library as president, and the boards of Hall-Brooke Hospital and The Jewish Home (now named Mozaic Senior Services).
He was a member of Y’s Men, taught English as a second language, and became a mentor for immigrants in Bridgeport.
He is survived by Rita, his wife of 71 years, children Theresa (David) and Tom (Ann ), and grandchildren Jonathan (Isabella), Alexandra, Calvin and Julian.
An open house to celebrate Dick’s life is set for Saturday (November 29, 1 to 5 p.m., at their home in Easton). Gifts may be made in his name to Mozaic Services or the Easton EMS.
Dick Seclow
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We’ve posted a number of beautiful autumn leaves photos, in our “Westport … Naturally” series.
And finally … a lovely photo needs an equally evocative song:
(Whatever the season, “06880” is here for you. News, events, features, photos — all that and more, 24/7/365. If you enjoy this hyper-local blog, please click here to support our work. Thanks!)
You know all those daffodils that make Westport look so beautiful every spring?
They didn’t just fall from the sky.
They weren’t even planted randomly.
They’re part of a years-long project. Debra Kandrak — the energetic visionary behind it — says: “Once again fall is upon us. Before the weather gets too cold, we need to plant daffodils all around town for our traditional community-wide event called ‘Paint the Town Yellow!’
“I started this years ago to remember loved ones who have passed on, including our fur babies.
“It has been well received over the years. Residents, businesses and local community groups participate, and for that I say thank you. So let’s keep the tradition going and plant more!”
Daffodils have already been planted in many areas, like traffic islands, the Minute Man Monument, Compo Beach, and (of course) Willowbrook Cemetery.
More can be planted just about anywhere. A great place is the edge of your property, by a road,
This is a great time of year. And there’s only a few months until spring.
Daffodils on Riverside Avenue. (Photo/Debra Kandrak)
Speaking of how good Westport looks: The outdoor sculptures just keep coming.
“Queen of Hearts” — the newest addition — will be dedicated on Wednesday (3 p.m.), at the Senior Center.
Artist Carole Eisner will share the inspiration behind her work — one of hundreds of sculptures and paintings showcased in parks, museums and gardens throughout the Northeast.
Suzanne Sheridan will sing a song she wrote specially for the occasion.
The Westport Arts Advisory Committee is — as always — behind the outdoor art project, which is sponsored by the Friends of the Center for Senior Activities.
“Queen of Hearts” by Carole Eisner, at the Senior Center.
Quietly but consistently, the Westport Library’s Common Ground Initiative has been offering programs that enhance positive, respectful and constructive conversations on challenging and/or controversial issues.
Up next this Thursday: a “Community Conversation on Understanding Jewish Identity, Antisemitism, and Allyship” (November 13, 7 to 8:30 p.m.).
Project Shema — a training and support organization — will lead a presentation and Q-and-A that provides historical and modern realities of antisemitism, emphasizing its evolving expression in contemporary culture and politics.
The evening will provide “an accessible but powerful introduction to the historical and modern realities of antisemitism, with an emphasis on its evolving expression in contemporary culture and politics. By creating space for collective reflection and inquiry, the evening aims to foster a shared vocabulary and a common starting point for deeper community dialogue.”
The goal is to promote a better understanding of the effects and impacts of antisemitism, to strengthen allyship for and within the Jewish community, to gain a greater appreciation of different lived experiences, and to increase awareness, promote empathy, and encourage dialogue.
“Allyship” is a key element of the Common Ground event. Everyone is welcome, including Westport residents of all faiths, families, clergy members, and anyone who wants to learn more about antisemitism in an open and welcoming environment.
SNAP benefit reductions during the government shutdown have caused long lines at local food pantries.
Quickly, AWARE (Assisting Women through Action, Resources & Education) high school students took action.
AWARE clubs in Fairfield County — including Staples and Weston — organized a food drive.
They collected kid-friendly snacks, pasta, peanut butter and other pantry staples. Volunteers then gathered for a joint packing event to assemble bags for families served by Homes with Hope.
The Staples High School swim and dive team sophomore made waves last week, breaking a 26-year-old diving record at the CIAC Class “LL” (extra large schools) state championship.
She scored 456.50 points on the 1-meter, 11-dive event, surpassing the previous record of 452.75 set in 1999 by Corey Pagnotta. Her performance earned All-LL State and All-America honors.
Teammates Mikaela Snow and Avery Nissenson also qualified for the LL meet.
Mogelof’s record came under new Staples swim and dive coach Grace Slama. Next up for her: This week’s state open championship.
To learn more about Staples’ girls (fall) and boys (winter) swim and dive teams, email head coach Mike Anderson: swimmike@usa.net.
Congratulations too to Staples cross country runner Sarah Bogdan. The Wreckers’ first runner since 2016 to qualify for the New England Championship, she ran a great race and finished 6th, at Vermont’s Thetford Academy. Click here, then scroll down for a video.
Sarah Bogdan, at the New England Championships. (Photo courtesy of MySportsResults.com)
Speaking still of sports: It’s a big week for 2 Staples teams.
Both field hockey and boys soccer compete in the state tournament semifinals tomorrow.
Coach Ian Tapsall’s field hockey girls — seeded #1 in the state “L” tourney — take on #4 Fairfield Ludlowe Tuesday, 4 p.m. at Brien McMahon High School.
Coach Liam Witham’s soccer boys — #4 in the “LL” competition — meet #9 Hall-West Hartford at Newtown on Tuesday at 7 p.m.
This afternoon at the Fairfield Library (Monday, 4 p.m.), Ukraine Aid International founders and team members offer “Stories of Connection: Connecticut the Donetsk Region, Building Bridges of Hope Together.”
Our state, and the Donetsk oblast in Ukraine, have built powerful partnerships. Behind it is UAI — created by Westporters Brian and Marshall Mayer, backed by many local residents.
Despite the existence of a fence, it can be confusing to know where dogs are allowed on leash, or off leash, at Compo Beach — and where they are not allowed at all.
Fortunately, the Parks & Recreation Department has posted a clear, aerial map showing the 3 different areas:
Unfortunately, it hangs too high for dogs to see it.
But at least they can read the sign.
(Photos/DinkinESH Fotografix)
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Speaking of Compo: A few yards away, this was the scene on a basketball court:
(Photo/Tammy Barry)
Some people must have time on their hands.
Way too much time.
As anyone who has ever tried to move one of those benches knows: They’re heavy!
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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” image shows a Cooper’s hawk, on Diane Lowman’s deck.
She did not have to snap her photo quickly. The bird sat on the railing — posing — for nearly 30 minutes. “What a treat!” Diane says.
And finally … when you saw the name of the sculpture being dedicated at the Senior Center this week (item near the top of this Roundup), you had to know this song was coming:
(Arts, sports, the beach … it’s your usual mix of Westport stories, in the Roundup. If you enjoy this daily feature — and who doesn’t? — please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
The Pulitzer Prize- and MacArthur “genius grant”-winning photojournalist and author — and 1991 Staples High School graduate — joins those illustrious previous winners, as the 2025 recipient of the International Rescue Committee’s Freedom Award.
It is given annually to “individuals and organizations who have made outstanding contributions in support of the global refugee crisis, and saving and improving the lives of the most vulnerable populations around the world.”
On assignment for The New York Times, National Geographic and other publications, Addario has documented conflicts and humanitarian crises across Afghanistan, Iraq, Libya, Lebanon, Darfur, South Sudan, Somalia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Yemen, Syria, and Ukraine.
Her powerful images have brought global attention to the experiences of civilians — especially women and girls — caught in crossfires.
“Love + War,” a documentary on her career, recently premiered at the Toronto Film Festival.
Lynsey Addario captured this dramatic shot, of desperate Libyan refugees in a boat off the coast of Italy. (Photo/Lynsey Addario)
Since its opening a year ago, Big Y has done much to be part of the community.
On Tuesday — Veterans Day — they’ll do more. All military veterans, and current servicemembers, will get get 10% off their order. Plus a free reusable bag.
Just use your Big Y membership, and tell the cashier you’re eligible.
From Arnie’s Place to Akihabara: Westport native Benjamin Boas grew up feeding quarters into arcade machines, then petitioned his school for Japanese classes to read the Japanese comics behind the games.
The Brown University graduate moved to Japan nearly 20 years ago, spent time writing the descriptions for Japanese anime on Netflix, and published a comic about learning Japanese from comics.
He’s back in Fairfield County on November 23 (1:15 p.m., Rowayton Community Center). Boas will keynote the Japan Society of Fairfield County’s annual meeting, telling the full‑circle story that started in a Westport arcade. Click here for more information.
Benjamin Boas’ book.
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To all moms of 6th grade girls: the Westport chapter of the National Charity League is looking for new members.
The NCL fosters mother-daughter relationships through a 6 year program of community service, leadership development and cultural experiences.
NCL Westport includes over 275 women and daughters in grades 7-12, and provides volunteer support to more than 30 local non-profits. Click here for details, or email nclwmembership@gmail.com.
And finally … Al Hirt, the great trumpeter, was born on this date in 1922. He died in 1999, age 76.
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