Roundup: MLK Day, ACA, Cribari Bridge …

Posted on January 19, 2026 | 1 comment

Today is Martin Luther King Day.

Last week, the Westport Senior Center posted 2 of his quotes, on a bulletin board in his honor:

(Hat tip and photo: Laurie Sorensen)

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Fran Hoyte had the perfect spot for a Pilates studio.

Her space on the lower level of Bridge Square offered a peaceful view of the Saugatuck River. It was comfortable, inviting, and — with no advertising or social media, just word of mouth — clients flocked to Saugatuck Studios.

There was just one problem: floods.

The space was inundated by storms like Sandy and irene. Sometimes, it was swamped by high tides.

After 15 years, Fran has found a location guaranteed not to flood.

And it’s just as funky as her previous spot.

Sound Pilates has relocated to 21 Jesup Road. They’re on the 2nd and 3rd floors above the Westport Book Shop. The 200-year-old building — most recently Pause + Purpose wellness center; before that an architect’s office, and earlier a home — offers sweeping (and soothing) views of Jesup Green and the Saugatuck River.

“This is so quiet. But it’s still downtown,” Fran says. “It really feels like home for us.”

Fran has also added a physical therapist. Dr. Victoria Chiappetta has trained with Fran, developing an appreciation for traditional Pilates, alignment, and intelligent movement.

Fran now offers small group classes, in addition to individual sessions. She also teaches Pilates instructors — including many now working throughout Fairfield County.

“We’re not about working until you feel pain,” Fran says of her and Victoria’s partnership. “This is always about joyful movement.”

To learn more about Sound Pilates & Physical Therapy, click here.

Fran Hoyte and Dr. Victoria Chiappetta on Sound Pilates’ 2nd floor, overlooking Jesup Green and the Saugatuck River. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Werner Liepolt — a longtime Westporter whose home is near the Cribari Bridge — is closely watching state Department of Transportation decisions involving the 145-year-old span.

Last week, he was a guest on Lisa Wexler’s WICC radio show. Click here to listen to their discussion about the bridge’s past, present and future. 

The Cribari Bridge, painted by Werner Liepolt.

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Congress did not extend Affordable Care Act (ACA) premium tax credits. But a Connecticut state subsidy program will replace some or all of the federal tax credits that lapsed on January 1, depending on enrollee eligibility for Access Health CT insurance plans.

Congressman Jim Himes’ office can help with questions: (203) 333-6600.

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Yesterday’s snowfall was a great chance for kids to go outside, and have some traditional (aka “non-screen”) fun.

Peter Salwin’s children did just that — with dad.

Here’s the result, on Greens Farms’ Rustic Lane:

(Photo/Peter Salwin)

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Despite yesterday’s snow and cold, Deadman Brook is not frozen over.

That was good news for these guys — the subject of today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature photo:

(Photo/Greg Rosen)

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And finally … we opened today’s Roundup with a tribute to Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. And we’ll close it another.

The message of this simple, stirring song is as important to heed today, as it was when Sam Cooke wrote it over 60 years ago, in 1963.

Unfortunately.

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MLK

Posted on January 19, 2026 | 31 comments

This story has become a Martin Luther King Day tradition on “06880.” At this point in our nation’s history, today — more than ever — we should think about the history of our nation before Dr. King was born.

And where we are, nearly 6 decades after his death.

Today is Martin Luther King Day. Westporters will celebrate with a day off from school or work. Some will sleep in; others will shop, or go for a walk. Few will give any thought to Martin Luther King.

Twice, though, his life intersected this town in important ways.

The first was Friday night, May 22, 1964. King had been invited to speak at Temple Israel by synagogue member Jerry Kaiser.

King arrived in the afternoon. Kaiser and his wife Roslyn sat on their porch that afternoon, and talked with King and 2 of his aides. She was impressed with his “sincerity, warmth, intelligence and genuine concern for those about him — our children, for instance. He seemed very young to bear such a burden of leadership.”

Martin Luther King, with Sarah and Tema Kaiser at their home on Brooklawn Drive, before his Temple Israel appearance. Their brother Michael had a cold, and was not allowed near Dr. King.

King’s sermon — to a packed audience — was titled “Remaining Awake Through a Great Revolution.” He analogized his America to the time of Rip Van Winkle — who also “slept through a revolution. The greatest liability of history is that people fail to see a revolution taking place in our world today.  We must support the social movement of the Negro.”

Westport artist Roe Halper presented King with 3 woodcarvings, representing the civil rights struggle. He hung them proudly in the front hallway of his Atlanta home.

Artist Roe Halper (left) presents Coretta Scott King with civil rights-themed wood carvings.

Within a month Temple Israel’s rabbi, Byron Rubenstein, traveled south to take place in a nonviolent march. He was arrested — along with Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King.

In jail, the rabbi said, “I came to know the greatness of Dr. King. I never heard a word of hate or bitterness from that man, only worship of faith, joy and determination.”

King touched Westport again less than 4 years later. On April 5, 1968 — the day after the civil rights leader’s assassination in Memphis — 600 Staples students gathered for a lunchtime vigil in the courtyard. Nearby, the flag flew at half-staff.

A small portion of the large crowd listens intently to Fermino Spencer, in the Staples courtyard.

A small portion of the large crowd listens to Fermino Spencer.

Vice principal Fermino Spencer addressed the crowd. Movingly, he spoke about  his own experience as an African American. Hearing the words “my people” made a deep impression on the almost all-white audience. For many, it was the 1st time they had heard a black perspective on white America.

No one knew what lay ahead for their country. But student Jim Sadler spoke for many when he said: “I’m really frightened. Something is going to happen.”

Dr. Martin Luther King

Something did — and it was good. A few hundred students soon met in the cafeteria. Urged by a minister and several anti-poverty workers to help bridge the chasm between Westport and nearby cities, Staples teachers and students vowed to create a camp.

Within 2 months, it was a reality. That summer 120 elementary and junior high youngsters from Westport, Weston, Norwalk and Bridgeport participated in the Intercommunity Camp. Led by over 100 Staples students and many teachers, they enjoyed swimming, gymnastics, dance, sports, field trips, overnight camping, creative writing, filmmaking, photography, art and reading.

It wasn’t easy — some in Westport opposed bringing underprivileged children to their town — but for over a decade the Intercommunity Camp flourished.

Eventually, enthusiasm for and interest in the camp waned. Fewer Staples students and staff members wanted to devote their summer to such a project.  The number of Westporters willing to donate their pools dwindled. Today the Intercommunity Camp is a long-forgotten memory.

Sort of like the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King. Even on his birthday.

MLK speech

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Martin Luther King Day bonus feature: In the late 1950s, Westporter Tracy Sugarman took his son Dickie, and Dickie’s friend Miggs Burroughs, to a picnic in Stamford.

Rev. Martin Luther King was there, at the invitation of the host: Jackie Robinson.

Sugarman — a noted illustrator – was also a civil rights activist.

Miggs — a junior high student — took the Minox “spy” camera he’d bought earlier that summer.

He still has those photos. Here are the 2 pioneering Black Americans: Martin Luther King and Jackie Robinson.

(Photos/Miggs Burroughs)

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Posted in History, Looking back, Politics, religion

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Pics Of The Day #3196

Posted on January 18, 2026 | Comments Off on Pics Of The Day #3196

Paul Lane Field, Staples High School sunrise … (Photo/Jeff Schwartz)

… and Compo Beach South beach sunset (Photo/JD Dworkow)

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Another Wonderland: Part 2

Posted on January 18, 2026 | 1 comment

And the photos just keep comin’!

Here’s another batch, showcasing the beauty of Westport on a wintry Sunday afternoon. (If you missed the first set, click here. Enjoy!)

Greens Farms Road (Photo/Jacqui O’Brien)

Rayfield Road (Photo/Jerry Kuyper)

Greens Farms Road (Photo/Jacqui O’Brien)

Bedford Middle School parking lot (Photo/Anne Bernier)

Saugatuck River (Photo/William Webster)

Burr Farms Road (Photo/Jay Babina)

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Another Wonderland

Posted on January 18, 2026 | 4 comments

What a winter!

Westport has been blessed with a series of weekend snowfalls.

They’re light enough to not cause major disruptions.

But heavy enough to create beautiful scenes.

Today was another photographers’ delight.

All over town, residents were out snapping — and sending their shots to “06880.”

Here are some favorites.

Willowbrook Cemetery (Photo/Claudia Sherwood Servidio)

Greens Farms, from Southport Beach (Melissa Makris)

Beachside Avenue (Melissa Makris)

On call (Photo/Melissa Makris)

Hillandale Road (Bob Weingarten)

Whitney Street (Photo/Richard Fogel)

(Photo/Melissa Makris)

Condo view (Photo/Diane Lowman)

Longshore (Photo/Carrie Kuhn)

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Posted in Longshore, Weather

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Photo Challenge #577

Posted on January 18, 2026 | 15 comments

Hardware stores are often the heart of their community.

They’re places to go for supplies of all kinds, sure — for the inside and outside of homes, lawncare and more.

But they’re also places to get advice, chat with knowledgeable owners and staff, and feel — well, at home.

Westport is lucky to have had several that were much more than just “stores.”

Welch’s and Hartmann’s on Main Street were legendary. The Izzos’ Crossroads Ace Hardware next to Coffee An’ (now The Grapevine liquor store) took their place, and served Westport for decades.

Our go-to now is Westport Hardware & Fireplace Shop, in the plaza next to Cava (across from Fresh Market).

The second, nail-shaped “T” in its logo was the subject of last week’s Photo Challenge (click here to see). 

I thought many readers would confuse it with the Tesla “T.” But you’re too sharp for that.

Nineteen got the right answer. Not one fell for the Musk trap (which sounds like something Westport Hardware should stock).

A couple of comments included shout-outs to Bear (who is actually a dog, and — when he’s not roaming the store — sits quietly behind the counter).

One reader noted that Westport Hardware shares a strip mall with the unrelated Hammer & Nails Grooming Shop for Guys.

Congratulations to Bill Downey, Brian Taylor, Sal Liccione, Arthur Hayes, Andrew Colabella, Gabby Velez, Jonathan Alloy, Wendy Schaefer, Seth Schachter, Lisa Hayes, Jerry Kuyper, John McKinney, Seth Braunstein, Jeff Loechner, Clark Thiemann, Peter Dennigan Sinnott, Beth Berkowitz, Colleen Williams and Dede McDowell.

You all “nailed” last week’s Photo Challenge.

Will this week’s be as easy? If you know where in Westport you would see this, click “Comments” below.

(Photo/Seth Braunstein)

(Every Sunday, “06880” hosts this Photo Challenge. We challenge you too to support your hyper-local blog. Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Jelani Cobb & Trey Ellis, Rupert & Lachlan Murdoch, ABC & Big Y …

Posted on January 18, 2026 | 2 comments

“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.

Varrick Nelson Jr.

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There was one serious automobile accident yesterday, in the snow that lasted much longer — and was a lot more slippery — than predicted.

Westport firefighters extricated the only occupant in a rollover crash at Bayberry Lane and Easton Road.

(Photo courtesy of Westport Fire Department)

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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. 

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Looking for a way to help both A Better Chance of Westport, and the environment?

And to do so inexpensively, and easily?

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!

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There’s nothing like learning from pros.

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.

(Hat tip and photo/Kelle Ruden)

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As snow started to fall yesterday at Sherwood Mill Pond, Pam Docters captured this serene “Westport … Naturally” scene:

(Photo/Pam Docters)

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And finally … English author A.A. Milne was born on this date, in 1882. He died in 1956.

(“06880” is your 24/7/365 hyper-local blog. How do we do it? With support from readers like you. To make a tax-deductible contribution, please click here. Thank you!)

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Stolen Car Follow-up: Don’t Be A Victim!

Posted on January 18, 2026 | 5 comments

In 2025, Westport Police recorded 57 stolen vehicles.

That’s more than one a week.

And that’s only part of the story. It does not include attempted thefts.

“06880” learned of 3 in the past week. One woman was surprised in her garage, as she was unloading groceries; the masked person ran away.

The same woman was followed again, a few days later. Again, he did not follow through.

In the third case, a man entered an unlocked vehicle in a parking lot. He did not realize a teenager sat in the back. The boy yelled; the attempted thief skedaddled.

Not a photo of the attempted parking lot theft. But it’s close.

The number of thefts — and attempts, like pulling on car and garage doors — has skyrocketed since COVID, says Westport Police Lieutenant Anthony Prezioso.

Despite those numbers, he says, “don’t try to take things into your own hands.” Losing a car is less dangerous than risking a confrontation.

Instead, Prezioso advises, “lock your car in your driveway. Better yet, pull it into your garage, and close the garage door behind you. Take your key fob with you.”

(He notes that on many vehicles, side mirrors folded out indicates a key is inside.)

Also: Stay with your vehicle when you pump gas. And don’t leave the car running, when you run in for snacks. Lock it, and take the key!

Car thieves can quickly jump into an unattended vehicle.

If you think you’re being followed, don’t go home. Call 911 — and/or drive to the police station.

While thieves targe no specific make or model — they are more “crimes of random opportunity” — most stolen cars are “high-end.” Plenty, of many types, are available in Westport.

Prezioso also advises, “Be the best witness you can.” Try to get good descriptions of the thieves, and of any cars lurking nearby — with their license plates, if possible.

(“06880” looks out for you. You can return the favor! Please click here, to make a tax-deductible contribution to this hyper-local blog. Thank you!)

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Posted in Categories, Police

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Pics Of The Day #3195

Posted on January 17, 2026 | Comments Off on Pics Of The Day #3195

Cross Highway, this afternoon … (Photo/Claudia Sherwood Servidio)

… and Compo Beach … (Photo/Jonathan Rosenoer)

… and the Gault barn, Compo  Road South (Photo/Tom Kretsch)

… and a fire truck, at a Bayberry Lane/Easton Road accident (Photo/Jonathan Alloy)

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Roundup: Railroad Parking, Rink Skating, Sports Training …

Posted on January 17, 2026 | 4 comments

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.

For more information on railroad parking, and to purchase a permit, click here.

Saugatuck train station permit-only parking lot.

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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.

Click here for all 30 spots. Then lace up your skates! (Hat tip: Bob Mitchell)

Westport PAL rink: a top New England attraction!

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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)

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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)

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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.

Shoah Memorial

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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.

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Today’s mid-winter “Westport … Naturally” sign of life: this beach plum, at Old Mill.

(Photo/Judith Katz)

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And finally … on this date in 1920, Prohibition began in the United States. It lasted until 1933.

(There are many ways to spend a few bucks in Westport: Skating at Longshore. Drinks with friends. Clicking here, to make a tax-deductible donation to “06880.” Enjoy them all — and thank you!)

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Posted in Beach, History, Library, Longshore, Obituaries, Police, Real estate, religion, Sports

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