For several years, “06880” has taped bi-weekly podcasts at the Westport Library. The Verso Studios crew — David Bibbey, Travis Bell, and their volunteer helpers — ensure that we look and sound professional, and as if we know what we’re talking about.
We’ve welcomed guests from all across Westport: town officials, religious figures, artists and musicians, educators, and many others.
Our most recent guest is the man responsible for it all: Library director Bill Harmer.
As he celebrates his 10th anniversary in charge of one of the most remarkable libraries everywhere, we set out to learn the story behind the story.
Click here or below to discover much more about the director, his work, and the future of it all.
Monday’s first selectman candidates’ discussion on sustainability and the environment drew an overflow crowd to Christ & Holy Trinity Church — and a commitment from all 3 to create and adopt a comprehensive Westport Sustainability Plan, within their first year in office.
That’s a milestone long sought by local environmental activists.
Representative Town Meeting member Clarence Hayes was at the event, hosted by Sustainable Westport and Earthplace. He reports:
Over 90 minutes of spirited questioning, moderator Peter Boyd — a lecturer and resident fellow at Yale’s Center for Business and the Environment — pressed candidates Don O’Day, David Rosenwaks and Kevin Christie on their personal engagement with sustainability, their records, and their plans to make Westport a leader in environmental action.
All 3 voiced support for sustainability priorities, including improved walkability, stronger flood resilience, enforcement of the leaf-blower ban, rebuilding the community garden, pursuing Sustainable CT Gold certification, and evaluating solar installations for Staples High School and town parking lots, among others.
While short on detailed road maps, the shared commitment to adopt a formal plan within the first year marked an important first step. None pledged to add dedicated staff immediately, preferring to rely on volunteer expertise and integrate sustainability goals into existing town departments — and to see what progress can be achieved this way first.
When asked how they hoped to be remembered after four years, O’Day said for “a willingness to be first, not just a follower.” Rosenwaks envisioned “a town known for a healthy lifestyle — walking, biking, and clean air and water.” Christie hoped Westport would “become a leader again on the environment, as it once was.”
The conversation continued informally at Emmy Squared, where candidates and residents carried the debate — and Westport’s hopes for a sustainable future — well into the evening.
It says: “I am a proud member of the Hindu community in Westport. Every year my family and I celebrate Diwali, the Festival of Lights, with great joy and reverence. Diwali symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and good over evil, offering a time for reflection, community, and spreading love. As a Hindu, it holds deep cultural and spiritual significance for me and millions of others around the world.
“On October 1, 2025, Diwali was officially recognized as a state holiday in Connecticut. This acknowledgment is a huge step forward in embracing and celebrating the cultural diversity that enriches our state.
“Our community takes pride in our cultural diversity and our commitment to inclusivity. By declaring Diwali a school holiday, Westport can send a strong message of acceptance and celebrate the rich tapestry of communities within the town.
“I urge the Westport Board of Education to recognize Diwali as an official school holiday. Doing so will not only reflect the values of our inclusive community but also respect the cultural practices of Hindu families living in Westport. This change can serve as an inspiration and positive example for other towns and school districts in Connecticut.”
When “06880” last checked in on Dylan Gleicher and Neil Sono, the 2017 and ’18 Staples High School graduates (respectively) had created an app — Prepared 911 — that enabled school employees to seamlessly share information with each other during shootings and other crises. They soon expanded it to focus on 911 centers, police and fire departments, and sheriff’s offices.
With early hire Chris Scherban (Staples ‘17), Prepared quickly became a leader in assistive AI technology for public safety agencies.
Their $16 million Series A funding round was led by Andreessen Horowitz.
Last week, the longtime friends sold Prepared 911 to Axon, a global public safety technology company.
Neil Soni and Dylan Gleicher, in their Yale days.
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Speaking of Staples students’ achievements: On Saturday, the top 7 members of the school’s boys cross country team competed in the 26th annual Great American XC Festival in Cary, North Carolina.
The competition draws runners from across the country to the fast WakeMed Course..
Staples competed in the varsity blue 5k race. They scored 228 points, good for a team win.
Congratulations to Oliver Samuel (15:57), Harrison Sydor (16:05), Luke Cooper (16:22), Jackson Wood (16:25), Oscar Jones (17:08), Samuel Burmeister (17:16) and Maxwell Benke (17:25).
The 2025 Staples boys cross country team, in North Carolina.
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Westport is becoming the Naples of America.
First came Massi Co — Massimo Tullio’s new restaurant, with Neapolitan cuisine.
Now Stephen Kempson London — the high-end tailor on Post Road West, just over the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge — is sponsoring a 2-day trunk show celebrating the artistry and heritage of that city’s craftsmanship.
The genesis for the October 17 (1 to 5 p.m.) and 18 (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) event was Kempson’s trip to Naples earlier this year. He was inspired by its devotion to beauty, precision, and passion — qualities found in its cuisine, architecture, and menswear tradition.
Three celebrated artisans will be in Westport
Paolo Scafora: Master shoemaker since 1956, known for hand-stitched footwear.
Gennaro Sannino: The house of Sannino shirts.
Anthony Lonzano (Gabo Napoli): Representing one of Italy’s leading tailoring houses.
Each will showcase signature pieces and take bespoke orders.
Westport Library executive director Bill Harmer addressed the Westport Rotary Club yesterday. His topic was close to his heart: the Common Ground Initiative.
Recent Common Ground speakers have included Ken Feinberg, who ran the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund, and former Senator Roy Blunt of Missouri.
The Common Ground Initiative also includes the Seat at the Table series, where community members discuss intriguing topics.
“Americans regard libraries as one of the last safe spaces in our democracy,” Harmer said.
Bill Harmer, at the Westport Rotary Club (Photo/Dave Matlow)
Early yesterday morning, Westport firefighters responded to a structure fire on Hillspoint Road.
The blaze was discovered by 2 passersby. They notified the home’s occupants, who evacuated before Fire Department units arrived. The fire was contained to the exterior area of origin.
The scene was turned over to the Westport fire marshal’s office for investigation.
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Staples High School Class of 1971 graduate Lynn Barber Mellor died on September 13 in Lake Wales, Florida. She was 72.
She was born in Chicago to Gordon and Jean A. Mellor. Lynn and her family moved to Westport when she was 7 months old. She attended California College of Arts & Crafts in Oakland, then worked as a graphic artist for marketing Corporation of America in Westport.
An avid scratchboard artist, she retired to Key West in 2006, then to Lake Wales in 2021.
Lynn is survived by her twin sister Gail M. Sibley (Jack), of Poinciana, Florida; brother Mark (Debbie) of Dorset, Vermont; niece Alyssa and nephew Devin. She was predeceased by her parents, her nephew Jes Sibley, and her stepmother, Shirley Mellor.
A private service will be held.
Lynn Mellor
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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo is one more full moon image. This was one was taken at Burying Hill Beach.
And finally … in honor of (perhaps) the next Westport Public Schools holiday (story above):
(Where else but “06880” can you read about Diwali, political candidates, a life-saving app — and much more — all at once? Nowhere else! So please click here to support our work. Thanks!)
It would be easy to reduce the controversy over Patti Smith’s VersoFest appearance to a few contentious sentences:
A group protested the National Book Award winner and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee’s invitation to the 4th annual music/media and more event.
Citing her Instagram account, which included (among other things) a reposted flyer saying “Palestine belongs to Palestinians,” they called Smith antisemitic, and demanded the Library cancel her kickoff conversation with Westport journalist Alisyn Camerota.
The Library refused, citing its own commitment to “the free and open exchange of ideas.”
A group of about 75 people protested outside the Library an hour before Thursday’s event. Smith and Camerota went on as scheduled, in front of a sellout crowd of about 500.
Patti Smith at VersoFest. (Photo/Dinkin ESH Fotografix)
But that was not the whole story.
On a table near the Trefz Forum, 4 posters on 2 tables paid tribute to the 378 attendees killed by Hamas on October 7, 2023, at the Nova Music Festival.
Near flickering candles, the posters showed the young revelers.
“Music and art have the power to unite us in both darkness and light,” the first poster read.
“May these flames be a symbol of our shared humanity, and our unwavering belief that love is stronger than hate.”
One part of the Nova Music Festival display …
Another poster included the words to Bob Dylan’s universal anthem, “Blowin’ in the Wind.”
The display had been created in just 24 hours by Representative Town Meeting memberMelissa Levy. And it was there because Library executive director Bill Harmer had heeded her request.
… and the other. (Photos/Sal Liccione)
Her pleas to Harmer — and his reversal of his previous position, to allow the counter-programming — is the real story of the Patti Smith controversy.
When she shared her concerns about Smith’s appearance in her first email to Harmer and Library board of trustees president Pat Wieser, and a subsequent meeting, antisemitism was on Levy’s mind.
Her 12-year-old son was recently a victim. (The school handled it swiftly and well, she says, and the young perpetrator and his family have been very open and receptive too.)
Noting that antisemitism and hate speech stem from a lack of education and awareness, Levy urged Harmer and Wieser to include counterbalanced programming at Smith’s VersoFest appearance.
Harmer said no.
Levy replied with some concrete ideas — including tying in the Nova Music Festival in Israel with Westport’s VersoFest.
On Wednesday — 24 hours before Smith’s appearance, and the demonstration that preceded it — Harmer said yes.
Melissa Levy
“He sent a lovely message,” Levy says. “He said this would be very meaningful, and he was happy to include it.”
And, the director told her, he looked forward to getting together after VersoFest to plan other activities.
Levy quickly put her display together.
On Thursday it was there in the Library, a few steps from the stage.
Yesterday, Harmer emailed Levy: “The display is now prominently centered in the Hub — front and center for everyone to see as they enter the Library.
“With an expected 3,000 people visiting over the next 3 days, our hope is that all of our festival-goers, community members and neighbors will take a moment to experience the powerful and thoughtful exhibit you’ve helped bring to life.
“We’re grateful for your collaboration and your commitment to honoring these stories in such a meaningful way. It’s a strong reminder of the role we all play in lifting up compassion and community.”
Levy says, “My goal was not to be divisive. Bill’s ‘180’ says a lot.
“I was willing to stand up for what I, and others, believed in. Bill had been focused on his ideas. But he came to the table. It’s good for the community to know that you can get your point across without being divisive.
“This shows how kind activism can lead to collaborative results. And that we have highlighted how important education and understanding are around these very sensitive subjects.
“This is the happiest ending I could have asked for.”
(“06880” covers entertainment, politics — and their intersection. If you appreciate our work, please click here to support this hyper-local blog. Thamk you!)
“Its very important to keep the books unburnt. Watch out for the matches!”
That may not be as memorable a Keith Richards line as “you can’t always get what you want.” Or “I know, it’s only rock ‘n’ roll, but I like it.” Or “let’s spend the night together.”
But it was the takeaway from yesterday’s very cool Westport Library ceremony.
The Rolling Stones co-founder, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame member, and 40-year Weston resident received the inaugural Connecticut Governor’s Award of Excellence — from Governor Ned Lamont, of course — at the jam-packed, and very excited, Library’s Trefz Forum.
Keith Richards, Governor’s Award of Excellence honoree.
Nearly every top official in Connecticut was in the house, along with musicians like Crispin Cioe — the saxophonist who has played with every legend, including the Stones — and Mark Naftalin, Rock Hall of Fame keyboardist with the Paul Butterfield Blues Band. Both are Westport residents.
But all the others — even the governor — were side attractions. The crowd — most of whom remembered the band from their “Satisfaction” days — was there to see Richards.
He did not play a lick. But in brief remarks, he spoke straight from the heart.
Praise for the Westport Library, the power of books, and 40 happy years in Weston.
Like so many other area residents, he and his wife Patti Hansen left New York City seeking “fresh air” for their daughters.
Weston was “a great place,” he said. “I’m incredibly happy.”
Speaking of libraries in general — and Westport’s in particular — Richards said, “without books and knowing things, you won’t have much in your head.”
Westport Library director Bill Harmer — the first warm-up act — alluded to the unusual setting.
“Where do you think you are — a public library?” he asked, encouraging the crowd to make some noise. They did.
Libraries are places of community and culture, Harmer continued. And Richards epitomizes the very ideals — creativity, intellectual freedom and life-long learning, for example — that libraries honor.
Westport Library director Bill Harmer.
He quoted Richards, who once said, “When you are growing up there are 2 institutional places that affect you most powerfully: the church, which belongs to God, and the public library, which belongs to you. The public library is the great equalizer.”
For 40 years, Harmer said, Richards has used his influences and resources to support community efforts, like SPHERE and Ridgefield’s Prospector Theater. Both support people with disabilities.
The second warm-up act — Governor Lamont — noted Richards’ long impact on Connecticut, including the Stones’ famous unannounced show at Toad’s Place in New Haven. Lamont had just come from the club’s 50th anniversary celebration.
Lamont said he continues to be inspired by the band’s music, whenever he thinks of housing (“Gimme Shelter”), small business development (“Start Me Up”) and dealing with the state legislature (“You Can’t Always Get What You Want”).
Governor Ned Lamont.
Then, without further ado, he presented Richards with the first-ever Governor’s Award of Excellence: a custom-designed medallion, crafted by a state trooper and manufactured by the Connecticut Center for Advanced Technology, plus a ribbon sewn in the state.
The guitarist and the governor.
With the governor’s arm in a sling following an injury on a recent trade mission to India, his wife Ann draped the medal around Richards’ neck.
Congratulations, from First Lady Ann Lamont.
Harmer then added another gift: a specially laminated Westport Library card.
Library director Bill Harmer presents the laminated library card. Governor Lamont looks pleased.
The rock star’s remarks were brief, but heartfelt.
He did not quote any of his lyrics. Nothing about not getting any satisfaction. Wild horses not dragging him away.
And certainly not, “what a drag it is getting old.”
Staples High School graduate and Weston resident Michael Friedman has his own rock history. In his youth he photographed the Stones — and Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, and many more — in concert. After discovering the negatives 50 years later, he published them in a book.
An unidentified — but very cool-looking — fashion designer guest.
The official proclamation included the “key to the state” for Richards.
The New York Times, Rolling Stone, and every media outlet in the state was invited to attend …
… while even the state’s top officials wanted selfies with Keith …
… and others took videos during his remarks.
Secretary of the State Stephanie Thomas.
Dave Briggs (left) shares a laugh with Connecticut Attorney General William Tong.
State Treasurer Erick Russell.
Westport 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker.
Also at the ceremony: fellow Rock & Roll Hall of Famer (Paul Butterfield Blues Band) Mark Naftalin, a Westport resident.
Staples High School resource officer Ed Wooldridge provides security.
The crowd lingers, after the ceremony.
And now: the news.
(All photos/Ryan Allen)
BONUS TRACK:Click below, for an excerpt from Keith Richards’ speech.
The Rolling Stones co-founder, Rock & Roll Hall of Famer, author — and Weston resident — is the first recipient of a major award.
And he’ll get it right here in Westport.
On Wednesday (March 5, 4 p.m.), Ned Lamont will present the inaugural Connecticut Governor’s Award of Excellence to the legendary guitarist. The Westport Library event is an invitation-only affair, not open to the public.
Among the attendees: many state and local dignitaries, and noted musicians. The Library closes that day at 3 p.m.
Keith Richards and his daughter Theodora at Sherwood Island State Park, 2021.
The Governor’s Award of Excellence celebrates residents who enrich our state’s cultural and civic life. Recipients epitomize Connecticut’s core values: creativity, resourcefulness, passion, dynamism and generosity.
The award includes a custom-designed medallion, crafted by state trooper Danny Carvalho and manufactured by the Connecticut Center for Advanced Technology, plus a ribbon designed and sewn by Enfield fashion designer Justin Haynes.
Richards will also receive a proclamation from Lamont, offering the “Key to the State.”
Keith Richards (right) and Westport guitarist Charlie Karp, at the Georgetown Saloon. After leaving Staples High School in 11th grade, Karp went on to play with Buddy Miles and Jimi Hendrix. (Photo/Ray Flanigan)
“Connecticut has long been home to some of the world’s most innovative minds, boldest artists, and most generous hearts,” Lamont notes.
“This award was created to honor those whose creativity, resourcefulness, and passion have made a lasting impact on our state and beyond. Keith Richards is the epitome of these values — not only as one of the most influential musicians of all time but as a dedicated supporter of the arts, education, and community causes right here in Connecticut.”
Richards’ ties here are deep. A Westonite since 1985, he has long supported the area.
His philanthropy includes organizations 2 organizations that support people with disabilities: SPHERE and the Prospector Theater.
Keith Richards, with his daughters Theodora and Alexandra. Alexandra was married at Lachat Town Farm in Weston, though this photo is not from that reception.
Richards has also been an advocate for arts, education, and accessibility initiatives throughout the state.
Richards has also written 2 books: a memoir “Life,” and the children’s “Gus & Me: The Story of My Granddad and My First Guitar.”
“When you are growing up there are 2 institutional places that affect you most powerfully: the church, which belongs to God, and the public library, which belongs to you,” Richards says. “The public library is the great equalizer.”
“The Westport Library is beyond thrilled to host this momentous occasion honoring Keith Richards, a true cultural icon whose influence transcends generations,” adds Westport Library executive director Bill Harmer.
“As a library that celebrates creativity, storytelling, and the transformative power of the arts, we couldn’t imagine a more fitting place for this historic event.
“Keith’s legacy is woven into the fabric of music history, and we are honored to provide the stage where Connecticut will recognize his immeasurable contributions. This is not just a celebration of an artist, but of a life lived boldly, authentically, and with an undeniable passion for inspiring others.”
Weston’s own Keith Richards.
Richards — one of the greatest guitarists in the history of music — helped found the Rolling Stones nearly 70 years ago.
His songwriting partnership with Mick Jagger is among the most successful and prolific in rock history. Their singature songs include “Jumpin’ Jack Flash,” “Satisfaction,” “Ruby Tuesday,” “Start Me Up,” “Happy,” “Miss You,” “Brown Sugar,” “Gimme Shelter,” “Wild Horses,” “It’s Only Rock n’ Roll (But I Like it),” and “As Tears Go By,” plus scores of others.
Richards’ solo albums include “Talk Is Cheap,” “Live at the Hollywood Palladium,” “Main Offender” and “Crosseyed Heart.”
He played a solider in the 1969 film “Man on Horseback,” himself on “The Simpsons,” and appeared in 2 “Pirates of the Caribbean” films as Captain Teague, the father of main character Jack Sparrow (who himself was loosely based on Richards).
In 2015 he released a Netflix documentary, “Keith Richards: Under The Influence.” It was partially filmed in Connecticut.
Richards was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1989, the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1993, and the UK Music Hall of Fame in 2004.
On Wednesday, he’ll add another great honor to that list.
Keith Richards with fellow Rolling Stones (from left) Mick Jagger, Ronnie Wood and Charlie Watts, the drummer who died in 2021.
With over 600 attendees — and many more watching the livestream — it was the best-attended “Booked for the Evening” ever.
With over $750,000 raised, it was the most successful too.
And with special guest Chris Evert and Westport’s own ESPN star Chris McKendry adding to the luster of superstar Billie Jean King, it was certainly the most warm, intimate and inspiring in the Library fundraiser’s illustrious 25-year history.
A small portion of the large crowd, before “Booked for the Evening” began. (Photo/Dan Woog)
The 80-year-old honoree is a tennis icon. She won 39 Grand Slam titles, in singles and doubles. She is an International Tennis Hall of Famer, was ranked #1 in the world 5 times, and launched both the first pro tennis tour for women, and the Women’s Tennis Associaition.
She may be the only athlete in the world to have a venue named after her, while still alive. (And not just any one: The Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Queens, where the US Open concluded a few days ago, is the premier facility in the country.)
But — as was noted often, by a wide variety of speakers, on stage and in a loving tribute video by Westporter Doug Tirola — King is much more than an athlete.
She has spent her life fighting against injustice, and for the rights of everyone: women, minorities, the LGBTQ community, and anyone else denied their rights, on the tennis court or in life.
King’s admirers filled the Library’s Trefz Forum. They were there in Tirola’s film, too: Serena Williams, Pam Shriver, John and Patrick McEnroe, James Blake, Stan Smith, Julie Foudy, Christiane Armanpour.
All spoke with humor, respect and awe of King’s impact — on their own lives, on sports in general, and the world at large.
Billie Jean King (left) and Chris McKendry. (Photo/Dinkin Fotografix)
McKendry — an admirer from her early days at ESPN — got King to talk about her early life, and career highlights (including how and why Elton John wrote “Philadelphia Freedom” about her; the song was sung on stage by Westporter Sophie B. Hawkins, and a group of talented young girls).
But King’s insights into her use of the platform sports provided, to shine a light on issues like unequal pay for female athletes and the importance of Title IX, were the most compelling parts of the night.
Her character shone through in stories like her friendship with Bobby Riggs. After their much-hyped “Battle of the Sexes” — the 1973 exhibition she won in straight sets — the two grew close. She called him the night before he died; each told the other “I love you.”
Evert — now 69 — made a surprise appearance. Calling King “the 8th wonder of the world,” she recounted the older woman’s mentorship — including King’s delight at Evert beating her, heralding the next generation of great female players.
Chris Evert (left) joins Billie Jean King and Chris McKendry. (Photo/Dinkin Fotografix)
“She even helped me during my breakup with Jimmy Connors,” Evert noted, underscoring the fact that King — who has been in a 40-plus years relationship with South African player Ilana Kloss — is wise in many areas.
Or, as Evert noted, “Billie Jean has more wisdom than anyone I’ve met in my life. And I’ve met a lot.”
“Lots of therapy,” King quipped.
King talked about how much has changed in women’s tennis. Players today have “teams” of coaches (“all men,” King noted sadly), trainers, psychologists, nutritionists and more.
In her day, King traveled alone, and with only 2 racquets. (“Now they have 3 bags for them.”)
But, she said, “I’m thrilled for them. That’s what I fought for.”
When McKendry asked what King is most proud of, she demurred.
“I don’t think that way. I think forward. Maybe when I’m older …”
Near the end, McKendry asked, “All over the world, women’s sports are now having a moment. What’s that like for you?”
Like a great tennis player, King found the best angle.
“I’m the first athlete you’ve had here” as a “Booked for the Evening” honoree, she said.
It’s a star-studded list of writers, artists and others: Tom Brokow, E.L. Doctorow, Calvin Trillin, Wendy Wasserstein, Pete Hamill, Martin Scorsese, Doris Kearns Goodwin, David Halberstam, Patti Smith, Jon Meacham, Nile Rodgers, Lynsey Adddario, Alan Alda, Justin Paul, Frederic Chiu, Itzhak Perlman, Shonda Rhimes and more.
“Tonight, your first athlete was a woman. You have no idea what that means to me,” King said.
She was also the first female athlete to get the Presidential Medal of Freedom, her wife — who joined her onstage — said.
“You are the OG, and you helped build it,” Kloss added proudly.
Ilana Kloss, Billie Jean King’s wife. The couple were married in a small ceremony, by former New York Mayor David Dinkins. (Photo/Dan Woog)
The evening ended with Library director Bill Harmer noting that King’s father, Bill Moffitt, was a firefighter.
Westport Fire Chief Nick Marsan announced that King — who “embodies the department’s core values of courage, resilience and a desire to serve every person” — is now an honorary Westport firefighter.
He gave her a Westport firefighter’s hat, inscribed with her initials.
She looked as delighted as if she held the Wimbledon trophy.
Westport Fire Chief Nick Marsan hands Billie Jean King a plaque, and a firefighter’s hat. Library director Bill Harmer looks on proudly. (Photo/Dan Woog)
(“06880” is where Westport meets the world — and readers meet icons like Billie Jean King. If you enjoy this hyper-local blog, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
The Westport Library has served up some big names at Booked For the Evening, its signature fundraising event.
Tom Brokaw, E.L. Doctorow, Calvin Trillin, Wendy Wasserstein, Pete Hamill, Martin Scorsese, Doris Kearns Goodwin, David Halberstam, Patti Smith, Nile Rodgers, Lynsey Addario, Ron Chernow, Alan Alda, Justin Paul, Itzhak Perlman and Shonda Rhimes are just some of the honorees over the past quarter century.
This year’s 25th anniversary event features another true ace: Billie Jean King.
Billie Jean King
The tennis legend and social justice pioneer will be celebrated in the Trefz Forum on Thursday, September 12. She’ll chat with Chris McKendry, a Westport resident and host for ESPN’s tennis coverage. Tickets go on sale next month.
King will be at the Library just days after the US Open. Its grounds were named in her honor in 2006.
Library executive director Bill Harmer calls King’s appearance “especially significant. Her unparalleled achievements and unwavering dedication to equality and justice resonate deeply with the values our library and community.
“This silver anniversary is a time to reflect on our shared commitment to fostering knowledge, inclusivity, and progress, and there is no one more fitting to inspire us than Billie Jean King. Her enduring impact on sports and society makes her a beacon of hope and change. We are thrilled to celebrate her remarkable legacy with our community.”
“Booked for the Evening” annually honors a person whose work reflects the purpose of the Library: :to nurture a love of learning and to enhance our understanding of the world.” King exemplifies that mission.
The International Tennis Hall of Famer won a remarkable 39 Grand Slam titles. She finished Number 1 in the world 5 times.
Yet for her all accomplishments on the court, she is best known today for championing equality and fairness, in sport and society.
Her victory over Bobby Riggs in the 1973 “Battle of the Sexes” was a seminal moment in professional sports. It followed years of her work, championing equality.
In 1970 she launched the Virginia Slims Tour — the first professional tennis tour for women — and in 1971 became the first female athlete to earn more than $100,000.
As founder and first president of the Women’s Tennis Association, she won the fight for equal prize money. The US Open became the first major tournament to offer the same prize money to both men and women.
In 2009, President Obama awarded King the Presidential Medal of Freedom for her advocacy work on behalf of women and the LGBTQ community. She was the first female athlete to receive the award.
In 2014 she founded the Billie Jean King Leadership Initiative, a nonprofit dedicated to addressing the critical issues required to achieve diverse, inclusive leadership in the workforce.
In 2021, she received the Sports Illustrated Muhammad Ali Legacy Award, the magazine’s highest honor.
Fitting for the Booked occasion, King has a library named after her, in her hometown of Long Beach, California.
“I believe in the power of dreaming big and never giving up,” King said, adding separately, “The legacy I would like to leave is that it’s OK to be yourself, and it’s OK to be different.”
(For more information on “Booked for the Evening,” click here.)
TEAM Westport’s Teen Diversity Essay Contest is always timely.
This year’s topic is particularly so.
It’s about hate speech.
All students attending public or private high school — and those who live in Westport, and attend high school elsewhere — are invited to participate.
The prompt says:
The regulation of hate speech must balance limiting speech that may be considered offensive, threatening, or hurtful with the constitutional right of free expression.
In 1,000 words or less, with respect to speech that targets specific people or groups based on race, religion, ethnicity, and/or LGBTQIA+ identification, consider the guidelines one should set for themselves within Westport’s schools and in our community.
Explain how a diversity of opinions can be safely and respectfully shared. Are the rules different in a school community than on social media?
The entry deadline is March 4. Click here for rules, and information on submissions.
Subject to the volume and caliber of entries received, at the discretion of the judges up to 3 cash prizes will be awarded. The first prize is $1,000, second prize is $750, and third prize is $500.
The Westport Library co-sponsors the event. A ceremony for the winners will be held there May 6.
“In our current environment, hate speech seems to rend the fabric of our society further on a daily basis.” says TEAM Westport chair Harold Bailey Jr. “We look forward to this input from our young citizens to help us inextricably mend that fabric well into the future.”
First Selectwoman Jennifer Tooker adds, “This community encourages constructive, respectful dialogue. As representatives of our talented and thoughtful population, the youth of Westport can be instrumental in sharing diverse ideas that ensure that everyone who lives, works, plays, and learns here feels welcomed and valued.”
The essay contest is in its 11th year. Prior challenges have tackled topics from white privilege and Black Lives Matter to micro-aggressions and dialogue. Essays have drawn widespread attention and engagement, in Westport and beyond.
“As a library, our goals are to foster inclusivity, understanding, awareness, and the free and open exchange of ideas so that we all can grow and thrive — as individuals and as a community,” notes Westport Library executive director Bill Harmer.
“The annual TEAM Westport Teen Diversity Essay contest uniquely illustrates that commitment, all while engaging young people throughout Westport to consider and work through the important and complex issues of the day.
“Combating hate speech should be a commitment for everyone, in Westport and beyond. I look forward to reading the essays put forth by our town’s talented and thoughtful teens. The Westport Library is once again proud to support the essay contest and honored to host the 2024 honorees.”
Disturbed after finding discarded books in the Westport Library’s dumpster, alert reader Dylan Stableford recently wrote to “06880”:
The first time I noticed some library books in there I thought, that’s odd. Why wouldn’t they sell them, or donate them to Goodwill or a used book store? But figured it was just a lazy employee/one-time thing.
The next time, there were more books. And the next time, even more — sometimes 2/3 full.
These were not old and overworn books. Some were essentially new. I even grabbed two (Jon Stewart’s “America: The Book” hardcover, and a nice paperback copy of “In Cold Blood”). Yesterday, the dumpster was full.
(Photo/Dylan Stableford)
I asked someone at the front desk about it. They said they didn’t know but took my information and would get back to me. No one did.
My question is: Why? Why not donate them to, say, a school library in town? Or Goodwill? Or store them for an eventual book sale? Seems like an operational breakdown (at best) or laziness (at worst).
I asked Westport Library Bill Harmer for an answer. He quickly said:
Thank you for sharing your concerns with us regarding our book recycling process.
While we cannot specifically address the books mentioned, it’s likely that the books found in the dumpster were those declined by our dedicated book sale volunteer team.
We are truly appreciative of the generous donations of thousands of gently used, good-condition books, which are ideal for resale. We meticulously sort, price and store tens of thousands of these books for our book sale events, and the Westport Book Shop.
Thousands of books are available at regular Westport Library sales. (Photo/Dan Woog)
Unfortunately, we receive unsuitable books on a daily basis. These may be too damaged, exposed to humid conditions resulting in mold or mildew, filled with excessive margin notes or underlinings, or carry a strong odor of cigarette smoke.
Occasionally, even books that appear to be in good condition may have absorbed unpleasant odors due to storage with other books in less favorable conditions.
Furthermore, our book donation center operates from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Mondays through Saturdays. Despite clear signage urging patrons not to leave books outdoors when the center is closed, books left outside overnight or on Sundays are exposed to the elements and must be recycled, as we advertise.
Our book sale has a clearly defined policy, accessible on the Westport Book Sale Ventures website, which outlines materials we do not accept, including most encyclopedias, test-prep books over 3 years old, Time-Life series books, and magazines. Occasionally donors, after having their contributions declined for these reasons, may unfortunately choose to improperly dispose of books in our dumpsters.
It’s vital to understand that the books withdrawn from our Westport Library collection are removed for various reasons, such as damage, non-circulation, outdated content and various other factors.
When a book is no longer in use due to damage, outdated information, or low demand, we prioritize responsible and environmentally friendly disposal methods. Recycling is one of those methods, helping us minimize our environmental impact. Our goal is to maintain a relevant and high-quality collection for our patrons. Recycling enables us to make space for new and valuable resources.
Stacks downstairs, at the Westport Library.
Also of note: We send books that are no longer in frequent circulation but are in good condition to Better World Books, which sells them to support educational, literacy, and other programs. Better World Books also donates books to charity. We get a small amount of money back when we send books to them.
Transporting these materials to Goodwill or other charities poses logistical challenges. Unfortunately, we lack the capacity to deliver them to alternative locations. Moreover, these organizations typically lack the resources, including staff and facilities, to manage the collection and processing of these books. Even when we extend invitations to charities to collect books for free at the end of our sales, very few organizations take us up on the offer.
We hope this explanation sheds light on our book management practices. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any further questions or concerns.
(Readers often ask questions of “06880.” Answering them is one more feature of our hyper-local blog. Please support our wide-ranging work, by clicking here. Thank you!)
A capacity crowd (including namesakes Rev. John and Judyth Branson) filled Christ & Holy Trinity Church’s Branson Hall last night, for the annual 1st Citizen Award dinner.
The 7th annual event — sponsored by the Westport-Weston Chamber of Commerce, but the first held since the pandemic — honored Westport Library director Bill Harmer, CastleKeepAdvisors founder and CEO Charlie Haberstroh, and 4 student entrepreneurs: Marley Brown, Akhila Kooma, Addison Moore and Jamie Semaya.
Charlie Haberstroh (center) and his family.
The theme of the evening — echoed by Chamber director Matthew Mandell and keynote speaker US Senator Richard Blumenthal — was “giving back to the community.”
Westport Library director Bill Harmer speaks. Westport-Weston Chamber of Commerce director Matthew Mandell is at left.
All 6 honorees have done that in major ways. And all expressed thanks that the communities of Westport and Weston have inspired, and enabled them, to do so.
Keynote speaker Senator Richard Blumental. (All photos/Dan Woog)
“Reluctant Liberators: Westport in the Civil War” was curated by students. Staples High School junior Talia Moskowitz took the lead, as part of an independent study project.
She got help from the museum’s high school interns: Amelia Gura, Devan Patel and Oscar Scher (Staples), Stephanie Field (Weston) and Tess Innes (Wilton).
The exhibit includes information on early Westporters like the Toquet, Coley and Ketchum families, and an exploration of racial issues during that time.
It runs through November 11.
Talia Moskowitz, at the Westport Museum for History & Culture exhibit.
As the end of school nears, here’s an important reminder: Not every family here can afford the camps and enrichment programs many take for granted.
Westport’s Department of Human Services can help.
Last summer, 58 income-qualified youth, from 32 families, participated in the department’s campership program.
This year, the number may be higher.
Human Services director Elaine Daignault encourages residents who can, to contribute. Online donations can be made to the “DHS Campership Fund” (click here), or mailed to 110 Myrtle Avenue, Westport, CT 06880.
For more information — including how to qualify for a campership — email youth and family specialist Annette D’Augelli: 203-341-1050; adaugelli@westportct.gov.
Summer Camp has been part of growing up for decades. In 1953, Westport artist Stevan Dohanos used Camp Mahackeno for this Saturday Evening Post cover.
Tomorrow marks the start of Wakeman Town Farm’s farm stand.
Open every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., it features fresh produce, fresh-cut flower bouquets, WTF logowear and honey, and products from local vendors like artisan baked goods, extra virgin olive oils, gourmet balsamic vinegars, Chaga mushroom elixirs, homemade salsas and more.
The gardens are open. It’s also a chance to see the animals, and chat with farmers.
PS: This week: limited amounts of country and roasted garlic sourdough, multigrain pan loafs, focaccina minis, olive-Focaccia and bomboloni Nutella.
When it comes to powerful adjectives and action verbs, no one beats the New York Post.
Yesterday’s story on the the future of Phil Donohue and Marlo Thomas’ former Beachside Avenue home begins:
A Connecticut “Gold Coast” mansion sold by talk show pioneer Phil Donahue for $25 million is to be be bulldozed by its current owners who say it is falling apart and overrun by vermin.
The once-palatial Tudor on Westport’s most exclusive avenue has become a home for rats and raccoons with a caving-in roof, its new owner Peggy Reiner claims.
She is involved in a bid to tear down the 8,500 square foot manse after building a 20,000 square foot beach-view home with a commanding prospect of Long Island Sound in front of it.
The long story describes the history of the current property, and others nearby.
It also calls “06880” a “popular gossipy and newsy blog.”
Nice. But we’ll stick with “where Westport meets the world.”
Click here for the full Post story. (The “06880” mention comes near the end.)
The New York Post story includes this Google Earth photo of Phil Donahue and Marlo Thomas’ “vermin”-filled old house (rear), and the 20,000-plus square foot home that replaced it.
The recent haze from Canada’s wildfires prompts this message, from Westport’s Office of Emergency Management:
Daycare providers, summer camps and older residents should subscribe to the Air Quality Index . It is fast, easy and provides important daily information. The link includes ground-level ozone, its health effects, what to do on a high ozone day, and how to reduce ground level ozone in your backyard.
Learn how to cope with days like this. Subscribe to the AQI. (Photo/Charlie Scott)
Yesterday’s Roundup posed a question: What’s up with the Photoshopped figure on top of the Westport Country Playhouse photo I posted on “06880” a couple of days ago.
It took about 12 minutes to find the answer.
Miggs Burroughs — Westport’s graphic artist/photographer extraordinaire, who has worked with nearly every organization in town — Photoshopped Ann Sheffer on the roof of the building, several years ago.
It was a gift from the Playhouse to her, for her many years of service and support.
In fact, Ann — one of our town’s most philanthropic residents — spent one summer, back in the day, as an usher there.
Decades later, she made it onto the roof.
And now the mystery is solved.
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Also yesterday, our Roundup gave an incorrect date for this weekend’s “Last Lollapaloosa” at Blau House & Gardens.
The correct day for the Bayberry Ridge event is Sunday, June 11.
The day includes tours of the magnificent property, yoga, children’s book readings, a reception and more.
Click here to register (deadline: June 5), and for information on payment and shuttle transportation from Coleytown Elementary School.
And finally … George Winston, the new age pianist (he called it “rural folk piano”) died Sunday in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. He was 74, and had been ill with cancer.
(“06880” will cover Staples’ graduation — as we do with every big town activity, and many small ones. Please help us keep doing it. Click here to contribute — and thank you!)
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