Natan Sharansky — the former Soviet dissident, political prisoner, Israeli leader, and worldwide symbol of freedom and democracy — is coming to Westport.
His “Night of Courage & Freedom” appearance — part of Chabad of Westport’s “Candid Conversations” series — is set for February 2 (7:30 p.m.; VIP reception at 6:45).
From enduring years in Soviet Union gulags to serving in the Knesset, Sharansky’s life story and message resonate powerfully today. He is the author of 2 books, and received the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Click here to RSVP. For more information on Chabad, click here.
Natan Sharansky
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There’s always something new down at the (Wakeman Town) Farm — even in winter.
January brings new special events like Valentine’s Cooking, Valentine’s Dinner, Knitting Circle; classes on winter seed sowing, garden tools and cooking with mushrooms, plus new children’s program, and Toddler Tea and Story Time.
Click here for all programs and events, and more.
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Alert “06880” reader — and Remarkable Bookcycle lover — Janine Scotti sends this photo:
(Photo/Janine Scotti)
She writes: “If I had a garage, I’d take care of this. But maybe someone who reads this can repair it. It looks like they plowed snow, which piled up against it.”
Shouldn’t be too hard a fix. Maybe one of those books includes a handy repair manual!
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Since graduating from Yale in 2019, Staples High School Class of 2015 member Rachel Treisman has been a journalist for National Public Radio.
She has reported on Queen Elizabeth’s funeral, and political primaries. Next: the 2026 Winter Olympics, in Milan.
While there, Rachel will write a daily newsletter. She’ll offer behind-the-scenes peeks, and answer readers’ questions. Click here to subscribe.
Rachel Treisman
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The latest addition to VersoFest ’26: Gina Gershon.
The actress joins journalist/ rock memoirist/Westporter Alisyn Camerota on March 28 (5 p.m.). They’ll discuss Gershon’s memoir “AlphaPussy: How I Survived the Valley and Learned to Love My Boobs.”
Tickets are $35, and include a copy of the book. Click here to purchase, and for more information.
In addition to Gershon, VersoFest includes a February 27 performance by rising rockers The Thing; a conversation with folk-rock legend Ani DiFranco (March 26); a March 27 concert with former Fugees star/rapper/multi-Grammy winner Wyclef Jean; talks with performers, actors, and authors, plus panel discussions, an interactive art installation, and more. Click here for details.
Gina Gershon
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Another library — Weston’s — kicks off Black History Month — and its “America 250: The Revolutionary Spirit Lecture Series” — with “Unhired Hands.”
The February 1 (3 p.m.) event with poet/actor/playwright David Mills explores the history of slavery in the North during the 18th century, through storytelling and poetry.
The event is co-sponsored by the Weston History & Culture Center, and the League of Women Voters of Weston.
David Mills
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Westport Pride invites members of the LGBTQ community — and all friends and allies — are invited to a Happy Hour social gathering.
It’s 6 to 8 p.m. January 29, at Nômade restaurant.
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Wayne Uccellini — the longtime owner and chef of the legendary Allen’s Clam & Lobster House — died peacefully on January 8, surrounded by his family. He was 80.
Wayne was a lifelong resident of Westport, and a 1964 graduate of Staples High School. After graduating from Transylvania University in 1968, he served in the US Army until 1970. He was stationed at the Pentagon as an illustrator.
In addition to the Westport restaurant, Wayne owned Allen’s East in Stratford. He operated both locations with his family for more than 40 years.
Wayne later served as the kitchen manager at Osborn Hill Elementary in Fairfield, where he was fondly known as “Mr. Wayne” by students and staff.
Wayne was an avid boater and fisherman, on Long Island Sound and Lake Taunton. He also spent countless hours training his beloved dogs.
His obituary says, “Wayne was a beloved mentor to many young people who passed through the doors of Allen’s Clam & Lobster House over the years. His greatest legacy is not only the delicious food he served, but the leadership, loyalty and work ethic he demonstrated to his devoted family, friends and community.”
Wayne is survived by his wife of 57 years, Karen (Miller); their children Jennifer Hios (Peter) of Fairfield; Tollie Barrato (Christopher) of Fairfield, and Matthew Uccellini (Kim) of Richmond, Virginia; grandchildren Megan and Kyle Hios, Ashley, Sophia and Charlotte Barrato, and Isla and Shea Uccellini; sisters Cheryl Spillane, Janis Pascarlla (Jim), sisters-in law Sally Uccellini (Douglas) and Hilde Uccellini (Ronald), and many cousins, nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brothers Ronald and Douglas Uccellini, brother-in-law Edward Spillane, and sister-in-law Judith Uccellini.
A celebration of Wayne’s life will be held at a date to be determined.
Wayne Uccellini
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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” image shines a light on Westport, in mid-winter.
Slowly, the days get longer …
(Photo/Jacqui O’Brien)
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And finally … The birth flower for January is a carnation. It symbolizes love, pride, beauty, purity, distinction, fascination and loyalty.
(January’s birth flower is January. And January’s official donation recipient is “06880.” Well, maybe not, but if it was, you could click here and support your hyper-local blog with ease. Thank you!)
