“Sex and the City” star Sarah Jessica Parker drew a sellout crowd last night, for the Westport Library’s signature “Booked for the Evening” fundraiser.
Over a quarter century, the event has drawn honorees from a broad range of arts and entertainment — everyone from Alan Alda, Patti Smith and Shonda Rhimes to Billie Jean King, Doris Kearns Goodwin and Itzhak Perlman.
“06880” intern Bianca Mastocciolo was there, at the Trefz Forum. She writes:
Doors opened at 7 p.m. for a cocktail hour. Small bites and drinks were served, along with cosmopolitans (Carrie Bradshaw’s favorite), served in engraved “Booked” glasses.
“Sex and the City” cosmos. (Photo/Bianca Mastocciolo)
What would a Sarah Jessica Parker event be without attendees dressing the part? Attendees remarked on the cutouts of others’ dresses, and how SJP would appreciate some “risque.”
The event began with a video montage of Parker’s most memorable moments and interviews. It included cameos from friends and castmates, including “Sex and the City” co-starsCynthia Nixon, Kristin Davis and Mario Cantone.
A touching tribute also came from Tony Award winner Kelli O’Hara. The Westporter and Broadway star sang a mashup, accompanied by pianist Dan Lipton. Emmy Award-winning actor James Naughton of Weston also spoke.
Parker was interviewed by former Westport Library executive director Maxine Bleiweis.
Maxine Bleiweis (left) and the “Booked” star. (Photo/Bianca Mastocciolo)
With charm and wit, Parker shared tales of Met Gala looks and library memories. The audience greeted her comments with applause and laughter.
After noting that she was hesitant to receive the award, the honoree said that her connection to libraries drew her to accept.
“When a library calls, my response is to say yes, no matter what,” Parker said.
Parker discussed her love for the arts, ranging from her work in film and theater to her role as a board member of the New York City Ballet, and the hundreds of books she has read. She encouraged parents to let their children explore the arts, as it is fundamental to their creativity.
During the 2-hour ceremony Parker received a plaque, her own Westport Library card, and a personalized New York Times crossword puzzle gifted by previous Booked recipient Will Shortz.
It was Sarah Jessica Parker’s crowd, all the way. From iconic blue Manolo Blahniks to Louis Vuitton flats, the crowd came prepared and left stylishly.
A small part of the large “Booked for the Evening” crowd. (Photo copyright DinkinESH Fotografix)
The technical issues that bedeviled our first 2 Instagram Live interviews with 1st selectman candidate David Rosenwaks have been solved.
David and I will be live today (Friday), at 4 p.m. You can catch us @06880danwoog.com. We welcome your questions — and thank you for your patience!
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The Planning and Zoning Commission has a full agenda this Monday (September 8, 6 p.m., Zoom).
Commissioners will discuss, and potentially vote on, a resolution for a future exectuve session to discuss the ROAN Ventures lawsuit against them, regarding the Hamlet at Saugatuck project.
The public notice also includes details about that executive session, including:
No votes will be taken in the executive session.
The commission may invite other interested persons to present testimony or opinion in future executive sessions relating to this litigation.
If a proposed settlement of the pending litigation is reached, a public meeting will be held to discuss the settlement, with public comment allowed. The P&Z will then discuss the settlement and exercise its best judgment in voting on the proposed settlement. The proposed settlement shall be posted on the town website at least three days prior to this public meeting.
If the P&Z approves the proposed settlement, it will be submitted to Superior Court for an approval hearing.
A work session will follow that item. It includes pre-application discussion of a draft text change to allow for an 8-unit residential development at 6 East Main Street. The property is between the Connecticut Humane Society and the Whitney Glen condominiums, just off Post Road East.
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A back-to-school food drive to benefit Homes with Hope is set for tomorrow (Saturday), from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., at Stop & Shop.
Most-needed items include:
Rice
Pasta and pasta sauce
Mac ‘n’ cheese
Canned tuna, soup, veggies, beans, fruit
Cold cereal and oatmeal
Peanut butter and jelly
Personal hygiene items: shampoo, deodorant, toothpaste
The life of Joseph Oyebog will be celebrated on Sunday, September 14 (1 p.m., Sacred Heart University Community Theatre, Fairfield).
The popular local tennis instructor, whose tennis academy in his native Cameroon changed the lives of thousands of youngsters, and was aided by his many friends in the Westport area — died in May. He was 53 years old.
Joseph Oyebog, at his Cameroon Tennis Academy.
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You never know what you’ll see downtown.
Pam Docters happened upon this photo shoot, at the rainbow crosswalk on Jesup Road.
(Photo/Pam Docters)
She’s not sure what was going on.
But, she notes, Sarah Jessica Parker was on the magazine cover. Pam thinks — baed on the skirt and wig — that it’s a creation of the “Sex and the City” introduction.
Perhaps. But we do know this: On Wednesday (September 10), SJP will be the special guest, at “Booked for the Evening.”
That’s the signature fundraiser for the Westport Library — just a few steps away from the other Sarah Jessica Parker.
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A dozen or so parking spaces at the rear of the Soundview lot at Compo Beach have been blocked off, by a temporary fence.
It will serve as a staging area, for work being done on the tidal gates and wooden bridges at Sherwood Mill Pond, leading to Compo Cove.
Heavy equipment has already arrived. The work will be completed by Memorial Day, 2026 — just in time for the parking lot to be crowded again.
(Photo copyright/DinkinESH Fotografix)
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Speaking of fencing (though of a very different kind):
Youngsters are invited to enjoy the sport this fall.
Westport Continuing Education is offering fencing for middle schoolers (beginners and intermediate). There’s also a first-ever elementary school beginners’ fencing class.
Click here for details, and more information. For Instagram and Facebook, follow @fenceinWestport.
Staples High School has a fencing team. Now younger students can learn the sport too.
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Congratulations to Bryan Bierman!
Temple Israel’s executive director will be awarded the A.O. Samuels Young Leadership Award, by the Jewish Federation of Greater Fairfield County.
The September 17 event in Fairfield includes cocktails, dinner, and guest speaker Julie Platt. The past chair of the Jewish Federations of North America will offer insights drawn from her leadership at the highest levels of the Jewish community.
Bryan Bierman
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We’re not sure how this happened. But around 11 p.m. on Wednesday night, this driver landed on top of the Cribari Bridge barrier.
(Photo/Randy Christophersen)
All 4 wheels were off the ground.
Sure, Jeeps are supposed to go anywhere. But still …
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Yesterday’s Roundup noted that local organizations — including Emergency Medical Services, the Community Emergency Response Team, American Red Crsos, Westport Astronomical Society’s amateur radio station and the Aspetuck Health District — were preparing for a September 16 large-scale mass casualty drill at Sherwood Island State Park.
And finally … following up on our 2 “fencing” stories above:
(As we prepare for a full fall — starting with tomorrow’s Slice of Saugatuck — remember that “06880” will cover them all. But we can’t do it without your support. Please click here to help. Thanks!)
As of today, there may be only competitive races in 4 of the 9 Representative Town Meeting districts.
Here’s the breakdown. (NOTE: Each district elects 4 members. The RTM is non-partisan.)
District 1: Incumbents: Andrew Bloom, Matthew Mandell, Kristin Mott Purcell, Chris Tait. Petitioning: Gail Coykendall.
District 2: Incumbents: Jay Keenan, Melissa Levy, Louis Mall, Mike Perry. Petitions not yet returned: Harris Falk, Jenna Petok.
District 3: Incumbents: Ross Burkhardt, Jimmy Izzo, Pamela Troy-Kopack. Incumbent not running: Don O’Day.
District 4: Incumbents: Andrew Colabella, Clarence Hayes, Jeff Wieser. Petitions not yet returned: Victoria Wylie, Charles Lucas, Cara Zimon. Incumbent not running: Noah Hammond.
District 5: Incumbents: Peter Gold, Karen Kramer, Dick Lowenstein, Claudia Shaum.
District 6: Incumbents: Candace Banks, Seth Braunstein, Alma Sarelli. Incumbent not running: David Rosenwaks.
District 7: Incumbents Brandi Briggs, Jack Klinge, Ellen Lautenberg. Petition not yet returned: Joseph Carson. Incumbent not running: Lauren Karpf.
District 8: Incumbents: Wendy Goldwyn Batteau, Rachel Steel Cohn. Incumbents not running: Ari Benmosche, Julie Whamond.
District 9: Incumbents: Jennifer Johnson, Nancy Kail, Sal Liccione, Kristin Schneeman. Petition not yet returned: Addison Moore.
To qualify for the November 4 ballot, candidates must collecct at least 25 signatures from registered voters in their district. Completed petitions must be returned to the town clerk by September 9.
For more information about the petition process or other election questions, contact Town Clerk Jeffrey Dunkerton: 203-341-1105; jdunkerton@westportct.gov.
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Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. tomorrow (Tuesday, August 12) for this year’s Westport Library “Booked for the Evening” fundraiser, with Sara Jessica Parker.
The Emmy Award-winning actor, producer, publisher and businesswoman will be honored September 10.
And — because she wants readers to check out the space, and meet “rock star” office manager Lindy Steinorth — she invites people to email Lindy (westportct@officeevolution.com), or call her (203-635-8770).
Just mention “06880,” for a free trial. PS: Tell Lindy she rocks!
Office Evolution manager Lindy Steinorth (left) and Westport owner Laura Kaufman.
Calling all pickleball players. And fans of Tom Lowrie. And everyone else who wants to celebrate.
On August 23 (3 to 5:30 p.m.), the pickleball courts at Compo Beach will be dedicated in honor of Lowrie.
The 97-year-old is “the father of Westport pickleball” (and much more).
Theree will be an exhibition with professional, nationally ranked players (and prizes). And the Y’s Men’s Hoot Owls will provide musical entertainment.
Bring your own beach chair and refreshments. Watch the pros. Honor Tom. And then play afterward, on the Tom Lowrie Courts.
Aaron Judge, and furry Gus and Penny, are teaming up with Westport Animal Shelter Advocates and Earth Animal, to help homeless dogs in around Connecticut.
Each “Judge” dog toy is $29.99. All proceeds to go to WASA.
This year alone, the non-profit has covered almost $11,000 worth of emergency care for animals abandoned in Westport. Additional funds have been spent elsewhere in the state.
The Wood Brothers brought their progressive Americana sound to the Levitt Pavilion last night, as the 51st season of great outdoor entertainment continued.
Former Westport teacher Lois Green died peacefully at her North Carolina home on May 18. She was 95.
The Adelphi University (BA) and Fairfield University (MA) graduate and her family were longtime residents of Westport, apart from a stay in Sydney, Australia between 1970 and 1977.
Lois taught special education and reading in the Westport Public Schools, ranging from kindergarten to high school.
She served as a Westport Education Association representative, and volunteered with the League of Women Voters.
After retirement she continued her advocacy as a court appointed guardian ad litem, representing foster children with special education needs in the courts and school systems. Lois supported many human rights, social justice and environmental causes.
Lois had a passion for learning as well as teaching. She was an inaugural member of a philosophy class at the University of North Carolina that brought college-age students and older community members together to share perspectives. She attended classes until a few weeks before her final illness.
She and her late husband Paul were world travelers, by car, ship, foot and plane.
Lois is survived by her children Julie Altschuler (Scott), Mark (Michele Karel), and Jonathan (Christiane Auston); grandchildren Rena Behar (David Gabriel), David Behar, Michael Green (Andrea Hinojosa Nieto), Lizzie Green, Sarah Green and Owen Auston-Babcock, nephews, and her lifelong dearest friend, Arlene Wang.
Lois Green
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In these lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer, there’s nothing more soothing than today’s Saugatuck River “Westport … Naturally” scene.
And finally … in honor of the Aaron Judge dog toy promotion (story above):
(We won’t judge you if you don’t support “06880.” But on the other hand: If you’re reading this, and enjoying us, and learning about our town, why don’t you? Please click here — and thank you!)
This year’s Westport Library “Booked for the Evening” event features Sarah Jessica Parker.
The Emmy Award-winning actor, producer, publisher and businesswoman will be celebrated on September 10. Tickets go on sale August 12.
“Booked” — the Library’s major fundraiser — honors someone whose work reflects Library’s purpose: to nurture a love of learning, and enhance our understanding of the world.
Last year’s recipient was Billie Jean King. Past guests include Tom Brokaw, E.L. Doctorow, Calvin Trillin, Wendy Wasserstein, Pete Hamill, Martin Scorsese, Arthur Mitchell, Doris Kearns Goodwin, David Halberstam, Oscar Hijuelos, Adam Gopnik, Will Shortz, Patti Smith, Barry Levinson, Jon Meacham, Nile Rodgers, Lynsey Addario, Ron Chernow, Alan Alda, Justin Paul, Frederic Chiu, Itzhak Perlman, Shonda Rhimes, and Laura Linney.
Parker — a noted advocate for literature and libraries — has built a career as both an entertainer and champion of the written word. In 2023 she launched SJP Lit, an imprint focused on underrepresented voices. She is a judge for the Booker Prize, and received the PEN/Audible Literary Service Award this year.
She also executive produced “The Librarians,” a film about the fight against book bans which premiered at this year’s Sundance Film Festival.
“To censor a book is to limit imagination, curiosity, connection, empathy and inspiration,” she says.
“Libraries aren’t just buildings with shelves. They are a beacon. They are warm in the winter and cool in summer, and they are sanctuaries of possibility. They are a heartbeat of the neighborhood.”
Parker has won 4 Golden Globe Awards, 3 Screen Actors Guild Awards, and 2 Emmys. She currently stars as Carrie Bradshaw in the HBO series “And Just Like That.” Throughout Parker’s work, her advocacy for intellectual freedom and library access has been unwavering.
She served on the President’s Committee on the Arts and the Humanities during the Obama administration, and is vice chair of the board of directors for the New York City Ballet. Click here for more “Booked for the Evening” information.
Six bands will entertain all day long, at our July 27 Soundview Summer Stroll.
From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Soundview Drive — the Compo Beach exit road — will be closed to traffic. There will be kids’ activities and games, food, a photo booth, face painting, community vibing — and plenty of live music.
Bands and solo artists include Rock Paper Soul, Owen Daniel, Deep Valley Road & Friends, Core, Skunk Rockets and Not My Problem.
The entire day is free — courtesy of “06880” and the Compo Beach Improvement Association.
Get ready to rock, while strolling (or Rollerblading or biking) all along the car-less beach! (And be sure to follow the Stroll’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soundviewsummerstroll.)
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Speaking of the beach: After a 5-year hiatus, the Compo Summer Basketball League is back!
Its re-launch on Monday marks a major milestone in Westport’s recreation scene.
There are 95 players. Most are fathers from Westport and Weston. One team includes recent Staples graduates, ages 21-23.
Fun fact: One of the teams is coached by New York Knicks legend John Starks.
All 5 games were competitive and well played, with 2 referees and a scorekeeper.
People passing by stopped to watch. Teams hung around afteward, and had drinks
The league continues over the next 7 Mondays. Semifinals and finals are August 25.
Summertime basketball action at Compo Beach. (Photo/Jordan Schur)
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Yesterday’s thunder ws loud. And the lightning was bright.
It’s extremely difficult to capture a lightning strike. But Meredith Holod did, at Comp Beach:
(Photo/Meredith Holod)
Fortunately, the flash floods we were warned about did not materialize.
But it’s exponentially better to have it that way, than the reverse.
Among Earthplace’s many important projects, one of the most long-running — and popular — is care for its residential animals.
They include Chatty and Cerena, the bald eagles who arrived more than 20 years ago with injuries that made them non-releasable.
Today those raptors — along with dozens of other species — play a vital role in the environmental center’s education and conservation awareness efforts.
Now — during their fundraising drive — they’ve got a golden opportunity. All contributions made through July 31 will be matched, up to $12,000.
That $24,000 could go a huge way toward caring for dozens of animals. They inspire thousands of visitors each year, and many moroe at schools, libraries, festivals and community events.
“They teach lessons of survival, adaptation and resilience,” notes Veronica Swain, director of nature prograsm.
Recent cuts and losses in federal and foundation grand funding have hit Earthplace hard. Every donation will to toward animal feeding, medical care and enrichment activities.
Grace says yes! She checks in at the Longshore courts … and we check her out, as today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature photo.
(Photo/Cindy Nigro)
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And finally … on this date in 1609, Bohemia was granted freedom of religion, by the Holy Roman Emperor.
(We can’t wait to see you at the Soundview Stroll — a gift from “06880” to the town. To give back though, we rely on readers like you. Please click here to support our efforts. Thank you!)
Click here to help support “06880” via credit card or PayPal. Any amount is welcome, appreciated — and tax-deductible! Reader contributions keep this blog going. (Alternate methods: Please send a check to “06880”: PO Box 744, Westport, CT 06881. Or use Venmo: @blog06880. Or Zelle: dwoog@optonline.net. Thanks!)
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