Westport's Shonda Rhimes Says See 'Ya To The Kennedy Center For The Arts
Shonda Rhimes being interviewed at the Westport Library’s Martin Luther King celebration last month. Photo by J.C. Martin for Westport Local Press
Trump's takeover of the organization prompts several board resignations and artist cancellations.
Story by J.C. Martin for Westport Local Press
Shonda Rhimes, who was treasurer of the Kennedy Center, one of Americas premier arts organization has resigned that position.
The Center made its public debut on September 8, 1971, with a gala opening performance featuring the world premiere of a Requiem mass honoring President Kennedy, a work commissioned from the legendary composer and conductor Leonard Bernstein.
Honorees have included a who's who of America's greatest and most beloved members of the arts community. The Kennedy Center Honors was televised earlier this year with Francis Ford Coppola, Bonnie Raitt, Arturo Sandoval, the Grateful Dead and Apollo Theater receiving the 2024 honors. The list of those honored would fill a few pages here and include Earth, Wind & Fire, The Eagles, Sally Field, Henry Fonda, Cher, Reba McEntire, Lin-Manuel Miranda, George Clooney and Bob Dylan.
Forbes Magazine's story cites a "War On Woke Programming" Forbes Kennedy Center The story has appeared in multiple media outlets including The Hollywood Reporter, The New York Post and NPR.
Trump previewed his vision to usher in " a new age in arts and culture" last week when it was reported that he would appoint himself as chair of the center.
Trump, who has never attended the Kennedy Center, has fired numerous board members and replaced them with people from his inner circle including White House chief of staff Susie Wiles, her deputy Dan Scavino and second lady Usha Vance.
Staples Wreckers Top Hatters 42-34 In Danbury
Above left: Mason Tobias scoring one of his game high 19 points. Right: Matty Corrigan starts the transition after grabbing one of his 6 rebounds.
Photos By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
On a special night honoring the senior players and cheerleaders at Danbury High School, the Staples boys basketball team played the role of spoiler. Staples started off the game very well defensively, jumping out to a 14-3 lead at the end of the first quarter led by junior captain Mason Tobias (#11) who scored 5 points and junior Matty Corrigan (#35) who added 4 points in the first period.
Coach Dave Goldshore and his staff get the team ready to take the floor after a time out.
Photos By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
Danbury battled hard throughout the game and fought back, and threatened Staples which led by one point at the close of the third quarter, 29-28. The 4th quarter saw the Wreckers expand their lead to 6 points just past the midway point, holding off the Hatters who were held to only 2 more points in the final minutes.
Mason Tobias, forward (#11) lead all scorers with 19 points and grabbed 7 rebounds which ultimately led the way for the Wreckers with his craftiness in the paint as well as some timely free throws. Forward Matty Corrigan (#35) was productive across the board, scoring 10 points, adding 6 rebounds, 3 blocks and 3 steals to help the Wreckers to victory. Staples won the game 42-34, and looks to continue their success on Friday night when the Cadets of St. Joseph come to Westport (7:00 PM tip-off).
Photos By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
We would be remiss if we did not give a shout out to the championship Danbury Cheerleading Hatters, who have dominated cheer competition in the FCIAC and the state. The squad won their seventh straight FCIAC conference team title and scored their third straight state title last year. Below: they perform one of their signature moves, lining up for back flips which thrilled the crowd.
Photos By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
And now, THIS!
A snowman was made in an effigy of Adolph Hitler, complete with a swastika and stick positioned as an arm forming a Nazi salute.
Snowman photo courtesy of 06880.
Westport Police Department & First Selectwoman Update:
On 1:00 PM on Tuesday February 11, Westport Police issued the following press release:
In response to numerous inquiries from various media outlets, The Westport Police Department is releasing the following information about a recent antisemitic incident.
On the night of February 9th, Westport Police were notified by a local Rabbi to the existence of a snowman with antisemitic features at the Newman Poses Preserve. The person who found the snowman notified the Rabbi and a local blog. On the morning of January 10th, the Westport Police initiated an investigation which included responding to the Newman Poses Preserve where a snowman was located, but without any antisemitic symbols. We contacted the complainant and spoke with him about the incident. He reported finding the snowman at approximately 5:40 PM on Sunday, January 9th while walking in the Newman Poses Preserve. The complainant reportedly took a photo of the snowman and then removed the antisemitic symbols prior to leaving the preserve.
The Westport Police Department is investigating the incident and asks anyone who knows who is responsible for this incident to contact the Westport Police Department at (203)341-6000. Furthermore, we ask that incidents like this be reported immediately to the Police Department so they can be investigated in a timely manner.
First Selectwoman Jennifer Tooker stated, “This incident does not reflect the beliefs of our community. Westport strives to be a welcoming community, where everyone feels like they belong. I will continue to lead with that goal as my North Star and will work with the Police Department to ensure everyone feels safe and heard.”
WPL Note**
The WPD requests that all incidents of hate be reported ASAP so that a police response can occur as quickly as possible, as this will hep in any investigations.
WESTPORT LOCAL PRESS ORIGINAL POST:
Town officials and civic leaders at ever turn, have made it clear that the Town of Westport is a welcoming community where acceptance and tolerance is the standard to which we hold ourselves.
Recently an example of the kind of hate which is unacceptable anywhere, especially here, appeared in a strange and bizarre form in one of our town open spaces, The Newman-Poses Preserve, located off Bayberry Lane near the intersection of Easton Rd. The preserve is the only public memorial approved by the family of the late Paul Newman as a way to honor the actor and philanthropist.
Westport PD was notified and reaction was swift in town and in the area, with posts on 06880 and reporting in area newspaper websites and local television including News12 Connecticut.
A response by the CT chapter of the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) came in the form of the statement above, which references the ongoing incidences of anti-semitism in CT, saying in part, "At a time of rising hate and antisemitism, we all upon community leader to speak out against this hat. Hate is not child's play."
An ADL post on their website in April, 2024, the organization reported, "Antisemitic Incidents in Connecticut Soared 170 percent in 2023". Westport, which has large and thriving Jewish community and several synagogues has been highly visible in it's support for the community and for Israel as the hostage crises continues, has seen more than it's share of anti-semitic incidents and rallies in support of Israel.
Link to the ADL post: Antisemitic Incidents Soared In 2023
Some of these have been reported here in the Westport Local Press:
Another Example Of Anti-Semitism Appears In Westport
Bridge Rally Marks 300 Days Of Captivity For Israeli Hostages
Vigil Tonight To Mark 300 Days Of Captivity Of The Israeli Hostages
Feed The Birds (Tuppence a Bag)
OK, BOOMERS! You know where this song is from, don't you? (Link below)
Photos and Story By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
But, did you know that February is National Bird Feeding Month?
Here it is, straight from top, the National Audubon Society: Don’t let your feeders hang empty! February is one of the toughest months for wild birds in North America. Support birds when they need it most with our many blends and mixes of seed, feed, and suet.
Learn more abut feeding backyard birds here, visit the National Audubon Society: Audubon.org
We are taking this opportunity to remind Westporters that winter is a great time to feed our beautiful backyard songbirds. We took these photos in our backyard this week. One of the best loved birds we see all the time is the male Northern Cardinal, pictured above. Here, is seen taking cover in a thicket, awaiting his chance to visit a nearby feeder, then getting a little bit closer.
About the Northern Cardinal
From ebird.org: Striking and familiar backyard bird throughout most of eastern North America; also occurs in the southwestern U.S. and fairly extensively in Mexico. Crest, large red bill, and long tail render this species distinctive even with a poor view. Male is entirely red with a black face. Female is brownish overall with redder wings and tail. Usually seen in pairs or small groups near dense cover, especially thickets near forest edges. Frequently visits bird feeders.
Learn more: https://ebird.org/species/norcar
Photos and Story By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
The photos above are of the Common Grackle which appears in large flocks at this time of year. They can often mob backyard feeders and con often overpower other birds trying to enjoy a meal.
About the Common Grackle
Those unfamiliar with birds often mistake Grackles for crows, or members of the extended crow family. To learn more about Grackles: https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Common_Grackle/id
Photos and Story By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
In the photos above, a female Northern Cardinal shares a thicket with a house sparrow. At center, a Dark-eyed Junco, a species of sparrow common in our area in winter, has found a black oil sunflower seed.
About the Dark Eyed Junco
Unique sparrow with incredible variation between populations. Generally patterned with gray, white, and shades of tan. All have pinkish bills and white outer tail feathers.
To learn more about Grackles: https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Dark-eyed_Junco/id
And, for those who are not Boomers, or perhaps children of Boomers, here is the answer to the song title above, Feed The Birds, (Tuppence A Bag):
Feed the Birds (Tuppence a Bag) YouTube link: https://youtu.be/XHrRxQVUFN4?si=xfnP78l5Biablk43
STORMAC Hockey Falls To New Milford
STORMAC, the co-op hockey team consisting of Staples, Norwalk High and Brien McMahon of Norwalk, met New Milford Hockey on their home ice at the Canterbury School's O'Neill Arena, battling fiercely for 3 periods, however their efforts fell short, leading to a 4-0 loss.
Photos By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
New Milford found the net first with less than three minutes in the period, and less than a minute later put another goal on the scoreboard.
Above, right: What the STORMAC fans lacked in numbers, they made up for in enthusiasm. These superfans braved the freezing cold, making the 40 mile, 50 minute trek to New Milford to support their team.
Photos By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
The second period was back and forth, and the New Milford goaltender stood tall. STORMAC went on a push and battled hard but weren't able to cash in on their opportunities. New Milford added two more goals in the third period cementing the victory.
STORMAC goalie Mason Mountain had a strong game, making 45 saves.
The boys are back in action Saturday at Milford Ice against Newington at 8 PM.
Photos By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
Bridgeport Law Firm Koskoff, Koskoff & Bieder Files Suit On Behalf Of FBI Agents
Yesterday, the firm filed suit against both as yet unamed defendants as well as the U.S. Department of Justice and the United States Of America on behalf of the Federal Bureau of Investigation Agents Association (FBIAA) for multiple causes of action relating to the current administrations ongoing actions concerning the potential threats to those agents.
J
osh Koskoff, who is well known for his firm's achieving a one billion dollar judgment against conspiracy theorist Alex Jones on behalf of Sandy Hook families for his repeated false claims that the tragic killing of 20 young children and 6 staff members at Sandy Hook Elementary School was a hoax and that the parents faked their own children's deaths.
The 23 page Complaint filed in the Federal District Court for the District Of Columbia, alleges, in part actions called for by one of the leaders of the of the proud boys, Enrique Tarrio, against one of the Special Agents by name. Tarrio was pardoned by Trump along with all of those convicted for the assault on the U.S. Capitol on January 6th, 2021.
The allegations also includes, among others First Amendment and Due Process Violations including "Intentional Violation of Privacy Interests and reputational harm.
The suit references "The FBI employs approximately 13,800 Special Agents. Approximately 12,000 of the FBI’s 13,800 Special Agents are members of FBIAA."
.
National new reporting has claimed that something in the neighborhood of 6,000 agents and FBI employees were somehow connected to the the investigation of the riot at the Capitol.
The remedies requested in the suit include "Enjoin Defendants from any further collection or dissemination of personally identifiable information of Plaintiffs and other similarly situated persons; and Writs of Mandamus. Mandamus is an order from a court to an inferior government official ordering the government official to properly fulfill their official duties or correct an abuse of discretion. See e.g. Cheney v. United States Dist. Court For D.C. (2004) . In theory, the Court could order officials of the DOJ and others to take certain actions as part of the relief sought by the plaintiffs.
To follow this case as it progresses visit the Federal Court Website: USCourts.gov and click on Search For A Case
The Press Release from the Koskoff firm is as follows:
FBI Agents Association Files Temporary Restraining Order to Block Trump Administration from Releasing Names of Special Agents Targeted for Work on January 6 Investigations
WASHINGTON, DC – The Federal Bureau of Investigation Agents Association (FBIAA), alongside several anonymous FBI Agents and employees, today filed a temporary restraining order (TRO) against the Department of Justice (DOJ) to prevent the mass public release of names of Agents and FBI employees who worked on cases related to the criminal events that occurred on January 6, 2021.
The TRO, filed in the United States District Court for the District of Columbia, asserts that there is clear evidence the Justice Department intends to publicly disclose the names of employees it plans to demote, transfer, or terminate—apparently as a form of retaliation and stigmatization. The TRO argues that such disclosure would violate both statutory and constitutional law.
“FBI Special Agents who risk their lives protecting the country from criminals and terrorists are now being placed on lists and having their careers jeopardized simply for doing their jobs,” said FBIAA President Natalie Bara. “Exposing the names of FBI Agents and employees on these lists would put the safety of these individuals and their families at risk. Further, this reckless action would create a chilling effect within the law enforcement community and weaken the Bureau’s ability to combat criminal and national security threats.”
“The DOJ’s plan to release the names of FBI agents who investigated January 6th is an appalling attack on non-partisan public servants who have dedicated their lives to protecting our communities and our nation. It is clear that the threatened disclosure is a prelude to an unlawful purge of the FBI driven solely by the Trump Administration’s vengeful and political motivations,” said attorney for the FBI agents Chris Mattei of Koskoff, Koskoff & Bieder. “Releasing the names of these agents would ignite a firestorm of harassment towards them and their families and it must be stopped immediately.”
In recent weeks, as part of their Senate nomination hearings, Attorney General-nominee Pam Bondi and FBI Director-nominee Kash Patel both committed that FBI Agents would be afforded due process and protected from retaliation based on their case assignments. Director-nominee Patel further reiterated this commitment in a meeting with the FBI Agents Association, where he emphasized that Agents would not face retribution for carrying out their lawful duties. The public exposure of Agent and employee names would directly contradict these commitments.
"Releasing the names of the FBI agents would create a significant harm to the agents and their families. We oppose releasing names of those agents who were fulfilling their duties as federal law enforcement officers, said a Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association (FLEOA) spokesperson.
Today’s legal filing urges the Court to intervene to prevent the public release of Agents’ identities to uphold the principles of fairness, protect those who serve in good faith, and ensure that FBI Agents can perform their vital mission of safeguarding the American people.
New Westport Parks & Rec Director To Take Office On February 18th
Town Of Westport Press Release February 4, 2025:
First Selectwoman Jennifer Tooker announced today that the Town of Westport has hired Erik Barbieri as the new Director of Parks and Recreation, effective February 18, 2025. Mr. Barbieri brings over 25 years of experience in parks and recreation management to the town, having led major municipal recreation initiatives and facility development projects throughout Connecticut.
First Selectwoman Tooker stated, “We are thrilled to welcome Erik to Westport. His extensive leadership in parks and recreation, combined with his commitment to community engagement and facility excellence, makes him an outstanding choice to lead our Parks and Recreation Department into the future.”
Barbieri joins Westport from the City of New Britain, where he has served as Director of Parks, Recreation, and Community Services since 2015. In this role, he managed seven divisions, including parks, recreation, a golf course, cemeteries, senior and veteran services, and disability programs. Under his leadership, New Britain successfully completed multi-million-dollar capital improvement projects, including the $10.5 million reconstruction of Osgood Park and the $5.4 million rehabilitation of AW Stanley Park. His expertise extends to overseeing major city-wide events, developing innovative recreation programs.
Prior to his tenure as Director, Barbieri served as Superintendent of Recreation for New Britain, where he oversaw large-scale youth programs, after-school initiatives, and the transformation of local parks and sports facilities. His leadership resulted in enhanced community engagement, increased program accessibility, and the successful hosting of high-profile sporting events, including international soccer exhibitions, and managing the operational budget.
Barbieri is a graduate of the University of Connecticut with a Bachelor of Science in Parks and Recreation Management. His technical skills include expertise in municipal recreation software and budgeting systems, ensuring efficient operations and fiscal responsibility.
In his new role in Westport, Barbieri will oversee the town’s parks, beaches, recreational facilities, and community programs, working to enhance public spaces, expand recreational opportunities, and continue the tradition of excellence in parks and recreation services.
Avian Flu Strikes Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo
Photos above, courtesy of Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo's are their Bald Eagle, Barn Owls and their magnificent Amur Leopard. Their exhibit birds are safe and receiving special care. None have been affected.
One of our area's true gems, Beardsley Zoo in Bridgeport has detected a case of Avian Flu
Beardsley Zoo Press Release:
Bridgeport, CT – (January 30th, 2025) – Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo (CBZ) has received preliminary results of Highly Pathogenic Avian Flu (HPAI), commonly known as avian flu, following testing of a deceased Cotton Patch goose on grounds, Tuesday, January 28th. In response, the zoo has taken additional steps above and beyond already established protective measures to ensure the health and safety of its birds, animals, staff, and guests. The zoo is working closely with state and federal partners, including U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) to follow guidelines and conduct ongoing reviews as a result of the detection.
Health and safety precautions had already been enacted at CBZ in response to HPAI cases reported in Connecticut. Out of an abundance of caution for the wellbeing of zoo animals, staff and guests, additional and increased measures have been implemented.
They have enacted protocols to protect their beautiful bird collection which include a temporary closing of the farmyard and outdoor aviary, limited staff contact to care providers and specialists, and they will use dedicated tools, disinfected after each use and increased PPE for staff.
CBZ is reporting, "Birds in nearby exhibits that did not have direct contact with the affected flock, including ravens, peafowl, and turkeys, will be quarantined and tested to ensure that staff with proper PPE can monitor the flock. (*Update: these particular birds (such as guinea fowl, peacocks, raven) were tested, and we received preliminary results last night – test was negative for HPAI). In accordance with state and federal guidelines, the zoo has humanely euthanized the remaining affected birds in the pond community (12 birds total) that may have been exposed to HPAI, to prevent the possible spread of the disease."
To help support this wonderful zoo, visit: Beardsley Zoo.org. To Donate, click: Donate To Beardsley Zoo
The New England Patriots: Love Them Or Hate Them, Get the Inside Scoop At The Westport Library On Monday, February 3rd
The Y's Men and the Westport Library Welcome Jeff Benedict, author of "The Dynasty" the definitive story of the New England Patriots
In anticipation of the Super Bowl on Sunday, February 9, which is always one of the biggest party of the year, come to the Trefz Forum at The Westport Library, on Monday, February 3 from 7:00 to 8:30 pm and learn the real inside story about the Patriots and their drive to become one of the greatest pro football teams in NFL history.
Join the Y's Men as they welcome Jeff Benedict, best selling author of "The Dynasty". Join the Y's men to talk football and discuss his definitive book on the New England Patriots.
A best-selling author, producer, and commentator, Benedict is the ultimate cultural authority on the most dominant sports dynasty of the 21st century, the New England Patriots. With unprecedented access inside the organization for five years, Benedict provides the definitive inside story of the team.
Sports Illustrated’s Gary Smith said, “Benedict slips inside, lowers the drawbridge, and waves us in to see the ramparts, towers, turrets, and castle keep where the Brady-Belichick-Kraft trinity ruled.” Benedict’s re-telling of this iconic sports story inspires audiences to look to the Patriots as a case study on teamwork, overcoming adversity, consistency, and the momentum of success.
The eponymous 10-part docuseries, The Dynasty: New England Patriots, was produced with Imagine Documentaries in cooperation with the New England Patriots for Apple TV+. This intimate portrait capturing the human drama of enduring success is a byproduct of access, exhaustive research, engaging storytelling, and humanity. Benedict gives insight not only into the success of the New England Patriots, but the true meaning of greatness.
Join us for a conversation that will have something for every football fan, with Benedict discussing the inner workings of one of the most storied dynasties in football history as well as the two epic Patriots-Giants Super Bowls, including how the Patriots bounced back from losing their undefeated season to the Giants in 2008.
About Jeff Benedict
Benedict is a #1 New York Times bestselling author and an Emmy Award-winning producer whose storytelling power has captivated audiences across mediums. Benedict has written 17 nonfiction books and many feature stories about some of the most iconic figures in sports history. He has been tapped as executive producer and writer for documentary adaptations of his books, including a 10-part series based on his bestseller The Dynasty, the definitive inside story of the New England Patriots, with Imagine Entertainment for Apple TV+ in 2024.
Books are available for purchase at registration and also on the night of the event. Benedict will be signing copies after his talk.
Invite your friends and enjoy some delicious baked treats from Cobs Bread of Westport.
Click here to register for this special event: Register For The Dynasty Event
Frigid Temperatures Take Their Toll
UPDATE: Westport Library To Re-Open At 1:00 Sunday, January 26, at 1:00 PM
The Westport Library announced earlier today that they will be closed Friday, January 24, and Saturday, January 25, due to a burst water pipe.
All programs for these two days are either postponed or canceled.
The Winter Dance Party with Christine Ohlman & Rebel Montez, originally planned for tonight, has been rescheduled to February 7.
We are tentatively planning to re-open as scheduled at 1 pm on Sunday, January 26.
Please check back to The Westport Library website (westportlibrary.org) for updates.