Barnes & Noble Booksellers, 1076 Post Road East, today hosted a discussion of “Regeneration” by Pat Barker as part of WestportREADS. The event was led by Kelle Ruden, former Westport Library staff member serving in her role as a Westport Arts Advisory Committee member. Barker’s World War I novel explores the psychological effects of war, as well as issues of class and politics. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Dave Matlow for WestportNow.com

By James Lomuscio

The Westport Historical Society’s opening reception today not only celebrated the town’s time honored role in art and history, but a man who seemed to personify both — illustrator Ed Vebell, 96.

Ed Vebell: “I’m about 97 years old, which is an achievement in itself.” (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Dave Matlow for WestportNow.com

The exhibit titled “The Curious Case of Ed Vebell” that drew more than 100 persons to the WHS celebrates the work and legacy of a local resident who, with an artist’s pen, had a front-row seat in the mid-20th century.

From chronicling World War II in northern Africa for Stars and Stripes to being the sole artist after the war chosen to sketch the Nuremberg trials to a stint as an Olympic fencer to being a key player during Westport’s 1950s heyday as a hot bed of magazine and advertising art, Vebell’s repertoire seems a curious case, indeed.

The title of the exhibit, which runs through April 19 is a play on the name of the short story “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” by F. Scott Fitzgerald, a one-time Westport resident. Fitzgerald’s piece is fantasy tale about a man who ages in reverse.

Westport artist Ed Vebell was honored today with the presentation of a Quilt of Valor at the opening reception of the Westport Historical Society’s “The Curious Case of Ed Vebell” exhibit. The exhibit celebrates the life and work of the 96-year-old world renowned illustrator. Quilts of Valor is a nonprofit foundation whose goal is to cover all physically or psychologically wounded service members with a freedom quilt, honoring them for their sacrifices. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Dave Matlow for WestportNow.com

Scenes from today’s West Point Glee Club performance at the Saugatuck Congregational Church as part of the Westport Library’s WestportREADS program ahout World War I.  Dave Matlow for WestportNow.com

Branson Hall at Christ & Holy Trinity Church was filled today with youngsters watching “The Secret Life of Pets” while snuggling with their favorite stuffed animals and munching popcorn. The guests also got to visit with puppies from Guiding Eyes for the Blind. The 90-minute, 2016, fully-animated feature-film is about the lives pets lead after their owners leave for work or school each day. The screening was organized by the Westport Cinema Initiative. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Contributed photo

Singer Dana Fuchs performs tonight at the sold out Seabury Center for the inaugural Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce (WWCC) dinner and concert series titled “Supper & Soul.” Participants paying $75 each enjoyed a three-course meal at one of five downtown restaurants, attended the concert, and then returned to any of the same restaurants for drinks at happy hour prices. The five participating restaurants were Amis, Boca, Rothbard Ale + Larder, The Spotted Horse, and Tavern on Main. The next event is Saturday, March 24, with the performer to be announced. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Contributed photo

Westport Historical Society Wheeler House. WHS photo.

The Westport Historical Society (WHS) will put out the welcome mat for a Volunteer Open House to be held in two sessions on Thursday, Feb. 8, WCI officials announced.

Open to community members of all ages, sessions will run from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 4 to 7 p.m., according to the announcement.

WHS Executive Director Ramin Ganeshram said visitors will have the opportunity to learn about new opportunities “for everything from marketing, writing, editing, event planning, tours, teaching, historical re-enactors, fundraising, and so much more.”

“Come learn about our exciting 2018 lineup of events and exhibits and special programs,” Ganeshram said. “New things are happening at Westport Historical Society, so come on down and learn how you can partner in our bright new future.”