In 1979, Staples High School’s Candlelight Concert was already nearly 4 decades old.
To some people, 1979 seems like almost yesterday. But musicians from that year’s production are old enough to have grandchildren on stage tonight and tomorrow, for the 83rd annual “Staples Music Department gift to the town.”
The 1979 Candlelight Concert.
It’s unlikely there will be any grandkids — not this year, anyway. Give those ’79 alums a few more years.
But Candlelight will welcome them, whenever they’re ready. It’s one of Westport’s oldest and proudest traditions.
From the opening “Sing We Noel” processional to the rousing “Hallelujah Chorus” finale, it’s timeless.
Yet the Candlelight Concert changes with the times, too. Over the years, the symphonic band was added to the program. So was a production number.
The 1983 production number — 40 years ago, this weekend.
This year, for the first time in over 40 years, a special commissioned piece — by alums Jake Landau and Emily Garber — will be premiered.
Also new: choral director Lauren Pine makes her Candlelight debut.
If you’re lucky enough to have scored tickets: enjoy! But whether you’ll be there or not: If you have any Candlelight Concert memories to share, click “Comments” below.”
“Sing We Noel” processional, 2011. (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)
A severe ice storm led to a significant “power failure the likes of which can’t be remembered in Fairfield County,” the Westport News report.
Connecticut Light & Power said that 90% of Weston lost electricity at some point; 1/3 of Westport customers were impacted. It took up to a week for some customers in the state to regain power.
Though the movie “The Ice Storm” is not based on a true story, it takes place on Thanksgiving weekend in 1973 — exactly 50 years ago.
1107 Hope Street, Stamford, after the 1973 ice storm.
(“06880” is your hyper-local blog — the place to go for news and views on yesterday, today and tomorrow. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
“It is with mixed feelings that we announce that after spending the last 10+ years building Saugatuck Sweets Westport, we will be closing this location effective December 17.
“In recent years due to the challenging economic conditions and Covid issues, we have determined that it is no longer financially viable for us to keep this business afloat.
“We have so many amazing memories from our time in Westport that we will always cherish. So many incredible and lifelong friendships that we have built in our time here. It is our hope that while serving the Saugatuck section of Westport we have provided you and your families with not only great ice cream and candy … but also a tremendous family experience.
“We extend our appreciation to the Gault family, our landlord, for their great support, patience and help over the last 10 years….
“While we are saddened to be leaving the Westport area, we are excited to continue to serve you at our Fairfield location.
“Thanks for your love, support & business.
Chris & Al DiGuido
“PS. Please note that Westport gift cards will continue to be honored at the Saugatuck Sweets Fairfield location.
“PPS. There are a number of great photos hanging in the store featuring your children. If you would like these photos. you can pick them up in the Fairfield Store as well.” (Hat tip: Mark Mathias)
Friends and admirers of Lynda Bluestein packed the Westport Library yesterday, for the dedication of 2 wind phones. Donated by the longtime Westporter and her family, the disconnected (but real) telephones allow people to “stay in touch” with loved ones who have died.
Originated in Japan, there are now 170 wind phones in the US. However, these are the first in a public library. One will be in the “Library of Things,” available for checkout. The other will be in the Children’s Library, allowing youngsters to “call” not only grandparents and others, but pets who have passed.
Children’s Library wind phone (left), and the one in the Library of Things.
Lynda — who has terminal fallopian tube cancer, and who after reaching a settlement with the state of Vermont, will be the first non-resident to take advantage of a law allowing people with terminal illnesses to end their own lives — was at the Library ceremony, with family and friends.
Speaking gracefully, she acknowledged the importance of wind phones at the library: a public place where people can also find privacy.
The Library’s wind phones will be accompanied by recommended reading for both children and adults, plus a dedicated resource guide.
Lynda also spoke about the process of grief, and what it means to feel connected to those who are gone.
Library director Bill Harmer and actor James Naughton — who, like Lynda, is a staunch advocate for legislation permitting medical aid in dying — also spoke, lauding Lynda’s generosity, compassion and humanity.
Lynda Bluestein, at the Westport Library. (Photos/Dan Woog)
A SWAT team descended on 24 Ferry Lane East yesterday.
First responders from 6 towns used stun grenades. Officers — including K-9 corps — breached the house, and found suspects inside.
Fortunately, no one was hurt.
No one was arrested, either.
It was the right house, though: one slated for demolition later this month.
Personnel from Westport, Wilton, Easton, Darien, Monroe and Trumbull seized the opportunity for a training exercise. The “suspects” were playing roles — but the action (except for live ammo) was real.
Neighbors were notified last week. They were told to expect military-looking vehicles and officers along the road.
And explosions too.
It’s great to know that emergency personnel are constantly training.
It’s equally great to know that everything they did yesterday was not for real.
SWAT action on Ferry Lane East yesterday. (Photos and hat tip/Matthew Mandell)
Anyone lucky enough to have tickets to this weekend’s Candlelight Concerts knows they’re in for a treat. In addition to the usual superb show, the Staples High School Music Department premieres its first commissioned work in 40 years, by Class of 2000 graduates Jake Landau and Emily Garber.
But there’s another important element of Candlelight — and it’s called “Can-Delight.”
This year, the Staples chapter of the Tri-M Music Honor Society is bringing back the tradition of donating cans of food, for Homes with Hope.
They’ll collect nonperishable canned and boxed foods at all 3 Candlelight Concerts. Donation boxes will be in the lobby.
So grab your tickets — and as many cans as you, um, can. It’s an extra-special way to enjoy the Music Department’s 83rd annual gift to the town.
Poster design by Tri-M Music Honor Society co-president Shivali Kanthan.
=================================================
Yesterday’s Roundup included an item about contractors’ trucks being parked at the triangular green on Kings Highway North and Old Hill Road, across from the cemetery. It’s a historic site: Militias trained there during the Revolutionary War.
I expected a few reactions:
“Who cares?”
“Aren’t there more important things to worry about?”
“It’s better than parking on that narrow, busy road.”
I did not expect this to be posted in the Comments section:
It is my contractors who have been parking on the green across from the Old Hill Cemetery.
I have felt awful about the damage done to the green and have been planning on repairing everything. The repair will be done in the spring. I already have a quote from my landscaper to put new topsoil down and seed and will do anything else necessary to repair and restore the area.
Thank you,
Ann Sisto
4 Old Hill Road
Just when you think you’ve heard everything …
Happy holidays, Ann. And here’s wishing you a speedy, beautiful and hassle-free renovation!
This month marks the 25th birthday of Tess Meisel.
The Coleytown Middle School student was killed in a motor vehicle accident in 2011, during summer camp in Maine. She was just 12 years old.
Her mother, Suzanne Tanner, invites friends who are in town over the holidays to visit her memorial bench at the Westport Library.
It is adorned for the season in “Tessie Blue,” and includes Tess’ poetry.
Tess Meisel’s bench.
=================================================
In 1999, Aaron Donovan — just 5 years out of Staples High School, and a New York Times news assistant whose job included updating each issue number — discovered that the venerable “paper of record” had inadvertently credited itself with 500 extra issues.
The mistake happened 101 years earlier — in 1898.
Thanks to Donovan’s epic research, on New Year’s Day 2000, the Times corrected the error.
On Tuesday — nearly 24 years after that memorable correction — the paper looked back on the story behind the story.
The occasion was the Times‘ 60,000th issue. In commemoration, the “Times Insider” column featured an interview with Donovan. (He has moved on to a new position: deputy communications director of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority.)
Click here to read the full, interesting tale, and Donovan’s take on it. (Hat tip: Mary Condon)
Page 1 of the January 1, 2000 New York Times, when the issue number error was fixed. Besides the momentous turn of the millennium, there was some interesting news from Russia.
=================================================
Amy Simon Fine Art is moving.
It’s not far — just a few yards east, to 155 Post Road East (opposite Design Within Reach). The target date is January 1.
They’re transitioning to a showroom with full inventory, rather than a public gallery space. They’ll be open by appointment.
“So much of our business is online and all over the world, this just makes sense for us,” Amy says.
Meanwhile, nearly everything is on sale. Amy can provide retail and discounted prices by request, or in person (123 Post Road East).
Looking for something artsy for your kids over the holiday break?
MoCA Westport’s Intensive Art Camp is open to youngsters ages 8-10. There are 2 sessions: December 18-22 and 26-29. Both run from 9:30 a.m. to 2:3 p.m.
Students will learn art fundamentals like line work, color theory and composition, as they explore the MoCA gallery. They explore painting with a palette tool, ink on watercolors and more.
Click here for more information — including sessions for younger boys and girls – – and to register.
Registration is open for 3 of Wakeman Town Farm’s winter kids’ programs.
“Little Farmers Parent & Me,” “Toddler Sprouts” and “Fantastic Farmhands” all begin January 23. Click here for more information, including registration.
George Barrett accomplished lots in life. He played varsity soccer at Brown University, taught at Horace Mann, and was CEO of a Fortune 25 company.
But in 2016, he had a chance to play with The Who’s Roger Daltrey.
“Finally, I felt like I was home again,” says the 1973 Staples High School graduate.
As CEO of Cardinal Health — the Ohio-based multinational distributor of pharmaceuticals, medical and lab products — Barrett often traveled with his guitar.
But, the former Orphenian — who had sung professionally in New York, and considered a musical career — said, “I was hesitant to perform in public. I didn’t know how that would be seen.”
The Daltrey gig — at a company event — was a turning point. “People saw a side of me they hadn’t known,” Barrett says.
Encouraged, he began performing with the Columbus Symphony Orchestra, and jazz and chamber groups.
Now — at the age of 68 — he’s released his first record. Fittingly, it’s a collaboration with Grammy Award-winning producer/composer/arranger — and 1971 Staples grad — Brian Keane.
George Barrett (Photo/David McClister)
Barrett and Keane first met playing youth sports in Westport. Now, at Keane’s Monroe studio — and with an all-star band of musicians and backup singers — they’re together again.
Barrett and his 4 siblings — all musically talented — were part of a noted local family. His father Herb was a psychologist; his mother Lou was a Staples High School English teacher and poet.
George Barrett, Staples basketball star.
Barrett grew up as both a musician and athlete. Starring in soccer, basketball and baseball at Staples, he was always encouraged seeing Orphenians director George Weigle — with whom he toured Europe — at his games.
“No one forced me to make a choice. I was celebrated for doing both music and sports,” he says. He felt similarly supported at Brown, where Barrett — whose parents had helped build Temple Israel — moonlighted singing in church choirs.
After college he taught history and music, and coached soccer and baseball, at Horace Mann, the prestigious New York prep school. Meanwhile, he played music in Greenwich Village clubs like the Bitter End, did session work and recorded jingles.
“It was a crazy life,” he notes.
But while he loved “the music part of business” — being on stage — he did not enjoy other aspects. Offered a chance to move to Los Angeles, as part of the late-’70s soft rock scene, he said no.
A series of unexpected events — including going into business with his then-wife’s family — led to a career he’d never envisioned: pharmaceuticals. The dual history and music major had taken only one business course at Brown, but he earned an MBA at New York University.
The small family business exposed him to everything. Ten years later, Barrett ran the firm.
It was then acquired by a company in Norway. The CEO asked him to run its American subsidiary, in Baltimore.
Barrett was 34 years old. He “learned to lead” from older employees. “They gave me a great gift,” he says.
In 1998 he began running US operations for Israel-based Teva, the world’s largest manufacturer of generic drugs. Eight years later he was offered its CEO spot. But instead of relocating to Israel, he joined Cardinal Health, an American firm, as vice chairman. Two years later, he was named CEO.
Barrett calls his decade there “an incredible experience. I worked with great people. It was a blessing.”
Yet all along, music was never far from his heart. So despite his post-Cardinal Health work — teaching at the Columbia University School of Public Health and NYU Business School, policy work in Washington, consulting, and board work with Brown, the Business Roundtable and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame — when he was looking for a second (okay, fifth or sixth) act, he asked Keane for an honest assessment.
Brian Keane
They talked, played and made a demo tape.
“I think there’s something there,” Keane said.
That was all Barrett needed to hear.
Tapping into Keane’s vast network of musical contacts, Barrett worked on an album. His goal was to cross genres and age brackets.
A year and a half later, “Not Alone” has just been released. There’s a single from the album too — and a video.
“It feels like a rebirth,” says Barrett, of his first time back in a studio in decades. “I’m hearing my music now — with real horns and guitars and backup singers — the way I was hearing it in my head. Everyone has been sensational.”
The response from fellow musicians has been important. He recorded with, among others, jazz legends Cyrus Chestnut and Eddie Gomez, Billy Drummond, Dave Mann, Joe Bonadillo, “Saturday Night Live” drummer Sean Pelton — and his brother, cellist Dan Barrett.
Keane accompanied Barrett on guitar. Backup singers toured with Bruce Springsteen.
“I had been away from that community for so long. I was wondering: Am I a businessman with a hobby, or a real musician? Their welcome was very gratifying,” Barrett says.
“Not Alone” has been released on all platforms. It crosses genres: Americana, bluegrass, gospel, country, blues, classical, rock, funk and jazz. Most of the songs were written by Barrett, though it includes Richard Rodgers covers.
Barrett does not want to be known as “the singing business guy.” He hopes his music “speaks for itself, and for me — organically and gently.”
Though he’s never been active on social media, he now has a music website, an Instagram and a Facebook page. “That’s another learning experience,” he laughs.
Speaking of learning: At 68, does Barrett see his age as a deterrent?
“It’s less about age, than stage of life,” he counters. “If I was younger, I might do a national tour. But I’ll just perform selectively now.”
Still, he is “as excited and enthusiastic as when I was 24. I enjoy music as much as I ever did.”
Keane and Barrett have talked about performing in Westport. His ties here remain strong. “When I sit at the bench at the beach dedicated to my parents, my youth comes flooding back,” Barrett says.
That youth includes playing at long-gone venues like Grassroots, on Post Road West just over the bridge.
“You don’t realize until you leave just how special this community is,” says Barrett.
It’s a community where the artist who just released “Not Alone” grew up.
And never felt alone.
(Click here for “Not Alone,” on a variety of streaming platforms. Click here for George Barrett’s music website.))
(“06880” often chronicles the intriguing lives of talented Staples High School graduates. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
The Candlelight Concert is one of Westport’s most beloved traditions.
From the haunting “Sing We Noel” processional to the majestic “Hallelujah Chorus” — with choirs, orchestras, bands and a special production number in between — the Staples High School Music Department’s gift to the town is a centerpiece of the holiday season.
It’s hard to imagine anything more special. But this weekend’s 83rd annual concert promises an astonishing addition.
Two Class of 2013 graduates — composer Jake Landau and poet Emily Garber — have collaborated on a piece commissioned solely for this year’s Candlelight.
“I Found the Light” is the Music Department’s first commissioned work in 40 years. The world premiere marks a new chapter in the school’s rich musical heritage.
A video that will play before each concert this weekend offers background into the artistic process, from the composer, the librettist, and Staples’ orchestra, band and choral directors.
The video provides an intimate look into the creative process and the significant impact this commission has had on students and faculty. It underscores the vital role of new art and contemporary artists in our world, and shows how Staples students have a unique chance to contribute to the creation of new music.
The story behind the commission is so compelling, and the video so insightful, that it deserves the widest possible audience.
So here it is. Click below or — if your browser does not support embedding — click here.
Posted onDecember 9, 2023|Comments Off on Online Art Gallery #191
Today’s online art gallery opens with a special request.
In this season of giving, Westport artist Mark Yurkiw is thinking of his native Ukraine. As the Russian war grinds on, he wants to ensure that no one forgets the plight: 10 million Ukrainians are displaced, 20 million shelter in place, and 10 million are protecting their nation, any way they can.
Over the past 2 years Mark has donated his artwork, as a way to raise funds to help Ukraine. His work is serious, superb, and important. He invites interested collectors to contact him for an appointment to see it, in his barn/studio. Mark’s email is mark.think3d@gmail.com.
Art by Mark Yurkiw …
… and Mark outside his barn, with one of his Ukrainian-themed works.
Now, back to our weekly online gallery. As always, we welcome all kinds of art. Watercolors, oils, charcoal, pen-and-ink, acrylics, lithographs, collages, macramé, jewelry, sculpture, decoupage, needlepoint — whatever you’ve got.
Email it to 06880blog@gmail.com. Share your work with the world! (PS: Please include the medium you’re working in — art lovers want to know.)
Age, level of experience, subject matter — there are no restrictions. Everyone is invited to contribute.
“Our Colorful Nation” (Dorothy Robertshaw)
“Beach Impressions” (Tom Doran)
“Our Love for Each Other Shines Forever” (Mike Hibbard)
Untitled — Photographer Dennis Jackson took this recentlyin Argentina’s Tierra de Fuego National Park, a few miles from the Chilean border.
Untitled collage — paper on paper (Maj Kalfus)
“Worth a Second Look” (Lawrence Weisman)
“All the Other Thanksgiving Gourds Are Gone!” (Steve Stein)
“Manspreading” — watercolor (Jo Ann Davidson)
“Red Sail in the Sunset? – A J-70” (Peter Barlow)
“Seaside Impressions 03” (Ken Runkel)
“Dawn in the Neighborhood” (Jerry Kuyper)
(Entrance is free to our online art gallery. But please consider a donation! Just click here — and thank you!)
For several weeks, small posters with photos of Israelis kidnapped by Hamas have hung on the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge.
That triggered one Norwalk resident.
The woman, whose social media handle is “Best of CT Moms” — definitely not to be confused with “Moms of Westport” — posted a video story on Instagram.
Admitting it would be “an unpopular opinion,” she said: “I do not like all the kidnapped signs all over Westport. There’s nobody here who has been kidnapped that we can actually find.”
Should there be one side of the bridge with Israelis, and one side with Palestinians, she asked, “and you choose which side to walk on?”
She continued: “What was the goal? To let people know people were kidnapped? I feel like everyone knows.”
Or perhaps to let people know that antisemitism exists? “We know as Jews people are antisemitic,” she said. “I don’t need to be reminded. It’s not positive.”
She said that protecting her own mental health was important, so she stays away from the news. But, she concluded, “I don’t need news. I can drive through Westport and see all the kidnapped people.
“It’s too much. It’s too much. It’s too much.” (Hat tip: Andrew Colabella)
In just 24 hours, Westport passed the halfway mark in its drive to provide heat to 2,000 residents in our Ukraine sister city this winter.
“06880” announced yesterday a $60,000 goal for Lyman. That would cover 2 wood pellet machines. Each heats 1,000 homes — a dire need, in the 2nd winter after Russia’s invasion.
An anonymous donor kick-started the campaign, with a $30,000 donation. Within an hour, another anonymous Westporter contributed $10,000.
Combined with $6,300 more from individual residents, we’re less than $15,000 away from funding both wood pellet heating machines.
Come on, Westport. We can finish this today — and have the machines delivered, up and running by Christmas. Ukrainine Aid International — the non-profit created by Westporters Brian and Marshall Mayer — will handle all details.
To donate by credit card, click here; then click the “I want to support” box; then select “Westport — Lyman Sister City.” Scroll down on the Donate page for other options: mail, wire transfer and Venmo. Thank you!
Westport’s annual Hanukkah menorah lighting is set for Monday (December 11), at 5 p.m. in front of Anthropologie, where the Post Road meets Church Lane and Main Street.
The public is invited.
The downtown menorah, in 2020. (Photo/Arlene Yolles)
=================================================
Interested in learning how to make your home more energy efficient? Want to help Westport reach our goal of becoming Net Zero by 2050?
Sustainable Westport offers a “Going Geothermal” session. It provides information, resources — and confidence — to kick off an energy-saving home improvement project.
A panel of energy professionals — and Westporters who have actually been through the process — will lead a conversation, and answer questions. The event is next Tuesday (December 12, 6:30 p.m., Westport Library). Click here to register, and for more information.
It’s all 12s for the Artists Collective of Westport.
Their 12″x12″ small works holiday show kicks off in the Westport Country Playhouse Sheffer Barn next Tuesday: 12/12. The reception (not 12 noon, but rather 6 to 8 p.m.) includes food, music and wine. “Affordable artwork” will be available, in a variety of mediums.
The show continues December 13 to 17, from 2 to 6 p.m.
Yesterday, Mercy’s new president and CEO Lindsay Wyman told members the many ways in which the Bridgeport non-profit educates women, in turn helping families overcome poverty.
Mercy’s holistic support services include adult education, English instruction — plus full infant and toddler care, and an early childhood education program.
Since opening in 1987, over 16,500 women have been helped. Many earn GEDs and citizenship. Volunteer tutors and childcare givers are always needed, Wyman said.
Mercy Learning Center CEO Lindsay Wyman. (Photo/Dave Matlow)
The mega-popular knighted singer — who has sold over 300 million records worldwide — recently posted an Instagram of his reactions to a couple of other versions of his double platinum 1973 hit “Step Into Christmas.”
Among the songs he liked: the one by 2007 Staples High School graduate Angus.
Check it out below. Drew appears twice: first in a circular frame, wearing crazy glasses; then performing, in a red flannel shirt.
Speaking of entertainment: In a few minutes (10 a.m.), Westporter Rex Fowler — half of Aztec Two-Step 2.0 — will be live on Rob Silber’s “Rock Therapy” show on WPKN-FM.
Rex will discuss his new memoir, and play a few songs mentioned in it. Click here, then click on the “Listen” link — or tune in to 89.5.
Following up on yesterday’s announcement about makeup, skincare, health and wellness products and hair products at a special holiday gift event at Salon Nash this Saturday (December 9, 2:30 to 6 p.m., 179 Post Road West), which is a fundraiser for the Friends of the Senior Center:
Owner Felicia Nash will also give a free blowout for contributions to Ukraine Aid International’s sister city fund (click here; then click the “I want to support” box; select “Westport — Lyman Sister City”).
Robert Bernstein — a noted educator, and Westport resident for 55 years — died yesterday morning, surrounded by his family. He was 94. He leaves a legacy of love and laughter.
Born in the Bronx, the third of 3 boys, he earned BA and MA degrees from Brooklyn College. He served in Korea as Sergeant First Class with the 101st Airborne Infantry Division, then joined the pre-doctoral program at Teachers’ College, Columbia University.
Bob’s soulmate and life partner was Barbara (Bobbie) Grishman (Bobbie). They raised 3 children: Lydia, Doug and Brian.
Bob began his teaching career in elementary schools in New York City and Westchester County. After an administrative internship, he accepted a principalship in Wilmington, Delaware.
In 1968, Bob found a perfect fit as principal of Redding Elementary School. The family moved to Westport.
Bob was the beloved principal of Redding Elementary for 25 years, dedicating himself to facilitating the growth of children and teachers and profoundly impacting the community. After retirement, he held 4 interim principalships.
Bob also taught adult education in New York City and Westchester County, and ESL with Norwalk Community College and Literacy Volunteers in Danbury. He was a member of the board and served as president of the Elementary/Middle School Principal Association of Connecticut.
Bob was a longtime member of the Y’s Men of Westport Weston and Temple Israel. He loved opera and the symphony, enjoyed playing tennis and ping pong, and watching his grandchildren play sports. Spending time at Compo Beach remained his favorite activity.
His family says, “Bob was the consummate gentleman, treating every person with kindness, respect, and dignity. We will carry forward his most enduring and endearing quality; a belief in every person’s goodness and their capacity to grow.”
Bob is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Bobbie, their children Lydia, Doug (and Melissa) and Brian (and Lauren), his grandchildren Miriam, Brendan, Ilana, Jessica (Graham), Audrey, Cayla, Sydelle, Esther and Nate; brother-in-law Hank Grishman (Jill), and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his grandson Jason.
Bob’s service will be held at Temple Israel tomorrow (Thursday, December 7, 1 p.m.). Burial will follow at Temple Israel Cemetery in Norwalk.
Shiva will be held at the home of Bob and Bobbie’s home on December 7 immediately following the burial, and Friday, December 8(1 to 4 p.m.) and Saturday, December 9 (7 to 9 p.m.; service at 7:30).
Bob’s favorite educational and cultural arts charities were: A Better Chance of Westport (PO Box 2153, Westport, CT 06881) and Neighborhood Studios of Fairfield County (391 East Washington Avenue, Bridgeport, CT 06608).
This year — which despite economic headwinds, was a good one for many Westporters — as we buy presents for loved ones, friends, and people whose good graces we need to keep, we should also think about helping others.
Give what you can.
(Of course, helping them can also ease our own tax burdens next spring. This is still a great country!)
But who to give to?
Far be it for “06880” to say. So here is a list of some worthy local organizations. Each one has a clickable link 🙂
I know I’ve missed some. Rather than bite my head off (too un-Christmas-y), please mention them in the “Comments” section. I’ll add them to this list.
And please: Keep your suggestions local (southern Fairfield County). There are way too many very worthy national and international groups to include. Thank you!
06880: This blog — now a non-profit — sponsors community-wide events. Projects include the Holiday Stroll, the Lyman Ukraine sister city project, and collaborations with the Westport Library. “06880” also publishes this daily blog, to help create community.
Disabilities
Catch a Lift: Westport supports veterans through fitness programs Circle of Friends: Teens work with children with disabilities
CLASP: Group homes and opportunities Club 203: Provides fun, engaging activities for adults with disabilities MyTEAM Triumph: Road race support for children, adults and veterans New Canaan Mounted Troop: Youth development and therapeutic equestrian center serving children and adults with disabilities, and giving horses a second chance STAR Lighting the Way: Support for all ages Sweet P Bakery: Provides jobs for adults with learning disabilities; supplies The Porch at Christie’s with delicious baked goods
PROUD Academy: New school for LGBTQ+ students and allies, proving a safe, affirming learning community Triangle Community Center: Providing programs and resources for the LGBTQ+ community Westport Pride: Our town’s own LGBTQ+ organization — sponsors of the June festival, and much more
Literacy
Mercy Learning Center: Life skills training for low-income women Read to Grow: Promoting children’s literacy from birth, supporting parents as babies’ first teachers Westport Book Sales: Providing employment for people with disabilities — and offering books, while providing funds for the Westport Library Westport Library: They do it all!
Ukraine Aid International: Founded by Westporters Brian and Marshall Mayer, UAI ensures that donations go directly to Westport’s sister city of Lyman, Ukraine. Click the “I want to support” box; then select “Support for the City of Lyman.” Scroll down on that page for other donation options (mail, wire transfer and Venmo.)
Women and girls
AWARE: “Assisting Women through Action, Resources and Education” Dress for Success Mid-Fairfield County: Empowering women by providing professional clothes and other support LiveGirl: Leadership development and mentoring for females, grades 5 through college Malta House: Shelter and programs for young pregnant women and their babies
A sign on the door of the clothing and outdoor gear retailer smack in the middle of downtown says: “Thank you, Westport, for letting us be a part of the neighborhood for the last 18 years. It’s been an honor to call this community home.”
Patagonia products can still be found at their wholesale partner, ASF Sports & Outdoors.
Meanwhile, we could make the snarky remark that the valuable property could be replaced by a bank.
Except that’s what it was, for its first 8 or so decades of existence. (Hat tip: Sal Liccione)
Only 23 shopping days until it’s “Pata-gone-ia.”
=================================================
Looking for a good read (or holiday gift)?
Westport’s own Jo Ann Miller and Carl Addison Swanson’s “A Marathon of Changes” was called “a very interesting and motivating book for the new year,” by BookList.
Jo Ann — daughter of famed fighter pilot Thomas H. Miller. and goddaughter of astronaut John Glenn (who wrote the foreward) — grew up amid constant change, and in the shadow of the Marine Corps.
After emerging as a beautiful young career woman, the stress of work and life took its toll on her personality as well as her body. Faced with obesity, draining work demands and horrid tragic events in her past, she decided to change her life.
The culmination was the 2006 Marine Corps Marathon. The book follows her through each mile, as she reflects on the demands of the race as well as the remembrances of her past.
The book deals with the loneliness of obesity, the challenge of gastric bypass surgery, the tragedy of life and death, the intimate anger of rape, and finally the joy of financial freedom and newfound love. Click here to purchase.
The death yesterday of Sandra Day O’Connor brought tributes to the first female Supreme Court justice from around the country.
Westporter Howard Matson remembered a dinner he hosted for her 9 years ago, at New York’s Union League Club.
“She was very gracious,” he told “06880.”
“She spoke at length about her years after leaving the Supreme Court. Her favorite project was a curriculum developed to teach civics online to students. Justice O’Connor felt that there was a profound lack of understanding of the American government structure.”
Justice Sandra Day O’Connor and Howard Matson.
================================================
Before you know it, Christmas will be here.
And the kids will be out of school.
MoCA Westport can help!
Their winter recess Art Camp for Kids runs December 18-22 and 26-29.
Morning sessions (9;30 to 11:30 a.m.) are for nursery schoolers and kindergartners. Participants must be “fully potty trained.”
Full-day sessions (9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.) are for kindergartners through 2nd graders.
One of the first compelling events of the new year is January 10.
Chabad of Westport sponsors an evening of hope and inspiration (7:30 p.m.). Esther Basch — the Honey Girl of Auschwitz — will tell her gripping story of survival and resilience. At 95, she is one of the world’s few remaining Auschwitz survivors.
Esther was transported to the death camp on her 16th birthday in a cattle car. she later faced a death march to the Salzwedel concentration Camp, where she was liberated by American soldiers in April 1945.
Despite the horrors she experienced, Esther’s unshakable faith and universal love for humankind helped her survive, then motivated her to share her story globally.
The event is part of Chabad’s new “Critical Conversation Series,” addressing contemporary Jewish and timely issues.
And finally … On this date in 1942, a Manhattan Project team led by Enrico Fermi initiated the first artificial self-sustaining nuclear chain reaction.
(Only 23 shopping days left at Patagonia. But you can make a donation to “06880′ any time. Just click here. Thank you!)
Welcome to our first December online art gallery of the year.
We’ve got interesting new mediums, like collage and embroidery. But where are all our holiday submissions?
Come on, guys — it’s the most wonderful time of the year, right?!
As always, we welcome all kinds of art. Watercolors, oils, charcoal, pen-and-ink, acrylics, lithographs, collages, macramé, jewelry, sculpture, decoupage, needlepoint — whatever you’ve got.
Email it to 06880blog@gmail.com. Share your work with the world! (PS: Please include the medium you’re working in — art lovers want to know.)
Age, level of experience, subject matter — there are no restrictions. Everyone is invited to contribute.
“What the World Needs Now is Love, Sweet Love” (Steve Stein)
“OK, What Came First?” (Ken Runkel)
“Kawa Ni” — pastel (Werner Liepolt)
Untitled — collage (Maj Kalfus)
“Counted Cross Stitch” (Alicia Kronick)
“I Remember” (Tom Doran)
Untitled — oil on canvas (Greg Puhy)
“Choppy Water and Herreshoff Ketch” (Peter Barlow)
“Thanks for Being My Dinner!” Photographer Mike Hibbard says, “The queen lioness takes down the prey and eats first. The rest of the pride keep their distance and eat when the queen goes to the river to drink. Jackals, hyenas and buzzards take their turns — carefully.”
“In Recovery” (Lawrence Weisman)
“Naturally, It’s Getting Chilly” (Jerry Kuyper)
“Black Bird” — black and white reflection photography (Patricia McMahon)
(Entrance is free to our online art gallery. But please consider a donation! Just click here — and thank you!)
Kelley Spearen — a 1971 Staples High School graduate, and talented yard work artist whose works can be seen throughout Westport — died yesterday, from complications of arthritis and neck surgery.
On July 7, 2016, “06880” ran this story. It serves now as a tribute to him.
For as long as he can remember, Kelley Spearen loved working with his hands.
During his years at Bedford Junior High and Staples High School, he spent time with carpenters. He was accepted to helicopter and airborne Ranger school. In 1975 he joined Westport Center Service, and as general manager built its automotive department from scratch.
In the 1980s he got into metalworking. His wrought-iron hardware pieces were bought by L.L. Bean and Stew Leonard’s.
Spearen then created bigger sculptures. A private customer bought his 22-foot Eiffel Tower. Another purchased a giant question mark. With the advent of Facebook, he was able to find customers as far away as California and Germany.
Kelley Spearen’s “Eiffel Tower” now sits on a private residence, along the Saugatuck River.
But the hands that have brought him so far now betray him. Rheumatoid arthritis and fibromyalgia have made it tough to work on large pieces — hard, sometimes, even to get to his well-equipped studio here in Westport. He’s in a ton of pain, and it can take 4 hours to get going in the morning. But he does not complain.
Kelley Spearen, in his home studio.
So, as Spearen concentrates on smaller sculptures, he’s selling off his biggest ones. Search for “Dr Funky Metal” on Facebook to see what’s available.
Then just figure out where and how to get your new sculpture on your lawn.
“Abe,” by Kelley Spearen.
Kelley Spearen calls this sculpture “Asian style.”
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!)
GET THE “06880” APP
The “06880” app (search for it on the Apple or Android store) is the easiest way to get “06880.” Choose notifications: whenever a new post is published, or once or twice a day. Click here for details.
Two Class of 2013 graduates — composer Jake Landau and poet Emily Garber — have collaborated on a piece commissioned solely for this year’s Candlelight.
