Tag Archives: A Better Chance of Westport

A Host Of Reasons To Help ABC

Posted on June 8, 2017 | 6 comments

Alert — and proud — “06880” reader Michael Wolfe writes:

On a recent weekend in suburban Chicago, I shrugged off beautiful spring weather to sit in a dark auditorium with other proud Westport parents and their kids. We watched as over a dozen Staples students received prestigious John Drury High School Radio Awards.

Jarod Ferguson with one of his John Drury awards.

As each student collected their honor, we heard extra-enthusiastic cheers from the mom or dad in attendance. So when Jarod won not 1 but 2 awards, I gave him the loudest acknowledgment I could.

But there was one major difference between me and the rest of the Westport parents that day: Jarod isn’t my son. In fact, I’ve known him less than 3 years.

Yet that morning I felt as excited for him as I would have for my own 2 kids.

In a way, that’s what he’s become.

Jarod Ferguson, born and raised in Philadelphia,  is one of 7 boys from around the country living in Westport through the great local chapter of an incredible national program.

A Better Chance Of Westport was founded 15 years ago to provide academically gifted, highly motivated and economically disadvantaged young men of color (African-American, Latino, Asian-American and Native American) the opportunity to live in our community, and study at Staples.

In fact, one of Jarod’s Drury Radio Awards was for a broadcast about leaving his home and coming to Westport as an ABC Scholar.

ABC’s Glendarcy House on North Avenue. Scholars spend some weekends with host families.

Imagine this: A 9th grade boy leaves his own family and friends behind, moves to Westport to live in a home with several other boys, and is supervised closely by resident directors who live with them and help keep them on the path to success.

They are given educational opportunities they would not otherwise receive — but must give up the daily connection to family that so many of us take for granted.

That’s why the host family program is so important.

Upon entering ABC of Westport, each scholar is assigned a host family (and a 2nd alternate family). Each Sunday during the school year — and once a month, for an entire weekend — the scholar spends the day with members of the host family (usually, but not always, including other children). That family’s role is to provide comfort and support outside of the ABC house, and a connection to the kind of family life the boys have left behind in their hometowns.

Each Sunday morning at 9, we pick Jarod up at the ABC house. He comes to our home, and joins our family. We are not his babysitters, nor do we provide entertainment.

Instead, like we do for our own 2 kids — also Staples juniors — we provide encouragement, attention and support for Jarod’s activities and interests.

Jarod with the Wolfe family, and his mother Angela.

We offer a bit of guidance from time to time (which, as with our own teenagers, is often met with an appropriate level of eye-rolling).

We give Jarod enough space to explore his own needs and feel like a regular kid. Then, on Sunday nights at 6 when we sit down for our family dinner, Jarod takes his place at the table. He’s one of our own.

We had encouraged Jarod to explore opportunities at WWPT. It seemed like a natural for a sports nut like Jarod. It took him a while to find his way there, but his recent awards sparked a real passion. He hopes to continue with the station next year, and perhaps pursue a career in sports journalism.

It’s been less than 3 years since we began hosting Jarod. They’ve flown by.

The shy and unassuming child has grown into a more confident and outspoken young man. I hope our presence in his life has had something to do with that.

But honestly, hosting him has given back to us as much as we may have given him.  My own kids have a better understanding of the world outside the Westport bubble that they’ve grown up in. They have learned the importance of giving back, and have made a friend I hope can last beyond their years here.

And my wife and I have been graciously allowed by Jarod’s mother to share in his life and achievements. We’re not quite his parents, but we feel a stake nonetheless.

All of this comes from letting an eager and humble student join us for part of our weekend. Not a bad trade-off at all.

ABC of Westport is always looking for families interested in hosting a scholar like Jarod. I encourage everyone to learn more. For more information, email abchostfamilies@gmail.com.

It’s an experience you and your family will never forget.

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Posted in Media, Organizations, People, Staples HS, Teenagers

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A Better Chance: Honoring 15 Years Of Success

Posted on March 7, 2017 | 7 comments

In 2002, A Better Chance of Westport was just a dream.

In the 15 years since, the ABC program has fulfilled dreams. Young men have come from across America to Glendarcy House, on the corner of North Avenue and Cross Highway. They’ve attended Staples High School, and gotten deeply involved in school and community activities.

They’ve gone on to college, and embarked on careers. They’re already getting married. They’re success stories, and Westport should be enormously proud of them.

Steve Daniels sure is.

Steve Daniels

Steve Daniels

The longtime resident of Westport has led quite a life. He captained the University of Pittsburgh soccer team; been a high-level executive at RCA, TWA and Oxford Health; chaired the local United Way board; worked on senior housing with Westport’s Human Services Department, and served on TEAM Westport.

Now 77, he’s involved with his wife Cheryl Scott-Daniels’ real estate firm, CSD Select Homes.

But it’s his stints as president of A Better Chance of Westport that give him special insight into what this town means — to its residents, and those who come here from very different parts of the country.

“I love this place. Make no mistake about that,” Daniels says. “It’s much more welcoming than many other Fairfield County suburbs.”

Still, as an African American — even dressed in a suit and tie — he has been followed around in local stores. And he’s waited to be waited on, while employees ask white shoppers if they need any help.

“ABC is an important part of this community,” Daniels says. “A lot of the scholars come from circumstances that are different from Westport kids’. They have single parents. Their parents might not have degrees. They come from schools that are not as academically rigorous as Staples.”

The 2016-17 A Better Chance of Westport scholars.

The 2016-17 A Better Chance of Westport scholars.

In their new high school, they learn study skills. They choose from a broad range of subjects. They discover an array of college options. They work hard, join clubs and teams. Outside of school, they become involved in community activities.

It’s excellent preparation for “being around people who don’t look like you,” Daniels says — which is what happens after they graduate, head to college, get a job.

“It’s a tough program,” Daniels admits. “They may wonder if it’s worth it.”

In its first few years, ABC directors and many volunteers throughout Westport had to take it on faith that it was worth it.

A Better ChanceNow they know. Since A Better Chance of Westport began, 18 scholars have earned college degrees. Eight more are still in college. Three are in grad school: law, medicine and business.

But the benefits flow both ways.

“Westport is a bit of a bubble,” Daniels says. “We don’t have the worldwide diversity kids will enter into after college. When you grow up here, you can have a misperception of minorities.”

Staples students (and their younger siblings) get to know the ABC scholars. As friends, teammates and through host families, they hear the young men’s stories. They learn about differences — and the similarities they share.

As president, Daniels says, his biggest challenge was “getting young men to understand their potential.” They’d never been exposed to things like how to study; importance of networking; what a “good” college is, or how to do well on SATs.

But, Daniels notes, “they learn they can compete with kids who have much more than they do.”

ABC's Glendarcy House on North Avenue. Scholars spend some weekends with host families.

ABC’s Glendarcy House on North Avenue. Scholars spend some weekends with host families.

In its 15 years, A Better Chance of Westport has accomplished much. It’s given — literally — a better chance to more than two dozen fine young men. They in turn have positively impacted their high school, and the entire town.

Now they themselves are giving back. They’ve formed their own alumni network. They return to Glendarcy House, and are available by phone and email to help the scholars who have followed them to Westport. “That building block is very solid,” Daniels says.

But what’s a success story without a celebration?

Every March, ABC holds a “Dream Event.” This year — on March 25 — the gala honors the organization’s past presidents. Besides Daniels, they’re Lee Bollert, Gail Cohen, Dave Driscoll, Harold Kamins and Eric Seidman.

Sam Larkin and Manny Ogutu, this year's graduating seniors.

Sam Larkin and Manny Ogutu, this year’s graduating seniors.

There’s dinner, an auction and entertainment. But the real draw is the ABC scholars themselves.

There are heartfelt speeches from the graduating seniors (this year: Sam Larkin and Manny  Ogutu). A couple of alumni add their own — now adult — perspectives.

Hearing them speak, I always tear up.

And I always leave feeling good — about these young men, my town, this program, and the importance of the work that so many people like Steve Daniels have done, for 15 great years.

(This year’s “Dream Event” is set for Saturday, March 25 [Birchwood Country Club, 7 p.m.]. For tickets and more information, click here, then scroll down. The online auction goes live on March 17, at the link above.  To donate an item or service to the auction, click here.)

Here’s a look at the day in the life of ABC House:

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Posted in Education, Organizations, People, Staples HS, Teenagers

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ABC House Sequel Is Really A Circle

Posted on September 2, 2016 | 3 comments

Earlier this summer, A Better Chance was on the hunt for host families.

The wonderful program brings students from underserved schools to Westport, to attend Staples and become part of our community.

But it was  having a tough time attracting families to give the ABC scholars a weekend and vacation home away from their new home.

Last year's A Better Chance of Westport scholars.

Last year’s A Better Chance of Westport scholars.

I posted a story/plea. Board member Nancy Yates describes what happened next:

We received many inquiries from interested families after your post. Some decided that hosting might not be for them after all. But many others were enthusiastic about helping out in whatever role we could offer them.

We’re now fully manned with both primary and alternate host families for each of our 8 scholars, as well as a cadre of substitute families eager for an opportunity to fill in as needed.

That’s good news. But this is even better:

Ruben Guardado, speaking at ABC's annual fundraising dinner.

Ruben Guardado, speaking at ABC’s annual fundraising dinner.

The family who will serve as primary hosts for the new freshman whose lack of a host family prompted ABC’s request has a special connection with Ruben Guardado. He’s the former scholar whose photo was featured in the post.

Ruben was a mentor for their older son through a 4th grade book club 5 years ago. It was a very positive experience for Ruben and the young boy.

The son has just entered Staples. He’s now helping the ABC scholar acclimate to Westport.

Nancy says: “This is a perfect illustration of what you remark upon so often in your posts about ABC: The scholars give back to the Westport community, and make the town a better place.

“And now the town — which has shown it does indeed have a heart — is giving a hand up to a scholar who’s destined to repeat the cycle.”

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Posted in Children, Organizations, People, Staples HS

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Westport Falling Short As ABC Hosts

Posted on August 3, 2016 | 7 comments

For well over a decade, A Better Chance of Westport has enriched the lives of youngsters from underserved communities. They in turn have given much back to Staples High School, and our entire town.

It’s not easy for young teenagers to leave homes far away — and very different lives — for Glendarcy House on North Avenue. The resident directors there — where the 8 ABC scholars live during the week — provide vital support and encouragement.

The 2016 A Better Chance of Westport scholars.

The 2016 A Better Chance of Westport scholars.

But they need some breaks. And the teens need to get out, become part of Westport and forge individual identities.

A special part of the ABC program pairs each scholar with a host family. They share every Sunday (except during school breaks), and one full weekend a month.

It’s a win-win. The ABC youngsters enjoy the benefits of a family life away from their real families; they in turn give their host families (including kids) a new perspective on what’s important in life, a window into another culture — and tons of fun.

Last March, at ABC’s annual fundraiser, Deirdre Teed described how excited her children were when they learned their family had been selected to host Thomas Jones. “We won! We won!” they shouted.

Over 4 years, the relationship had its ups and downs. But it grew steadily deeper, Deirdre said — and will last for years.

With Thomas on the brink of graduation, Deirdre repeated — emphatically and tearfully — “We won!”

When ABC scholars speak at the annual fundraiser, they describe with love and awe their relationshp with host families. In 2014, Ruben Guardado spoke with confidence and poise.

When ABC scholars address the annual fundraiser, they describe with love and awe their relationshp with host families. In 2014, Ruben Guardado spoke with confidence and poise.

With so many benefits flowing in both directions, you’d think there would be a long list of Westport families eager to host.

You would be wrong.

Over the years, it’s become increasingly difficult for ABC volunteers to recruit new families. Surprisingly, it’s especially tough to find those with a student or 2 of their own at Staples — the best scenario for a “new kid” trying to fit in there.

In just a few weeks, 3 new scholars arrive. The program is still 1 family short.

That means ABC can’t provide a wonderful 13-year-old coming all the way from California with the support and continuity that are the hallmarks of a host-family relationship.

He’s an honors student who plays alto sax, runs cross country and is an altar server at his church.

He values “communication, cooperation and trust,” and hopes ABC can help him fulfill his potential.

The Westport family lucky to share their lives with him will, in turn, be supported by the ABC organization.

ABC logoEach host family has an alternate family that can step in when life is just too complicated. There’s also a network of volunteers and staff, ready to consult and counsel.

ABC officials are surprised at how tough it’s been to find host families. That’s not the Westport they know. And it’s not the Westport that scholars grow to know, during their wonderful — if not always smooth — years here.

Becoming a host family is not always as easy as 1-2-3. But learning more is as simple as ABC.

For information on becoming a host family, contact Nancy Yates (nyates@post.harvard.edu) or Michael Wolfe (wolfeml@optonline.net).

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Posted in Organizations, People, Staples HS, Teenagers

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Thank You, Barbara Butler!

Posted on June 29, 2016 | 11 comments

A star-studded cast filled the Senior Center this afternoon, to honor Barbara Butler. Town and state officials, longtime volunteers, and the heads of the library and Y — among many others — paid tribute to the head of Westport’s Human Services Department.

But calling Butler — who retires tomorrow, after 27 years of service to the town — a department leader is like calling the Beatles “a band.”

Barbara Butler (right) shares memories with RTM moderator Eileen Flug.

Barbara Butler (right) shares memories with RTM moderator Eileen Flug.

In nearly 30 3 decades here, Butler has overseen every age group from teenagers (Youth Commission, Toquet Hall, Staples High School outreach) to seniors (Senior Center, Baron’s South elderly housing task force).

She’s been involved with tax relief, casework, career coaching and emergency preparedness. She’s helped homeowners pay for oil, and provided suits and dresses for needy Staples grads.

Butler helped found Project Return and the A Better Chance of Westport program.

She’s been a member of the TEAM Westport diversity group, and served with Positive Youth Development and the United Way. She’s a past president of the League of Women Voters.

Next month, the RTM votes on the formation of a new Commission on People with Disabilities. Butler spent her final weeks on the job helping launch that project.

In her spare time, she runs. And rows.

Guests at today's party signed a card for Barbara Butler. That's her in the center, rowing.

Guests at today’s party signed a card for Barbara Butler. That’s her in the center, rowing.

The Senior Center was packed today with her bosses (past and present), colleagues, friends, family and fans.

But if organizers invited everyone Barbara Butler helped over the past 27 years, they would have needed Yankee Stadium.

And still turned folks away.

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Staples Stock Market: As Easy As ABC

Posted on June 1, 2016 | 4 comments

If Greg Preiser grew up in Texas, perhaps he’d be interested in cattle, oil or guns.

But he grew up in Westport, so he’s long been intrigued by the stock market.

The Staples High School junior founded a club, the ABCs of the Stock Market. Members learn about investing by trading hypothetical portfolios, and listening to guest lecturers.

Yet they want to do more than just make make-believe money. Their goal is to donate real funds to a worthy organization. And what better group than another one with ABC in its name: A Better Chance of Westport.

For over a decade, that ABC has brought outstanding, highly motivated minority teenagers to Westport. They live in Glendarcy House on North Avenue, and have made their mark in many areas of Staples: academics, arts, athletics and activities.

This year's ABC house scholars.

This year’s ABC house scholars.

For the past 2 years, ABC Stock Market members have used a trading app to build up their virtual portfolios. They’ve asked friends and family members for pledges based on their virtual profits — up to $100 per sponsor. An anonymous donor agreed to match every donation.

This is no nickel-and-dime operation. Last year, the ABC Stock Market club presented a check for $6,100 to the ABC program. This year, they’ve raised over $12,000.

But Preiser did not stop there.

Last month — to raise awareness of A Better Chance at Staples and throughout Westport — ABC House asked him to organize a teen board of high school students. They sold bracelets with the Staples and ABC logos, and a cell phone accessory with the Staples logo.

But wait! There’s more! 

A 3-on-3 basketball tournament — “May Madness” — drew 22 teams. And raised another $1,000.

Greg Preiser

Greg Preiser (right) with (from left) Christopher Morales, Jacob Bonn, David Li, Andrew Ingber, Thomas Jones, ABC fundraising chair Lori Sochol, Ryan Angerthal, Dylan Dreyfuss and Jarod Ferguson at the “May Madness” tournament. Ingber, Angerthal and Dreyfuss won the event.

Picking stocks is not easy.

Picking an organization to cheer for is. The 2 at the top of my list right now: ABC of Westport, and the ABCs of the Stock Market Club.

(A Better Chance of Westport teen committee members include Gregory Preiser, Jacob Bonn, Lindsay Felner, Sydney Kaplan, Carly Chaskin and Justin Pecoriello.)

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Posted in Organizations, Sports, Staples HS, Teenagers

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Christopher Morales’ American Journey

Posted on March 28, 2016 | 9 comments

Every year, at the A Better Chance of Westport “Dream Event” fundraising gala, the graduating seniors speak. These remarkable young men are always eloquent, passionate and inspiring.

Earlier this month at Birchwood Country Club, it was Christopher Morales’ turn. He motioned to his parents, Enrique and Maria, sitting proudly a few feet away.

“After all of the hardships they faced,” he said, “they are here tonight to watch me deliver this speech.” He noted that they came to America illegally.

To Donald Trump’s dismay, Christopher added, “these Mexicans are nothing but good people.”

The large crowd erupted in supportive applause. Christopher beamed. His parents had tears in their eyes.

The day after his speech, Christopher Morales took his parents, Maria and Enrique, to New York. It was their first visit to the city.

The day after his speech, Christopher Morales took his parents, Maria and Enrique, to New York. It was their first visit to the city.

After his speech — a wonderful, powerful one — several Latino waiters shook his parents’ hands. And his.

“I didn’t realize I’d be a symbol, or make a difference in their lives,” he says.

For 4 years, he’s made a difference in Westport’s life. Now — like so many other ABC graduates – he’s poised to do so on a larger stage.

Christopher Morales (front row, far left) and the rest of the A Better Chance of Westport scholars.

Christopher Morales (front row, far left) and the rest of the A Better Chance of Westport scholars.

The Morales family’s American story began in 1985. Enrique — in his early 20s — left Mexico City. He crossed from Tijuana to San Diego, where he found work cutting fabric. He had documents for US residency, and sent most of his money back to his family.

On a visit home, his brother introduced him to Maria. When Enrique was back in the States, they wrote each other often. In 1990 they married, in Mexico.

They wanted a better life — one they thought they could find in the US. Maria did not have proper documents. So although her new husband did, he crossed illegally with her. They wanted to be together. (They eventually gained US citizenship, and are now proud Americans.)

They lived in Los Angeles, sharing a tiny house with 6 others. Eventually, Enrique and Maria got a small apartment — 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, a living room and kitchen — in the Lincoln Heights neighborhood.

In their early years in Los Angeles, the Morales family joined friends at the Rose Bowl, for a US-Mexico soccer match.

In their early years in Los Angeles, the Morales family joined friends at the Rose Bowl, for a US-Mexico soccer match.

Juliana was born in 1992. Six years later, Christopher arrived. The family has lived there since.

Juliana attends community college in LA. Christopher’s half-brother is about to graduate from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. He is, however, terminally ill with kidney disease.

“My parents never imagined they’d sit in a country club in Westport, hearing their son display Latino pride,” Christopher says.

“I don’t know what hopes my parents had for me, when I was born. But every day they taught me love and humility.”

Christopher Morales rocks his Mexican heritage, in the halls of Staples High School.

Christopher Morales rocks his Mexican heritage, in the halls of Staples High School.

In 6th grade, they found a charter school for him. It was all the way across the city. But it was a bit better than LA’s public schools. He traveled there every day. He made great friends. His teachers challenged him.

He still visits, whenever he is home. “I want to inspire others,” Christopher explains. Then, quoting Dave Sochol — who, with his ABC board member wife Lori, spoke at the gala — Christopher adds, “If you can change 1 person, you can change the world.”

In the fall of 9th grade, Christopher flew across the country to join the ABC program. Staples High School was enormous. He (with the other program scholars) was a minority.

He was welcomed by many students. Some were less open.

“They grew up together. They didn’t feel the need to welcome newcomers. I understand that,” Christopher says.

But he did not want to be “just another kid in the hallways.” Most days, he wears a tie. He broadcast soccer games, and hosted a bilingual music show, on WWPT radio. He joined Staples Players and the French club. He plays recreation soccer, wrote for Eileen Ogintz’s Taking the Kids website, and studied acting and voice through Music Theatre of Connecticut.

Christopher Morales' head shot, for Staples Players. (Photo/Kerry Long)

Christopher Morales’ head shot, for Staples Players. (Photo/Kerry Long)

He has never been a political person. But as the campaign rhetoric has heated up — and as fervent debates take place in his Government class — he’s paid attention.

“We have to welcome everyone — not separate people by their ethnicities,” Christopher says. “We do need smart immigration policy. But it can’t be unrealistic. Politics is not a game.”

That’s one reason he introduced his parents at the ABC gala — and mentioned their illegal immigrant status pointedly.

“My parents sacrificed so much,” he says. “I have a responsibility to make use of my opportunities. Talking about this is a good reminder of my roots.”

A Better ChanceHe was buoyed by the reaction to his comments at the ABC gala. “The audience respects my values,” Christopher says. “Westport is a great community. I can’t share in the wealth that’s here. But by speaking out, with one simple sentence, I may do some good.”

Like many other Staples seniors, Christopher is waiting to hear from colleges. Unlike many, he will be the first in his family to attend a private institution.

He hopes to major in communications. He’s been mentored by Staples’ Mike Zito — and inspired by Jorge Ramos. He’s studied the Univision news anchor — the main source of news for many immigrants — and hopes one day to make a similar difference.

Wherever he goes, and whatever he does, the Westporters who know Christopher are sure he’ll reach that goal.

When he does, we’ll be proud.

But nowhere near as proud as his parents, Enrique and Maria Morales.

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Posted in Education, Media, Organizations, People, Politics, Staples HS, Teenagers

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ABC House Has — And Fulfills — A Dream

Posted on February 25, 2016 | 7 comments

In 2002, A Better Chance of Westport was just a dream.

ABC logoIn the 14 years since, the ABC program has fulfilled dreams. Young men have come from across America to Glendarcy House, on the corner of North Avenue and Cross Highway. They’ve attended Staples High School, and gotten deeply involved in school and community activities.

They’ve gone on to college, and embarked on careers. They’re already getting married. They’re success stories, and Westport should be enormously proud of them.

Every year in March, ABC holds its annual fundraiser. This year, they celebrate a great achievement: They now have 20 graduates.

Quite appropriately, the fundraiser is called ABC’s “Dream Event.”

The evening — set for Saturday, March 19 (7 p.m., Birchwood Country Club) — is always inspiring. One of the highlights is speeches by graduating seniors. Adrian Belvitt, Thomas Jones and Chris Morales — 3 very different young men, with a broad range of talents and experiences — will give insightful talks.

ABC House seniors (from left) Adrian Blevitt, Thomas Jones and Christopher Morales.

ABC House seniors (from left) Adrian Blevitt, Thomas Jones and Christopher Morales.

So will Emerson Lovell. Four years ago, he spoke as an ABC senior. This year, he graduates from Duke University. He’s very active in black politics there, and this fall heads to law school.

He’s just one of nearly 2 dozen young men whose lives have been impacted by ABC House. Shamir Clayton is earning an MBA at the University of Rochester. Jay Dodd is a noted blogger. Wesley Lemon is a chef in North Carolina, is also pursuing a music career (he sings at the Dream Event each year) — and is the 1st ABC House graduate to also have a baby.

Jeffrey Arias got married last year. Charles Winslow can’t make the Dream Event — he’s getting married the same day, to a woman in med school.

“Our mission is to give these young men a better chance,” says Dream Event organizer Lori Sochol. “Through that, they will touch other lives.”

Emerson Lovell

Emerson Lovell

Those are not just warm-and-fuzzy ideals. Emerson Lovell, for example — the Dream Event keynote speaker — inspired his younger sister to go to college. She’s there now.

The Dream Event is one of the highlights of my year. I can’t imagine a more powerful fundraiser.

Or a more fun one. There’s a fantastic auction, which this year will be bigger and better than ever. A new online system allows anyone to bid in real time that night — even if they’re not there. (Pre-bidding begins March 12 — click here for details, then scroll down.)

ABC’s mission is simple, and important: to provide academically gifted, economically disadvantaged and highly motivated African-American, Latino, Asian-American and Native American young men the opportunity to live in our community and study at Staples.

Through an education tough to get in their home communities, it is hoped they’ll assume positions of responsibility and leadership in their careers, communities and families..

With 8 scholars, ABC's Glendary House is at capacity this year.

With 8 scholars, ABC’s Glendary House is at capacity this year.

But the ABC graduates — 20, this June — have given at least as much to Westport

You can meet them, and hear their stories, at the March 19 Dream Event.

When you do, you’ll realize that dreams — the ABC organizers’, the scholars’, and all of ours for a better world — really can come true.

(For tickets, more information and auction details, click on www.ABetterChanceofWestport.org, then scroll down.)

Here’s a look at the day in the life of ABC House:

Here’s a look back at the 2014 Dream Event:

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Give The Gift Of…

Posted on December 1, 2015 | 4 comments

Sure, you could have blown off your family, friends and football, and spent Thanksgiving at a mall.

Or you could have blown off work and the kids, and spent yesterday shopping online, during the made-up holiday called “Cyber Monday.”

But it’s so much better to shop locally. So here — as Christmas creeps up on us, and Chanukah looms even closer (it starts Sunday!) — “06880” presents our 1st-ever Holiday Shopping Guide.

If you’re looking for something that says (or screams) “Westport,” consider:

“The Beautiful Pond.” This just-released book celebrates — in stunning watercolor and text — the historic, versatile and beautiful Sherwood Mill Pond.
A labor of love from Judith Katz and Robin Tauck — with all proceeds benefiting Sound Waters’ academic enrichment programs — it’s available at Barnes & Noble, Earthplace, and online here.

Beautiful Pond cover

A restaurant gift card is always welcome. One of my favorite spots is Kibberia. Located on the Norwalk line, this unpretentious spot serves spectacular Middle Eastern food. Owner Nick Iskandar is one of the truly good guys, and deserves all the support we can give him.

Kibberia

A bit pricier — and like Kibberia, not always on everyone’s radar — is Positano. This summer the Scarpati family relocated from Old Mill Beach to the site of the old Dressing Room, next to the Westport Country Playhouse. It’s a beautiful space, with the same regional Italian cuisine and family atmosphere diners have loved for years. Mangia!

Positano

From Positano, stroll a few feet to the Playhouse. Gift certificates are available there too, for events from the 2016 season to the Family Festivities series and Script in Hand play readings. Too often, Westporters overlook this cultural (and very cool) gem.

Playhouse logo

Speaking of food, the Farmers Market (winter version) is open Saturdays, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Gilberties’ Herb Gardens on Sylvan Lane. You may not always think of artisanal breads and cheeses, meats, baked goods, seasonal vegetables and hydroponically grown salad greens as holiday gifts, but there’s also organic maple syrup, interesting teas, dog biscuits and the like. Hey, I’m just trying to offer some only-in-Westport choices…

Westport farmers market logo

The chainification strangling Main Street is thankfully absent from Saugatuck. That neighborhood is still home to unique shops. The funkiest, friendliest and most fun of all may be Indulge by Mersene. From her digs on Railroad Place directly across from the train station, Mersene (like Cher and Adele, she needs only one name) sells a melange of gifts. Local artisans’ works, gourmet foods, decorative pillows, jewelry, home decor — it’s all there. The owner is as much an attraction as her goods — and that’s saying something.

Mersene, with some of her many unique creations.

Mersene, with some of her many unique creations.

A couple of steps from Indulge by Mersene is Suited.co. This men’s store — offering custom-tailored suits, blazers and shirts — is a cut apart from traditional clothing shops. The fabrics and selections are both classic and hip. Suited.co is a little fish in a big sartorial pond, but definitely worth checking out.

Suited.co

If you’re one of those who look for worthy causes at the holidays — and I sure hope you do — you don’t have to look far. Some of my favorites in Westport are A Better Chance, Al’s Angels, Homes With Hope, Project Return and Staples Tuition Grants. Many others — including those just beyond our borders, like Mercy Learning Center and the Adam J. Lewis Preschool — do amazing work (and have amazing needs).

ABC logo

You can add your own special organization to the list. I’m sure you’ve got other gift ideas too. I’ve only scratched the surface. Click “Comments” below, to share your favorites with the very giving, very generous “06880” community.

WHS 06880 towels

Bonus idea: Why not give “06880” itself? You’ll find items like these at the Westport Historical Society.

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Posted in Downtown, Local business, Organizations, Restaurants, Saugatuck

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Luis Cruz Dreams Big — And Makes Us All Proud

Posted on March 31, 2015 | 8 comments

Every March, the A Better Chance “Dream Event” is one of the greatest feel-good galas of the year.

Each time, the graduating seniors’ speeches are the highlights of the entire evening.

But Luis Cruz’s speech Saturday night to an overflow crowd ranks among the best ever.

The only senior among this year’s 8 ABC scholars, he wowed the crowd with his insights, passion and compassion. Here is an edited version of his remarks:

This program has meant a lot to me and my family. It is because of people like you that I was given this opportunity — to live in one of the best communities in the entire country.

The 2014-15 A Better Chance scholars. Luis Cruz is 2nd from right.

The 2014-15 A Better Chance scholars. Luis Cruz is 2nd from right.

Leaving Newark to see the A Better Chance program for the 1st time, I was filled with mixed emotions. I wasn’t sure if I was ready to leave the life I knew — the ice cream trucks marking the rhythm of the day as they repeatedly passed my apartment; seeing and hearing kids playing in the open fire hydrants, and watching the sea of kids riding their bicycles toward the park, which I used to do every Friday with my friends, until my mom took away my bike because she didn’t want me to get hit by a car.

Pulling into Westport I saw big homes, with big yards, with big cars, parked in front of their big homes. There was grass everywhere — green and perfectly trimmed. Instead of crowds of people, there was a parade of SUVs. Joggers and deer shared the roads.

I remembered my middle school, with its security guards in every hallway. In Newark there were fist fights, food fights and paper fights. My classmates cared only about their reputation and looking fresh. No one really cared about school.

In Westport, it’s pretty funny to me that the richest kids come to school looking so ruffled. Kids in Newark wouldn’t be caught dead looking that poor.

When the principal visited a class in Newark, that meant another lecture. In Westport, it means that Mr. Dodig wants to know how I’m fitting in and what I did last weekend.

A Better ChanceThe A Better Chance program has allowed me to take advantage of many opportunities in Westport. I have grown a lot from all of these experiences, especially from joining the great athletic programs at Staples.

Luis explained how — although he was “a bad soccer player and a terrible runner,” and had a very difficult time with the fitness demands — freshman coach Chris O’Dell took him aside.

He asked me the most important question of my teen life: “Do you want to keep going? It won’t get any easier from here.”

I hesitated, as I was in such pain and agony.

I just went with my gut.

“Yes, Coach O’Dell. I’ll take that challenge.” From that day on, I never looked back.

Luis fell in love with running. He joined the indoor and outdoor track teams. He worked hard, and improved steadily. The next fall he ran cross country. To laughter, he said, “I didn’t even know that was a sport.”

Luis Cruz: cross country star.

Luis Cruz: cross country star.

At the New England Outdoor Championship, in spring of sophomore year, Luis earned  All-New England status.

I was so proud of myself. I wanted to tell everyone what I had just accomplished. The only sad part was that my parents weren’t there to see it. All I could do was send them a video and show them my medal. But what really counted is that they knew I had worked hard for this.

That day marked my growth as a runner, from the slowest to the fastest. That is the physical evidence of the powerful impact of A Better Chance. I learned something these past 4 years: “If no one else sees it for you, you must see it for yourself.”

Luis Cruz at the A Better Chance Dream Event, flanked by his teammate and great friend Oliver Hickson, and his track coach Laddie Lawrence.

Luis Cruz at the A Better Chance Dream Event, flanked by his teammate and great friend Oliver Hickson, and his track coach Laddie Lawrence. (Photo/Jessica Sochol)

Luis traveled to Costa Rica, for a summer program. It opened his eyes to even more possibilities.

I realized that humans have the power to make a difference. This is why I am considering becoming an engineer. Solving real-world problems, using my talents in mathematics, is how I want to effect positive change in the world.

On the surface, it was an easy decision to join A Better Chance, to go to a school with all the resources a student could possibly need. My mother and father were proud of me for making the decision to explore a different way of life, yet they were silent on the car ride to Connecticut. We all knew that the next 4 years were ones we wouldn’t get back in terms of being a family.

My parents never got to see me pick my first pumpkin. They missed the chance to see me break the 5-minute-mile barrier. They never got to see me play soccer on a team with uniforms and real cleats. They weren’t there to comfort me when I lost a race for my team because I dropped the baton.

But they will be there when I graduate high school. And I know they will be there when I graduate college!

A proud Luis Cruz, and his equally proud family.

A proud Luis Cruz, and his equally proud family. (Photo/Jessica Sochol)

It has been difficult at times, living between 2 very different communities and cultures. But the sacrifice has paid off in my achievements, both academically and socially.

I will have more choices than my parents had. I marvel now that my parents have survived in a country where they barely speak the languages. I am also amazed and thankful that they realized that education is the key to a better life.

After thanking his parents emotionally — “Te amo Mami y Papi. Gracias para todo” — Luis concluded:

My parents and I talk nearly every day. They are nothing like typical teen conversations. I have so much to say to them, because all of my experiences are new to all of us. I remember buying my 1st pair of Sperry Topsiders. While that is not an event worth discussing for some, for me it was a milestone. My parents and I talked about it forever — once I told them that they were shoes.

Now, in less than 3 months I will become the 1st person in my immediate family to go to college. Just like Forrest Gump, I went from being average to being a winner.

I am Luis Cruz, aka Papi, your friend. Thank you!

(To learn more about A Better Chance, click here.)

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Posted in Education, Organizations, People, Sports, Staples HS, Teenagers

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