Tag Archives: Abilis

Roundup: Shake It For Shea, Spring For Abilis, Drew Angus In Concert …

Posted on April 13, 2025 | 3 comments

Just hours after she was born 9 weeks early, in June of 2022, Shea Greenfield’s heart stopped beating.

Doctors saved her life. But she was diagnosed with Long QT Syndrome. Her heart’s electrical system takes longer than usual to recharge between beats. She is at risk of fainting, seizures, cardiac arrest and sudden death.

There is no cure for the condition. And Shea’s condition is one of the most severe her doctors have ever seen.

Shea’s parents, Mark and Kira, had moved to Westport a year earlier. In addition to educating themselves about LQTS, they began raising funds for the Mayo Clinic, where Dr. Michael Ackerman’s team does cutting-edge research.

In 2023, the Greenfields organized a fundraiser. They raised an eye-popping $290,000 for Dr. Ackerman’s lab. 

Last year’s event was even bigger: $440,000.

This year, they’re shooting for half a million.

The 3rd annual Shake It For Shea gala is May 8 (7:30 p.m., The Knowlton, Bridgeport). There’s live entertainment by the Bobby Attiko Band, delicious food and drinks, a night of dancing, and much more.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

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A much older — and also very important — non-profit is Abilis

For nearly 75 years, they’ve provided services and support for individuals of all ages with special needs and disabilities. Today they serve over 800 people, and their families.

Abilis sponsors residential homes in Westport, and run REACH and LEAP support programs here too.

Abilis also works with employers in the area, including the Westport Book Shop and Westport Library.

The upcoming Spring for Abilis gala (May 17, Greenwich Country Club) features emcee Billy Blanks Jr., music by ETA, dinner, dancing, silent and live auctions, and a chance to purchase much-needed items for Abilis’ programs like diapers, books, and educational games. The event is co-chaired by Gena Mann of Weston.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

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The next local appearance for 2007 Staples High School graduate Drew Angus — whose fans include Jennifer Lopez, Elton John and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson — is April 25 (SHU Community Theater, Fairfield).

Click here for tickets, and more information.

Drew Angus

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Gilbert Maurer — a former Westporter, former chief operating officer of Hearst, and trustee of the trust established by William Randolph Hearst — died April 6 at his home in Palm Beach, Florida. He was 96.

“Gil Maurer lived a remarkable life,” says Steven Swartz, Hearst president and CEO. “He helped build the modern Hearst corporation and kept working on it until the day he died. He was an artist, a civic leader, a savvy investor and philanthropist, and with his wife Ann he built a great family and found time to travel the world many times over.

As COO, Maurer was instrumental in Hearst’s diversification into broadcast and digital media, and other business ventures. As president of Hearst Magazines for 14 years, ad revenues more than quadrupled. He helped the company invest in Lifetime, A&E, History and ESPN.

He was instrumental in hiring Norman Foster to design Hearst Tower in 1999 — a move that changed both New York City’s skyline and the image of Hearst itself.

Descended from artist Alfred Maurer, he and his wife of 69 years, Ann, created the Maurer Family Foundation to support the arts in America.

Maurer was a trustee of the Whitney Museum of American Art, serving as president of the board from 1993 to 1998. He was also a trustee and director of the Norton Museum of Art in Palm Beach, a member of the Dean’s Council at the Yale School of Architecture, an overseer of the California Institute of the Arts,  member of the Greater New York advisory board of The Salvation Army, a member of the board of nanagers of the New York Botanical Gardens, chair of the board of visitors of the Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern University, and member of the board of visitors to the art museums at Harvard.

His daughter Meredith Hutchison says that Westport was a special place for her parents. Her father walked often at Compo Beach, dressed nicely with a hat and cane.

An artist himself, Gilbert Maurer painted this Hillspoint Road scene.

Maurer was predeceased by his wife. He is survived by his children Christopher, David, Peter, Jonathan and Meredith, their spouses, 11 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren.

Memorial services will be held in Palm Beach and New York City. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations to the Norton Museum, The Society of the Four Arts, the Whitney Museum of American Art and Yale School of Architecture.

Gilbert Maurer

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The cormorants are back at Burying Hill Beach — and Johanna Keyser Rossi photographed these 2, for “Westport … Naturally.”

(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

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And finally … on this date in 1742, George Frideric Handel’s oratorio “Messiah” made its world premiere in Dublin. Hallelujah!

(Go ahead — click to watch the video above. It’s a beautiful 2 1/2 hours. Then, if you get a chance, please click here to support “06880.” One day, 2 important clicks. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Polar Plunge, Pizza, Post-Ruth Mannes …

Posted on January 2, 2025 | Comments Off on Roundup: Polar Plunge, Pizza, Post-Ruth Mannes …

Usually, the New Year’s Day Polar Plunge experience involves wading quickly into — and even more quickly out of — Long Island Sound.

This year’s experience was better — as in, warmer. At least, the air was not frigid yesterday.

There were 3 Polar Plunges yesterday, at Compo Beach. All were special experiences — especially the one that raised funds for Experience Camps.

That’s the Westport-based national, no-cost program for grieving children who have experienced the death of a parent, sibling or primary caregiver. The Polar Plunge celebrated the opening of their newest location, set for KenMont and KenWood Camp in Kent, Connecticut this August.

Missed the Plunge (by mistake, or on purpose)? You can still donate. Just click here.

Click here for Dave Briggs’ video.

 

(Photo/Dave Briggs)

A bit later, this was the scene at the Polar Plunge to benefit Abilis:

(Photo/June Rose Whittaker)

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Forget s’mores and hot cocoa. Winter is really pizza time.

All winter long, Tony Pizza Napolitano continues making his wood-fired, Neopolitan/Brooklyn-style pies at Wakeman Town Farm.

Every Monday, he posts his weekly menu on his Facebook page (TonyPizzaNapolitano and confirms) whether he will be at the Farm (usually Tuesday).

Then: Pick it up. And enjoy!

Tony Pizza Napolitano, at Wakeman Town Farm’s wood-fired oven.

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There is always something new at MoCA CT.

Soon, there will be a new executive dirctor.

After 5 years at the Newtown Turnpike institution, Ruth Mannes has stepped down.

MoCA CT is searching for a new executive director.

Durng her tenure, 100,000 visitors have enjoyed 26 exhibitions by artists like Helmet Lang, Anselm Reyle, and Ann Weiner, plus 60 musical performances by Wynton Marsalis, Samara Joy, the Danish String Quartet and others.

MoCA has become the home of the Heida Hermanns International Music Competition, while Camp MoCA and other programs have served 4,000 learners of all ages.

A search committee has begun the process of appointing Mannes’ successor. Questions, nominations and resumes can be sent to careers@mocact.org.

Ruth Mannes (Photo/Kerry Long)

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Last night marked the final day of Hanukkah. There were plenty of happy faces at Steve and Linda Stein’s house — including this one:

(Photo/Linda and Steve Stein)

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Before the New Year’s Eve thunder, there was this bank of clouds over Saugatuck Shores.

A final sendoff to a stormy 2024? An omen of the year to come?

Or just a mesmerizing photo for “Westport … Naturally”?

You decide.

(Photo/Lou Rolla)

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And finally … Roger Miller was born on this date in 1936. The country music singer/songwriter died in 1992, at 56, from lung and throat cancer.

(Did we mention it’s a new year? And that means you can make a 2025 contribution to support “06880”? Just click here — and thank you!)

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Roundup: Marigny, Lyman, Polar Plunge …

Posted on December 25, 2024 | Comments Off on Roundup: Marigny, Lyman, Polar Plunge …

For the second year in a row, our friends in Westport’s sister city of Lyman, Ukraine have enjoyed a better Christmas, thanks to the generosity of our friends in our other sister city: Marigny-Le-Lozon, France.

In the years following World War II, Westporters sent hundreds of holiday gifts to the boys and girls of the small Normandy town. They never forgot Westport. (The name lives on, in a plaza, pharmacy and Town Hall meeting room.)

Two years ago, our Marigny amis suggested we both help another war-torn town, 80 years later.

Since then, Lyman — in the Donetsk region, not far from invading Russian troops — has received much-needed support from Westport and Marigny.

The most recent gifts were to 500 youngsters, many of whom have been forced from their homes. Thanks to Marigny, they will still have Christmas.

Plans are underway for the children of Lyman to correspond with their counterparts in France.

Of course, the need for help in Lyman remains great. Westporters are now raising funds to send students there to a therapeutic camp in the Carpathian Mountains. They’ll reunite with friends, while teachers and counselors help them feel like kids again.

To donate, please click here. Under “Designation,” choose “Westport-Lyman sister city” from the dropdown menu. You can also choose a monthly or one-time donation. If you use the mail or Venmo option, please make a note: “For Westport-Lyman.”

Christmas in Ukraine.

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The long-range forecast predicts a temperature of 47 on New Year’s Day.

And rain.

The warm temperature is good news for Polar Plungers. The rain — hey, when you jump in Long Island Sound on January 1, you’ll get wet anyway.

The Polar Plunge — set for 11 a.m. New Year’s Day, at Compo Beach — is Abilis’ annual fundraiser.

For 74 years, the non-profit has provided programs and services for children and adults of all abilities from birth throughout their lives, with day, transition, employment and residential programs.

The “Freezin’ for a Reason” Polar Plunge will raise funds for Abilis’ Gardens & Gifts Shop. Located in Greenwich, it provides retail job skills training and meaningful employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

For more information about Abilis’ Compo Beach Polar Plunge, and to register, click here.

Freezin’ for a reason, on January 1, 2024.

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Another great organization is Catch a Lift. The national non-profit provides gym memberships and home gym equipment to help wounded post-9/11 service members heal physically and mentally, through physical fitness.

For the past decade, Westport has had a special relationship with Catch A Lift. Residents have donated funds, welcomed veterans, and joined in workouts at venues like the police station, VFW, beach and Birchwood Country Club.

The vets give plenty back in return — as role models, and  serving as “angels” for children, teens and adults with disabilities through myTeamTriumph.

Catch a Lift has completed another successful, important year. Whether you’ve been involved with them or not, you’ll find the video of this year’s 10th annual event — held on the September 11 weekend at the Patterson Club — very inspiring.

Then click below, for the 2024 Catch a Lift highlight reel:

To learn more about Catch a Lift — including how to donate — click here. (Hat tip: Adam Vengrow)

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Getting back to cold weather sports:

Bob Weingartens spotted this scene during yesterday morning’s brief snowfall, on Hillandale Road:

He writes: “Teens are never cold. But I was.”

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Our “Westport … Naturally” feature often includes beach scenes and/or dogs. One canine in particular — Patricia McMahon’s Levon — is a regular subject.

Reindeer: never.

Of course, there’s a first time for everything …

(Photo collage/Patricia McMahon)

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And finally … if it’s Christmas, it’s time for the Greatest Christmas Song Ever.

Of course, it comes courtesy of our good friend and neighbor José Feliciano.

It’s unclear in the video below who is having more fun: the audience or José.

But who cares? Feliz Navidad indeed!

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Roundup: Easter Baskets, Rising Sisters, Abilis Gala …

Posted on March 26, 2023 | 1 comment

It’s an Easter tradition: custom-made baskets, filled to the brim and beautifully decorated, from Savvy + Grace.

Savvy shoppers can click here for the website. Call 203-221-0077. Email savvyandgracewestport@gmail.com.

Or go old school: walk in and shop local (146 Main Street).

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Women’s History Month ends Friday.

But “Rise Up, Sisters!” — a traveling exhibit from the Connecticut Women’s Hall of Fame, chronicling a diverse group of women instrumental in the suffrage movement — opens a 3-week run at the Weston History & Culture Center April 16. The exhibit ends May 7. It’s open Sundays and Thursdays, from 1-4 p.m.

The many different stories include the Smith sisters of Glastonbury, who spoke up about injustices against women and helped to spark others to follow in their footsteps, and Alice Paul, who put her life on the line to force the issue on a national level.

For more information, click here.

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Abilis — the nonprofit providing services and support to more than 800 individuals with special needs and their families — celebrates its annual Spring for Abilis Gala April 29, at Darien’s Woodway Country Club.

Leslie Smith Clarke of Westport — mother of a young adult who enjoys Abilis services — co-chairs the event.

Billy Blanks Jr. — a longtime Abilis supporter — is the celebrity emcee. There’s music from ETA, dinner, dancing, and live and silent auctions.

It’s the first post-COVID in-person gala. Click here for tickets, and more information.

Bidding opens soon for the Abilis Giving Garden and Art Gallery, with one-of-a-kind artwork created by the program participants, along with silent auction items.

The Giving Garden is also where supporters can purchase items for Abilis’ programs, like diapers, educational games and books for the Birth to Three program.

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Former Staples High School guidance department chair Bob Hanf died last week. He was 79 years old.

The Massachusetts native earned a liberal arts degree from Harvard College in 1965, and a master’s in guidance from the Harvard School of Education a year later.

He began his career in education with the Westport Public Schools, and remained there for 34 years until his 2000 retirement. His impact on thousands of students — and his entire department — was profound.

After retiring, Bob and his late wife Kathy moved to Upper Arlington, Ohio. He helped many students in Columbus Schools prepare for college, as a volunteer with the Project Grad program.

The couple met at a conference. They shared their first meal together at (coincidentally) Bob and Kathy’s Diner. They married in 1998 in Rhode Island where Bob had summered with his family most of his life, enjoying sailing, kayaking, and rooting for the Red Sox.

Bob is survived by his sons Rob (Mary) and Mike (Laura) Zelch; grandchildren Zoe, Chloe, Bailey, Zachary, and Michael; sister Marion DeTora (Andy); niece Andrea DeTora Reagan (Brian)l grand-niece Caitlin and grand-nephew Daniel.  

Bob’s life will be celebrated in a private memorial service. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Kobacker House Hospice in Columbus, OH.

Bob Hanf

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Longtime Westporter Glenn Gerry, died earlier this month, after a long illness. He was predeceased by his wife of 63 years, Louise (Weezie) in 2011.

The Providence native moved to Greens Farms at 16 with his family. He graduated from Staples High School the next year.

After 2 semesters at Yale University and a 1- year tour of duty in the Navy (where he spent time painting the USS Coral Sea in Chesapeake Bay), he attended the University of Connecticut before moving back to Westport to work as a carpenter to support his growing family.

Glenn never gave up on achieving higher education. He attended the University of Bridgeport at night, graduating with a BS in electrical engineering in 1970.

He worked at the Burndy Corporation and Pitney-Bowes for many years, before becoming a quality  control engineer and traveling throughout the U.S. and Mexico. He branched out to freelance contracting before retiring.

Glenn loved music. He was a tenor with the Greens Farms Church choir. He also filled in at the Unitarian Church, and sang with the Westport Madrigal Singers for many years.

His family says: “Known as a constant teacher of all things, Glenn was the person his grandchildren went to with math and science homework. All his children learned to care for a car at an early age. He taught us how to paint a house, bait a hook, identify constellations and skate on our little pond behind our Morningside Drive house, which Glenn built with family help in 1955.

“Glenn was known as a ‘baby whisperer’ among his family. He always had an aura of peace and safety around him. Somehow he was able to impart that peace to a squalling infant.

“He opened his house over decades to his sister, friends of his children and friends of grandchildren as a safe house while they contemplated their next life move. It was also the place to be for Friday folk music sing-alongs in the ’60s.

“Most of all, Glenn should be remembered for his early strikes at social injustice. While working at Burndy during the ’60s he befriended a man of color, and a recently emigrated German man. They had trouble fitting in. He hosted those men and their families to dinner at our house. InclusionGlenn always insisted on inclusion.”

“Glenn will be missed by all who knew his quiet, yet always accepting, self. His ability to commune without words, just sitting together. His way of “taking the back roads, rather than the highway. And always his profound love for his wife, Louise (Weezie), who died in 2011.

Glenn is survived by his children Michael of Riverside, California, Stephen of Redding Ridge, Judith Platt of Randleman, North Carolina and Evelyn Gerry Eastman of Norway, Maine; siblings George (Cliff) Clifford of Hendersonville, North Carolina, Connie Testani of Shelton, and Linda Clifford of Nokomis, Florida; 7 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, and 1 great0great grandchild; a nephew and 3 nieces.

To leave condolences for the family, click here. Services will be announced at a later date.

Glenn Gerry

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Laurie Sorensen’s tête à tête daffodils serve as a welcome “Westport … Naturally” reminder that spring is already here.

Yesterday’s weather notwithstanding.

(Photo/Laurie Sorensen)

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And finally … happy 78th birthday to Diana Ross.

Years ago, I walked into Atticus Book Store & Café on Main Street. The moment I entered, I sensed something was going on. There was energy and excitement in the place, but I had no idea why.

It took a few minutes to realize that the woman Billboard named “Female Entertainer of the Century” in 1976 was sitting at the counter.

Everyone gave her her space. Just like fellow (but lesser) Supremes Mary, Flo and Cindy knew, you didn’t mess with Miss Diana.

But boy, was it fun watching her eat lunch.

At the 2:05 mark below, Diana Ross’ earring falls off. Watch her catch it like a pro!

(Diana Ross makes everyone smile. You can put a smile on our “06880” face: Please click here to support this blog. Thank you!)

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Jay Petrow: Parenting Challenges Provide Inspiration For Art, Life

Posted on May 27, 2021 | 10 comments

Jay Petrow has had quite a life.

He studied at Middlebury College (with a BA in studio art and biology), the School of Visual Arts, New York Botanical Garden and Silvermine School of Art. He’s both an artist and a landscape designer.

He’s also the father of an autistic son. Today he writes about the joys and challenging of parenting.

Fathering a son with autism has been the most difficult challenge of my life, but it’s also brought me to deep and unexpected places.

William, now 28, was born as perfect and loving as any child. Only when he failed to meet developmental milestones did we begin to wonder if something was amiss.

Unfortunately, our worry proved to be founded. In the many years since then we’ve dealt with William’s repetitive, sometimes merely aggravating, but at other times aggressive behaviors, on a daily basis, often making it a struggle to get through the day.

Jay Petrow, with William.

Yes, there were tremendous highs, such as when my son could finally say, “I love you, Dad.” Or when we would all laugh playing endless hours of UNO with any guest who happened to stop by.

But there were dark days, when William would bang his head against the floor because he was frustrated and had no words to tell us that. Later, there were other days when we had to call the police to help keep us safe from his rage-filled outbursts.

For years my emotions were raw, yet dulled, by the constant vigilance needed to keep William learning and safe. and his behaviors in check.

Eventually, as a survival strategy for my mental health, I returned to creating art as the outlet for expressing my emotions. After graduating with a fine arts major from Middlebury College, I had put aside being an artist to pursue a career in magazine design.

But 32 years later, I needed my art in a new way. This time I wasn’t interested in painting portraits or landscapes — or any real objects–as I had done in my earlier life. Now, I was compelled to explore what was going on inside of me. And there was a lot going on.

That’s how my journey into an abstract expressionist style of painting began. Throwing paint against the canvas and using my fingers and brushes to work the surface was exhilarating for me. Anger, hurt, fear, love and joy poured out of me.

Jay Petrow’s “Relentless” (acrylic on canvas).

Instead of painting inanimate objects, I was now painting who I am. In the moment. I had found meaning in my art, and I had put art back into my life.

My paintings develop on a subconscious level of interaction of my emotions and energy, and visualizing what’s happening on the canvas as I layer on colors and textures. Maintaining a conversation from within and without, the work becomes a place that I inhabit, and if successful, a place that others can venture into as well.

What I discovered about myself was more than just an untapped love for creating abstract paintings. Amazingly, through an often dark and winding path, I discovered the light within me. I will forever be grateful to William for giving me the greatest gift anyone could give: He showed me the light.

Jay Petrow, with “Metamorphosis” (acrylic on canvas).

It is because of my experience with William that I now pursue my art with great passion. I have been to 4 artist residencies over the last couple of years, and I recently took a lease on a studio space in Bridgeport’s American Fabric Arts Building.

As a way to give back to William and all those who support him, I am donating 20 percent of every painting I sell to Abilis (https://www.abilis.us/). Abilis manages the home where William now lives, and provides support and services to over 800 individuals with special needs in Fairfield County. My goal is to donate over $100,000 to Abilis during my lifetime (or afterwards) to help those families that need this kind of support.

I recently sold a large painting to 2 collectors in New Mexico, so the first step in reaching my goal has been taken. To see more of my work click here, jaypetrowfineart.com, or follow me on Instagram or Facebook.

And from now through June 7 you can see my work at 47 Main Street, a gallery for a rotating roster of artists from The Artists Collective of Westport.

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Roundup: Bus Accident, Sundance, Itzhak Perlman …

Posted on May 11, 2021 | 2 comments

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There’s a “For Lease” sign outside the old Post Road West building, near Wright Street.

But, Frank Rosen notes, the building is in disrepair. Paint is peeling; shingles are askew. It will take a lot more than a new tenant to bring back some of the beauty to this once-handsome mansion-turned-office.

Demolition by neglect?

(Photo/Frank Rosen)

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There was a school bus accident yesterday, on Easton Road near Bayberry Lane. In the photo below, a small car was wedged under the far side of the bus.

Sandy Rothenberg says: “I have traveled this intersection for the past 35 years. It has become increasingly dangerous. The sight lines are very limited, and cars fly around the curve on Easton Road towards Westport. A very small sign indicates ‘slow curve.’ I hope this brings needed attention and improvements to this road.”

(Photo/Sandy Rothenberg)

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Sundance has opened on Main Street — by appointment only, anyway.

A sign on the former Anny Taylor store instructs shoppers to scan a QR code, for a link to an email.

No word yet on when the physical doors will open.

(Photo/Amy Schneider)

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Don’t miss Itzhak Perlman in Westport!

Tickets are still available for the Westport Library’s “Booked for the Evening” event this Thursday (May 13, 7 p.m.).

This year’s livestreamed “Booked” fundraiser will include videos, live musical tributes, and a conversation with Perlman that is just for this audience. No recording will be made of the program.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

Itzhak Perlman

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Speaking of the Library: One of the “star attractions” of the transformed space is Verso Studios. The state-of-the-art audio and broadcast studios can help anyone become a music, podcast, video or audiobook star.

Yesterday, the library launched a new Verso Studios website. Click here to watch and listen to a wide variety of recordings, podcasts and videos — and to find out how to use the studios yourself.

Part of the Westport Library’s Verso Studios.

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In March, “06880” reported on a proposal by Abilis to turn 136 Riverside Avenue into a home for special needs affordable housing.

The Planning & Zoning Commission has granted a permit for a second floor addition, interior and exterior renovations, and site work for apartments for 4 special needs people, and another unit for an income-eligible staff member.

More approvals are needed. But this is good news for special needs individuals and their families. And it’s 5 more important affordable housing units for our town.

136 Riverside Avenue.

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Dr. Anthony Fauci and former 2nd Selectman/Board of Finance chair Avi Kaner shared a stage last night.

The New York Board of Rabbis honored both men with Humanitarian Awards , for their work during the pandemic.

Dr. Fauci’s contributions are well known. Kaner’s may be less famous. But the co-owner of Morton Williams Supermarkets was cited for the work his family-owned business did during the pandemic.

Morton Williams stores never closed. Employees kept working; senior executives ensured that the supply chain continued.

The company became a lifeline to New York. They worked with the CDC to adjust trucking regulations so that truckers would be comfortable making deliveries. They were among the first in the nation to set aside special hours for seniors and immunocompromised customers; they lobbied aggressively for mask use, and ensured that supermarket workers were included in phase 1B of the state’s vaccinations.

Click below for a clip of the introduction:

Click below for Kaner’s speech:

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Thomas Quealy spotted this on North Compo Road.

“Time to update our signs,” he says.

(Photo/Thomas Quealy)

He’s right. The Westport Arts Center moved over a year ago from Riverside Avenue to Newtown Turnpike.

In fact, it no longer exists. It’s now called MoCA Westport.

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Staples High School Class of 2019 graduate Anthony Salgado met Pierce Slutzky years ago, at Camp Laurel. Anthony says:

“Pierce was an amazing kid who was taken from us at age 17. He was diagnosed with brain cancer at age 14, and tirelessly fought medulloblastoma for 3 years.

“Pierce did not complain. He continued in high school, achieving an A average and making National Honor Society and Foreign Language Society.

“It is my honor to ask people to join in a CT Challenge bike ride to keep Pierce’s fight alive forever. I want to help those who are currently diagnosed, and those who may be diagnosed in the future.” Click here for the link.

Pierce Slutzky

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” shot comes from Roseann Spengler. She spotted this cute couple by the Saugatuck River:

(Photo/Roseann Spengler)

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And finally … Lloyd Price died last week in New Rochelle, from complications of diabetes. He was 88.

He had “Personality.” He had many other hits, including “Stagger Lee” and “Lawdy Miss Clawdy.” He’s a Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee. He led quite a life inside and outside of music. Click here for a full obituary.

 

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Roundup: Aquarion, Abilis, Art …

Posted on May 8, 2021 | Comments Off on Roundup: Aquarion, Abilis, Art …

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Do you know a person, business or organizations in Connecticut dedicated to environmental protection and sustainability?

Connecticut’s water utility wants to honor them, with an Aquarion Environmental Champion Award.

Winners will join previous honorees, including Sikorsky, Bigelow Tea, Pratt & Whitney, the Trust for Public Land and Pomperaug River Watershed Coalition.

Winners in the Adult, Non-Profit Organization, Large Business, Small Business, and Communications categories can select an environmental non-profit to receive a $2,500 grant. The winner of the Student category (grades 9-12) will receive a $1,000 award.

Click here for details.

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COVID has done 3 things, all related:

  • Postponed United Methodist Church’s annual giant tag sale for 2 years in a row.
  • Spurred many Westporters to clean their closets, cupboards and bathrooms.
  • Decreased donations to non-profits that provide items to clients.

On Saturday, May 15 and Monday, May 17 (10 a.m. to 1 p.m.), there’s a solution to all 3. That’s when you can drop off items at the church (49 Weston Road).

Here’s what’s needed:

Gently used items: baby clothes, children’s clothes (ages 4-10), youth clothing for teenagers (desperately sought!), men’s and women’s suits, pajamas, jackets, t-shirts, dress shirts, shoes of all sizes and designs (dress, sneakers, sandals, etc.), socks, dishware, cups, glasses of all sorts, suitcases, traveling bags.

New items: hair products (shampoo, conditioner), skincare products, deodorant, toothpaste, floss, sunscreen, nail clippers, razors, soaps, lip balm, moisturizer, lotion, hairbrushes, shower gel, shaving cream, mouthwash, wet wipes, diapers, canned foods, Jersey Mike’s gift cards worth $10 and $20 (for homeless youth).

Items should be sorted (gently used, new), packed into large plastic garbage bags, and labeled clearly (for example, “Children’s Clothing” in one bag, “Shoes” in another).

They’ll be distributed to Person to Person, Bridgeport Rescue Mission, Summerfield United Methodist Church, and agencies working with the Greater Bridgeport Council of Churches.

Questions: email ganderson24@optonline.net or kbrumit@optonline.net.

United Methodist Church, 49 Weston Road. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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People with disabilities face many challenges. So do their siblings.

Abilis — the non-profit that helps hundreds of special needs families — holds a “Sibshops” workshop on May 19 (5 to 6:30 p.m., Zoom). It’s open to area children ages 10 to 14 whose brother or sister has a disability.

Sibshops are “high-spirited, fun workshops that combine recreation, discussion and information.” They provide safe spaces for siblings to share thoughts and feelings, while meeting others in similar circumstances and learning about the services their brother or sister receives. Click here to register. Questions? Email schulte@abilis.us.

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Art has helped many people through the past (very difficult) year.

A new virtual exhibit — “The Healing Power of Art” — shows viewers exactly how that happens.

It features works from 18 artists, including Westporters Rebecca Fuchs, Dorothy Robertshaw and Lisa Stretton.

Art can be purchased directly through the website, at various prices. Click here for the virtual show; click here for a video on how to navigate through it.

“Sherwood Umbrellas,” by Ceal Swift

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Lauren Weisberger’s novel The Devil Wears Prada, offered a devastating view of fashion publishing. Her 6 books have sold over 13 million copies.

Her newest — Where the Grass is Green and the Girls are Pretty — goes on sale May 18. The night before (May 17, 7 p.m., Zoom), she’ll chat virtually with Westporter Jennifer Blankfein about her latest book, and the women — a TV anchor with everything, and her stay-at-home supermom sister — in it.

The conversation is sponsored by the Westport Library. Click here to register.

Lauren Weisberger

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Friends of Sherwood Island’s annual general meeting will “bee” very special.

A presentation titled “Pollinator Pathways & The Green Corridor:
Improving Biodiversity on Protected Land in Our Own Yards” is set for May 23 (4 p.m.).

Click here for more information. Questions? Email lizannlwv@gmail.com or call 203-451-5755.

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And finally … happy 70th birthday to Talking Heads and Tom Tom Club drummer, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame member, producer and right-across-the-Fairfield-line neighbor Chris Frantz.

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Roundup: Outdoor Dining, GG & Joe, “In Death” …

Posted on April 17, 2021 | Comments Off on Roundup: Outdoor Dining, GG & Joe, “In Death” …

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Starting today, outdoor dining returns to Church Lane.

Now through late fall, restaurants like Spotted Horse, Manna Toast, Pink Sumo and Amis are serving underneath the stars.

The Westport Downtown Association plans live mellow dinner music on weekends, starting soon.

Dining al fresco, last year.

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Around the corner, GG & Joe is closed — but only temporarily.

A sign on the door notes that due to a COVID exposure, they’ve shut their doors for a few days. They reopen Thursday, April 22.

Better safe than sorry. And kudos to the acai bowl-and-coffee-and-more spot in Parker Harding Plaza — which opened last spring, as the pandemic raged — for their concern for all customers.

(Photo/Amy Schneider)

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In Death, The Gift of Life — the powerful anthology of 10 Westporters who embraced death on their own terms — has won two 1st place awards in the Connecticut Press Club’s annual communications contest.

The honors were for editing (Dan Levinson and Alison McBain) and design (McBain and Miggs Burroughs). The book now moves on to national competition.

A community-wide book launch will be held at the Westport Library this fall.

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In the early days of the pandemic, Stan Witkow started an online bingo game. Winners — Westporters, former residents and friends across the country — donate their pots to a non-profit of their choice.

The most recent recipient is Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Service. Jennifer Pressman donated her $250 to the organization. Her son is a former WVEMS volunteer. Bingo!

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Abilis is hiring. The non-profit, which serves more than 800 people with special needs and their families — holds a job fair on Saturday, May 1 (9 a.m. to 5 .m., 50 Glenville Street, Greenwich).

Full- and part-time positions include management and assistant management roles, day program and residential roles. Click here to see open positions. Prospective employees should bring resumes. For more information,  call 203-531-1880.

May 1 is also the date of Abilis’ 70th anniversary gala (6:30 p.m., virtual). There’s family entertainment, with comedians, actors, musicians and dancers.

To learn more, register for the show link, see “Giving Garden” needs, check out the online auction or by art by Abilis clients, click here.

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An “06880” reader sits for a 4-hour infusion once a month at Norwalk Hospital. It is often cool in the room, so patients are given a hospital blanket.

The other day, she received a real blanket,  made by a group at Staples High school called Lovee’s Charity. They’re usually given to pediatric patients, but sometimes they’re handed out in the infusion room.

“It was so nice, soft and comforting,” the reader says. She emailed faculty advisor Natalie Odierna, letting her know how much joy the blanket brought.

Now thousands of other “06880” readers know about the joy Lovee’s Charity brings too.

A Lovee’s Charity blanket.

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Major League Soccer has kicked off its 26th season. And for the 5th straight year, Elliot Gerard was commissioned to create the opening day graphic.

The Westport resident Gerard is a founder and creative director with Heartlent Group, a social strategy and creative content agency.

This year’s concept is “Where’s Waldo?” Gerard worked with eMLS to hide Easter eggs in the artwork (below). The campaign is interactive, giving fans the chance to make their own versions on Instagram stories. A customizable background is available. Click for Twitter and Instagram links.

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And finally … I got my 2nd COVID vaccine today. Just sayin’ …

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Special Needs Housing Planned For Riverside Avenue

Posted on March 18, 2021 | 8 comments

One of the Westport’s greatest needs — supportive housing for people with special needs — is moving through the regulatory pipeline.

136 Riverside Avenue is a 12-room 1880 Colonial Victorian just north of Saugatuck Elementary School. Owned by the town, it’s used now by the Board of Education.

A few years ago it was considered for special needs housing. That opportunity has come around again.

Rick Redniss — principal at Redniss & Mead, a surveying, civil engineering and planning firm — has been exploring possibilities for “off-site affordable housing” for developments like 41 Richmondville Avenue and The Residence at Westport for several years.

That’s the process by which approval is granted for new market-rate housing at one location. In exchange, builders create affordable housing units elsewhere in town.

136 Riverside Avenue.

Redniss has met with parents of special needs individuals and Westport’s Commission on People with Disabilities to determine the best design. Based in part on a Darien model, he realized that if individual units include a private bath, kitchenette (to help with independent living) and deed-restricted lease, they count toward the town’s moratorium points (granted for showing that a municipality is actively building affordable housing).

The current plan would convert 136 Riverside to 5 apartments. Four would be for people with special needs; one would be rented to a staff member, who also would qualify under regulations for affordable housing.

Abilis — the 70-year-old nonprofit serving over 800 people with special needs — sees this as an excellent opportunity. They’ve been collaborating with the 41 Richmondville Avenue developers to make this a reality. Redniss has met with neighbors, and continues to address concerns.

The proposal — which includes remodeling that respects the original architecture, and enhanced landscaping — is going through the 8-24 (municipal improvement) and special permitting process. It’s on the agenda for the Architectural Review Board’s March 23 meeting.

If approved, 136 Riverside heads to the Planning & Zoning Commission, Board of Finance and RTM, for lease oversight.

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Posted in Local politics, Organizations, Real estate

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Roundup: Parks & Rec Signups, Playhouse, Help Wanted …

Posted on March 6, 2021 | 1 comment

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Registration for Westport Parks & Recreation spring and summer programs begins online on March 22 (9 a.m.). Click here for all offerings, including sports, Camp Compo and RECing Crew. Click here to register.

The Parks & Rec office remains closed to the public. Staff is available via email (recreation@westportct.gov), phone (203-341-5152 weekdays, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) and mail (260 Compo Road South, Westport, CT 06880).

For registration, check your online account tnow. Log in, then click “Manage Family Members” on the bottom right. To view more details, click the name of a specific family member. Make any changes, then hit “save.” For address changes, email recreation@westportct.gov.

If you cannot log into your online account, do not create another profile. Email recreation@westportct.gov, or call 203-341-5152.

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Speaking of recreation:

These residents were spotted yesterday on Longshore’s first fairway.

They had not asked to play through. Nor were they wearing proper attire. Sad!

(Photo/John Richers)

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Alisyn Camerota is starring in a new role.

The Westport resident — a journalist, author, and anchor of CNN’s morning show “New Day” — has been elected as a Westport Country Playhouse trustee.

Camerota led a community conversation 3 years ago on “Female Power Unleashed:  Politics and Positive Change.” She was featured in a documentary celebrating the theater’s 90-season history last fall, and has been a Playhouse subscriber and supporter for several years.

She’ll serve with artist, economist, producer, fellow Westporter — and new board chair — Anna Czekaj-Farber. Former chair Barbara Streicker of Westport remains on the board.

Playhouse managing director Michael Barker lauds Streicker for her leadership during the pandemic

The 2021 season is scheduled to begin in April — online and in-person. Safety guidelines will be announced soon.

Alisyn Camerota

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4-year-old Elodie Kubik was born with Epidermolysis Bullosa. She is missing a critical protein that binds the layers of the skin together, making it extremely fragile and causing severe pain and wounds. There are no treatments for this life-threatening disease.

Elodie’s mom’s friends organized a Plunge for Elodie n 2018. It grew into an international movement, raising $700,000 to fund critical research aimed at curing EB and other rare diseases.

This year’s virtual Plunge (March 28) honors the life of Sophia Ramsey, who died just after her 1st birthday. She was the daughter of Westport Public Schools employee Tricia Lash’s friend and coworker. Click here for details.

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Finding Westport — the great local listing location, with both a website and social media posts — is starting a “Help Wanted” section. If you’re a business looking for help, contact Jillian@findingfairfieldcounty.com.

And if you’re looking for work, click here.

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Very quietly —  but for 70 years — Abilis has helped people with special needs throughout Fairfield County. The non-profit currently serves over 800 people — and their families.

Last year, COVID forced them to hold their biggest fundraiser online. They raised over $400,000. This year’s goal: top that.

It’s virtual again. Comedian Brett Walkow (“The Tonight Show,” Seinfeld’s “Comedian,” Comedy Central, much more…) hosts the May 1 (6:30 p.m.) show. It’s 90 minutes packed with entertainment, laughs, and a live auction.

The event is free (though of course there are many opportunities to donate). To register, click here (button is on upper right — hard to find!). For sponsorship information, call 203-531-1880 ext. 161, or email flatow@abilis.us.

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And finally … John Philip Sousa died on this day in 1932. He was 78.

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Posted in Children, Entertainment, Local business, Longshore, Media, Organizations, Sports, Westport Country Playhouse

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